Trimbakeshwar -Tri Ambakani Trimbaka means The Lord Who has Three Eyes.

Trimbakeshwar, which is 28 kms. (18 miles) from Nashik. It is a religious center having one of the twelve JYOTIRLINGA of the world. The extraordinary feature of the Jyotirlinga located here is that it has three faces embodying Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu & Lord Mahesh(Shiva). All other JYOTIRLINGA have Shiva as the main deity. The temple is known for its appealing architecture and sculpture and is at the foothills of a mountain called Brahmagiri. Godavari River originates on Bramhagiri mountain and meets to the sea near Raj Mahendri, AP.



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7 Wonders of India: Rameshwaram

As of 2001 India census,[3] Rameswaram had a population of 38,035. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Rameswaram has an average literacy rate of 72%: male literacy is 77%, and female literacy is 66%. In Rameswaram, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.
View Of the East Gopuram of Rameswaram temple in the morning
Pamban Bridge

Rameswaram is significant for many Indians as a pilgrimage to Benaras is considered by some to be incomplete without a pilgrimage to Rameswaram. The presiding deity here is usually referred to as a Linga with the name Sri Ramanatha Swamy, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Inner sanctum of the temple was built by Sri Lankan monarch Parakrama Bahu in 10th century. This masterpiece of Indian architecture boasts of the biggest temple corridor in India. Different rulers built the Ramanathaswamy Temple over a period of time starting from the twelfth century.(Although this theory is devised by westerners which has been proven to be false). The temple comprises twenty two wells where the taste of the water of each well is different from the other. The grandest part of the temple is the 1219 m pillared corridor consisting of 3.6 m high granite pillars, richly carved and well proportioned. The perspective presented by these pillars run uninterruptedly to a length of nearly 230 m.

According to the Puranas(the historical records of ancient India), upon the advice of Rishis (Highly respected sages), Bhagwan Rama along with Mata Sita and ShriLakshmana, installed and worshipped the Sivalinga(A form of Lord Shiva) here to expiate the sin of Brahmahatya (killing of a Brahmin).[4] (Ravana, the son of Vishrava and the great grandson of Lord Brahma). Shri Rama fixed an auspicious time for the installation and sent Shri Anjaneya to Mount Kailas (Kailash parvat)to bring a lingam. As Bhagwan Anjaneya could not return in time, Sita herself made a linga of sand. When Anjaneya returned with a linga from Mount Kailas the rituals had been over. To comfort the disappointed Bhagwan Anjaneya, Rama had Anjaneya’s lingam (Visvalingam) also installed by the side of Ramalinga, and ordained that rituals be performed first to the Visvalingam.

The above account is however, not supported by the original Ramayana as authored by Maharishi Valmiki, nor in the Tamil version of the Ramayana as authored by Kambar. Support for this account may however be found in some of the later versions of the Ramayana as penned by Tulasidas (15th Century) and others.

In Rameswaram Temple, a spiritual "Mani Darisanam" (Mani Darshan) happens in early morning everyday. This "Mani" is made of "spatikam"[a precious stone] and in form of "Holy shivling". According to some accounts, this is "Mani" of "sheshnag" (Bhagwaan Vishnu's bed).

Sethu Karai is a place 22 km before the island of Rameswaram from where Bhagwaan Ram is said to have built a Floating Stone Bridge Rama sethu from Rameswaram that further continued to Dhanushkodi in Rameswaram till Talaimannar in Sri Lanka as mentioned in the great epic Ramayana.

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Omkareshwar - :: MADHYA PRADESH - The heart of Incredible India

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga also has its own history and stories.Three are them are prominent. The first story is about Vindhya Parvat (Mount). Once upon a time Narada (son of Lord Brahma), known for his non-stop cosmic travel, visited Vindhya parvat. In his spicy way Narad told Vindhya Parvat about the greatness of Mount Meru. This made Vindhya jealous of Meru and he decided to be bigger than Meru. Vindhya started worship of Lord Shiva to become greater than Meru. Vindhya Parvat practiced severe penance and worshipped parthivlinga (A linga made from physical material) along with Lord Omkareshwar for nearly six months. As a result Lord Shiva was pleased and blessed him with his desired boon. On a request of all the gods and the sages Lord Shiva made two parts of the lingas. One half is called Omkareshwara and the other Mamaleshwar or Amareshwar. Lord Shiva gave the boon of growing, but took a promise that Vindhya will never be a problem to Shiva's devotees. Vindhya began to grow, but did not keep his promise. It even obstructed the sun and the moon. All deities approached sage Agastya for help. Agastya along with his wife came to Vindhya, and convinced him that he would not grow until the sage and his wife returned. They never returned and Vindhya is there as it was when they left. The sage and his wife stayed in Srisailam which is regarded as Dakshina Kashi and one of the Dwadash Jyotirlinga.

The second story relates to Mandhata and his son's penance. King Mandhata of Ishvaku clan (an ancestor of Lord Ram) worshipped Lord Shiva here till the Lord manifested himself as a Jyotirlinga. Some scholars also narrate the story about Mandhata's sons-Ambarish and Mucchkund, who had practiced severe penance and austerities here and pleased Lord Shiva. Because of this the mountain is named Mandhata.

The third story from Hindu scriptures says that once upon a time there was a great war between Devas and Danavas(demon), in which Danavas won. This was a major setback for Devas and hence Devas prayed to Lord Shiva. Pleased with their prayer, Lord Shiva emerged in the form of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga and defeated Danavas

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Shri Nageshwar Parshwanathay Namo Namah

Jain Religion of India is famous throughout the world for its Ancientness, Grandiose Magnanimity, Art Encourager and Elementary Knowledge. The jain tirths are just it's symbols. In the jain treatises it is said 'Taryate Sansar Sagaro Yen: Tirth' which means the place which leads you to cross the ocean of world is called a Tirth.

Out of the tirth's garland one of its pearl symbol is Shri Nageshwar Parshwanath Mahatirth, which is waving it's renowned flag throughout the world, wherein the fourteen feet life size standing statue of Lord Shri Parshwanath is swaying the world with it's miracles. For detailed introduction of this Mahatirth which is situated in the Jhalawad district of Rajasthan at the junction of two states (Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan) it's website is just wating for your click... !!!

Because of this tirth I got an opportunity of rendering my humble services to the society and upliftment of pilgrimage site, while expressing my gratitude to the society, I place the flowers of loyalty at the feet of Lord Shri Parshwanath.

Yours humbly
DEEPCHAND JAIN, (Secretary)
Shri Jain Shwetamber Nageshwar Parshwanath Tirth Pedhi

|| JAI JINENDRA ||

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GHIRIGENSHWAR

The Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the holiest and ancient shrines of India. This temple is the holy abode of one of the 12 jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The temple is located at a distance of 11km from Daulatabad near Aurangabad in Maharashtra and less than half a kilometre from Ellora. Aurangabad is well connected with all the places in the state as well as country. There is an airport and also a railway station. It has regular bus services connecting it with all major places. Tourists can also take taxis from Auragabad.

The Ghrishneshwar temple was constructed by Ahilyabhai Holkar, who also re-constructed the Kasi Viswanatha temple at Banaras and the Vishnu Paada temple at Gaya. Grishneshwar is also known as Ghushmeswara, Kusumeswar, Grushmeswara. It is said that a woman named Kusuma worshipped the Shiva Linga everyday by immersing it in a water tank. Envious of her piousness, her husband’s first wife murdered her son. Mourning with pain Kusuma continued worshipping the Shiva Linga. When she dipped the Linga in water Lord Shiva appeared in front of her and gave life to her son. Since then Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Jyotirlinga Ghusmeshwar.

The temple is made up of red sand stones built in 18th century and is a fine example of medieval architecture. The idols of God Brahma, Vishnu, Ganesha and Shiva are placed inside the temple. Devotees of Hindu rush to the place during Maha Shivratri to get blessings since it enshrines a jyotirlinga. The best time to visit Grishneshwar is during the Maha Shivratri.

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WELL COME TO SHREE MAHAKALESHWAR TEMPLE IN UJJAIN

One of the 12 Joytilings in india , the lingam at the mahakalam is believe  to be swambhu ( born if itself ) deriving of current power  (shakti ) from with in itself as against other image and other lingams which are ritually established and invested with maha-shakti

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ELORA CAVE

The cave temples and monasteries at Ellora, excavated out of the vertical face of an escarpment, are 26 km north of Aurangabad. Extending in a linear arrangement, the 34 caves contain Buddhist Chaityas or halls of worship, and Viharas, or monasteries, Hindu and Jai temples.
Spanning a period of about 600 years between the 5 th and 11 th century AD, the earliest excavation here is of the Dhumar Lena (Cave 29).The most imposing excavation is, without doubt, that of the magnificent Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) which is the largest monolithic structure in the world. Interestingly, Ellora, unlike the site of Ajanta, was never 'rediscovered'. Known as Verul in ancient times, it has continuously attracted pilgrims through the centuries to the present day.
Ellora has been designed as a World Heritage Site, to be preserved as an artistic legacy that will continue to inspire and enrich the lives of generations to come.
Listing of Caves




   
Buddhist Caves: 5 th century to 7 th century AD
Caves 1 to 12 at the southern end
Hindu Caves: 8 th century to 10 th century AD
Caves 13 to 29 in the middle
Jain Caves: 9 th century to 11 th century AD
Caves 30 to 34 at the northern end
 

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AJANTA CAVE

Ajanta and Ellora are the pride of Maharashtra. 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.
These caves were discovered early in the 19th century quite by chance by a party of British Officers on manoeuvres. Today the paintings and sculptures on Buddha’s life, belonging to the more mellow and ritualistic Mahayana Buddhism period, are world famous. Copies of them were shown in the Crystal Palace exhibition in London in 1866. These were destroyed in a fire there. Further copies were published soon afterwards and four volumes of reproductions were brought out in 1933 by Ghulam Yazdani, the Director of Archaeology of the then Hyderabad State. Ajanta has formed an epicentre of interest for those who appreciate and are eager to know more about Indian history and art.
Ajanta Cave     It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and has been listed in the World Heritage list of monuments.The 30 caves of Ajanta were created over a span of some 600 years.
In their range of time and treatments they provide a panorama of life in ancient India and are a source of all kinds of information... hair styles, ornaments, textiles, musical instruments, details of architecture, customs etc. It was from this collection of classical Indian art that a particular style was formed that traveled with Buddhism to many parts of the world. Similar paintings can be seen in Sigiriya in Sri Lanka, Bamiyan in Afghanistan, temples and shrines in Tibet, Nepal, China and Japan.

Royal patronage made Ajanta possible. Professional artists carried out much of the work and each contributed his own individual skill and devotion to this monumental work.
Visitors often ask how the artist who painted the detailed frescoes and chiseled out the intricate carvings, managed to work in the dark interiors of the caves. It has been noticed that the caves are illuminated by natural light for part of the day and it is presumed that metal mirrors or sheets of white cloth were used to reflect sunlight into the inner recesses.

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WELCOME TO GOA

‘The Coolest Place in India’



‘Now our road takes us to the magnificent kingdom of Goa…The people of this kingdom are strong, prudent and very hardworking… The kingdom of Goa is the most important in India…It is civilized, having famous orchards and water. It is the coolest place in India and it is the most plentiful in foodstuffs.



‘The white people make a practice of going to the kingdom of Goa to enjoy the shade and the groves of trees and to savour the sweet betel.’





These revealing remarks on Goa come not from the hippies or ‘flower power’ generation of the sixties and early seventies who thronged the beaches of Anjuna, Vagator and Arambol in search of salvation and ‘peace’. These remarks were made over five centuries ago by the Portuguese Ambassador to China who visited Goa around the year 1511. They serve as a vivid precursor to the generations that followed in our times to the fabled land of Goa.





In those tumultuous and rebellious times in the sixties, it was then not the ‘sweet betel’ that was the prime attraction but a different kind of ‘weed’. But Goa, since those days of the angry generation, has moved on to attract a multitudinous, peaceful and cosmopolitan school of visitors from all around the globe.





Down the corridors of time Goa has been different things to different people. To the Portuguese conquerors it was ‘Golden Goa’, the El Dorado, the ‘Rome of the East’. Such was its beauty and grandeur, that a traveller was moved to remark: ‘Whoever has seen Goa, need not visit Lisboa’—Lisbon, which was then the grand epicenter of the Portuguese dominions.

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Some decades later, the early 17th century French traveller Francois Pyrard wrote: ‘Whoever has been in Goa may say that he has seen the choicest rarities of India, for it is the most famous and celebrated city, on account of its commercial intercourse with people of all nationalities of the East who bring there the products of their respective countries, articles of merchandize, necessaries of life and other commodities in great abundance because every year more than a thousand ships touch there laden with cargo.’





Pyrard continued with near prophetic veracity: ‘…as for the multitude of people, it is a marvel to see the number which come and go every day by sea and land on business of every kind…One would say that a fair was being held every day for the sale of all sorts of merchandise.’





While the contemporary traveller may not come to modern, thriving Goa ‘for the sale of all sorts of merchandise’, the ‘fair’ is still very much on. The traveller is here to find something different: a balm on the busy mind, to enjoy days of freedom on Goa’s



magnificent beaches, to parasail or swim with the tide of fellow visitors from all around the globe, to savour its unique cuisine and imbibe its spirits, to take a long and invigorating trek in its unexplored interiors, to marvel at its majestic temples and churches, in short, to be at one with the most friendly people in the country.





In the sixties and seventies, it was, as we have remarked, a haven for the hippies. Since then Goa has moved on to fullfledged Statehood, its own Council of Ministers, a magnificent new Assembly complex, its citizens among the most literate in the country with a per capita income the highest in the land.. At the hub of this prosperity, is the Tourism industry. At the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), we take a humble bow in acknowledgement, in some small measure, of putting Goa on the tourist map of our country.





But we also acknowledge that Goa does not require a massive sales drive.



Goa is a multifaceted jewel in the crown of India.



It is a frame of mind and body, spirit and soul.



Goa is an unfading memory.



It is joy and nirvana.



Goa is India’s smallest State---with the largest heart.



Goa is Forever.

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Lothal

Lothal GujaratSituated at a distance of 80 kms from Ahmedabad, Lothal city is one of the well known cities of the ancient Indus valley civilization. The origin and history of Lothal can be dated back to 2400 BC. Lothal in Gujarat is one of the primary sites of archaeology. Though, it was discovered in the year 1954, but its excavation work began on the February 13, 1955, which continued till May 19, 1960. It was done by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Read on to know more about Lothal in India.

Lothal has enjoyed the status of being the leading center of trade in the bygone times. It was actively involved in the trade of beads, gems and expensive ornaments that were exported to West Asia and Africa. The techniques that were used by the people of this city brought a lot of name and fame to them. People are of the say that, the scientists of Lothal were the ones to initiate the study stars and advanced navigation.

Lothal is very well connected to the Ahmedabad city via road and railways. The archaeological excavations that were carried out led to the finding of a township, dock, mound and a marketplace. Areas lying nearby the excavated sites consist of an archaeological museum, where you can take a look at the various Indus-era antiquities. So, if you have spare time, Lothal is a great destination that can be included in your sightseeing trip of Ahmedabad.

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Porbandar

Porbandar is an historically important place. In the 10th centruy it was named as �Pauravelakul� and thereafter named �Sudamapuri�. It is localted at latitude north 21.37o and longitude east 69.49o on the western coast of Saurashtra where the river Asmavati meets the ocean. It has completed one thousand years on Rakshabandhan, full moon day of Shravana, in the Vikram era 2046. In fact, it is believed that Porbandar was discovered on Raksshabandhan day.

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Kutch

Kutch district (also spelled as Kachchh) is a district of Gujarat state in western India. Covering an area of 45,652 km²,[1] it is the largest district of India.

Kutch literally means something which intermittently becomes wet and dry; a large part of this district is known as Rann of Kutch which is shallow wetland which submerges in water during the rainy season and becomes dry during other seasons. The same word is also used in the languages of Sanskrit origin for a tortoise and garments to be worn while having a bath. The Rann is famous for its marshy salt flats which become snow white after the shallow water dries up each season before the monsoon rains.

The district is also famous for ecologically important Banni grasslands with their seasonal marshy wetlands which form the outer belt of the Rann of Kutch.

Kutch District is surrounded by the Gulf of Kutch and the Arabian Sea in south and west, while northern and eastern parts are surrounded by the Great and Small Rann (seasonal wetlands) of Kutch. When there were not many dams built on its rivers, the Rann of Kutch remained wetlands for a large part of the year. Even today, the region remains wet for a significant part of year. The district had a population of 1,583,500 of which 30% were urban as of 2001.[2] Motor vehicles registered in Kutch district have their registration Number starting with GJ-12.

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Gir Forest

The Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as Sasan-Gir, ગીર રાષ્ટ્રીય ઉદ્યાન and गिर वन) is a forest and wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, India. Established in 1965, with a total area of 1412 km² (about 258 km² for the fully protected area (the national park) and 1153 km² for the Sanctuary), the park is located 65 km to the south-east of Junagadh and 60 km to south west of Amreli.

It is the sole home of the pure Asiatic Lions (Panthera leo persica) and is considered to be one of the most important protected areas in Asia due to its supported species. The ecosystem of Gir, with its diverse flora and fauna, is protected as a result of the efforts of the government forest department, wildlife activists and NGOs. The forest area of Gir and its lions were declared as "protected" in the early 1900s by the then Nawab of the princely state of Junagadh. This initiative assisted in the conservation of the lions whose population had plummeted to only 15 through slaughter for trophy hunting.

The April 2010 census recorded the lion-count in Gir at 411, an increase of 52 compared to 2005. The lion breeding programme covering the park and surrounding area has bred about 180 lions in captivity since its inception.

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Somnath Temple in Gujrat

Shree Somnath Trust welcomes you to the holy place of the Aadi Jyotirling Shree Somnath Mahadev and the sacred soil from where Bhagvan Shri Krishna took his last journey to his neejdham.


Somnath temple stands at the shore of the Arabian ocean on the western corner of Indian subcontinent in Gujarat State. This pilgrimage is one of the oldest and finds its reference in the ancient texts like Skandpuran, Shreemad Bhagavat, Shivpuran etc. The hymn from Rig-Veda quoted below mention the Bhagvan Someshwar along with the great pilgrimage like Gangaji, Yamunaji and Eastward Saraswati. This signifies the ancient value of this Tirthdham.

Somnath is in Prabhas Patan very near to Veraval. 






The Moon God is said to have been relieved from the curse of his father-in-law Daksha Prajapati by the blessings of Bhagvan Somnath.  In  the Shiva  Purana  and Nandi  Upapurana, Shiva  said, `I  am  always present everywhere  but  specially  in  12  forms  and places as  the  jyotirlingas`. Somnath is one of  these 12 holy places. This is the first among the twelve holy Shiva Jyotirlings.




The  shore  temple of Somnath is  believed  to  have  been  built  in  4  phases-in  gold  by  Lord Soma,  in  silver  by  Ravi,  in wood  by  lord  Krishna  and  in  stone  by  King Bhimadeva.




It has withstood the six-repeated desecration by the Muslim invaders. The very existence of this temple is symbol of reconstructive spirit and cultural unity of our society.

The seventh existing temple is built in the Kailas Mahameru Prasad style. The Iron man of India Sardar Shri Vallabhbhai Patel is the pioneer of the existing temple.



The temple is consisting of Garbhgruh, Sabhamandap and Nrityamandap with a 150 feet high Shikhar.

The Kalash at the top of the Shikhar weighs 10 tons and the Dhwajdand is 27 feet tall and 1 foot in circumference. The Abadhit Samudra Marg, Tirsthambh (Arrow) indicates the unobstructed sea route to the South Pole. The nearest land towards South Pole is about 9936 km. away. This is a wonderful indicator of the ancient Indian wisdom of geography and strategic location of the Jyotirling. The temple renovated by Maharani Ahalyabai is adjacent to the main temple complex.



Hari Har Tirthdham is here in Somnath. This is the holy place of Bhagvan Shri Krishna's Neejdham Prasthan Leela. The place where Bhagvan Shri Krishna was hit by an arrow of a poacher is known as Bhalka Tirtha. After being hit by the arrow, Bhagvan Shri Krishna arrived at the holy confluence of Hiran, Kapila and Saraswati and their Sangam with the ocean. He performed his divine Neejdham Prasthan Leela at the sacred and peaceful banks of river Hiran.


The Geetamandir is built here where the divine message of Shrimad Bhagavat Geeta is carved on eighteen marble pillars. Shri Lakshminarayan Mandir is close by. The Balramjiki Gufa is the place from where Bhagvan Shrikrishna's elder brother Balaramji took journey to his nijdham-patal.



Here is the Parshuram Tapobhumi, where Bhagvan Parshuramji carried out penance and he was relieved from the sin of Kshatriya killings. The Pandavas have said to have visited this place and taken holy bath in the Jalprabhas and built five Shiv temples.



 The Somnath Trust has endeavored to develop the whole Shri Krishna Neejdham Prasthan Tirtha in an wholesome manner. The pilgrims please contribute generously to this noble cause.

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NAINITAL

Area:      11.73 kms.
Population:      32800,
Altitude:      1,929 ill.
Tempertature:      Summer 10.6° c to 26.7° c.
Rainfall :      Average 2794 mm.

Best season to visit:
     Mar to Jun and Sep to Oct
Language Spoken:      Hindi, English and Kumaoni.


Nainital - The beautiful lake resort nestles amidst seven hills in a lush valley at an altitude of 1938 metres. In 1841, the British first discovered Nainital as a holiday resort. Today, the town has emerged as one of the most important hill resorts of India

Nainital is a modem hill resort of northern India (336 kms from Delhi) connected  by best-aligned and maintained roads from the railhead of Kathgodam. Railway line was laid upto Kathgodam in 1882. The road passes through forests where occasionally wild animals can also be seen. "Naini" is derived from the temple of goddess Naini which was built on the bank of the lake but later got destroyed due to land slides in the year 1880, The place is mentioned in Skand Puran as 'Trishul Sarover'. Tri Rishi (three sages Atri, Pulastiya and Pulha) had come there for pilgrimage while they were at Gagar range (now called China Peak), they felt thirsty and could not find any water. Thereafter, they thought of Man Sarover and dug a hole which at once got filled with water.

   


The lake then formed was called Tri-Rishi Tal (The lake of three sages). Today it has an impressive lake surrounded by the hills from three sides with highest peak Cheena (2610 m) and the valley in between running from east to west. The lake is a little more than 3 kms in circumference.
Nainital remains packed from April to November with tourist for sight seeing as well as for seeking escape from the heat of the plains. Naini lake has facilities for boating and yatching. Facilities for horse riding, skating, golf and rock climbing are also available for the visitors. Fishing is also permitted with the permission of local authorities. Talli Tal and Malli Tal are the two main trading centre at Nainital



How to Reach
Air: Nearest airport is at Pantnagar (71 kms), connected by air service with New Delhi.

Rail: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam (35 kms).

Road: Nainital is well connected with all major cities in northern India.


What to See Around

Hanumangarhi : (1, 951 m) 3 km. A popular place for worship in the temple of lord Hanuman and its Sun-set view.

Khurpatal : (1,635 m) 5 to 10 kms. This is an angler’s paradise on Nainital-Kaladhungi-Ramnagar Road. It is here that the conifers belt merges and gives way to the Sal trees. Fishing permits are available from Deputy Commissioner, Nainital.

Kilbury: (2,194 m) 10 kms. A wooded spot, ideal for a quiet and peaceful holidays, which is connected by road.

Lariakanta : (2, 481 m) 6 kms. This is the second highest peak of Nainital and commands a glorious view of the lake region.

Land's End: (2,1l8 m) 4.08 kms. One can have magnificent view of Khurpatal and the terraced fields on the hill side.

Naini Peak: (2,611 m) (Cheena Peak) 6 kms. Most favoured picnic spot of the town. One can view the distant plains and snow clad Himalayas from the peak. A bird's eye view of the lake is also obtainable from here. One can either trek or go on a horse back upto Naina Peak.

Naini Lake: The boat club overlooking the lake offers sailing facilities and also boating. Fishing is allowed with the permission of Executive Officer, Municipal Board, Nainital.

Snow-View: (2270 m). 3 km. This is the nearest easily accessible peak on Sher-ka-Danda hill connected by Ropeway. A powerful telescope is fixed here which enables one to view the Himalayan ranges.

Nainital Ropeway : Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam has since installed the most sophisticated ropeway at Nainital which is the first of its kind in India. The ropeway covers a distance of 705 metres with an altitude gain of 300 metres. Carrying a maximum load of 825 kgs or 12 persons in each of its two cars, the ropeway travels at a maximum speed of 6 mts/ sec.

Bhimtal : (1,371 m) 22 kms away from Nainital. Bhimtal is named after Bhim, one of the five Pandavas of 'Mahabharata'. The lake at Bhim Tal is larger than Naini lake at Nainital. Boating, swimming and fishing are the main attractions. An island in the centre of the lake is an excellent spot for picnic. Fishing permits can be obtained from the fishing Inspector of Bhim Tal. Tourist Bungalow and private lodges are available here.

Naukuchia Tal: (1,219 m) 27 kms.This is a lake known for its nine comers. Area around the lake is an ideal place for bird watching. Fishing permits can be obtained from Fishing Inspector of Bhimtal.

Sat Tal: (1371 m) 21 kms. away from Nainital. This is a charming spot and the venue of the famous Kohinoor Camp in summer. There is an Ashram run by Dr. E. Stanley Jones of United States Missionaries, where religious, educational and social youth camps are held every year. Nearby, there are several small lakes, numbering seven, from where the name Sat Tal is derived. The lakes include Panna, Nal Damyanti and Sita. Sukha Tal is located in the middle of thick pine and oak trees. There are excellent facilities for swimming, boating and fishing. A small World Life sanctuary is another spot of tourist attraction.

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MUSSOORIE

Mussoorie, the queen of the hills, is one of the most popular and fascinating hill resort of northern India. Its green hills and varied fauna and flora make it a colourful and picturesque hill station, commanding a wonderful view of extensive Himalayan snow ranges to the North-East, and Panoramic view of the Doon valley to the south.


The place came to be known as Mussoorie due to unlimited growth of a bush locally known as Mussoorie. The town presents fairyland atmosphere to the tourists. Its history dates back to 1811 when the place was purchased by an European Major Hearsey from the local land lord. Later he sold it to the East India Company in the year 1812. In 1812, the next-door township of landour was made a sanitorium and convalescent depot for troops. In 1827 Captain Young, an adventurous British Army officer, explored the present site and laid the foundation of this holiday resort with the opening of shooting box on Landour hills. In 1832 Col. Averest then Surveyer General of India opened his office in Mussoorie. In 1880, it became the residence of Afghan detenue Yakub Khan, the Ex-Amir of Afghanistan for summer with winter residence in Dehradun. However, later it remained the summer residence of their Royal Highness, the Duke and Duches of Conn aught. Development of Mussoorie started after rail link was established between Haridwar and Dehradun in 1890.

General Information
Area: 64.25 Sq. km. Population. 16323 (1981 census). Altitude: 20002400 m.


Temperature: Summer 7.2 C to 31.7 C and Winter 1.0 C to 7.2 C Rainfall. Max in Aug. 764.9 mm to Min in Nov. 5.1 mm

Clothing: Summer-Light Woollen and Winter: Heavy Woollens.
Language spoken: Hindi, English and Garhwali.

Best season to visit: March to July and September to October.

What to see in Mussoorie
Sir George Everest's House:
Municipal Garden (4 kms) :
Camel's Back Road (3 km.) :
Kempty Fall:
Lal Tibba (5 Km) :

Places around Mussoorie

Yamuna Bridge:
Nag Tibba :
Dhanolti :
Surkhanda Devi :

How to Reach Mussoorie
Air: Jolly Grant Airport Dehradun is the nearest Airport for reaching Mussoorie (24 kms). Air Deccan and Kingfisher Airlines operate daily flights to Dehradun from New Delhi

Rail: Nearest Railhead is Dehradun (35 kms) which is directly connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Gorakhpur, Kathgodam, Varanasi, Howrah, Rishikesh and Haridwar. Taxis are available from Dehradun railway station to Mussoorie

Road: Mussoorie is connected by regular bus services to all the major centers of tourist interest in the region. Direct buses are also available for Muussoorie.
 

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Hemkund Sahib

About Hemkund Sahib : Hemkund Sahib(also written as Hemkunt Sahib), crowned and more venerated sanctuary of Sikhs is located at an altitude of 4320mtrs along banks of the lake Hemkund. The crowned place is truly recognized like a refuge of meditation for the guru Gobind Singh, the tenth and the last of the gurus sikhs to require the unification with the Almighty. According to the Hindu mythology of conviction, Hemkund or popular Lokpal under this name also, is a place where Lakshmana, the young brother of Rowed, had made of its atonement.

This is that in years 1930 that the soldier named Havildar Modan Singh of Bengal of the sappers and minor regiment accidentally to know on this splendid place and could relate to the poem " Bachittar Natak". A little later, Havildar Modan Singh with Sant Sohan Singh, pertaining to Tehri Garhwal, and also to the retirement granthi of Indian army provided the foundations of the foundation of the current sanctuary in the year 1937.

Hemkund Sahib is enormous and formidable of walk of 15 km Govindghat. L' together from track of walk, on the way towards sanctuary passes by the forests of pines and rhododendrons, intersected with wild pinks in flowers, ferns and alpine flowers. The last 5 km of the path which leads to Hemkunt Sahib is a steep slope. This rise starts of Ghangharia, the place of rest before taking the track with Hemkund.

Hemkund Lake, which is d' approximately 2 km of circumference hold clear water in its field d' application and has a beautiful appearance of 5500mtrs. high Saptashringa Peaks which surrounds the sanctuary. You can find along banks of the lake Hemkunt covered stones foams and flowers, which are about to flower. The best season for Voyage in Hemkund Sahib is between July and October. The sanctuary is covered with snow in November, December, January and February.

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Haridwar

About Haridwar: Haridwar connotes to Dwar of Hari or Dwar of Har, and also alluding to Gateway to God. Posited on the bank of Holy Ganga river is one of the four palces where every twelve years the great festival of Kumbha Mela is held and every six years an Ardh Kumbha. Haridwar is also among the seven most revered places of Hindu pilgrimage in India.

As per mythological references, it is believed that great Suryavanshi prince Bhagirath did penance to purge the souls of his forefathers from the curse of sage Kapila. It was the result of hard penances performed by the suryavanshi prince that river Ganga or Ganges, oozed from Lord Shiva's tresses and its holy water resuscitated the 60-thousand sons of king Sagara. Keeping the tradition of Suryavanshi prince Bhagirath alive, today, devotees stand in holy waters of the Ganges and pray for the recluse of their departed ancestors.

Hardwar or Haridwar, is also considered as the gateway to sources of the Ganges and the Yamuna, 3000 to 4500 meters in the snowy mountain peaks in central Himalayan ranges. The most spectacular of the rituals performed in the holy place along the banks of Ganges are 'Aarti' or the worship of the Ganges and the floating 'DIYA' (lamp), both performed after sunset.

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Yamunotri Dham

About Yamunotri : Yamunotri, the source of revered river Yamuna, is situated on top of Bandar Poonch Peak (3615 m), almost opposite to Gangotri. The temple of Yamunotri located in the western region of Garhwal Himalayas was originally constructed by Maharaj Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. The goddess Yamuna has been beautifully carved out from black marble and holds the esteemed value of Divine Mother at par with Goddess Ganga. Yamuna has the frivolity and the roots of this mannerism allude to the mythological event, where Yamuna’s mother didn’t have an eye contact with her husband all through her life.

There is a popular legend attached to the holy place. It is believed that sage Asit Muni had its habitation at Yamunotri. He used to take daily bath in Ganga and Yamuna until his old age. It was during this time that he was unable to take holy bath in Gangotri, and seeing his condition, a rivulet of Ganga rose opposite to Yamunotri.

The holy shrine has many hot water glaciers that flow through the mountain cavities. Suryakund is the popular holy bath place, lying adjacent to Divya Shila. The Shila is considered holy and is worshipped before Puja of Goddess Yamuna. The hot water springs also serve as the special place to prepare rice and potatoes, which are taken back home by the devotees as the token of Goddess Yamuna’s blessings. The priests who perform daily rituals and Puja belong to small village of Kharsali near Jankichatti.

Best Time to Visit:

The temple opens on last week of April, or first week of May on the eve of Akshya-Tritya. The shrine closes for the devotees on the consecrated Diwali Day with a ritual ceremony performed by senior priests of the shrine. The temple’s gates are left open the next season for the devotees on the auspicious occasion of Akshya-Tritya.

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Gangotri Dham

About Gangotri Dham :
Gangotri Dham, situated at the height of 3140 m above sea level. Located on the right banks of sacred eternal river Bhagirathi, the shrine is a mere run of 100 kms. from Uttarkashi. A shrine dedicated to the Goddess was built the early 18th century by Amar Bahadur Thapa, the Gorkha Commander. However, the present form of the temple has been reconstruicted by the kings from Jaipur dynasty.Every year many pilgrims come for Gangotri Yatra.

As the popular mythological event associated with it runs, Goddess Ganga, the daughter of Heaven, flowed from the locked hairs of Lord Shiva to pardon the sins of king Bhagirath's ancestors, after the prince performed hard penance for a period of 5500 years. It is thence, that the pious river got the name of Bhagirathi at the source of origination. Gangotri or Ganga Uttari or Ganga descending is also the place of origination of Ganga or the Ganges as well. The water from Gangotri is offered to Lord Shiva, believing that it has Amrit (Elixir of Immortality) that would alleviate the throat of Lord Shiva who consumed poison in order to protect the world from disaster.

There is another strong mythology associated with this Holy place. It is believed that King Sagar after slaughtering the devils on earth performed the Aswamedh Yagna for announcing his supremacy. King’s 60,000 sons from Queen Sumati and one son Asamanjas born from Queen Kesani protected the horse, which formed the main center of focus of the Yagna. Fearing the loss of supremacy, Lord Indra confiscated the Horse of the Yajna and tied it outside the ashram of Saint Kapila. When 60,000 sons of King Sagar found the horse tide at Saint Kapila’s Ashram, they tried to storm the ashram, and it was at that moment that Saint opened his eyes and reduced all of them to ashes. The grandson of King Sagar, named Anshuman recovered the house from Kapila’s Ashram, and who was told by Saint Kapila that all the 60,000 sons would receive heaven, if the goddess Ganga is brought down from the heaven and washed their ashes with holy water. It as then that the arduous task of bringing Ganga to earth started and was successfully completed by King’s Grandson Bhagirath.

Best Time to Visit :

Gangotri Temple opens in the last week of April or in the initial week of May, coinciding with propitious Akshaya Tritiya. The temple is closed for the season on the occasion of Diwali by following a ceremony where oil lamps are lit in the waters of Bhagirathi.

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Kedarnath Dham

About Shri Kedarnath Dham: The Kedarnath Temple(Mandir) is ranked amongst the most revered places amongst Hindus, and is one of the twelve "Jyotirlingas" of Lord Shiva. This holiest pilgrimage place is located in Uttaranchal. Situated at an altitude of 3584 meters and river Mandakini lying towards the head, Shri Kedarnath Dham is the place where the scholarly Adi Guru Shankaracharya enshrined Lord Shiva.

Kedarnath temple, over 100 years old, has a conical lingam, which serves as the main idol, a statue of Nandi or the celestial bull, 'Garbha Griha' which is a worship place and 'Mandap' for the pilgrims s to offer prayers. Mythology describes Kedarnath Dham as the prominent holy place where Lord Shiva purged Pandavas of their sins for killing their own cousins Kauravas in Kurukshetra battlefield.

There is a belief that any pilgrim who dies here enters into communion with Lord Shiva. The best time to visit Shri Kedarnath Mandir is between May and October, and can be reached through trekking 14 kms. from Gaurikund, , which is connected by road from Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun and other important hill stations of the Garhwal and Kumaon regions in Uttaranchal.

Famous Places to see in Kedarnath :

Gaurikund :

This place is used as a base camp from where the trek to Kedarnath starts. There is a famous hot water spring and a temple dedicated to Maa Gauri.It is a famous destination for tourism in Uttaranchal.

Vasuki Tal :

On the way 6 km. trek at 4135 mtr. above sea level, you will found this lake. It is surrounded by high snow cladding mountains.

Gandhi Sarovar :

This small lake is famous because mythology describes on this place Yudhishthir, the eldest of the Pandavas, is said to have deceased to heaven.

Sonprayag :

This holy place you will find on the meeting point of Son Ganga and Mandakini Rivers, where there is a diversion for Triyuginarayan, mythological place where the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati was solemnized.

Guptkashi :

This place is 49 kms far from the main and very famous for the temples of Ardhnarishwar and Vishwanathji.
Chopta: Chopta is one of the beautiful place in the entire Garhwal region. Beautiful lake Deoria Tal is there which is surrounded by grate Himalaya peaks. It is famous place for angling and birdwatching.

Panch Kedar :

As the name defined Panch, there are five most important temples of Lord Shiva. Those are Kedarnath, Tungnath, Rudranath, Madmaheshwar, Kalpeshwer .

Nearest Railway Station : Rishikesh.

Airport : Dehradun.

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Badrinath Dham

Badrinath Dham is ranked amongst the oldest and is considered as the most revered places amongst Hindus. Comfortably situated along the right bank of the majestic river Alaknanda, at an altitude measuring 3133 m above sea level. The shrine is also known by the name of Vishal Badri, the biggest amongst five Badris, and is a true homage to Lord Vishnu, postured in meditative mood or the padmasan. Other of four Badris includes Bhavishya Badri, Yogdhyan Badri, Bridha Badri and Adi badri respectively.

About Badrinath Temple :Badrinath Temple(Mandir) was originally built by the Kings of Garhwal about two centuries ago. Much later in 8th century, well-known Hindu reformist Adi Shankaracharya re-enshrined the temple. The Mandir architecture puts a fabulous semblance for the eyes of the on looker. It is divided into three segments namely the 'Garbha Griha' or the sanctum sanctorum, the 'Darshan Mandap' the Ritual Hall and the 'Sabha Mandap' or the Devotees Assembly Hall. The whole temple complex has 15-idols, of which the statue of Lord Badri or Vishnu, subtly chiseled from Black stone, simply catches the imagination by awe and reverence.

Tourism and Places to visit in Badrinath :In this pilgrimage centre there are two natural hot water springs. Surya Kund and Tapt Kund. The stifling waters temperature is 50oC. Peoples bath in these springs to distil the body and soul before visit the Mandir.

Vishal Badri : It denotes the main temple of Shri Badri Narayan Temple and is believed to be the most sanctified.

Bhavishya Badri : This temple is situated in a small village 18 kms far from Joshimath.

Yogathyan Badri : This temple is placed at 25 kms far from mainBadri Nath Dham. This is exactly the place where Maharaj Pandu prayedto Pandukeshwar.

Preetha Badri : This place is famous because Adi Shankarachary worshipped Badrivishal god here for some time. It is 19 kms far from Joshimath.

Adi Badri Vishal: This temple is situated at 16 kms. farKarnaprayag. This is one of the famous temple of bhagwan Badri.

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