SHAILA JEWELLERY

DIGITAL GAMES FOR ADULTS

2008-01-27T04:34:00.000-08:00

If you thought online and video games are the domain of kids, think again. Many young adults, mostly in the age of 18-30 , that is almost 60 percent of the total number of gamers all around the world, are finding themselves hooked to their computers to exercise their minds through online games, says the internet marketers.
Believe it or not, many young adults are spending more waking hours playing games than teenagers or kids.
Be it sports, cards, puzzle, action or strategy games, young adults are enjoying the excitement and change that comes with playing games online to kill the boredom.
The people like to play the table tennis, cricket, racing and pool.
And still they like the on line games.
It is cool !!!!
It transports you to another world altogether.
the games are beneficial in several ways, the job for the idle minds, money-making for game companies.
And the craze for these games among adults can be understood from the fact that most companies block common games sites.
It is certainly fun to play the games like Commando, Age of Mythologies, Rise of Nations, Age of Empires and Civilization.
On line strategy games help in enhancing the people’s decision making skills and leadership skills, besides providing the break from hectic and time-bound target reaching in the corporate empires.

SWIMMING A PERFECT SPORT

2008-01-22T20:32:00.000-08:00

SWIMMING is probably the healthiest of all general sports.
It trains muscles, heart, and lungs to an equal extent.
As body weight is buoyed up by the water, there is very little strain on bones, spine, and joints, a definite plus for people who are overweight.
As resistance to your progress is twelve times as high in water as on land, you burn up a lot of calories, about 400 per hour.
The cool water also steps up the metabolism, another boost to calorie depletion and a serious asset in the fight against surplus fat.
Practice makes perfect.
This applies just as much in the water as out of it.
Start with slow, unhurried strokes, and take a break after three or four minutes.
But stay in motion by paddling with your legs at the side of the pool.
If you are a beginner and can swim a whole lane without getting out of breathe, that is quite a respectable performance.
Remember that it is better to swim slowly and for longer period, than in brief, hectic bursts.

MEDICINES FOR CHILDREN

2008-01-19T22:46:00.000-08:00

Children under 2 years old should not be given over the counter cough and cold medicines because they are too dangerous for that age group, the researchers in the medicines are saying.
Deaths, convulsions and rapid heart rates have been reported in rare cases in children younger than 2, the doctors are saying.
The cough and cold remedies have been sold for decades but the companies manufacturing the medicines have no proved data that they work for children.
Instead the data was extrapolated from adults.
Children metabolize and react to medications differently than adults, often in unanticipated ways.
Studies have shown cough and cold products are ineffective in treating symptoms of children under six years old and may pose serious risks.
But many of the problems reported in children can be attributed to overdoses and accidental ingestion.
Currently the doctors advise that parents carefully follow dosing directions on all over the counter medications.
To get the precise dose, parents should only use measuring spoons or cups made specifically for medicines, the doctors are saying.

ACTRESS DREW BARRYMORE

2008-01-18T23:22:00.000-08:00

Actress Drew Barrymore is amazed she has been declared a Hollywood beauty as she has struggled with acne her whole life.
Drew cannot believe her ‘Hollywood Beauty’ tag.
The ‘Charlie’s Angles’ star said that she is always struggling with acne problem and battles to keep her skin clear.
“My only beauty recommendation is zit cream. I could not live without it. I get zits all the time and they annoy me more than anything else in the world. I have used every face wash, acne cream, everything. “The 32 –year old actress also admitted that she still lacks confidence in her appearance.
“It is so funny because people say ‘you have got such a great skin.’ And I am like, ‘are you kidding?”
“I guess now I am getting older, I am getting pimples. Some times now, I think I am starting to look like something out of Night of the Living Dead!” she added.

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS,

2008-01-18T02:41:00.000-08:00

Some major changes are all set to get an image makeover from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).
The statutory body has relaxed the code of conduct for C.A.s working in the country.
The new guidelines will be effective from April 2008.
As per the new protocol, the CA s will be able to give the details of their work profile on their visiting cards ad also promote the same through the media.
It will be mandatory for them to use a logo to be given by ICAI on their visiting cards, vehicles and their offices,
That is not all.
A new dress code – blue colored blazer and a tie will also come into effect from April this year.
The reasons are simple to understand.
Domestic Indian firms are in the danger of being swamped by multinational giants whose size and brand name give them tremendous clout.
Unlike Indian CA firms, foreign firms who do not have any protocol that restricts their CA s from putting up ads in the paper or mentioning their work profile on the visiting cards.
However, now that the Indian markets have given way to multinationals, ICAI has been forced to revise its code of conduct, the new guidelines also give domestic CA s liberty to work in multinational companies in India and abroad.

JUNAGARH FORT ---THE GREAT JEWEL OF BIKANER

2008-01-07T23:21:00.000-08:00

JUNAGARH FORT, a magnificent fort of Bikaner constructed by Rai Singh who ordered work on the ‘ great jewel of Bikaner’, the work of constructing the fort began in 1589 and was completed in 1594.
The fort has a 986-meter long wall, fortified by a long range of exquisite pavilions, 37 in all, silhouetted against the skyline.
The palaces inside are ethereal, and comprise of royal public courts buildings and intimate Zananas (women’s quarters), for purdah (veil) so that women be hidden from sight of courtiers.
The fort is beautifully embellished with Rajput paintings, mirror- works, and lacquer work.
Lines of windows and balconies impart a harmonious domestic character to the austere strength of the structure.
The tourists need to take a close look at the fort and feel the atmosphere to get an idea of the indolent lifestyle of the Rajput royalty, in medieval times.
The unique feature of Junagarh Fort is that it is one of the few Rajastani forts not constructed on a hilltop, or any raised surface but on plain land.
This provided the fort with a natural camouflage as it blended into the sandy desert surrounding it, enabling it to remain unconquered for close to 400 years.
In the fort the tourist shall find raised platforms made of swords, on which the Fakirs of Bikaner would dance.
The Viceroy’s wife Lady Reading described the scene in 1922 like this. “ A wizard walked with bare feet on swords I could not touch, so sharp were their points. It was hopelessly uncanny, but wonderful and gorgeous”,
Today it is around the fort that the city’s civil, commercial and social life revolves, its broadest avenues fronts its entrance, and its rugged graceful past overshadows Bikaner’s present, it gardens, and parks, the bazaars, the theaters and buildings.
In the side the tourists shall be able to purchase authenticate handicrafts, some remnants of the dying art.
The Rajasthan Tourism dept and local charitable organizations assists the artisans with marketing, design and loans
There are good number hotels for tourists from abroad.
Bikaner is connected with air to Delhi and other major cities. The railways and roadways have network connecting all cities.

GWALIOR FORT - THE PEARL IN THE NECKLACE OF CASTLES

2008-01-02T23:05:00.000-08:00

India is a place of exotic places of interests for tourists, , gardens , Himalayan peak , wild animals sanctuaries. and the forts standing as the guardians of the history.
Gwalior Fort ,in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, described as the ‘ the pearl in the necklace of the castles of Hind ‘ by the Mughal Emperor , Babur, stads on an isolated rock and contains a number of historic buildings.
Its greatest length from northeast to southwest is 2.4 kms and the greatest breath 820m.
The rock attains its maximum height of 104m.
There are several remarkable Hindu temples within the fort.
One pair of temples, known as the Sas Bahu Ka Mandir, is beautifully adorned
This pair of temples was finished in 1093, and, though dilapidated, is still picturesque.
The Gwalior fort has changed hands many times, from the Tomaras, in the 8th century, to the Scindhias, who were its masters when India became independent and each of these dynasties adorned and embellished the fort richly and its own unique way.
One cannot help beig impressed with the perfect blend of the Hindu and Muslim architecture that characterizes the fort and finds its fullest expression in the brilliant monument.
Come visit Gwalior Fort and enjoy the glorious past of India.
India post has issued a stamp in the honor of this fort, on 1988.08.03.
Gwalior is a major city and there are number of hotels for international tourists, and is well connected by rail , air and roads to all the major Indian cities.

MANJIRA BIRD SANCTUARY

2007-12-29T23:59:00.000-08:00

Andhra Pradesh, an Indian state, is bestowed with rich variety of wild life and natural beauty.
There are lush coastal belt, moist deciduous Eastern Ghats, dry deciduous forests of the Nallamalais and the mangrove belt at Coringa, a perfect environ for your wildlife holiday.
Manjira Bird Sanctuary, 50 kms from Hyderabad is located near Sangareddy in Medak district spreading over 20 sq. kms.
Nestling between Manjira and Singur barrages, the Manjira wild life sanctuary comprises of nine small islands which are home to a number of resident and migratory birds in addition to Marsh Crocodiles and Muggers.
Plants commonly found in water are Pistia, Hydrilla, Eichornia and Vallisneria.
Fishes of various species like Catla, Rahu, Murrel, Ech Paten, Karugu, Chidwa and reptiles like Monitor Lizards, Fresh Water Turtles, and Cobra etc. can be seen here.
Different species of birds found here are Painted Storks, Herons, Coots, Teals, Cormorants, Pochards, Black and White Ibises, Spoon Bills, and Open Billed Storks etc.
The sanctuary has also an Environmental Education Centre with a museum, a library and an auditorium. All these facilitate in education the visitors about nature conservation and maintenance of ecological balance.
The place is very near Hyderabad and the tourists can stay at hotels or lodges in Hyderabad and Inspection Bungalows at Sangareddy and Sadashivpet.
Visit Manjira Bird Sanctuary and enjoy the tropical wild life.

NAGARJUNA SAGAR SANCTUARY--SINGING BIRDS AND ROAMING TIGERS.

2007-12-26T02:44:00.000-08:00

NAGARJUNA SAGAR SANCTUARY in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh can truly be a tourist’s place of a dream, amid singing birds and roaming tigers.
Nagarjuna Sagar sanctuary the India’s larges tiger reserve covering an area of 3600 sq kms with the terrain of rugged geography and winding gorges through the Mallamalai hills, and adjoining the large reservoir of water namely Nagarjunasagar Dam, on the river Krishna is a home of large number of species of birds , wild animals, and a large forest of deciduous vegetation with scrub and bamboo is an ideal shelter to a range of animals from the tiger and leopard at the top of the food chain, to deer, sloth bear, hyena, jungle cat, palm civet, bonnet macaque and pangolin.
In this unspoilt jungle, the tiger is truly nocturnal and the tourists must venture in the night in a jeep to see tiger in his natural form.

In this jungle only, naturalists shall be delighted to find the rare species of flora like Pterolobium indicum, Niebuhria apetala and Ziziphus xylopyrus.
Here the visitor shall find a great number of bird’s species, almost 150 species.
Andhra Pradesh tourism dept has excellent guest houses and cottages with eatery within the sanctuary.
The nearest town is Macherla (29 kms.)
The nearest rail head and air port is Hyderabad (150 kms.)
If you love to walk and trekking the jungles with moderate risk, visit the Nagarjuna Sagar sanctuary, it is a place of great interest.

SANTA FOR ALL

2007-12-25T04:18:00.000-08:00

The winter festival that Christmas is, brings along a lot of warmth and color to brighten our lives.
It draws people of different faiths of different nations, together and revel in its spirit.
Some like to get the real feel of the festival.
People of all faiths, and those who has no faith too, attend the midnight mass along with the closest friends, participate in singing carols and spend the day at friends place eating cakes and cookies and enjoying and remembering their bygone years of friendship.
Thanks to Charles Dickens, for it was he, who through his A Christmas Carol , revived the festival.
A happy and joyous occasion for gifts, pudding and the ho-ho-ing cuddly Santa.
My sincere wishes of happy days to Christians all over who are my friends and who I shall never see face to face.
Let Santa bring the gift of love and respect for the other religions, let him bring the realization in minds of people that when you judge the people with the color of skin or nation or religion, you are dividing the world. Let this world be terror-free. Who cares for the heaven? we can make it here itself.

MEHRANGARH FORT ---KINGS AND QUEENS

2007-12-20T02:07:00.000-08:00

Indian state of Rajasthan is a door way of wonderful land of sand dunes and shrubs, rocky terrains and thorny trees.
Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur in the Indian state of Rajasthan, 5 kms from the city, is one of the largest forts of India, country full of forts and ancient cultures.
In 1458 , Rao Jodha , chief of Rathore clan of Rajputs, worried about safety of his kingdom since Mandore fort was no longer considered a stronger and a safe place, built this fort as his sitting place.Mehrangarh fort is 9 kms from Mandore. The lofty height of 400 ft, with the imposing thick walls, inside there are several places, with intricate carvings, the temples and the palaces of the kings choice is the famous tourists place in India.
Jodha took extreme steps to see that the fort is propitious; he buried a live man at the place of the fort and in return promised that his family shall be taken care of.There are seven gates one has to cross to enter the fort, the gates are the witness of the wars, on the second gate the damage done by the cannon balls hit by the Jaipur armies can still be seen.
All the seven gate were built by different kings, to celebrate their victories over the enemies.
Inside the fort there are several places of interests but two are most tourist attractions.
Moti Mahal or the Pearl Palace, with 5 alcoves with hidden balconies for the five queens of Raja Sur Singh, so that his queens could listen the courts proceedings.Sheel Mahal or The Hall of Mirrors, with super imposed mirror work with brightly painted religious figures made of plaster.
Jodhpur is well connected to all major cities of India, by air, rail and road. The city, a place full of interesting places has many hotels of international standards.

RANTHAMBORE FORT – FULL OF TRAGEDIES AND BLOODY WARS.

2007-12-14T08:34:00.000-08:00

RANTHAMBORE FORT in the Indian state of Rajasthan, in the Ranthambore National Park, built in the year 994 AD by Sapaldakh Chauhan has the history of tragedies and bloody wars all for the fort and the rulers of this fort.
The name Ranthambore gets its name from two hills, one is Thambore on which the fort is located and second is Ran hill which is near by.
The tragedies started in the 14^th Century when the woman folk in fort heard that their king Raja Hammir Dev who was at war with Persian forces, had been killed, it was mistake only, but the woman folk preferred the Jauhar ( a self immolation by the woman to save being molested by invaders.) . Raja Hammir Dev was actually very much alive, but when he came back, and saw this, he beheaded himself before the statue of Shiva.
Since then from 12^th century to 17^th century numerous wars were waged for the control of the fort.
The fort has a black history that prisoners where forced to drink opium milk and thrown from the top of fort on rocks below.
Being vital for the control of Central India, Turks, Afghans, Moguls, Rajputs fought wars for the fort.
The Great Akbar of Mogul Dynasty won the fort and gifted it to Maharaja of Jaipur and then the wars slowed down.
The fort is really huge, the circumference of the fort is 7 kms and the area in side the fort is appr 4.5 sq. km. the height of the fort is 700 ft.
There is no road to enter the fort, one has to use stone stair case only.
Now the most interesting, from top of the fort people can watch the tigers and leopards roaming in the jungle , Ranthambore National Park.
The fort is in ruins, there are only few temples of Shiva and Ganesha, a Jain temple, a water tank and Badal Mahal in the north section of the Fort.
The fort serves as the best viewing point of national park.
Rajasthan tourism dept and other private tour operators have well organized guided tours which cover national park safari tours as well as fort tour.

ASIRGARH – A KEY TO SOUTHERN INDIA.

2007-12-08T22:01:00.000-08:00

India, with the history of ancient history of centuries, has many ancient forts, passes, rivers that have been mentioned in old books of travelers that traveled to Indian, in seek of knowledge or business.
ASIRGARH Fort and the pass which it overlooks, has though lost its importance today, has an ancient history of commerce and army.
Asirgarh fort situated in Satpura Range, almost 20 kms from the Burhanpur city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, had importance because it overlooks the pass connecting the Narmada and Tapti rivers. The only way one can travel from North India to South India.
The fort has some very important places of interests.
The 10^th century temple of Shiva, where people from all over India come to pay their respect. It is said that Ashwaathama, son of Guru Dronacharya, those cited in Mahabharata come here every early morning to offer his Puja to Shiva.
The fort has three lines of constructions, one the upper most known as Asirgarh proper, the second is Kamargarh, and the third is known as Malaygarh.
The Moti Mahal, the burial ground of Moti Begum the beloved queen of Shah Jehan is also here.
If you love to travel in India in a free style , smelling the old Forts, pl spend some time here. It is rewarding.
The nearest major town, Khandawa is yet another city of interests.

SATPURA NATIONAL PARK --- JUNGLE FOR NATURE’S LOVERS NOT FOR TRADITIONAL TOURIESTS.

2007-12-03T03:24:00.000-08:00

Well, there are so many national park in India, and abroad, which are essentially designed to attract the tourists, the theme is commercialization , Satpura National Park is essentially different from them, this park is essentially for the nature’s lovers, the jungles as it should be , the animals as they should be untouched by civilization not habituated to humans.
Satpura National Park situated in Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, set up in 1981 with app 500 sq.kms. is unique. Here you shall breathe the real jungle air, view the jungles sights, and marvel the sounds of nature.
Here the jungle and the animals are as they should be. Do not expect the tigers to pose for your cameras. The animals during day time simply flee when they see the humans. They are too inexperienced to see the humans.
But the night life is different.
Take the jeep ride thru the rough and only basic tracks, during night, ride thru the grass taller than roof top of your jeep, and one can see, tigers, gaurs, hyenas , sambar , dears and bears, and the in moment of fraction they shall vanish in the dense vegetation. there are over 50 animals who have this national park as their natural home.
Their sounds and tracks are the remains of these mesmerizing moments.
But so what. There is so much to see during day time, the birds.
There are number of birds, waiting for to show you their wealth and their songs.
They are everywhere; Malabar Pied Hornbills, Crested Eagles, Honey Buzzards, Pittas, and Peafowl, there are over 200 species of birds in this national park, and some of them you have never seen in your city and zoo.
As is said, this national park has never been themed to attract the tourists; the touch of civilization has been deliberately kept minimum. The forest dept staff is very friendly.
If you want the real Satpura experience the forest dept has some arrangement of accommodations inside the jungle, otherwise at near by Pachmarhi and Saket good hotels some run by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Dept are available.
The bus service is available from Pachmarhi, which is well connected to Bhopal. Bhopal is well connected air to major cities of India.

PERIYAR WILD LIFE SANCTUARY -- ELEPHANT SAFARI.

2007-11-30T01:33:00.000-08:00

Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary is in low lying Cardamom Hills of the Western Gnats in the Indian state of Kerala. The lake Periyar which is the hub of this sanctuary is spread around 5500 hectares, and the sanctuary itself is spread over around this lake in almost 800 sq kms.
The Periyar lake has marshes and grasslands, and these provide the food for animals, and a cover for the hunting animals.
The vegetation of this sanctuary is deciduous, semi-evergreen and evergreen, the atmosphere is calm and serene, and the only outsiders are the humans.
Periyar sanctuary has many types of plant eating animals and naturally the hunters of these plant eating animals, like Gaur, Wild Boar, Sambar Deer, Bison, Wild Dogs, the jewels of this sanctuary Elephants, and Tigers.
And there are reptiles like Cobras, Vipers and water animals like Tortoise and number of species of fishes, probably everything that mother Earth has to display in the tropical jungles.
Periyar sanctuary is an ideal place for camping, there are number of observation towers built specially for the tourists to watch the birds and animals life during day time and night times.
But Periyar is best known for the elephant safari, a typical type of safari for the tourists to wander in the jungles. The elephants with the Mahouts are arranged by the Tourists dept for the visitor, so that visitor can wander in the jungle safely, just imagine the wild elephants bathing, or tigers roaming within few steps from you.
Kumily which is 4 kms from the Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary has number of hotels , for accommodation run by tourist dept , camping gear is also available and tours are organized from here.
Kochi and Madurai are the major cities near Kumily.
Kerala Tourism Development Corporate is running the guided tours and accommodation facilities for the tourists and the foreigners should be very comfortable here.
Enjoy your holidays at God’s Own Country , riding on elephants in this Tigers Reserves.

LAKSHADWEEP ISLANDS ---- SNOW WHITE CORAL SANDS – A SPELL OF NATURE

2007-11-25T07:32:00.000-08:00

Lakshadweep, not heard many times in the favorite of list of vacations, simply because these islands almost 250 off the Malabar Coast of India, except 6 of them are all closed to visitors so that external influence does not disturb the natural beauty of these islands.
These islands, have the feeling of remoteness, the off the beaten track, densely covered by coconut palms, no hoards of tourists, with unbroken line of creamy sands, they stand as the classic painting of the nature.
There are only six islands opened for the tourists, they are Bangaram, Kavaratti, Minicoy, Agatti, Androt, and Kalpeni.
A few highlights of two islands are enough, to imagine the beauty of these islands.
Agatti, 460 kms from Cochin, has a stop over by air from Cochin and Goa, an attraction for the tourists , so many water sports, scuba diving, fishing , lagoon fishing, speed boating and sail boating, everything that water recreation can be imagined.
The population of the island is hardly 7000 , so no crowds , everywhere only you and the nature. Sugary white beaches, swaying palms and spectacular blue sea everywhere that is what Agatti is. A fully furnished resort is available here, and a medical aid center too should any one need in case of emergency.
Bangaram island, another breath taking and beautiful island in Lakshadweep islands, surrounded by shallow lagoon and enclosed by coral reef , a perfect harmony of sun , sand and surf , it is literally a spell on the tourists.
And the biggest surprise is Bangaram is un-inhabited, everything is just untouched, except for the visitors from Agatti , the population is zero. The accommodation facility is simple keeping in touch with nature, it is not hotel- like but still comfortable.
Some words of caution, as is common in India, use of alcohols, drugs are prohibited.
Do not pick any corals, it is an offense.
Do not leave or wander outside the lagoon without informing the sports authority, it is certainly risky. There are enough regulatory personnel to assist the tourists, please ask them for escorts before preceding the open sea.

ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR ISLANDS – PICNIC TREKKING BEACHES

2007-11-21T22:24:00.000-08:00

Andaman and Nicobar islands, one can not find too many talks about these two islands of India. In fact these two islands a Garden of Eden and a pleasant surprise of naturalists were abode of originals until 1777, when British made a systematic survey of these two islands.
Ironically these two islands were not used as picnic places but rather as a punitive measurement for settlements by British, the jails, convicted and freed people, ex-servicemen and the people which British did not want to stay in the main lands of India, were the people who populated here.
But the scene changed here after independence of India, people started here coming, first they were forced as by government to discharge their duties in the employment of Govt of India, and the word spread, these two islands, unspoilt because of inaccessibility till now, clean environment, greenery everywhere, the beaches without crowds, generally randomly hilly with palm and coconut trees, became the picnic place for the people of India.
The Neil island 36 kms from Port Blair is famous for lush green forests and sandy beaches.
Long Island 82kms from Port Blair is another surprise for beach lovers.
At Rangat, the visitor can experience the quiet village life.
And there are so many other things, Naya Bunder, Diglipur, Little Andaman Island, if fact Andaman and Nicobar are full of beaches and picnic spots, everywhere, one can spend days in and days out. Places of interests are everywhere at Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar.
Saddle peak and Mount Tulliar are the highest peaks, very comfortable for the easy climbers and hikers.
Sea bathing, sun basking, trekking, camping, snorkeling and scuba diving, really a vacation at Andaman and Nicobar is a life time holiday experience.
Port Blair is connected by air with Chennai and Calcutta as well as luxury ferry service.
Andaman and Nicobar islands’ tourism industry is well governed by the Tourism Dept of Govt of India, excellent accommodation and food is available, the hotels are organizing the guided tours by ferry or cars for the tourists.
Enjoy the nature to the heart here.

CHAMBA-- FRESH AND UNSPOILT LIKE DAISY

2007-11-18T08:16:00.000-08:00

Chamba a not much noticed, a small hilly town, 50 kms from Mussoorie, another hill station in the Indian state of Uttaranchal, is a place which is quiet and picturesque, where the only thing that visitor shall lose is his fatigue.
There is another Chamba in Himachal Pradesh, but here we are talking about Chamba of Uttaranchal state.
The intervening mountains, and deadly passes amongst them, the snow clad lines on the mountains, the small dusty roads and tracks with the lines of deodar and pine trees, with the only traffics of cattle and mountains goats and of course the cool and pleasant Himalayan air, that is what can be a sum of Chamba.
Chamba is at the altitude of 1500 meter so the place is very comfortable for non-climbers.
Surkhanda Devi temple at the top of hill top en route to Chamba is another attraction.
But Chamba is famous for something more, Rani Chauri.
Rani Chauri is just 13 kms from Chamba, an excellent place for campers to enjoy the spectacular snow capped hills sitting in the warming sun, within the pine and deodar forests.
The only thing you hear here is birds singing the heavenly songs and rustling sounds of pine leaves.
Tour operators here organize the rock-climbing, trekking and some people just settle down here with canvas and painting brush.
In fact some corporate encourage their fatigued top brass to take the break at Rani Chauri.

KASAULI – A THROWBACK TO THE PAST

2007-11-13T22:46:00.000-08:00

Kasauli a small cantonment town of the 19^th century in Indian state of Himachal Pradesh has charms of old world, you shall travel another hundred years back.
Kasauli is still untouched by civilization , the visitor can wander the up and down the cobbled roads, with quaint houses at the side , and small gardens at the front, for hours without being come across another human during the off season November-February.
You can imagine the calmness of town, the population is hardly 5000.
The hill station was originally established by British as a cantonment in year 1842.
But the most visited local point in Kasauli is the meeting point of lower mall and upper mall, just wander here, see the typical bazaar or enjoy the hills and tracks all around.
A mixed jungle of pine, oak and chestnut encircles the hilly region around Kasauli.
From Choor Chandani, at night you can see the twinkling lights of plains.
Popular children’s book writer Ruskin Bond was born here, and in his stories the jungles and the mystic effects of Kasauli is experienced.
Christ church and Lawrence school both are living examples of colonial architecture.
The monkey point 300 m high hillock is another place to visit.
Since Kasauli is in vicinity of Shimla, another very popular hill station, Kasauli is almost managed to remain calm and over –exploited.
Kasauli is 77 kms from Shimla and 65 kms from Chandigarh, both are prominent stations with airports .
Here so many hotels are built in the colonial bungalows where staying is really a charming experience.
A visit to Kasauli and one may wish to settle down here permanently.

DALHOUSIE – ECHOS OF BRITISH RAJ

2007-11-10T05:51:00.000-08:00

If you wish to visit the hill station which is not crowded by tourists, a quite town then Dalhousie in Indian state of Himachal Pradesh is a perfect place.
Dalhousie is spread over five low leveled hills, on the east bank of Ravi Rive, on the western edge of Dhauladhar ranges of Himalaya.
Dalhousie is a gateway to Chamba Valley; the town wears the look of colonial era, since this town was established by Lord Dalhousie in the year 1854.
The colonial buildings, the low roofed stalls and the pine covered hills around the town spread over some 14 kms.and zigzag treks on the hills, make a sum of paradise on earth. The treks and the small roads are however not demanding, one rather enjoys the walk.
The town has elevation from 500 meters to 2500 meters, surrounded by vegetation of pine, deodars and oaks. The Ravi River twists and rounds all around Dalhousie, with mountains on both sites. Dhauladhar Mountains can be viewed from Dalhousie
In winter the temperature can freeze to zero and in summer the atmosphere is temperate and pleasant.
Dalhousie is famous for the churches which British built and Jandhri Ghat which has elegant palace amidst the pine forest and from where former Chamba Rulers ruled this region.
The closest railway station is Pathankot which is 80 kms away; the nearest air port is Gaggal in Kangra which is 135 kms. From all these places tourists buses and taxies are available. Dalhousie has number of small hotels for budgeted tours and some five star hotels.

DARJEELING – QUEEN OF HILL STATIONS - LAND OF THUNDERBOLTS

2007-11-08T05:36:00.000-08:00

Darjeeling, a piece of paradise, is more a hill station and less a town at the average elevation of 2134 meters in the Indian state of West Bengal in the Shiwalik Hills of Lower Himalayan.
In the Tibetan language the Darjeeling means the land of thunderbolts.
The culture and history is inter-woven with British, Tibet, Nepal, Sikkim and Bhutan.
Darjeeling has always the pleasant temperature rarely exceeding 25 c.
Although Darjeeling is famous many monasteries and close view of Tibetan culture, the most noteworthy is Toy Train and Tea plantations.
Tea plantations were started by British in 1841 in this region and the success spread everywhere all around this town. The Darjeeling tea is the best in Black Tea category and is very popular in UK and other former British Colonies.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, carrying few steam engines, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The curvy railway tracks carry the toy train from Siliguri (80 kms) thru the hills, streams and cold breeze is such a pleasant experience that people do not care for the time and the slow speed of this toy train.
Apart from these two things, there are number of attractions for the visitors.
Ghoom 6 kms from Darjeeling is famous for Yiga Monastery where images of Maitrya Buddha are preserved. There are also many palm leaves and papers manuscripts in Tibetan scripts.
Mirik Lake in the valley regions with cool air, tea plantations and smiling Gorkha people makes one spend here forgetting the time.
Darjeeling mall is famous for typical sweaters of Himalayan wools, Tibetan styled paintings and Tibetan antiques and of course Darjeeling teas. People usually carry loads of tea bags as memoirs of their visit to Darjeeling.
Darjeeling has flourishing tourist business and there are numbers of hotels catering the needs of all sorts of people of all nations.
The nearest major railway station is Siliguri which is connected to all major cities. The nearest airport is Bagdogra that is 100 kms away. The bus and taxies are however always available from Siliguri at all the times.
The local taxies here provide guide services as well as covering all site seeing points.
The local people Gorkha are very co-operative and always smiling, a unique feature of this region.

KONARK – THE SUN TEMPLE OR BLACK PAGODA

2007-11-03T23:36:00.000-07:00

Hardly there would be anybody who has an interest in Indian architectural and cultural history, has not visited the famous temple of Konark.
Konark is a small town in the Indian state of Orissa, is a famous and a world heritage site, for 13 th century Sun Temple built in black granite.
The whole temple is built in the form of chariot of God Sun, drawn by seven horses on 12 wheels.
At the entrance itself two lions sculptures are shown crushing two warring elephants, which are standing on the human bodies.
There are stone carvings everywhere in this temple depicting the graceful stride of Lord Sun.
The temple is full of carving of divine, human and semi-divine sculptures of couples and feminine standing in very sensuous poses, depicting and describing the Science of Sex, Kam Sutra.
The temple is typical of Kalinga School of Temples, situated in natural surroundings, the sandy beach, a popular tourists destination, and casuarinas and other plantations make Konark an ideal place of vacations.
The temple is famous for the annual dance festival, which is with the temple in the background.
Since Konark is only 70 kms from Bhubaneshwar the state capital, there should not be any problem to come and go in a single day.

MAHABALIPURAM – RELIGION AND RECREATION THE BEAUTIFUL BEACH CITY

2007-10-31T05:39:00.000-07:00

Mahabalipuram or as locally know as Mamallapuram a town of temples is famous for the seashore temple and the beach of scenic beauty. It is a place of sand and sea.
Mamall mean the great wrestler, the town was a seaport and capital of Pallava dynasty that ruled here until the 8 century A.D.
The Mahabalipurm’s pride is beautiful cave temples carved from black granite. At the some distance from Mahabalipuram there are other free standing temples, all of great sculptural monuments
The shore temple is the oldest temple in this part of India; it is an example architect style of Dravidian style. (As compared to Aryan style). When lit in the moon lit the whole temple has a mesmerizing effect on the viewer.
But Mahabalipuram is not a place of religion only, it is a place of beach, a beach area of 20 kms is full of sea lovers. Where as some people enjoy safe surfing and sun bathing, for the adventurists’ deep sea angling facility is available. The local fishermen are available on hire to take you to tour on deep sea for angling. It is really very charming to see fishing boats in the sun rise and sun set with beautiful colors of sky in the background.
There are several beach resorts to fit everybody’s pocket.
The nearest air port is Channai ( 60 kms.) , an international airport itself and the nearest railway station is Chengalpattu ( 30 kms.)

DHARAMSHALA – A PERFECT HOLIDAY IN PINE AND DEODAR FORESTS

2007-10-28T01:27:00.000-07:00

Dharamshala a place and a small town in the snow clad Dhauladhar ranges of Himalayan in the Kangra valley region in India, is not so famous a spot for vacations, that is the reason it is least crowded and makes it the wandering men’s dream place.
The town has two sections, upper Dharamshala and lower Dharamshala. The upper Dharamshala has the history of British Raj. The British who were searching for the ideal place for the permanent station for their troops in Dhauladhar ranges, found an ideal place near a Hindu sanctuary called Dharamshala, the troops were settled near by, and the whole place was called by name Dharamshala. It was year 1849.
The lower Dharamshala is type of commercial version with bazaars and other people who came here in search of employment.
The average elevation of Dharamshala is 5000 ft.
The dense forests of pine and deodar, the plains flourishing with greens, the streams (and numerous) carrying fresh, sweet and cool water, the snow clad line on the mountains and the silence that one can hear one’s own foot steps, makes one to feel like he is in paradise.
Dharamshala has deeply remained connected with Hinduism and Buddhism. If you are interested in Buddhism, and want to visit His Holiness Dalai Lama then you must come here, because upper Dharamshala is the official residence of His Holiness Dalai Lama.
All around Dharamshala and few kilometers here and there, there are many places of great interests for the visitors.
Kotwali Bazaar, a typical orient bazaar full of Kangra valley arts and crafts, dresses, jewellery, coins, sculptures, pottery and so many other things that a visitor may wander here for hours.
Dal lake some 10 kms from Dharamshala surrounded deodar forests, a scenic view indeed.
Dharamkot some 11 kms away from Dharamshala, a picnic point, from here you can view the Dhauladhar ranges and Kangra valley.
Dharamshala is connected to Delhi by air, the nearest airport is Gaggal just 15 kms away.
Pathankot the nearest railway station is 100 kms away.
The local govt and the private tours and taxis are available
There are good hotels serving the food and accommodations, although shopkeepers may not be able to speak English, they do understand the English, the increasing touch with outer world has made them understand them what the Englishman is asking.
The paid guide service is excellent.
In fact so many people from western countries interested in Buddhism come here to pay their respect to His Holiness Dalai Lama.

CHEMBRA PEAK- A ROMANCE WITH THE CLOUDS

2007-10-24T01:43:00.000-07:00

Chembra Peak is for those who love light adventures in mountains, not climbing like Himalayan but not so easy mounting but not easy as well.

Chembra Peak is highest peak in Wayanad (altitude 2100m) hill ranges in the Western Ghats in the Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Nearest town is Meppady from where one has to take the tour on foot. A permit from forest dept has to be obtained to start the adventure. There are temporary camps on the hills.

Walking around the tea plantations, forests, and strong breeze clearing the beautiful mist only to be restored again, shall keep any man walking without tiredness.

During the tour a region comes where you can get some water, dripping slowly from the rocks, the flow of water is thin, but the taste of water is heavenly, sweet and cool.

A heart shaped lake en route to peak is a major attraction for the tourists, a place for the lovers to rest and enjoy the place.
The whole track to the peak is full of rich flora and fauna, plantations of tea and coffee here and there.

Really visit to Chembra Peak makes one to wish to settle down here permanently.
Local govt body has made enough arrangements for the hiring of camping and trekking tools, guides to promote the tourism.

OOTACAMUND – BLUE MOUNTAINS

2007-10-20T00:13:00.000-07:00

Ootacamund or simply known as Ooty situated in the Nilgiri Dist of Tamil Nadu state of India is a popular hill station for the people of India especially those in the Southern of India.
John Sullivan, a British liked the atmosphere of this land and acquired the large part of this land from the local tribes, slowly other British started settling here. It became the summer capital of Madras Residency. They built for them the tricky roads and railways tracks. They organized the systematic cultivation of the tea gardens and eucalyptus.
The hills around, the green vegetation, the dusty tracks and cool fresh air make Ootacamund an ideal hill station.
Now days there are commercial productions units growing the vegetables and spices.
The local economy is dominated by tourism and other related industries like hotels providing the accommodations and foods to international and domestic tourists.
Ootacamund has many historical places, like the Botanical Garden, a 22-acre garden laid in 1847, the purpose being to maintain and study the flora and plants around the Nilgiri Mountains.
Ootacamund railway station is a world heritage place, a glimpse of the British Raj.
The Ooty Lake has boating facility for the tourists.
There are other places nearby of interest like Doddabetta Peak, Ketti Valley and Pykara Falls.
The nearest airport is Coimbatore but otherwise Ooty is well connected by roads to other major cities in the state.

KODAIKANAL ---PRINCESS OF THE HILL STATIONS.

2007-10-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

Kodaikanal sometimes simply known as Kodai is in the Dindigul Dist.in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
Kodaikanal is popularly known as the ‘ Princess of the Hill Stations” in India. Much of the industry is hospitality based on national and international tourists. It is common here to see Scandinavians, retired French eating the meals prepared by Tibetans.
Many retired Indians have settled down here.
Kodaikanal has its birth originated by the American Missionaries who established it to escape the tropical diseases and hot air typical of India.
Kodaikanal stands at the height of 2000 meters in the central part of Palani Hills in the Western Ghats of India.

There are many hotels in Kodaikanal serving the vegetarian non-vegetarian, Western and Indian foods. There are also hotels, which are at the international standards to serve the tourists of other countries.
There is an excellent bazaar simply known as main bazaars where one can get almost everything fancy and necessary.
Here you will get woolen clothes, flowers, typical vegetables of this region, fresh meat, hot snacks, children’s wooden toys, herbal medicines and herbal oils and spices for which Indian has a place of its own.
A lake in the center of town has boating facilities. Near the lake is Bryant Park botanical garden.
The Shenbaganur Museum has a wide collections orchids and artifacts of ancients tribes residing here.
There are excellent and exotic hiking and trekking trails in the Palani Hills, which start from Kodaikanal for the wanderers.
For the visitors there are points like Green Valley View, Pillar Rocks, Silver Rocks and Guna Caves.
From the Pillar Rocks one can see the dramatic view of Kodaikanal and Palani Hills make up.
The nearest airport is Madurai. Kodaikanal is connected by road to other major cities around this region.

MOUNT ABU --- BREAK FOR WEARIED

2007-10-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

If you are tired of wandering in the hot air of Rajasthan and dust and sand has wearied you out, then take break at Mount Abu.
Mount Abu in Rajasthan almost 200 kms from Udaipur is a favorite place for honeymooner from Gujarat and Rajasthan.
The nearest railway station is Abu road, is on the Ahmedabad –Delhi railway route. It takes 1 hour’s journey from Abu Road railway station, by bus or tourist bus which are abundant here.
Mount Abu is type of sleepy town during off-season and therefore the best time if you want to wander quietly is winter.
Mount Abu’s altitude is 1200 mtrs, enough for climate to be cool and at the same time comfortable for those who do wish to go to higher up places.
Mount Abu is full of shops selling Rajasthani handicrafts, jewellery and paintings.
Abu has been systematically developed by Rajasthan govt as tourists’ attractions points.
There are hotels of all types suitable for budgets of every person and food of western or Indian both is available.
Nakki Lake the foremost attraction of Mount Abu is half mile long and quarter mile broad surrounded by gardens and greenery, seating arrangements for tourists is a most visited place.
For the enthusiasts the boating is also available.
But a trip to mount Abu is not complete unless you make a visit to Dilwara Jain temples.
Built by the ministers of Solanki rulers these temples have wonderful marble carvings, these temples are the best in the Jain architecture.
Mount abut has it own wild life sanctuary in the Arvalli mountains ranges. Here one can find the wonderful water and air weathering effects on the rocks.

MUSSOORIE - COOL AND PLEASANT

2007-10-08T03:44:00.000-07:00

Mussoorie a pleasant hill station , in northern India, was first discovered by one Captain Young of the British Army in the year 1820, and he liked it so much that he built here his residence. This started the cohabitations of people here.
The word " mussoorie" is derived from the name of a plant mussoorie which were abundant here at that time.
Mussoorie is at the height of 2500 meters in Garhwal hills the Himalayan green ranges. The climate here is always cool and pleasant. The greenery, the protected jungles and the snake-lime curving small roads is a delicious break for the tourists.
Many people have settled down here permanently or built their vacation homes here to escape the fatigue of their busy life.
The city itself has it own small entertainment like Captain Garden, Gun hills and Kamptee Falls ( 30 kms) and rope way to a higher climb to see the long ranges of Himalayan mountains.
Population is less than 50000 to make it a quiet place for the wanderers.
When the summer starts the tourists especially from Northern India start flocking here, there are numerous hotels few kms from Mussoorie which serve the need of these people.

KHAJURAHO SCULPTURE ANCIENT INDIA

2007-10-04T03:30:00.001-07:00

If you love sculptures and that too of orient nature then you must visit the Khajuraho temple for the best sculptures , stone carving. The temples numbering 30 are situated 100 miles from Jhansi in Madhya Pradesh in India.
The temples were not built during regime of a single regime but they were built during a span of over hundred years.
This is the reason that the influence of various faiths Shivaits , Jainism and Tantrism.
There are over 650 sculptures mostly of maidens in provocative postures the best in sensuality and warmth, widely photographed by the visitors.
The history of ancient of India comes alive here and you shall feel it in the most.
At various times dance festivals are performed in the background these temples. For film industry is widely photographed place.
Jhansi is well connected by air. There are plenty of hotels of international standard at Jhansi. The visitors from other nations should not feel uncomfortable here.

AURAGABAD - BACK TO MOGUL EMPIRE

2007-09-29T03:30:00.000-07:00

Yet one of the oldest city of Mogul Empire is Aurangabad in Maharastra( India). As soon as you enter the city you shall enter back into time some 400 years back.
Bibi-ka-makabara is the most prominent monument of which photo you can see above.
Although it resembles Taj Mahal of Agra , there are many differences.Probably it resembles due to that fact that both are Mogul Empire buildings.
But the people most from other countries come here to visit cave temples of Ellora which 30 kms from the city and the Buddist cave temple of Ajanta which are some 150 kms from the city.Ajanta caves have the famous paintings illustrating the life of Buddha. These are very famous places and are world heritage places.Taxis for the tourists are available. Also there are organized tour operators available . Paid guide service certified by the Govt are available on the spot to explain the details.
Hotels and other services for the tourists are at the level which can satisfy tourists from other nations.Usually all hotels have network for the smooth arrangements of tours. Indian and Western food both can be requested at the hotels.

GOA - OUT OF THIS WORLD

2007-09-25T00:35:00.000-07:00

Probably everybody who loves to travel loves the breathtakingly beautiful blue sea, the silvery beaches. Goa ( in India) is amongst them. The beaches of Goa will make your holiday memorable. With beautiful Portuguese churches and simple people Goa has a festival like atmosphere that is so electrifying that you will definitely feel it. The throbbing night life and the serene beauty of the sea is so amazing that every minute of your tour will fill you with happiness.
Vasco -de Gama and Panjim are the major town places.
Goa has Dona Paula ,Arjuna Beach,Bega Beach and Benaulim Beach.
A visit to Goa with small roads full with vegetations, trees and small villages make a lasting impressions in the minds of visitors.
Cashew nuts ,mangoes and hot spices are unbelievingly at cheap price. In fact mangoes and cashew nuts are exported to all over the world from here.
In Vasco, hotels and food of every sort are available.

UDAIPUR

2007-09-21T07:39:00.000-07:00

Udaipur in state India, is the most romantic of all the places in Rajasthan. Udaipur is called the city of lakes because of thousands of water bodies that dot the city. In the middle of a desert which is in perennial shortage of water, the lake city of Udaipur is like an oasis. The most famous of Udaipur's palaces is The City Palace. Standing beside Lake Pichola, this beautiful palace has become an extremely popular tourist attraction. The palace is now a heritage hotel and you can enjoy your stay at the palace in grand Rajasthani style for a price.

Udaipur is well connected by air , rail and road transport. Hotels serving western and Indian food are plenty. Hotels of all types for everybody and within everybody's reach are available.
There are plenty of temples of orient culture ( carving) in the city.

CHITTORGARH FOR

2007-09-19T22:08:00.000-07:00

Located in Rajasthan, ( INDIA)Chittorgarh Fort was strategically very important in those days when Rajput warriors fought and preferred to die fighting rather than suffer dishonor. The fortress evokes a feeling of chivalry that is characterestic of an era where men lived and died by the sword and women preferred to jump into fire rather than fall in the enemy hand. Designed on an 180 m high hill, the approach to the fort is so zigzag that it will simply confound a person. The fort was built to be impenetrable and true to its reputation the fort withstood the siege by the powerful army of Emperor Akbar.
Chittorgarh is one of the finest relics of ancient India. Today it is one of the most visited places in Rajasthan. The fortress evokes a romanticism that you will find in no other historical structures. Even to this day the fort epitomizes valor and patriotism.
Udaipur which is very near and which is in itself a eartwhile Marwa state has all types of hotels , shops of jewellery and craftsmanship .

ALMORA

2007-09-16T03:37:00.000-07:00

Escape from the heat of the tropical Sun and enjoy the spectacular snow of the central Himalayas in the small horse-shoe shaped small town called Almora. The town is extremely serene and the beauty of nature is such that people come here to spend a few days but simply fall in love and return to this place time and again. This town is built on a 5 km long mountain trail. The town was once the capital city of Kumau. The historic fort and the government buildings that were once the seat of power, have now become places of tourist attraction. Founded in 1568, Almora has had its place of importance in history as well. Right from Swami Vivekananda to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the city of Almora has impressed all and sundry. The quite beauty, excellent climate and peaceful atmosphere of the city is its unique selling proposition.
The city of Almora is well connected by road from all major Indian cities. If you wish to travel by air the nearest airport is at Pant Nagar in Nainital. It must, however, be noted that regular flights are operational only in summer months. People who will prefer to travel by train too should not find any difficulty. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam. The beauty of Almora is spellbinding and it compells people to come back again and again.

2007-09-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

With its laid -back lifestyle and immense wealth of architecture, handicrafts and jewellery, Agra in India is amongst the most remarkable city of the world. Almost half of the foreign tourists who travel to India to enjoy an exotic Indian Holiday, make it a point to visit this city. Taj Mahal in Agra is the most beautiful symbol of love created by mankind and one of the Seven Wonders of ancient world.It has been one of the seven wonders of this world and it shall remain for so many years to come.
Taj Mahal was constructed by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jehan. This mausoleum is build in the loving memory of his queen Mumtaj Mahal. The Taj Mahal looks ethereal at any time of the day. It is blushing red at sunrise and sunset, pearly mirage in the moonlight or ivory white when reflected in the pools of the garden . Perhaps the most enchanting view of the Taj is from an octagonal tower at the Agra Fort. Agra is not only a famous tourist destination but is a shoppers paradise too. There are plenty of large and small markets from where you can buy the items the place are renowned for. Agra is also famous for leather items. It one of the biggest centers of hand made leather goods. The most famous commodity are the zari and embroidery work, stone inlay work and durries.
Hotels are in every type of range of price for locals and foreign clients. Luxury hotels in Agra is among the best in the world. You will get all the comfort imaginable in both 5 star hotels as well as budget hotels in the city. If you are on a budget tour, you can easily find a budget hotel where you will not have to pay heavily for your stay. With online hotel reservation available to you, booking a hotel from your home is always possible.
As it is the public transport and private transport is fair and safe.