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Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Daman & Diu

July 29th, 2011

Spread on the coast of the Arabian Sea, Daman &Diu was a part of Portuguese India up until 1961. These small twin islands lie to the south of Gujarat and are together one of the Union Territories of India. The exotic beached and laid back life attracts visitors who want to get away from the humdrum of city life. The forts and churches along with the pubs serving exotic liquor make these islands an eclectic mix of the old and new. The enchanting Portuguese flavor still exists in the islands in many forms.

Before you set out to laze on the beaches, sipping your favorite drink, visit the forts and churches so that you get to know the history of these islands.

The Fort of St. Jerome in Daman and the Jain temple there are a must see. Our Lady of Rosary Church is a well preserved 17^th century cathedral inside the fort. Consecrated in 1603, the Bom Jesu cathedral will dazzle you with its golden alter and wood and brick work. These churches built in gothic style are very well preserved and have fine Portuguese carvings on their walls.

At the Daman jetty don’t miss the grand lighthouse, the Gandhi Park and the amusement park.

In Diu the imposing Portuguese, surrounded on three sides by the sea and with its cannons still intact, is the major tourist attraction. Another interesting monument is the Zampa Gateway with its lions and angels, an inscription that dates back to 1702 and its artificially created waterfall.

After the tour of the city head to the sun-kissed beaches to cool off and relax. Among the beaches Devka Beach with its amusement Park is the most popular one. Owing to huge rocks underneath the waters this beach is not suited for swimming but the brightly lit restaurants and pubs playing popular music and vibrant with lot of activity are really in keeping with the holiday mood.

If you are looking for a quieter time then Jerome Beach, 4 km from the town, with its whispering palms is the best for you. Pack a picnic to have a beach on the beach and enjoy the stunning view of the sea and the horizon.

The Nagoa Beach in the village of Bucharwada is for water sports enthusiasts and one can also enjoy swimming here.

With lower excise duty on alcohol, the bars and pubs at the beaches serve all the well known brands of liquor which you can enjoy in the bright lights and happy music played there.

The newly constructed Hilsa Aquarium has some exotic fish varieties. Visit the Damanganga Tourist Complex, developed specially for the entertainment of tourists is worth a visit. The complex has conference halls, a health club, cottages and cafeteria and is beautifully designed and facilitated.

Among the rocks on the seashore is the lovely Gangeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and has five lingas.

The coconut full moon festival or locally called Nariyal Poornima is a unique festival held in September and marks the beginning of the fishing season.

Tour and Travel Guide Daman and Diu

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Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Jakarta

July 27th, 2011

Jakarta is Indonesia’s largest city as well as its political, cultural and economic hub, capital of the Republic Of Indonesia. The city welcomes a large number of tourists from the world over and people travel there for both business and leisure. Jakarta is a culturally rich city with great diversity in traditions, architecture and history and a favored destination of travelers the world over. Being a capital city it is the economic, political and social hub of Indonesia. Jakarta is steeped in history and for those with a love for history there are a number of historical buildings, arts and culture to marvel at. Even today the rich historical background of the city inspires the younger generation to not only preserve and respect it but to draw motivation to carry on their life and businesses successfully. To catch the historical glimpse of the city visit its many museums like The Indonesian National Museum and Satria Mandala Museum. Visit the National Monument, which is a tall obselik made of marble coated with gold and contains a museum and meditation hall. Mosques, churches and palaces abound in the city and showcase the rich religious diversity of its past and present.

For lovers of nature Jakarta has an amazing marine life and parks and a zoo. At the Miniature Park you can view at one glance the diversity of the Indonesian archipelago through the miniature regional architectural constructions, the large variety of orchids, an aviary, which is part of a walk-in bird park, a fauna museum and to cool off there is a swimming pool and restaurants serving local and continental cuisines. Pay a visit to the open Ragunan Zoo, which homes 3000 animals! This one of the most visited places in the city. Looking for fun and adventure then drop in at Ancol Jakarta Bay City, a thrilling recreational park. Enjoy fishing and boating in its artificial lagoon or gaze at amazing marine lives in the sea and fresh water aquariums. The place also has a number of restaurants, a swimming pool, nightclubs and massage parlors. To get a flavor of the local music and dance visit the open air theatre where these artists perform live. The place also has a souvenir shop where you can purchase Indonesian handicrafts and paintings to take back home.

Jakarta is not devoid of night life so don’t forget to pack your party clothes. At the clubs the DJ’s can be heard playing till wee hours of the morning and the bars are as lively as the clubs. Discotheques, karaoke bars, theatres- Jakarta ensures that its visitors have a whole hearted entertainment. To wipe away those city stresses indulge in one of the many spas for which the city is well known. Aromatic oil massages and lingering floral baths are sheer heaven at these spas. Jakarta also has an array of modern shopping malls where one can find almost all international and national brands. However, be sure to go to the traditional shopping markets which are lively dressed and have on display the full extent of the arts and handicrafts of the country.

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Tags: Ancol Indonesia Indonesia Travel Guide. Indonesia’s largest city Inscription Museum Jakarta Jakarta attractions Jakarta tourism Jakarta Travel Guide Kota Tua MONAS Museum National Monument National Museum Primate Ragunan Zoo Schmutzer Sunda Kelapa Taman Ismail Marzuki TMII travel to Jakarta Wayang Wayang Museum

Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Ahmedabad : Fastest growing city

July 25th, 2011

Located in the Western Indian state of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is Gujarat’s largest city, which in 2010 was rated as the fastest growing city in India and third fastest in the world. An eclectic mix of Hindu and Muslim architecture called the Indo-Sarcenic style is the notable feature of the city along with its association with the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi.

Ahmedabad is a haven for history lovers as there are numerous exquisite mosques scattered in the city.

The Jama Masjid, which is believed to have been built from the material from demolished Hindu and Jain temples has over 200 columns that support the roof.

The Sidi Saiyad Mosque, built by the slave king Ahmed Shah has an intricately carved window panel which is an example of dexterous workmanship.

The Rani Rupmati’s Mosque is dedicated to the Hindu queen of the king and incorporates elements of both Hindu and Islamic architecture.

Close to the railway station is the Sidi Bashir Mosque, which is famous for its twin shaking minarets, which are believed to be earthquake proof.

The tombs of Ahmed Shah, the illustrious ruler of Ahmedabad and his queens are worth visiting. Women cannot enter the central chamber of the king’s tomb and the tombs of his queens are on a raised platform outside.

7km from the city, on the banks of the River Sabarmati lies the Sabarmati Ashram, from where Gandhi led his movement for independence. A small museum there preserves the small effects of the Mahatma and since its inception in 1915 the ashram makes handicrafts.

A Jain temple of white marble, the Hathi Singh Temple, is dedicated to the 15^th Tirthankara, Dharmnath.

Bhadra Fort and Teen Darwaja- interestingly the Bhadra Fort, which now houses of some government departments was built by Ahmed Shah and named after Bhadra, a Hindu goddess. Teen Darwaja is a triple gateway, to the east of the fort, which was used for watching processions between the palace and Jama Masjid, by the sultans.

Dada Hari Wav- colloquially called baoli or wav, Dada Hari Wav is a stepwell constructed by someone from the harem of Sultan Begara. This deep step well has galleries all around and at its ground level a portico. Today too it feels extremely cool inside it even during peak summers. Sadly facing neglect but one can only imagine its resplendent glory and coolness in times gone by. The best time to visit it is in the morning before 11 am.

If you are looking for some adventure then at short distances from the city there are some wildlife sanctuaries where one can take elephant or jeep safaris and enjoy the wild. The city also has several aquariums.

Go-karting tracks and amusement parks, zoo, water parks, horse riding tracks and swimming pools can add thrill to your stay in the city.

Ahmedabad is a shopper’s paradise. The city is the textile centre of the country and is also sometimes referred to as the ‘Manchester of India’. So various kinds of dress materials can be purchased, also sarees and bedspreads with rich Indian motifs are popular.

Ahmedabad Tour Guide – Sightseeing – Hotels – Travel Packages – About Ahmedabad

Tags: Ahmedabad Ahmedabad city guide Ahmedabad holidays Ahmedabad india Ahmedabad india travel Ahmedabad tour guide Ahmedabad tourism Ahmedabad tourist attractions Ahmedabad tours Ahmedabad travel Ahmedabad travel guide Ahmedabad trips Ahmedabad vacations Akshardham Temple Bhadra Fort Dada Hari Wav Gandhi Ashram Gandhiji Gujarat Gujarat’s largest city Hathi Singh Temple Hathisingh Jain Temple Indo-Sarcenic style Jama Masjid Kankaria Lake Rani Rupmati’s Mosque River Sabarmati Sabarmati Ashram Shaking Minarets Sidi Saiyad Mosque Sidi Sayed Mosque Teen Darwaja Teen Darwaza tombs of Ahmed Shah Visit Ahmedabad

Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Borneo

July 25th, 2011

Three countries- Brunei, Indonesia and Malaysia, share the ownership of Borneo, the world’s third largest island, which is located to the north of Australia. With a rainforest that is about 130 million years old, Borneo is the oldest rainforest in the world and this makes it a tourist haven. From peat swamp forests, to endemic birds and exotic flora and fauna, Borneo provides its visitors a fun-filled adventurous holiday. The wildlife and biodiversity in Borneo is extremely rich and spectacular. For those seeking adventure, Borneo has a number of National Parks that have well marked trails for trekking. Gunung Mulu National Park is the best known and most frequented for hard core trekkers. Along with camping and cooking gear and a good fitness level, you will require the services of a guide for your trekking adventure.

At Gunung Gading National Park you will get to see the world’s rarest flowering plant- rafflesia. At the Kubah National Park is located the Matang Wildlife Centre and a horde of wildlife such as mousedeer, squirrels, black hornbills, lizards, bearded pigs, Sambar deer, Bear cats, Sun Bears and civets. However, despite a such diverse wildlife, the orangutan in Borneo are still the most popular animals. The Kubah National Park has several trails and one can choose from simpler to more challenging ones. Bako National Park has abundance of wildlife and in addition a staggering amount of vegetation. Proboscis Monkeys, about 150 of them, which are found only in Borneo are kept in this park. If you opt for an overnight stay it will give you to see the animals and plant species both at dawn and duck which is the best time to see them. The park also has impressive beaches and jungle trails for trekking so that an overnight stay will give you lots to do. Borneo also offers great caving opportunities with the caves at the Mulu Caves and Niah National Park at Sarawak. Having one of the largest limestone cave systems in the world, the Mulu Caves are quite an experience.

Explore the major cities in Borneo- Sandakan, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Sandakan had been the capital of the British uptill 1946 and at first glance just seems chaotic and dusty. However, spend some time there and you will be taken in by the friendliness of the locals, the fabulous sea-food, abundant wildlife nearby and lazy afternoons at the water-front. Kota Kinabalu situated next to Mount Kinabalu can keep you busy for some time with its rainforests, beaches and islands. This is also the city where you can get your fix of continental food if the local flavors don’t sit well with you. Kuching, Borneo’s largest city is rich in cultural diversity, history, languages, great cuisine and excellent weather conditions. This friendly and modern city can easily be explored on foot. For souvenir shopping head to Sabah, Sarawak or Brunei. At Sabah you can find handicrafts which include bamboo artifacts, jewelry, pearls etc. It would be a good idea to visit one of the village fairs. Brunei has swanky malls while at Sarawak wooden carvings, hand woven rugs and woven baskets.

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Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Go Goa

July 22nd, 2011

Goa is India’s smallest state area wise with its capital being Panaji. Goa is known for its colonial Portuguese influence in its architecture and cuisine, its beaches and rave parties and water sports. The white sandy beaches with their swaying coconut trees are the greatest attraction of Goa where tourists from around the globe crowd to. Some of the more popular beaches are, Calangute, Miramar, Anjuna, Vagator, Candolim and Baga. In addition to soaking in the sun one can enjoy a variety of water sports at these beaches. The Anjuna and Arambol beaches provide paragliding facilities, while Baga, Calangute and Candolim you can indulge in parasailing, jet skiing and wind surfing. Although the waters are murky but there are some very good diving spots. You can hire a boat and go deep sea fishing in Arambol, Palolem and Benaulim beaches. Another popularity is the dolphin cruise which allows you to witness various varieties of dolphin like the black finned porpoises, the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins and the common dolphins. Cruises also take you to see the spice plantations and on way you can spot the crocodiles that are sunbathing.

Some retreats offer elephant safaris which is a good way to get a feel of the local culture. You can even indulge in joining the elephants frolicking in the water and feed them too. Goa does not have mountains but some high hills that have good trekking trails and from these hill tops you can get amazing views of the landscape. Goa has numerous churches as during the Portuguese rule church building was the singular most popular occupation. The churches of Goa have played a very important social role as they helped in the spread of education and religion are responsible for the building of many hospitals. Out of these the most famous one is the Basilica of Bom Jesus, built in the 16^th century and having the remains of the patron saint of Goa St. Francis Xavier are kept. This church is a world heritage site. Mary Immaculate Inception is Goa’s most famous landmark and beautifully constructed. St. Augustine Church is one of the most stunning of Goa’s monuments.

If you want to have a peek into the culture and traditions of the locals, then the best thing to do is to take the local buses which drive into the heart of the Goan villages. Along the way you will come across the cashew nut plantations, cashew nut being one of the major agricultural products of the state. You must definitely try the Goan cuisine, which has a lot of variety with some dishes being a mix of the local Konkan cuisine with elements of Portuguese flavors in them. Some worth trying dishes include Ambok Tik (fish curry), Prawn Balchao, Fish Richeado, Sorpotel and Chicken Cafreal.

Goa is synonymous with FUN dance, music and celebration. The outdoor life raves in Goa` and during New Years and Christmas these raves acquire a totally different flavor and attract thousands of tourists. The Bamboo Forest in Anjuna Beach and the Disco Valley at Vagator are popular party hotspots.

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Tags: Agonda Beach Anjuna Beach Arambol Beach Baga Beach Bambolim Beach Basilica of Bom Jesus Beaches of Goa Benaulim Beach Bogmalo Beach Bonderam Festival Calangute Beach Candolim Beach Cavelossim Beach Chapora Beach Church of St. Augustine Church of St. Francis Colva Beach Dona Paula Beach Fairs and Festivals Feast of St. Francis Xavier Feast of Three Kings Goa Christian Festivals Goa Churches Goa Hindu Festivals Goa India Goa Muslim Festivals Goa Tourism Goa Travel Goa Vacations Majorda Beach Mary Immaculate Conception Miramar Beach Palolem Beach Reis Magos Church Se Cathedral Shigmo Festival St. Anne Church St. Cajetan Church St. Paul Church Travel Goa Vagator Beach Varca Beach Zatra of Shantadurga

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Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Lamu- Paradise Island in Kenya

July 21st, 2011

The beautiful Lamu Island is a part of Kenya’s Lamu Archipelago, and has been unscathed by the mass tourism. Flying is the best option to get to this region; there are daily flights from Nairobi to Lamu Island. The airport is located at the Manda Island, on arriving you will be collected by a speedboat and transferred to your hotel or lodge across the channel to Lamu town or Shela Village. Being strictly Islamic in culture, Lamu has preserved all the charm and character as Kenya’s oldest existing town. Being Islamic Culture its always wise to dress carefully, well covered. Visitors to the island are accommodated in one of the Swahili style Lamu Villas, where sandy-toed days extend out into tropical rooftop. The striking feature of Lamu Island is that there is only one Car for the Mayor, so it’s the donkeys that are the main mode of transport as well as speedboats and dhows. The beach has clear pristine sands backing on to an oceans unprotected reef. But no one visits Lamu only for its white beach; its town is now well known and has a delightful anachronism carrying on its every day life as it has done for decades.

Lamu Fort is one of Kenya’s few non-ruined historical buildings, which were built with the assistance of the Omani slave traders and a Sultan in 1810; this Stone Fort overlooks the sea to protect and defend the Lamu people from the aggressive alliances. Now, the Fort is an Environmental Museum with an astonishing library and becoming great attraction for tourists. The central streets of Ndia Kuu are lined on either side with shops and workshops stretching from the street to the living areas behind. It is here you will find carpenters jewelers, herbalists, coffee houses and cooks preparing the local delicacy of Turkish delight called Halva. Desert Island lovers can enjoy the remote hideaways at Manda Island and Kiwayu Island which are the ultimate in getting away from the hustle and bustle. A visit to the wildlife sanctuary at Dodori or the beautiful Kiunga Marine National Reserve is truly amazing experience.

Lamu Archipelago is abode to two species of dolphins, which can be spotted either from the beaches or from dhows. Travellers can always enquire with the local captains in Shela to organize a boat to sail and snorkel with the dolphins. Those who visit Lamu during 25th – 28th of November can witness and immerse themselves with the Swahili culture and history in the Lamu Cultural Festival. The festivals which have featured in the time have honored competitions like dhow races, traditional dancing, donkey races, Swahili bridal ceremony and Swahili poetry. Then there is the famous Maulidi Festival famous which is held during the 3rd month of the Muslim almanac to commemorate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, the 5-day festival draws thousands of Islamic poets, scholars and celebrants from East Africa and the Middle East, as well as tourists from all over. A visit to this island paradise is a great chance to indulge in nature, warm culture and learning something new.

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Mumbai-Bollywood- India’s Hollywood

July 20th, 2011

The capital of the state of Maharashtra, Mumbai has the largest population in India and 6^th largest in the world. Mumbai is a conglomeration of seven islands which originally were home to fishing communities. Being the financial and entertainment capital of the country this huge city is humming with life and activity. The best way to explore the city is by taking guided tours. The major attractions of the city include; Gateway of India- this is perhaps the most prominent landmarks of the city. It is a stone archway 26 meters in height and built in Indo-Sarcenic style was constructed in celebration of the visit of King George V and Queen Mary toMumbai.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus- this railway station is a fine example of the Victorian Gothic architecture and was built in 1888. Nehru Centre and Nehru Planetarium- this is an impressive dome shaped building which conducts daily shows to show the mysteries of the solar system and has an array of scientific events and exhibitions the year round.

Mumbai is famous all over the world for its Bollywood. Filmcity is a greatt place to visit to see some setss of the movies. If you are organised enoough to check and see if there is any Bollywood movie shooting on, then a greatt chance to see how a film is made and meet some great actors. Most popular Bollywood Movies have been Devdas {a legendary tale}, Bride and Prejudice, Slum Dog Millionaire,

Essel World- Located on the Gorai Island, Essel World is a spectacular theme park which offers unbridled fun and frolic for old and young alike.

Fantasy World- Fantasy World is located in the outskirts of Mumbai, in the Jogeshwari area. It is a large amusement park with thrilling rides and promises a day full of fun.

Marine Drive- a beautifully constructed boulevard, Marine Drive is a six lane concrete road and next to it, the dazzling esplanade draws people to come out and breathe in some fresh air while strolling around. Also Queens Necklace is a great at night when all the lights are lit along the road.

Chowpatty Beach- this unique beach cannot be used either for swimming or sun-bathing. Thousands of people come here only for eating, enjoying ferry rides or just strolling around. Snake charmers, monkey trainers and contortionists are the entertainers on the beach who make it lively.

In the Mahalaxmi area is Mumbai’s elite racecourse, the Mahalaxmi Racecourse where the rich and famous can be caught enjoying the races.

The Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat presents an amazing spectacle of over 5000 men and women beating laundry in almost synchronized fashion. The dhobi ghat is every photographers delight.

The legendary actor Prithvi Raj Kapoor was the inspiration for the establishment of the Prithvi Theatre, which organizes drama festivals and conducts theatre workshops. Visit the theatre and get a glimpse of the theatre scene in India.

The spectacular Ferozshah Garden is a terraced garden, which sprawls over the Malabar Hill from where you can catch a stunning view of the sun as it sets into the Arabian Sea.

In south Mumbai is the Flora Fountain which gets its name from the Greek goddess-Flora, originally made from Portland stone in 1864 but now is coated in white oil paint.

Mumbai is labeled as ‘the city that never sleeps’ because it has a very vibrant night life. The city has numerous night clubs, discotheques and lounge bars which are frequented by Bollywood stars and the rich and famous, making then even livelier. Visit Mumbai not just for a holiday but also for a cultural learning a city so busy but so alive, a city so populated but so warm and food is just amazing. Mumbai has every kind of food you want to try, Try Maharashtrian Sea food or any Indian cuisine, though there are many choices especially road side food stalls……… Try them before you make a remark. Visit Mumbai a city where you can see skyscrapers and slums very close to each other.

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Tags: 6th largest in the world Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Chowpatty Chowpatty Beach Essel World Fantasy World Ferozshah Garden Flora Fountain Flora Fountrain Gateway of India Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat Mahalaxmi Racecourse Marine Drive Mumbai Mumbai Holiday Packages Mumbai Holidays Mumbai Packages Mumbai Tourism Mumbai Tours Mumbai Travel Mumbai Travel Packages Mumbai Vacation Package Nehru Centre and Nehru Planetarium Prithvi Theatre Queens Necklace Trip To Mumbai

Posted in Asia, GoHoto, Tour & Travel

Indonesia

July 19th, 2011

Located in Southeast Asia Indonesia is a country consisting of over 17000 island and 33 provinces. With a fourth largest population in the world consisting mostly of Muslims, Indonesia lies in close proximity to Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Malaysia. A large landmass of Indonesia remains unexplored in terms of wild life, landscapes and culture, offering the tourist much to see and do when there. Indonesia offers great adventure sports in the form of trekking, surfing, kayaking, rock climbing etc, so get your trekking boots and gear all packed up if you are considering a trip to the country.

Indonesia is famed famous for its orangutans, which you can encounter while climbing Bromo and Kelimutu, two amazing volcanic peaks. Visit the Komodo National park to see the Komodos or real life dragons, which are large sized lizard like creatures. Rafflesia Arnoldi are gigantic flowers which bloom once a year in November and can be sighted at Batang Palupuh. In case you have come with a mind to have a lazy holiday at the beach then head to Pangandaran Beach in west Java. Indonesia abounds in flora and fauna and as a result has a number of national parks with an amazing variety of fruits and flowers that one can discover nowhere in the world. A visit to the Salak Pondoh farm will yield in discovering the traditional Indonesian fruit called Salak which is pretty addictive.

The marine life in Indonesia is one of the best in the world, so don’t miss snorkeling and diving in the waters of the Indian Ocean to discover rare and exotic varieties of underwater life. At Bunaken you will discover what you thought was a stuff of legends- the mermaid! So be sure to go scuba diving and swim along with real life mermaids.

For history enthusiasts Indonesia offers an array of temples, ruins of palaces and pre-historic sites. Bali, the most famous island in Indonesia with a largely Hindu population who are deeply religious and ritualistic is a must see. Its arts and crafts, dramatic dances, spectacular landscapes and rich cultural traditions have attracted visitors from the world over since long. Borobodur Temple should definitely be on your travel itinerary as this spectacular and largest Buddhist monument is also considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Another temple worth visiting is the Prambanan, a huge Hindu temple which is a prized possession of the rich cultural heritage of the country. Visit the Kokas, which are the remains of pre-historical sites where the drawings of palms and animals in the canyons are still clearly visible. The 355 year old Ban Hin Kiong is an ancient Chinese Temple where a number of annual events are held during the Chinese New Year. One of the most common things to do in Indonesia is to pamper yourself at the several wonderful spas around the country. Once the privilege of the rich aristocrats of the country, spa treatments are available for all visitors today. You can choose from a varied selection of body scrubs and packs, massages and meditations and facials and wipe out all the stress of your everyday living to go back home rested and rejuvenated. Indonesian Holiday perfect recipe for nature treat, rejuvenate and revive!!!!!!

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Tags: a huge Hindu temple attractions Ban Hin Kiong Borobodur Temple Bromo and Kelimutu Famous island in Indonesia guidebooks hotels Indonesia Indonesia tourism Indonesia vacations Komodo National park Komodos or real life dragons One of the Seven wonders of the World Pangandaran Beach Prambanan Rafflesia Arnoldi Salak Pondoh farm two amazing volcanic peaks Visit the Kokas

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Central India Tourist Attractions

July 18th, 2011

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar

The city of Mahabaleshwar is located in the Satara District of Maharashtra in India. The city is basically a hill station in the Western Ghats and is the small number of places in the world that has an evergreen forest. Just over 200km from Mumbai this expansive vibrant plateau has pleasant weather the year round. The city has several view points from where you can get stunning views of the landscape. Among these Wilson or Sunrise point is the highest and the sunrise looks ethereal from here. The Connaught Point is slightly lower than Sunrise point and from you here you can see the whole panorama of the lush landscape. The other viewpoints worth visiting are, Arthur’s Seat, Elphistone, Baghdad and Kates.

Several waterfalls in and around the city make it ideal to picnic in the region. At the beautiful Venna Lake you can avail of boating and fishing facilities. Discover the history of the place by visiting such buildings as the Mount Malcolm built during the Raj and Pratapgarh Fort, which was built by the great Maratha King, Shivaji. Mahabaleshwar has strawberry fields, so if are traveling there in the summers, you can go strawberry picking! Horse riding and trekking are fun activities to indulge in. Also exploring the city on foot is a fun way of enjoying its lovely landscape and local culture. A little over 15 km from Mahabaleshwar is Panchgani, the town with five hills. Panchgani is resplendent with its strawberry and

Raspberry farms, its cool climate and verdant surroundings.

Nashik

Nashik

Lying 108 km from Mumbai, on the Western Ghats, Nashik is a city in the Indian state of Maharashtra. With the Kumbh Mela being held here ever 12 years, Nashik becomes one of the holiest cities of India. Other than that the city is visited for its salubrious weather, spectacular landscape and diamond trade and a throbbing industrial life. Nashik is an eclectic mix of the modern and the ancient and is strewn with temples and forts and is also called as the ‘wine capital’ of the country as grapes grow abundantly here. Shri Kalaram Mandir, Trimbakeshwar temple, which is one of the 12 jyotirlings in the country and Naroshankar Temple are worth a visit.

For nature and wildlife enthusiasts the Nandur Madhmeshwar Sanctuary is a treat. It has over 200 species of birds, over 400 species of vegetation and several species of fish and mammals. It has several lakes which abound with hundreds of migratory birds. Visit the Bhandardara and Kalsubai Peak which has a large dam, a beautiful lake, lovely waterfalls, a fort and an ancient temple. Wilson Dam, Arthur Lake and the cascading Radha Falls make this spot ideal for a picnic.

The cave from where Sits was abducted by Ravana, the Sita Gumpha and the Pandav Caves in the Anjinagiri mountain ranges, built by the Jains 2000 years ago are belived to be the caves where the Pandavs took refuge for a short time during their exile.

Khajuraho

Khajuraho

Lying in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is famous for its group of Medieval Jain and Hindu temples, which have been listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Khajuraho temples are renowned for their architecture and erotic sculptures. Out of these 12^th century built 85 temples, only 20 now remain. The temples that are in good condition and worth visiting are divided into three groups-

The western group- the temples in the group are, the Lakshman Temple, the Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Devijagadambi Temple, Vishwanatha and Chausath Yogini temples. The Eastern Rroup comprises the Jain temple of Parshavnath. The southern group consists of the Duladeo Temple and the Chaturbhuja Temple. It is popularly believed that such explicit depiction of sex in the sculptures could have been the result of the reaction to the extremely austere life proposed by the Buddha, or then they could also be temples of tantric mysticism.

Prayers and ritual worship are still carried out in the temples by the local priests and attended by the locals as well as the tourists. A light and sound show conducted every evening in English creates very mystically the history of the Chandela Rajputs, considered the descendants of the moon and who were responsible for the building of these temples. You will see the emblem of the Chandelas, a warrior in a bare-handed battle with a lion, in many of these temples. Other than the temples the State Museum for tribal and Folk Arts, which showcases a stunning array of tribal arts and crafts of Madhya Pradesh is worth visiting.

Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Ajanta and Ellora Caves

Located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, Ajanta and Ellora Caves are spectacular specimens of rock cut caves, 34 at Ellora and 29 at Ajanta. These exquisite caves were hand crafted in the 2^nd and 3^rd centuries but were discovered by a British army officer in the 19^th century. The Ajanta Caves depict scenes from the Jataka tales, which tell the tales from the incarnations of Lord Buddha. These caves are believed to have been built as secluded spots for the Buddhist monks to teach and practice the word of Buddha. There are some well preserved paintings like those of the Bodhisattvas Padmapani and Avalokiteshwara.

The Ellora caves have Hindu, Buddhist as well as Jain sculptures carved into a basaltic hillside. The Intricate facades and creatively carved interiors render these caves one of the most aesthetic monuments in the country. In all there are 17 Hindu caves, 12 Buddhist caves and 5 Jain caves at Ellora. The serene and graceful Buddha sculptures in the caves gave the monks an ideal spot to study, reflect and meditate. In cave number 16, is the Kailahsa Temple with an assembly hall, gateway, pavilion, a sanctum and a tower all of which are carved out of a single rock! About a mile away from Kailasha Temple are the Jain caves which have numerous statues of Jain Tirthankaras, along with a statue of Lord Mahavira in a meditative pose.