Docp

A
TRAINING REPORT
ON
U.P.TOURISM (AGRA)
R.B.S.M.T.C. KHANDARI
FARM CAMPUS AGRA- 2820
M.B.A. (TOURISM MANAGEMENT)
SUBMITTED TO
Mr. V.S. AGARWAL(T.I.O)
(TOURISTINFORMATIONCENTER)
Agra Cantt, AGRA
1200571002
SUBMITTED BY
Harendra kumar
M.B.A. ( TOURISM MANAGEMENT)
ROLL.
MAHAMAYA TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY
NOIDA
1
(20112-13)
Acknowledgement
I wish to contribute my sincere thanks to Mr.
V.S. Agarwal (TIO) for their support & precious time For
the completion of these summer industrial trainingReport.
I would like to pay my gratitude to all the staff
for their support and I would also like to thanks my friends
for their precious.
Harendra kumar
M.B.A. 2nd SEM
(Tourism mgmt.)
CONTENTS
Serial no.
1.INTRODUCTION OF TOURISM
2.UTTAR PRADESH INTRODUCTION
3.AGRA
4.AGRA CANTT TRAIN TIME TABLE
5 .AGRA FORT TRAIN TIME
6.FATEH PUR SIKRI
7.FESTIVAL IN AGRA
8.MATHURA
9. ALLAHABAD
10.VARANASI
11. DELHI
12.UTTARAKHAND
13.JIM CORBET NATIONAL PARK
14.BHARATPUR BIRD SANCTURY
15.RAJA JI NATIONAL PARK
16.JAIPUR
17. SARISKA
18. KHAJURAHO
19.TRAVEL AGENCY
20.HOTELS IN AGRA
p.g. no.
3
4
5
8
20
24
28
33
36
37
39
43
54
60
62
64
67
70
74
80
21.GOLDEN TRINGLE TOUR (PROG.)

22.BUDHACIRCUIT TOUR(PROG.)
INTRODUCTION TO TOURISM
91
DEFINATION OF TOURISM
Tourism is travel for recreational, leisure or business purposes. The World Tourism
Organization defines tourist as people who travel to stay in places outside their usual
environment for more than twenty four hours and not more than one consecutive year
for leisure , business and other purposes not related the exercise of an activity
remunerated from with in the place.Tourism has become a popular global leisure
activity . In 2010 there was over 922 million international tourist arrivals, with a
growth of 1.9% as compared to 2011. International tourism receipts grew to US$ 944
Billion (Euro 642billion) in 2011, corresponding to an increase in real terms of 1.8%.
Tourism is vital for many countries, such as Egypt, Lebanon, Greece, Spain, Malaysia
and Thailand, and many islands nations, such as Bahamas, Fiji, Maldives Philippines
and the Seychelles, due to the large intake of money for businesses with their goods
and services and the opportunity for employment in the services industries associated
with tourism. These services industries include transportation services, such as airlines,
cruise ship and taxicabs, hospitality services, such as hotels and resorts, and
entertainment venue, such as amusement parks, casino, shopping malls, music venue
and theaters.
UTTAR PRADESH
INTRODUCTION
Uttar Pradesh is the most populous and fifth largest state in the union of India Uttar
pradesh covers large part of the densely populated ganatic plain. Uttar Pradesh can be
divided into three regions by different geographical conditions: Himalayan region
North, genetic plains middle, and the Vindhyan hills and plateau- south. The state
comprises the region of Rohilkhand in the northwest
, the Doab, or Brij-bhoomi in the southwest, Awadh(historical country of Koshal) in
the centre, the northern parts of Budelkhand in the south and the south western parts of
the Bhojpur country , commonly called Purvanchal in the east. It shares an
international border with Nepal Tibet in north east , by the Indian state of Himachal
Pradesh in northwest, by Haryana, Rajasthan and Delhi in west and by the state of
Madhya Pradesh in south and state Bihar in southeast. With nearly 176million
inhabitants , Uttar Pradesh is not only the most populous state in India but also the
most populous sub national entity in the world. Only five countries (the peoples
republic of china , India itself ,the USA, Indonesia and Brazil) have higher populaton.
It is also one of the most economically and socially backward states in India. On
virtually every index of social development, whether literacy, infant mortality or
unemployment by the fact that figures for
Females is invariably much lower than for males on every parameter in sheer
magnitude Uttar Pradesh is half the size of France, thrice that Portugal, and for times of
Ireland . seven Switzerland and ten Belgium could easily fit in this state . little bigger
than England,. Uttar Pradesh has one out of every 36 % persons in the world living
here. The travel time from Ghazipur to Ghaziabad or Churk to Chamoli with U.P. will
easly exceed a cruise across the oceans. Uttar Pradesh represents the heart of India . for
the same reason it has been referred to as the Madhy Desh in mythological
desprictionction
CLIMATEThe climate varies from moderately temperate in the Himalayan region to tropical
monsoon in the central plains and southern upland region s. in the plains , the average
temperatures vary from 54.5 to63.5 (12.5 to 17.5 c) in January . to 81.5to 90.5f( 27.5
to32.5). in may and june . the highest teprature recorded in the state was 121.8F (49.9)
at Gonda on may 8 1958. rainfall in the state ranges 40-80 inches in the east to 24-40
5
inches in the west. About 90% of rainfall occurs during the south west monsoon
lasting fro about from about june to September. With most of the rainfall concentrated
during this four month period, floods became a recurring problem and causes heavy
damage to crops, life and property, particulary in the eastern part the state . periodic
failuire of mansoon results in drought condition and crop failure in the Himalayan
region annual snowfall averaging 10to12 feet is common between December and
march.
LANGUAGE
The language of the different regions are distinct, and the language of the western parts
,( khadiboli) is the basis for the official Hindi language , crates during the late 19 th
century. The most commonly spoken language in urban areas is Urdu/Hindi .
regardless of the script used, the language of Lucknow is called Lucknowie Urdu. It is
pure from of literacy Urde used by the most Urdupoets . urdu is one of the two official
languages of the state. Other languages are koshali, Braj , Koelli, Bagheli Bundeli and
Bhojpuri ethnic home land is divided between Nepal in the north Bihar state in the east
and Uttar Pradesh in the west.
AGRA:Introduction- Agra is famous as being home to one of the seven wonders of the world
Taj Mahal.
The architectural splendour of the mousleums , the fort and palaces is vivid reminder
of the opleence of the legendary mughal empire of which agra was the capital in the
16th and early 17th centuries. While its significance as political center ended with the
transfer of the capital to Delhi in1634 by Shajahan, its architectural wealth has secured
its place on an international map. A plessant town with comparatively slow pace ,Agra
is know for its superb inlay work on marble and soapstone by craftsmen who are
descendants of those who worked under the the mughals. The city is also famous for its
carpets, gold threads embroidery and leather shoes.
TAJ MAHAL
The immortal poem in white marble is the finest expression of love of an emperor for
his queen. The Taj Mahal , one of the wonders of the world. Is situated on the bank of
river Yamuna. It was built by mughal emperor Shah Jahah in memory of his beloved
queen Mumtaj mahal in 1631, for attention lapislazuli, cornelion jasper, malachite
coral mother of perl agate and emerald are inlayed in floral and geometrical patterns in
the the marble it say started in 1631and it took 22 years to complete with the help of an
estimated 20000 workers for father details look up the national tourism award winning
Taj Mahal.
NIGHT VIEW OF THE TAJ MAHAL
The Taj Mahal gives different should and glimpses from down to dusk but during the
full moon light.
THE TAJ NATURE WALK
Just 500m. from the eastern gate of taj mahal , there is a beautiful natural forest cover
spread over 70 lectrest view of the Taj Mahal from the different moments of the park
gives an unforgettablr experience flora and fauna of different species add to the
attraction.
SHILPGRAM TAJ FESTIVAL:It is a craft hub , just 750 m. from the taj eastern gate of Taj Mahal. Here one can find
an opportunity to see any purchase , different, artistic article demonstred by the craft
man then selves.
Annual Taj festival, one of the most cherished caltureal festival of craft and cuisine
held at shilpgram between 18-27 feb visit . www.tajmahotsav.org .
MEHTAB BAGH:Mehtab bagh is located on the left bank of river Yamuna opposite to taj mahal the
garden complex is huge squre measuring opproximetely 300m. is in strought alignment
with the Taj mahal.
Baradaris or pavilion on the east and west asmall octagonal tenk at the center and gate
way at the northern wall.
AGRA FORT :The Akbar begane construction of this majestic fort in 1565 when he was only 23 years
old this emposing red sand stone structure on the bank of river Yamuna, built bet ween
1565 1567 has no rival being replate with priceless example of architectural crafts
manshaip of the mughal era.
Amar singh gate to the south is only one open for the visitiors . Jhangir to the south of
Jahangir mahal are the akbari mahal othr building latter added by Shahjahan to the
Agra fort . moti masjid and the diwane aam khas a passage and steps lead to macchi
bhwan lt. governer of the north western provices who died during the 1857 uprising.
This existed the meenna bazaar at chittor gates towards the river side is the diwane
khas built by the Shahjahan in 1637 on the terrace beyond. From here a structure leed
to the musamman burj popularly known as jasmine tower although it mains it has a
beautiful courtyard paved with.
THE LIGHT AND SOUND ON AGRA FORT

The city of Agra located in lord krishana illustrious braj bhumi , attracts everyone in
more ways then one. Once you are away fro its imposing monuments narrow winding
lanes and alleys are immersed in centuries long gone and even evoke nostalgia.
Agra fort is belived to have been built over the remains of the old fort of Badalgarh
ruled by tomar rajput. Agra become the capital of Sikandra lodi in 1501 but soon
passed to the mughal emperors. It was under emperor akbar that the city reached new
height of glory and construction of agra fort was begun by him in 1565. however it was
Shahjahan who built most of the place inside the Fort and the gallant heroism of the of
the warrior envory of Rani Durgawati who fight with Akbar till the end.
The fort is crescent shaped, flattend on the east with a long, nearly straight wall fancing
the river. It has a total perimented of 2.4 km. and ringed by double castellated ramparts
of red sand stone functualed at regular entervals by bastions. A9mt. wide and 10mt.
dapmost surrounds the outer wall. An imposing 22mt. high inner wall imparts a failing
of invincible defensive construction. The the route through the amar singh gate is dog
legged. The lay out of the fort was determine by the course of the river , which in those
days flowed alongside the main axis is paraled to the river and the walls bride out
towards the city the sound and light show is a visual and audio depiction of the historic
agra fort . its time worn but imposing monuments with their wall laid out gardens , the
frenzy- filled battles at the fort , the shrieks cries of the victims of pillage and common
folk the hell bent attitudes of conquerors the poetry dance music and lavish mughal life
style and atime awe inspiring touching grand style and 100 traced from the very
beginning of the city until todays the sound and light show a hi powered suminer
spectacle with soulful narration hitech lighting gripping music and close 10
reallife sound .. an event that will place the fort in a very special and memorable slot
in mind.
AGRA CANTT TRAIN TIME TABLE
No.
Name
1262 Karnataka
8
Express
Type
Zon P
Arrival Days Sch Delay ETA LKL
e F
SF
SW
S MT WT F S 00: on
1
R
02 time
1h
1105 Mumbai LTT S MT WT F S 00:
Exp CR 2
34m
7
Amritsa...
08
late
1272 Dakshin
1
Express
SF
SF
1286 Visakhapatna
SF
1
m-H.Niza...
00:02
ETF/Itarsi
Cabin
01:42 BBDE/Babarpur
SC
S MT WT F S 00: 2h 6m
2
02:51 FDB/Faridabad
R
45 late
EC
S MT WT F S 00:
2
n/a
oR
49
n/a
NZM/Delhi
Hazrat
Nizamuddin
1105 Amritsar
S MT WT F S 00: 20m
Exp CR 1
8
Mumbai LT...
55 late
01:15 KOA/Karonda
1262 Tamil
Nadu
SF
2
Express
SR 1
S MT WT F S 01: on
07 time
01:07 MSO/Misrod
1291 Malwa
9
Express
SF
WR 3
02:26 SNP/Sonipat
20 late
1400 Patalkot
9
Express
Exp NR 2
2218 Jabalpur
1
Hazrat Ni...
1272 Dakshin
2
Express
1272 Nizamuddin
2-Slip Visakapat...
S MT WT F S 01: 17m
50 late
02:07
PTNR/Patel
Nagar
SF
1h
WC S MT WT F S 02:
??
15m
R
07
late
03:22 OKA/Okhla
SF
SF
SC
S MT WT F S 02: on
1
R
10 time
02:10
BINA/Bina
Junction
EC
S MT WT F S 02:
1
n/a
oR
10
n/a
n/a
SF
1244 Uttar Pradesh

S MT WT S 02: On
SKr NR 2
7
Sampar...
20 time
02:20 FDB/Faridabad
2244 Uttar Pradesh

S MT WT S 02:
SKr NR 2
n/a
7
Sampar...
20
n/a
1261 Grand Trunk

SF
5
(GT) Exp...
n/a
NZM/Delhi
SR 3
04:51 Hazrat
45 late
Nizamuddin
10
AGRA FORT TIME TABLE

Name
Type
Zon P Departure
e F Days
15668
Kamakhya
NF
Exp
1
Gandhidham ...
R
15636
Guwahati-Okha
NF
Exp
1
Dwarka...
R
18632
Ajmer - Ranchi
SE
S
Exp
2
Garib...
R
19038 Avadh Express Exp WR 1
F
W
LKL
00:3no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
00:3no depno dep
n/a
5 today today
03:2no depno dep
n/a
5 today today
S T T S 04:140m
0 late
M W F
04:50
MLZ/Malarna
04:1no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
12195
Agra Fort
Ajmer In...
NC
S MT WT F S 05:0
3
n/a
R
5
n/a
BAI/Bassi
71901
Agra
FortDE NC
S MT WT F S 05:2
2
n/a
Bharatpur ... MU R
5
n/a
IK/Ikran
22308
BikanerSF
Howrah Link ...
Jodhpur12308 Howrah
Ex...
Sch Delay ETD
SF
SFSF
ER 2
S MT WT F S 06:1
on time 06:15
5
MCPE/Marwa
r Chapri
ER 2
S MT WT F S 06:1
on time 06:15
5
BDN/Bhadan
14865
Marudhar
Express (vi...
Exp
NW
2
R
14863
Marudhar
Express (vi...
Exp
NW
2
R
14853
Marudhar
Express ( v...
Exp
NW S
2
R
54464
Rishikesh
Bandikui P...
Pass
NW S MT WT F S 07:1
2
3m late 07:18
R
5
M W
T
06:3no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
S 06:3
2m late 06:37
5
KL/Kherli
06:3no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
GTF/Gumthal
11
54462
Bareilly
S MT WT F S 07:130m
Pass NR 2
Bandikui Pa...
5 late
12395 Ibadat Express SF

59814
EC
1
R
EC
1
R
Jan Sadharan
EC
Exp
2
Express...
R
71903
Agra
FortDE NC
S MT WT F S 09:3
1
n/a
Bandikui D... MU R
0
19570
Varanasi Okha
S
Exp WR 1
Weekly...
12315
Ananya
Express
n/a
10:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
Parasnath
Express
12948
Azimabad
Express
13008
Udyan
Abha
S MT WT F S 13:0
Exp ER 1
on time 13:07
Toofan Ex...
7
Okha
15635 Guwahati
Dwar...
12947
Azimabad
Express
25631 Bikaner
Guwahati
SF
WR 1
n/a
12942
WR 1
T
NF
Exp
1
R
SF
WR 1
Exp NF 2
R
n/a
09:4no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
ER 1
SF
KLB/Kiraoli
08:5no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
Bayana
WC S MT WT F S 11:5
59357 Yamunabridge Pass
2
n/a
R
5
...
SF
n/a
08:5no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
15270
SF
RAI/Raibha
07:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
Agra Fort Kota

WC S MT WT F S 08:0
Pass
3
n/a
Passe...
R
0
12396 Ziyarat Express SF
07:45
12:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
S
S
T
M W
n/a
12:32h 45m
15:15
0 late
13:336m
0 late
14:06
BMU/Bamhra
uli
AST/Asaoti
LKE/Lakheri
13:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
13:3no depno depn/a
0 today today
12
Exp...
Barmer15631 Guwahati
Expr...
Exp
NF
2
R
M W
13:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
15667
GandhidhamNF
S
Exp
1
Kamakhya ...
R
13:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
59358
Yamuna Bridge
WC S MT WT F S 14:0
Pass
3
n/a
Bayana...
R
0
13007
Udyan
Abha
S MT WT F S 14:22h 54m
Exp ER 2
17:19
Toofan Ex...
5 late
SJT/Shujaatpu
r
55334
Agra
Fort
NE
S MT WT F S 15:4
Pass
3
n/a
KasGanj Pa...
R
5
n/a
19569
Okha Varanasi
Exp WR 2
Expres...
12495
Bikaner
Kolkata Pr...
12316
n/a
n/a
15:5no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
SF
NW
2
R
Ananya
Express
SF
ER 1
12937
Gandhidham
Howrah Ga...
SF
WR 2
12941
Parasnath
Express
SF
WR 2
12036
Agra Fort
Jaipur S...
Shtb
NW S MT W F S 16:2
??
n/a
R
0
15269
Muzaffarpur
Ahmedaba...
Exp
EC
2
R
71907
Agra
FortDE NC
S MT WT F S 17:0
3
n/a
Bandikui D... MU R
5
n/a
n/a
59813
Kota
Agra
S MT WT F S 17:145m
Pass WR 2
Yamuna Bri...
0 late
17:55
GKB/Ghataka
Varana
12938
Howrah
SF
Gandhidham ...
SF
-
WR 1
n/a
15:5no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
15:5no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
16:0no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
W
16:0no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
n/a
n/a
16:4no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
18:1no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
13
15632 Guwahati
NF
S
Exp
1
-Slip Barmer Expr...
R
SF
NW
2
R
18:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
12496
Kolkata
Bikaner Pr...
15632
Guwahati
NF
S
Exp
1
Barmer Expr...
R
59812
Haldighati
Passenger
Pass WR 3
S MT WT F S 19:0
n/a
0
n/a
n/a
54461
Bandikui
Bareilly Pa...
Pass NR 2
S MT WT F S 19:1
n/a
0
n/a
n/a
54463
BandikuiNW S MT WT F S 19:1
Pass
2
n/a
Rishikesh P...
R
0
n/a
AWP/Aghwa
npur
12987
Sealdah-Ajmer
SF
Expres...
NW S MT WT F S 19:32h 52m
1
22:22
R
0 late
KQR/Koderm
a Junction
12988
Ajmer-Sealdah
SF
Expres...
NW S MT WT F S 19:4
2
n/a
R
5
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
18:31h 11m
19:41
0 late
ADSR/ADSR
18:3no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
12307 HowrahSF
-Slip Bikaner Link ...
ER 1
S MT WT F S 20:0
n/a
5
12307
Howrah
SF
Jodhpur SF ...
ER 1
S MT WT F S 20:0no depno dep

SYJ/Saidraja
5 today today
18631
Ranchi Garib
SE
Exp
2
Nawaz E...
R
71905
Agra
FortDE NC
S MT WT F S 20:3
1
n/a
Bharatpur ... MU R
0
14866
Marudhar
Express (vi...
Exp
NW
2
R
14864
Marudhar
Express (vi...
Exp
NW S
2
R
14854
Marudhar
Express ( v...
Exp
NW
3
R
20:2no depno dep

n/a
0 today today
W
T
M
n/a
n/a
20:5no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
F
20:5no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
T S 20:5
n/a
5
n/a
M W T S 21:5on time 21:55
n/a
BOG/Bhairon
14
5
19039
Avadh Express Exp WR 1
garh
21:5no depno dep

n/a
5 today today
FATEHPUR SIKRI:Fatehpur sikri was planned as a great town by akbar with great care and planning in the
honor of the sheikh salim chisti but had to be abandonded only after 15years due to
scarcity of water in the town . Shekh salim chisti was a sufi sant who blessed the Akbar
with his frist son and heir who was named salim, after him and later came to be known
as jahangir . the town was otiginally named sikri after the the village where it was
founded but its twin city Fatehpur ( victory town) was erected to celebrate akbar
conquest of Gujrat in june 1573.
ABUL FAZAL HOUSE:The two resindiantial buildings to the north of the jami masjid are said tobe used be
used by Abul fazal and his elder brother faidi . these buildings have almost similar
dimensions and plan and are made up of red sand stone.
The buildings on the south eastern side is said to be Abul fazals house . the rectangular
single storeyed building has a tibara dalan or verandah with three opening in front
and two pairs of carved and stylized columns. The fluting capitals of the columns with
beautiful brackets supporting the lintels of the roof look quite impressive . the two
15
small chambers on either side of the verandah lead directly on to the terrace of the
buildings.
CARAVAN SARAI FATEHPUR SIKRI
Caravan sarai is at near hathi pol. The building was built as a guest house for important
persons or traders. Interior of sarai has a specios guardrangle court 74.82m by 82.66m
in dimension. There are residential rooms on all the four sides of this guard court.
Besides these room there are also terraced built on south east side of the sarai. These
rooms once had pillared verandahs in front which have now been demolished , the
presence of tank and well on the south east side of sarai suggest that water and toilet
facilities were also provide to the guest.
Caravan sarai is located on the slop[e of the ridge which was beautifully utilized by
terraced construction.
CHAR SUQ FTEHPUR SIKRI
Literal meaning of chahar suq is a market place arranged around a square enclosure
with a single gate way on each of its four sides. This enclosure was in fact the focal
point of the guard market place, which was extended on all sides with regular shop on
either side.
There are still some trace of partition wall in side this square enclosure, wich suggest
that shops were also provide inside the open court. This was the place where wares
from foreign were brought for sale.
This enclosure is35 square meters in area have partially survived enclosure wall
pierced with four gateways in cardinal direction. There are four gateways having flate
roofs on the either sides.
SIKANDRA
Akbar started building his own mausouleum near agra that was to be a perfect blend of
Hindu ,Christion, Ismalic ,Buddhist,and Jain designs and motifs be speaking of his
religios tolerance and secular views. However he could not complete it and died. Thus
his son Jahangir completed his tomb, populary known as Sikandra after Sikander lodi ,
who established the community where Akbars tomb is located. However Jahangir
made quite a number of alteration in the original plan, in keeping with the development
of mughal art and architecture. The tomb has three storeyed red sand stone minerates
displaying wondrous inlay work of marble on the four corners of the buildings langurs
black faced monkeys have safe haven in the beautiful gardens surrounding the
mausoleum and often stray to the walkways too.
16
One can see the baradi place in the gardens built by Sikander lodhi. The tom building
is shaped like a truncated pyramid and has five storeys while the main tomb has a
distinct square design. There are specious cloisters on the ground floor. An elaboratery
decorated vestibule occupies the center of the southern side highlight by exquisite
carving artistic paintings and inlay work in geometric and floral design enshrinings the
tomb stone of Akbar. Other tomb on this floor belong to Shakrul Nisha Begum and
Aram Begum the daughter of Akbar .
ITMAD-UD-DAULAH
The tomb of Itmad Ud Daullah is an interesting as the life of the person for whom it
was built Mirza Ghiyas Uddin or Ghiyas Beg was a poor merchants and lived in Persia.
While on his way to Indian for business his wife gave birth to a baby girl. As family
was extremely poor and had nothing to eat the parents decided to abandon the child.
Whoever the wails baby girl forced the parents to come back and take take with them.
The baby girl bought a stroke of good luck to her parents, for Ghiyas beg found a
carvan that straight way took him to the court of the great mughal emperor Akbar. In
the course of time, Ghiyas beg rose to become a minister and a trusted treasure in
Akbars court after Akbar death in 1605 his son Jahangir become the mughal emperor
who made Ghiyas beg his chief minister or wazir.
Ghiyass daughter grew up to a beautiful lady and come to known as Mehr-Un-Nisha
or the sun of woman kind. In the course of time the fame her beauty spread. She was
married of but she soon become a window. She returned to the court of Jahngir fell in
love with her and married her. She soon become a powerful personality in the
Jahangirs court and was called Nur mahal the light of the palace and Nur Jahan light
of the world. When Ghiyas beg died in 1622 Nur jahan under took the project to build
his mausoleum. Later she built the tomb of her husband (in asimilior style ) in Lahore.
Nur jahan had a brother whose daughter was married to Jahangirs son Shahjahan. She
was known as Mum Tajmahal in whose memory Shahjahan built the Taj Mahal.
Itmad-Ud-Daulah wasburied in a tomb that resembles a jewel box and set in a garden.
This tranquil small garden located in the bank of river of Yamuna was to inspire the
construction of the Taj Mahal in the later year. It is the frist tomb in India built entirely
in white marble. The tomb is also justy famous for the glorious pietra dura (stone inlay)
decoration depcting cypresses wine glasses and an amazing variety of geometrical
arabesque. The jail screens ste in arched recesses are splendid. Four small minerates
rise at the four corners of the small tomb structure. The whole structure gives the
impression of an enlarged precious object. due to the profusion of intricate work done
on marble screen- work the tomb easily qualifies as a veritable forerunner of the
famous Taj mahal.
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FESTIVAL AND EVENT IN AGRA:Agra is the city in India that features events showcasing the regions art, crafts culture
and cuisine. The varied festival & event in Agra are well distributed throughout the
year making the city ever so happening. Tourist simply go spellbound when they
discover the way these festivals and fairs are carried out. It is fact that these events are
some thing that westerners have hardly come across.
Religious plays avery vital part in a country like India, very apparent from the
celebration here. And the city of Agra for that matter is no exception. Agra along with
some of the other cities hosts festivals and fairs that put forward Indian culture on the
fore front. The major festivals & events in Agra are Taj mahotsav agra Bateshwar fair
agra Urs agra and all that. Taj mahotsav Agra is a ten day event that falls on the 18 th
February annually at Shilpgram. Find the best of Indian craftsand cultural nunance in
no other place than here. And not just that, folk music and classic dance performance
are some of the other stunning foregrounds. The elephant and the camel rides are just
great. The parade at the start of the event includes the decorated elephants and camels
hand in ahnd with the drum beaters and the folk artistists, which is quite a feast to the
eyes.
BATESHWAR FAIR:India is a country where religious holds a significants stead. And with it come many
religious ceremonies and festival.
So you can never run short of religious events that a occur all throughout the year in
India. Have you heard of the Kumbh mela a spiritual occasion that draws visitors from
all over the place like Kumbh fair, you will come across many such fairs like for
instance the Kaishal fair Agra, Bateshwar fair, Agra and of the course the taj mahotsav,
agra. All of the above mentioned fair celebrated in the majestic city of Agra. This
blessed land is full of some of the most well-known festivals in India. Thousands come
in and participate in these events making a grand success. Bateshwar fair Agra is
pivotal event to all Hindus. Here millions of Hindus gather together to offer thir
prayers toLord Shiva by way of bathing in the holy river Yamuna.
Only at a distance of 70 km. from Agra Bateshwar lies on the banks of Yamuna. This
place is a key spiritual and cultural hub. It may sound unbelievable but the crux of the
matter is that Bateshwar has 108 temples each one of them devoted to the respective
Hindu gods and goddesses. Bateshwar fair Agra got its name its after the presiding
deity of the areas Bateshwar Mahadev.
Bateshwar fair, Agra start from shashthi of kartik month and stretches to panchami of
Agrahayanmonth which precisely falls in the month of October & and November. You
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will also find a live stock fair that carries out serious business. It has all the ingredients
of an arrant market place.
Bateshwar fair is a fair worth a visit whatsoever. People irrespective of their caste and
creed can be a part of this auspicious fair. And above all, like most othert Indian fairs
or festivals this fair just showcases the fullbodies Indian cultural.
KAISHAL FAIR :Indian is a proud of myriad festival and events. When its come to festival each state or
city for that matter has something or the other to offer. Agra is one such city that boasts
some of the most happening festivals and events all the years round. We all know what
makes Agra such a popular destination the one only and only Taj mahal. Besides
theTaj mahal and the other heritage monuments you can buy entertainment thanks to
the various festivals that transpires here. You will find festival like Taj Mahotsav,
Bateshwar fair, Kailash fair, agra and all that.
Fairs and festivals come in plenty at Agra. Agra is well known for celebration like the
Id melas and the lively Tazias seen on Muharram. Visitiors come here in numbers
witnessing these glorious events that forms a part of the rich Indian culture. Agra
brings to you fascinating fairs especially the Kailash fair, Agra. As the name suggests
this fair takes place at a distance of just about 12kms from Kaishal so when you are on
tour to agra make sure that you dont miss out on Kailash fair Agra.
Kailash fair Agra is a one of the most coveted events here. It is believed that Kailash
fair Agra is celebrated in reverence of Lord Shiva who emerged here by way of stone
lingam. This awesome fair commence every year in February. It is a religious fair,
which occurs during the auspicious occasion of Shivratri.
RAM BARAT:Agra, home to the seventh wonder of the world the magnificent Taj Mahal is also
quite known all over for its marvelous events and fairs showcasing ethnic arts, crafts
and the liveness of the town. One of the most illustyrious of events is the Ram Barat
that celebrates marriage or wedding ceremony of the Hindu God Ram.
The city of Agra wears a festival look as it geared up for the Ram Barat or Hindu God
Ram wedding procession. The marriage procession of Sri Ram is held every year
during the Ramlila celebration in Agra and each year a new locality of the town town
and chosen and is elaborately decorated and is made fit for holding the royal and
prompous wedding. It is said that all these festivities revolving around this ground
wedding and the wedding as well was started by Lala Kokamal who was a cloth
merchant about 125 yearsago.
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The barat or wedding starts late Monday from the Ramlila ground passing through the
main city streets with about 30 music bands belting out popular melodies. The
procession is further enriched and completed with very animals like horse and richly
caparisoned elephants. There are over 125 mobile floats depicting events of
mythological importance. In Ram Barat there is a huge crowd of wedding enthusiasts
all dressed up in their finest attire. There are actors dressed up as Ram and Laxman.
They are decked up in gold and silver ornaments and crowns. The entire area is
decorated with fabulous lights and flowers and is accompanied by the decibel music
that mainly consist of major bollywood hits.
TAJ MAHOTSAV:Agra is a vibrant city in India, a center of art culture, learning and commerce and
beyond that you also find the time honored monuments and palaces. Festival and
events also find place here and are celebrated in real spirits- like for example Taj
Mahotsav Agra. After all of this it is quite understandable what Agra has in stored for
for tourists all over the world. Tourists love visting Agra because this place caters
everything that one desire.
The three heritage monuments namely Taj Mahal, Fatehpur sikri & Red fort are the
prime attraction here. The festivals and events here just add more flovor to this tourist
spot. They are truly Indian in every respect and this appeals to most of the tourists.
They enjoy the vibrancy of the events, which reflects so much of the Indian culture.
Taj Mahotsav Agra is a ten-days event that is celebrated on the 18 th February every
year. This events is as vivacious as it gets. The best of Indian crafts and cultural
nuances find place here. Taj Mahotsav at Agra India is held at Shilpgram. As a matter
of fact the best of Indian arts crafts culture are displayed here. You will also love the
folk music shayari poetry and classical dance performances whatsoever.
There is more to Taj Mahotsav Agra as you can take a ride on elephants or camel or
take parts in games and a food festival. The folk artists from the different states of
India perform here entertaining the tourists all the way. There never seems to be a stop
to entertainment here. It is found that the festival begins with a parade influenced by
the Mughal grandeur. The adorned elephants and camels and not to mention the drum
beaters along with the folk artist receat the magic of those imperial times.
URS(FATEHPUR SIKRI):Agra India carries the lagecy of the past with some of the fine heritage monuments and
not mention the innumerable festivals and events that feature throughout the year. It is
a city full of colors and that that speaks of Indian culture in every respect. Festival in
the likes of Eid-Ul-Fittr, Eid-UL-Adha and Muharrum are celebrated.
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AGRA TRANSPORT
REACHING AGRA: kheria Airport is 8km from Agra. From the international Airport
Delhi, Agra is 220km flight connect Agra to Delhi and Khajuraho, Varanasi. Express
trains also halt at Agra. A special luxury air condition The Taj express commutes
between delhi and Agra. It leaves Delhi in morning return at night. Breakfast and meals
are served in the dining car on the express. Agra is also liked to Delhi by Shatabadi
express (journey time two hours) and Intercity express (3hours). The Shatabadi express
links Agra to Gwalior, & Bhopal.
Connecting air conditioned deluxe and ordinary coach tours are available from the
Agra cantt Railways station you can drive the 220km from Delhi to Agra in air
condition cars which can be hired in Delhi. The ITDC Kosi restaurant and Haryana
tourisms Dabchick Tourist complex make convention half ways stops.
There is an excellent bus service from Delhi to Agra and back each day. During the
season, ITDC and UPSTDC operate package tours from Delhi. The best time to Agra
is during winter when the weather is pleasantly sunny. Agra is well connected to
following cities by deluxe buses, taxies (AC MUSIC CHANNELS) for Jaipur,
Mathura, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer Chitogarh and Alwar. Taxis are also available for
Vrindham dham and Bharatpur famous for bird sanctuary.
Festivals & Fairs Year 2013 to 2015

Name of the Festivals
& Fair
BASANT PANCHAMI
(Loard Saraswati Jayanti )
TAJ MAHOTSAV
( A festival of craft,
culture, cusine )
Hindi Month and Tithi
Magh shukla Panchami

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English
Date Month Year
15 Feb. 2013
04 Feb. 2014
24 Jan. 2015
Every year 18 to 27
Feb.
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LATHAMAR HOLI
( Barsana, Mathura )
LATHAMAR HOLI
( Nandgaon, Mathura )
Phalgun Shukla Dashami

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21 Mar. 2013
10 Mar. 2014
27 Mar. 2015

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22 Mar. 2013
11 Mar. 2014
28 Mar. 2015
RANGBHARANI AKADASHI
( Vrindavan, Mathura )

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23 Mar. 2013
12 Mar. 2014
01 Mar. 2015
HOLIKA DAHAN
( Vrindavan, Mathura )
Phalgun Shukla Poornima

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26 Mar. 2013
16 Mar. 2014
05 Mar. 2015
BALDEV KA HURANGA
(Baldev, Mathura )
Chaitra Shukla Dytiya

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29 Mar. 2013
18 Mar. 2014
07 Mar. 2015
RATH KA MELA
( Baldev, Mathura )
Chaitra Shukla Dashami

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04 Apr. 2013
25 Mar. 2014
15 Mar. 2015

& Fair
GAN GAUR MELA
( Gokulpura & Moti Katra

Gokulpura Agra )
Chaitra shukla Tritya &

Chaturthi ( 2 Days )
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AKSHAYA TRATIYA
Baishaksh Shukla Tritiya

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English
Date Month - Year
13 & 14 Apr. 2013
02 & 03 Apr. 2014
22 & 23 Mar. 2015
13 May 2013
03 May 2014
22
GANGA DASHARA
( Nandgaon, Mathura)
Jyeth
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VYAS POORNIMA
Guru Poornima
Ashada Shukla Poornima

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22 July 2013
12 July 2014
31 July 2015
Shravan Shukla Tratiya

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09 Aug. 2013
30 July 2014
17 Aug. 2015
KAILASH FAIR
Agra ( 3rd Monday of Shravan )
Shravan Krishna Shukla

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12 Aug. 2013
28 July 2014
17 Aug. 2015
SHRI KRISHNA
JANMASTHMI
Bhadra Krishna Ashtami

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28 Aug. 2013
17 Aug. 2014
18 Aug. 2015
Bhadra Krishna Nawami

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29 Aug. 2013
18 Aug. 2014
09 Sep. 2015
Bhadra Shukla Ashtami

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12 Sep. 2013
02 Sep. 2014
21 Sep. 2015
Bhadra Shukla Trayodashi

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17 Sep. 2013
07 Sep. 2014
26 Sep. 2015
( Goverdhan, Mathura)
HARIYALIKA TEEJ
(Hindole in Brij, Mathura)
(Mathura)
NANDOTSAVA
( Gokul, Vrindavan, Mathura)
RADHA ASTAMI
MATA KI LILA

& Fair
Shukla Dashami
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SHRI RAM BARAT

Agra
Ashwani
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SHARAD POORNIMA
( Nandgaon, Mathura )
Ashin shukla
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Krishna Akadashi
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Poornima
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18 June 2013
08 June 2014
21 April 2015
English
Date Month - Year
30 Sep. 2013
19 Sep. 2014
08 Oct. 2015
18 Oct. 2013
07 Oct. 2014
23
26 Oct. 2015
DHANVANTRI
TRAYODASHI
Kartik Krishna Trayodashi

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01 Nov. 2013
21 Oct. 2014
09 Nov. 2015
DEEPAWALI
Kartik Krishna Trayodashi

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03 Nov. 2013
23 Oct. 2014
11 Nov. 2015
(Deepdan Utsav, Mathura)
GOVERDHAN POOJA
Annkoot Utsav
( Goverdhan Mathura)
BHAI DOOJ ( YAM

DYTIYA)
Mathura
BATESHWAR FAIR
( Bateshwar, Agra )
KANS MELA
GURU GOVIND MELA

( Chattikara, Mathura)
DAUJEE KA MELA
( Baldeo, Mathura)
Kartik Shukla
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Kartik
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Pratipada
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04 Nov. 2013
24 Nov. 2014
12 Nov. 2015
Shukla
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Dytiya
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05 Nov. 2013
25 Oct. 2014
13 Nov. 2015
Kartik
Shukla
Kartik Poornima
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Kartik
Shukla
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Dytiya
05 Nov. to 17 Nov. 2013
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Dashmi
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25 Oct. to 06 Nov. 2014

13 Nov. to 25 Nov. 2015
14 Nov. 2013
02 Nov. 2014
21 Nov. 2015
Margshirsha Krishna Amwavasya
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Margshirsha Poornima
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02 Dec. 2013
22 Nov. 2014
21 Nov. 2015
17 Dec. 2013
06 Dec. 2014
25 Dec. 2015
MATHURA :Mathura the birthplace of Lord Krishna is an important place of piligrimage and
thousands of devotees through the city throughout the year. It lies at the heart of
theBrajbhoomi aland that is imued with sanctity for it was here that the young Krishna
was nurtured. The little towns and hamlets in this area are still alive with the tales of
his mischievous pranks, his extraordinary exploits and still seem to echo with the
24
sound of his flute. An ancient habitation, Mathuras strategic location ensured its
position as a centre of trade and ameeting point of cultures. A major city during the
time of the Bhudha (5th century BC ) it become the eastern capital of the Kushan
emperor Kanishka. Mathura continued to be a centre of power during the elightment
rule of emperor Ashok (3th centure BC) and up to the gupta era (4thcentureAD) . The
arts flourished and at the Mathura museum one can trace the evalution of the Mathura
school from the time Kushan emperors to the Gupta period.
Todays Mathura with its manytemples and splendid ghats along the river Yamuna is a
bustling pilgrimage town lying midway between Delhi and agra Mathura is easy to
visit.
What to see:SHREE KRISHNA JANASTHAMI
The splendid temple katra keshav dev is built over the little prison cell believed to be
birth place of lord Krishna.
GITA MANDIR
A beautiful temple located on the Mathura- Vrindavan road has a fine image of lord
Krishna. The Bhagwat Gita is inscribed on the walls.
DWARAKADISH TEMPLE
Mathuras most popular shrine was built in 1815by seth Gokul Dash Parikh, treasurere
of the state of gwalior. The aarti at this ghat is a splendid sight, for hundreds of little oil
lamps float out on the river as dusk as offering.
KANS QILA
This ruined fort on the bank of river Yamuna was built by Raja Man Singh of Jaipur.
An observatory was built here at a later date by that keen astronomer Maharaj Sawai
Jai Singh of Ajmer.
SATI BURJ
The 17m tall, 4 stroyed red sanstone tower built in 1570ad, commemorates the death of
of Raja Bihari Sat.
THE GOVERNMENT OF MUSEUM
Housed ina fine octagonal building at Dampier park the museum is a repository of
sculpture style, terracotta and artifact from the kushan and the Gupta periods. Among
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its most impressive exhibits are the headless figure of emperor Kanishka dressed in
central asian robes and boots and various Buddha image.
EXCURSIONS
:-VRINDAVAN
Closely linked to Lord Krishnas youth and to stories of his playfull pranks, vrindavan
is as important a place of pilgrimage as Mathura. Today it is temple town with ghats
along the river and numerous shrines.
THE MOST IMPORTANT ARE
The imposing Govind Dev temple built at an enormous cost crore rupees by Raja Man
Singh of Jaipur in1590ad. Constructed in red sandstone in the shape of a greek cross. It
was once a magnificent seven storeyed structure.
The Ranga Ji temple built in the Dravidian style, the Madan Mohan temple oldest in
Vrivandan, the popular Banke Bihari temple the famous Radha Vallabh temple and the
ornate Shahi ji temple built in 1876 by a wealthy jeweler Shah Kundan Lal of Lucknow
are some of its more interesting srhines. The international society for Krishna
consciousness has also built an ornamental marble temple at Vrindavan. Adjoining the
temple is the Samadhi of Sri Prabhpada the found of this sect.
GOKUL
At Gokul a scenic village on the banks of the river Yamuna, the young Krishna was
brought up in secrecy by his foster parents Nand and Yashoda to protect him from
the evil design of his uncle Kansa. Gokul has a number of interesting temple.
MAHAVAN
Located 4km from gokul on the road to Sadabad. It can be visited by taxi or autorickshaw. The temple of Mathura Nath Ji is worth visiting.
BALDEO
Just 8.5km from Mahavan on left bank of the Yamuna. Thios mall town famous for the
temple dedicated to lord Krishnas elder brother Baldeo.
BARSANA
This town is noted for being the birthplace of lord Krishnas beloved Radha. Temple
built on the elevation of four hilloks are dedicated to the devine couple. These are the
only temple in India where Radha is worshipped. The chief among them is the Radha
Rani temple more know as the Ladli Ji temple. It is a splendid structure in red sand
stone and was built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo of Orchcha in 1675
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Barasana is also famous for its Lathmar Holi

NANDGAON
Nandgaon was the home of lord Krishna;s foster father nand. The specious temple to
Nand rak built by the jat ruler Roop singh is located on a hill.
GOVERDHAN
The young lord Krishna is said to have lifted the Giriraj hill at Goverdhan and it up on
the tip of finger, to protected the people from a deluge of rain sent down by Lord Indra.
Worth seeing here are the some the 400 year old, sand stone Temple of Hridev and the
chhtri or cenotaph Raja Suraj Mal of Bhartpur with its interiors embellished with
paintings of court and hunting scenes.
Allahabad:Allahabad also known as Prayag, is a city in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh in
India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Allahabad District. Allahabad is the
seventh most populous city in Uttar Pradesh, with an estimated population of 1.74
million living in the city and district area. In 2011, it was ranked the world's 130th
fastest growing city. Allahabad city is the largest commercial center in the state; it also
has the second-highest per capita income and the third greatest GDP in the state.
Allahabad is also known as the "city of prime ministers" because post independence
seven out of 13 prime minister of India belonged to Allahabad (Jawaharlal Nehru, Lal
Bahadur Shastri, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, Gulzarilal Nanda, Vishwanath Pratap
Singh and Chandra Shekhar). All these seven leaders were either born in Allahabad,
were alumni of Allahabad University, or were elected from a constituency in
Allahabad.
The city's original namePrayaga, or "place of offerings", comes from its position at
the sacred union of the rivers Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati. It is the second-oldest
city in India and plays a central role in the Hindu scriptures. The city contains many
temples and palaces. Allahabad is located in the southern part of Uttar Pradesh. It is
bounded by Pratapgarh in the north, Bhadohi in the east, Rewa in the south and
Kaushambi in the west. Its area is 63.07 km2 (24.35 sq mi). Allahabad contains many
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suburbs. While the city and surroundings are governed by several municipalities, a
large portion of Allahabad District is governed by the Allahabad City Council. The
demonym of Allahabad is Allahabadi
VARANASI:( The geless, shining city)Varanasi the multi- hued first city of all Hindudom is known by three
names Kashi ( the shining city or city of light) is the oldest name followed by Benares (bereft of
sin)and currently Varanasi (remover of sin ). Old and yet youthful Varanasi is ageless its spiritual and
religious legacy rivelled only by the river Ganga, india s holiest river on whose bank it stands .
Varanasi is ideally placed to greet the rising Sun.
The Man mandir , believed to have been built by Raja Man Singh who graced the
court of mughal emperor Akbar, dates back to roughly four hundred years. Varanasi
has one of the most celebrated universities in India Banaras Hindu University . the
other being Nalanda (Bihar) . it was the city chosen by the Buddhafor frist turning the
wheel of his law for man kind. It was here the 23 rd Thirthankar of the Jains was born.
Picturesque ghats monumental princely mansion a rich tradition of classic music and
dance, sology yoga, celebrated crafts the weaving of rich, exquisite brocades
And much more make Varanasi is highlighted as it is a lively city.
THE GHATS:The living pulsating heart of the city the ghats is wide stone steps that descend to the
river for almost 5 km. along the west bank affording a secure bathing platform for
devotees whatever the level of the water. At any point of the daythese steps are a
kaleidoscope of colour, a shifting pattern of piligrims on their way to and from the
river. Here people consult the pandas or priest s under their palm left umbrellas or buy
offering for rituals. rising as a back drop to all this activity is the magnificient
superstructure of temple. Havelis and the domes and minarets of mosque. A labyrinth
of narrow lanes behind these building links the ghats to the rest of the city. Wanderning
through this maze can be fascinating. Shops sell rich brocaded silks , brassware and
also all the article essential for worship at the numerous little shrines. Viewing the
ghats early the morning from a boat on the river can be an unforgettable experience.
They emergy out of the mist like a dream, to be bathed in the golden glow of the rising
sun an image that leaves an indelible imprint onones being the mist clears the light is
brighter and the ghats reverberate with the chant of mantras. The sound of bells and the
cries of the vendors. An aroma of incense sticks, oil lamps and flower fills the air. At
dusk too the ghats are magical asd hundreds of little lamps float out on the river as
offerings.
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The main bathing ghats are Assi, Dasaswamedh, Baranasangam, Panchganga and
Manikarnika. To bath at these five ghats in this order in a dat is known as the panch
thirtha yatra.
Man mandir ghat. It was built in 1770by Jai Singh of Jaipur the intrepid astronomer,
who erected one of his unusual observatories here. The Man sarovar ghats was also
built by the a princely patron- Man singh of Amber.
Lord Vishnu is said to have dug a pit with his chakra and while performing various
penances filled it eith his perpiraton. As lord shiva watched him, his erring (manik) gell
into the pit giving the ghat the name of Manikarnika. Lord Vishnus footprints are
said to be preserved at Chakrapushkarini which is close by another interesting ghats to
visit the other important ghats include the Hanuman ghat with temples to Hanuman and
Kanchi kam kotishwarw (th Shankara charya math is near by ). Yhe Tulsi ghat is
dedicated to Tulsidas . who wrote the Ram Chritmanas a translation of the Ramayan
into Hindi and the Lalita ghat has a beautiful temple built in carved wood by the late
king of Nepal (which is also known as the Nepalese)
DELHI:The area around Delhi was probably inhabited before the second millennium BC, and
there is evidence of continuous inhabitation since at least the 6th century BC.The city
is believed to be the site of Indraprastha, the legendary capital of the Pandavas in the
Indian epic Mahabharata. The earliest architectural relics date back to the Maurya
period (c. 300 BC); in 1966, an inscription of the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka (273236
BC) was discovered near Srinivaspuri. Remains of eight major cities have been
discovered in Delhi. The first five cities were in the southern part of present-day Delhi.
Anang Pal of the
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Tomara dynasty founded the city of Lal Kot in AD 736. The Chauhanconquered Lal
Kot in 1180 and renamed it Qila Rai Pithora.
The iron pillar of Delhi, is said to have been fashioned at the time of Chandragupta
Vikramaditya (375413) of the Gupta Empire.
The Chauhan king Prithvi was defeated in 1192 by the Afghan invader Muhammad
Ghori who made a concerted effort to conquer northern India. [6] By 1200, Hindu
resistance had begun to crumble. Dominance of Muslim dynasties in India was to last
for the next five centuries. On the death of Muhammad in 1206, the Turkic slavegeneral, Qutb-ud-din Aibak, broke away from the Ghurid Dynasty and became the first
Sultan of Delhi. He began construction of the Qutb Minar and Quwwat-al-Islam (might
of Islam) mosque, the earliest extant mosque in India. Qutb-ud-din faced widespread
Hindu rebellions and it was his successor, Iltutmish (121136), who consolidated the
Muslim conquest of northern India.
At 72.5 m (238 ft), A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Qutub Minar is the world's
tallest free-standing brick minaret.
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For the next three hundred years, Delhi was ruled by a succession of Turkic and an
Afghan, Lodhi dynasty. They built a number of forts and townships that are part of the
seven cities of Delhi. Delhi was a major centre of Sufism during this period. The
Mamluk Sultanate (Delhi) was overthrown in 1290 by the Khilji dynasty (12901320).
Under the second Khilji ruler, Ala-ud-din Khilji, the Delhi sultanate extended its
control south of the Narmada River in the Deccan. The Delhi sultanate reached its
greatest extent during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughluq (13251351). In an attempt
to bring the whole of the Deccan under control, he moved his capital to Daulatabad,
Maharashtra in central India, but by moving away from Delhi he lost control of the
north and was forced to return to Delhi to restore order. The southern provinces then
broke away. In the years following the reign of Firoz Shah Tughlaq (13511388), the
Delhi sultanate rapidly began to lose its hold over its northern provinces. Delhi was
captured and sacked by Timur Lenk in 1398.Near Delhi, Timur massacred 100,000
captives. Delhi's decline continued under the Sayyid dynasty (14141451), until the
sultanate was reduced to Delhi and its hinterland. Under the Afghan Lodhi dynasty
(14511526), the Delhi sultanate recovered control of the Punjab and the Gangetic
plain to once again achieve domination over northern India. However, the recovery
was short-lived and in 1526 the sultanate was destroyed by Babur, founder of the
Mughal dynasty.
In 1526, Babur, a descendant of Genghis Khan and Timur, from the Fergana Valley in
modern-day Uzbekistan, invaded India, defeated the last Lodhi sultan in the First Battle
of Panipat and founded the Mughal Empire that ruled from Delhi and Agra.[6] The
Mughal dynasty ruled Delhi for more than three centuries, with a sixteen-year hiatus
during the reign of Sher Shah Suri, from 1540 to 1556. In 1553, the Hindu king, Hemu
Vikramaditya acceded to the throne of Delhi by defeating forces of Mughal Emperor
Humayun at Agra and Delhi. However, the Mughals re-established their rule after
Akbar's army defeated Hemu during the Second Battle of Panipat in 1556. Shah Jahan
built the seventh city of Delhi that bears his name Shahjahanabad, which served as the
capital of the Mughal Empire from 1638 and is today known as the Old City or Old
Delhi.
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Red fort is the location from which the Prime Minister of
India addresses the nation on Independence Day
After 1720, the Mughal Empire's influence declined rapidly as the Hindu Maratha
Empire rose to prominence. In 1737, Maratha forces sacked Delhi following their
victory against the Mughals in the First Battle of Delhi. In 1739, the Mughal Empire
lost the Battle of Karnal, following which the victorious forces of Nader Shah, the
Turkic ruler of the Afsharid dynasty, invaded and looted Delhi, carrying away many
treasures, including the Peacock Throne A treaty signed in 1752 made Marathas the
protectors of the Mughal throne in Delhi.
Built in 1560, Humayun's Tomb is the first example of Mughal tomb complexes.
In 1757, the Afghan ruler, Ahmad Shah Durrani, sacked Delhi. He returned to
Afghanistan leaving a Mughal puppet ruler in nominal control. The Marathas briefly
occupied Delhi before their defeat in 1761 at the third battle of Panipat and the city was
captured again by Ahmad Shah. However, in 1771, the Marathas established a
protectorate over Delhi when the Maratha ruler, Mahadji Shinde, recaptured Delhi and
the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II was installed as a puppet ruler in 1772. In 1803,
during the Second Anglo-Maratha War, the forces of British East India Company
defeated the Maratha forces in the Battle of Delhi.During the Indian Rebellion of 1857,
Delhi fell to the forces of East India Company after a bloody fight known as the Siege
of Delhi. The city came under the direct control of the British Government in 1858. It
was made a district province of the Punjab.
UTTARKHAND:The char Dham (the four abodes) is a term coined for the four most revered Hindu
pilgramige destination of Gangotri, yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinathin the Garhwal
region of Uttarkhand in the Himalayas. While each site in the circuit has a unique
history and significance that predates and remain distinct from their status as circuit.
The particular word Chardham has
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over the times, ingrained in popular imagination and pilgrimage practice. According to
the Purans and various Hindu scriptures, the Chardham yatra is of the highest religious
significance in a religious believers life. Piligrams from all around the world brave the
sever condition of landscaoe and weather to visit the shrine for holy darshans of the of
the revered deities.
YAMONOTRI
The first stopover for the Char dham yatra is the westernmist shrine of Yamonotri in
the Garhwal Himalayas. Dedicated to Gooddess Yamuna. Perched atop aflank of the
Bandar poonch peak (3165mts. Above sea level) and is situated opposite to Gangotri,
the shrine attracts devotees in large numbers from may to October.
Yamonotri is the source of the revered river Yamuna which originates from the
Chamkpassar glacier lying 1km ahead of the shrine at an altitude of 4421mts. As it is
not easily accessible. The source of Yamuna lies about 1 km. ahead at the altitude of
about 4421metres. The approach is extremely difficult. Pilgrims do not frequently visit
the source of the river and offer pooja at the temple itself .
The motorable road to Yamunotri continues till Jankichatti via Syanachatti, Ranachatti
and Hanumanchatti 50km. Barkot. From Jankichatti it isa 5km trek to Yamunotri for
which ponies, bandies and kandies are also available.
Near the temple there are three hot springs. The most important, Surya kund is a tank
full of boiling water into which rice and potatoes are dipped to be cooked and taken as
a Prasad . near the kund a rock slab the Divya Shila is worshed before puja is
offered to the black marble idol Yamuna. A bath is the springs is very refreshing after a
tedious 13km. trek from Hanumanchatti or 5km.from Jankichatti.
WHAT TO SEE:YAMUNOTRI TEMPLE
The main temple is dedicated to Goddess Yamuna.
SURYA KUND:
There are a number of thermalsprings in the vicinity of the temple which flow into
numerous pools.
DIVYA SHIL:
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A rock pillor worshipped before enterning the Yamunotri temple. Origin of the shila is
not known.
GANGOTRI:
At Gangotri there is a temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga and scred stone where Raja
Bhagirath is believed to have wworshipped Lord Shiva.
The origine of the river is at Gaumukh, which is further 18km. trek along the Gangotri
glacier. The holy river is called Bhagirathi at the source and acquires the name Ganga
from Devprayag onwards where it meet Alaknanda.
Gangotri can be reached in just one days travel from Rishikesh, Haridwar or Dehradun
or in two days from Yamunotri, the frist site in the chardham circuit. Gangotri is easily
accessible by car and bus. As a result that is sees more number of pilgrimage than
Yamunotri.
WHAT TO SEE:GANGOTRI TEMPLE:
The 18th centurys temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga is an axquisite 20ft. high
structure made of white granite. The sacred stone the Bhigirathi shila is located near
the temple of Ganga where the holy Ganga frist descended on earth from heaven.
GAUMUKH:
Gaumukh is where the water of Ganga trickle down from the glacier. The sages called
it Gaumukh because in the distant past it probably appeared like a cows mouth
through today it no longer appears so.
BHAIRONGHATI:
At 2743mt. further down strem 10 kms from Gangotri is the picturesque forested
halting place of Bharonghati. There exits a small temple of Bhiron appointed by the
Shiva to safe guard this region which gives theploace its name.
KEDAR NATH:
Amidst the dramtic mountainscapes of the majestic kedarnath range stand one of the
twelve Jyotrilinga
Of Kedar or lord Shiv. At an altitude of 3584mts. And of the head of the river
Mandakani the shrine of Kedarnath is amongsest the holiest piligramage for the
Hindus. There are more than 200shrines dedicated to lord Shiva in this district itself,
the most important one being Kedarnath.
Situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttrakhand is very close to the indo Chinese
border. It is the source of the Mandakani river. Couched in the scenic locales of the
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Garhwal the area is extremely cold in the winters with the groumd being cover with
snow. In the summer the mercury barely crosses the 20 c mark. The best time to visit is
between may and October.
WHAT TO SEE:
Kedarnathis majestic sight standing in the middle of a wide plateau surrounded by lofty
snow covered peaks.
SHANKARACHARYA SAMADHI:
Behind the Kedhar nath temple lies the Samadhi or the final resting place of Ad Guru
Shankracharya. It is believed after establishing four dham in India he took his Samadhi
at an early age 32 years.
BADRINATH
Ther are many sacred spots of piligramage in the heavens earth and the nither world
but there has none been equal to Badri , nor shall there be!
Encircled by a beautiful valley on the banks of holy river Alknandas with the
Neelkanth mountains as the back drop, Badrinath dham is the holiest of the four shrines
on the scared itinerary of every Hindu. Preched on the twin mountain ranges of Nar or
Narayan Badrinath is the above of lord of Vishnu.
The name Badrinath is derived from wild berries. Locally called Badri. Once the spot
was carpeted with Badri or wild berries and hence was known as Badri van or wild
berries forest.
The revered shrine is still alive with myriad legends from mythology. the facilities on
the road to Badrinath has emproved manifold in the recent time. As estimated 600000
pilgramage visit the shrine every season now in 1961, it was just 90676.
WHAT TO SEE:
BADRINATH TEMPLE:The temple of Shri Badrinath dates back to Vedic time. The 15mts. High temple is
dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is built in the form of cone with a small cupola of gilt bull
and spire. The present temple is believed to have been built by Adi Shankracharya the
great 8th century philosopher saint who also established a Math here.
BRAHMA KAPAL:
A flat plateform on the bank of river Alaknanda where hindus perform propitiating
rites for their deceased ancestors.
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SHESHNETRA:
Aboulder having an impression of the legendary serpant known as sheshnags eye.
CHARAN PADUKA:
The foot prints of Lord Vishnu can be seen on a boulder in this beautiful meadow.
NEELKANTH:
A pyramidical shaped snowy peak towering above Badrinath, popularly known as
Garhwal Queen.
RANIKHET:
Ranikhet is a hill station and cantonment town in Almora district in the Indian state
of Uttarakhand. It is the home for the Military Hospital, Kumaon Regiment (KRC) &
Naga Regiment and is maintained by the Indian Army.
Ranikhet is at an altitude of 1869 metres above sea level and within sight of the
western peaks of the Himalayas.
History
Ranikhet, which means Queen's meadow in Hindi, gets its name from a local legend,
which states that it was here, that Raja Sudhardev won the heart of his queen, Rani
Padmini, who subsequently chose the area for her residence, giving it the name,
Ranikhet, though no palace exists in the area.
In 1869, the British established the headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment here and
used the station as a retreat from the heat of the Indian summer. At one time during
British Raj, it was also proposed as the summer headquarters of Government of India,
in lieu of Shimla. In 1900, it had a summer population of 7,705, and its corresponding
winter population was measured in 1901 as 3,153.
Ranikhet previously was under the Nepalese Rule, and the Kumaonese (people of
Kumaon Region) won it under the leadership of their able General Kashi Nath
Adhikari after whom the small town of Kashipur was named (which at one point of
time was the gateway to the hills and is now an educational /institutional hub) with
the help of Britishers at around 1816 and is a part of India now.
Flora and fauna
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The pine, oak, and deodar forests host an array of wildlife including leopard, leopard
cat, mountain goat, barking deer, sambar, pine marten, Indian hare, red-faced monkey,
jackal, langur, red fox, and porcupine.
Places to visit
Army Museum
Maintained by the Kumaon and the Naga Regiment of the Indian Army, the Museum
has a wide collection ranging from stories of the heroics of the First World War till
date. It has on display the various weapons captured, flags of enemies captured by the
army and also the LTTE boat captured during Operation Pawan. It has stories of the
First and the Second Param Vir Chakra who belonged to the Kumaon Regiment. You
can also get to know the list of all the Army Generals who belonged to the Kumaon
Regiment. The Regiment which has got a long and successful history of heroics and
tales of valor is on full display at the Museum. Contributions by the Regiment during
the World Wars, during the Indo-China war and the Pakistan war, during Kargil and
Op Pawan can be known at this Museum. The Museum is very well maintained by the
Army and they also provide an Army guide who will help understand the history and
the heroics of the Regiment. Photography is prohibited inside the Museum. Interesting
to see are the weapons captured during the war, some of them weigh nearly 80 kg and
require at least 2 people to carry and load it. You also get to see the medals and
uniforms of the brave soldiers. A visit to this Museum is must when going to Ranikhet.
One gets a strong feeling of patriotism when visiting this museum.
Jhula Devi temple

Jhula devi temple, Ranikhet
Jhula Devi temple is situated at a distance of 7 km from the town of Ranikhet near
Chaubatia. It is said that the dense jungle near the temple was once full of wild
animals, leopards and tigers used to attack local villagers. The villagers prayed to Maa
Durga for protection, and one day Goddess Durga came in a shephard's dream and
advised him to excavate her idol. This temple was constructed at the spot where the
shepherd found Goddess Durga's idol. Since then pilgrims come to make a wish to
Goddess Jhula Devi. And when their wish is fulfilled they come again to thank Jhula
Devi Maa by offering a bell to the temple. The popularity of the temple can be realized
by number of bells hanging over the temple walls. The temple priests have to timely
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shift the old bells to a different place to make room for the new bells that are tied
everyday. In addition to bells, dried coconut and prasad is offered to the Goddess. This
place has a calm environment and a sense of spiritual peace to it.
Rama Mandir (temple)
Rock painting at Rama Mandir, Ranikhet

Located in the viscinity of Jhula Devi temple is the Rama Mandir, dedicated to lord
Rama. A small flight of stairs takes you to the hilltop where this temple is situated.
Rama Mandir has a monastery where students are taught ancient vedas along with
vedic and modern mathematics. People who have a keen interest in vedas should not
miss the chance to visit this temple.
View from Panyali, Ranikhet

Chaubatia Gardens
Located about 10 km from Ranikhet town, this place has plantation of apricots,
peaches, chestnuts,almonds and is famous for apple orchards. With a wide variety of
himalayan flora, this place also offers the picturesque views of snowcapped himalayas.
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Apart from fruits, one can buy fresh juices and artisan honey from the garden store on
the way out.
Rani Jheel, Ranikhet
Sarna Garden road, Ranikhet

.Transport
Ranikhet is situated at a distance of 279 km from Delhi, well connected by road and
railway. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, approximately 68 km from
Ranikhet(GMAPS). Pantnagar Airport is the nearest airport. Nearest hill stations are
Almora - 50 km, Nainital - 60 km. There are some more places nearby which can be
visited like Chaubatia, Dwarahat, Kausani, Chaukhutia, Majhkhali, Naina Gaon, Jalali,
Doonagiri, Naithna, Masi and Pali.
MUSSOORIE:Tourism is the most significant segment of Mussoorie'Seconomy. It has a nature walk

known as "Camel's Back Road". This road takes its name from a rocky outcrop in
the shape of a camel's hump. Along the road, a cemetery is located about mid-way
on the loop. There is also "Gun Hill" where a cannon was used to sound out
midday for many years. Gun Hill is accessible by the cable car on the Mall road.
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The oldest Christian church in the Himalayas, St Mary's, is situated above Mall
Road, and is currently undergoing restoration. Kempty Falls is a nice picnic spot.
Company Garden is popular tourist destination. During season, the Company
Garden has a vast collection of flowers and plants. Happy Valley has a small
Tibetan temple. This was the first Tibetan temple built in India. The temple was
constructed in 1960 by the Tibetan refugees. Lal Tibba is another tourist spot of
Mussoorie. Picturesque Dhanaulti hill station is about 32 kilometres from
Mussoorie. Mussoorie also had India's largest roller skating rink.
Nahata Estate
Previously known as "Childer's Lodge" is a huge property of more than 300 acres,
owned by the Harakh Chand Nahata family. It is the highest peak of Mussoorie near
Lal Tibba, it is situated at 5 km from the Tourist Office and one can go on horse back
or on foot. The view of snow-clad mountains is exhilarating.
GunHill Second highest point of Mussoorie, at an altitude of 2024m located at
Kempty Falls The stunningly beautiful Kempty Falls are situated on the hilly tracks of
Uttarakhand, India, 15 km from Mussoorie on the Chakrata Road. This place is located
nearly 1364 meter above sea level and placed 78-02East on longitude and 30
-29North on latitude of the globe
Lake Mist
About 5 km before Kempty Falls on the Mussoorie-Kempty road is a good picnic spot with
accommodation and restaurant facilities, boating is also available. The place showcases nature in an
exquisite manner. With the Kempty river flowing through it, Lake Mist has many small waterfalls
made by the river. This is a gem in the queen of hills.
Municipal Garden
Is a picnic spot having a garden and an artificial mini lake with paddle boating facility.
It is located at a distance of 4 km by rickshaw cycles, pony or by a car and 2 km via
Waverly Convent School road on foot.
Mussoorie Lake
A newly developed picnic spot build by City Board & Mussoorie Dehradun
Development Authority, is situated at 6 km on Mussoorie-Dehradun road having a
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facility of pedaled boats. It offers an enchanting view of Doon Valley and nearby
villages. View during Night is marvelous.
A honeymooning couple find some romantic moments on top of Gunhill, Mussourie

Bhatta Falls
7 km from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Dehradun Road near Bhatta Village. Accessible
by car or bus up to Bhatta from where the fall is 3 km by foot. A fall with different
ponds for bathing and water amusements, ideal place for picnic.
Jharipani Fall
Located at 8.5 km from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Jharipani road. One can go by local
bus or car up to Jharipani from where the fall is about 1.5 km on foot.
Mossy Fall
The fall is surrounded by a dense forest and is 7 km from Mussoorie. One can go there
via Barlowganj or Balahisar.
Nag Devta Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Snake God Lord Shiva and is situated on Cart
Mackenzie Road about 6 km from Mussoorie on the way to Dehradun. Vehicles can go
right up to the temple. This place provides an enchanting view of Mussoorie and the
Doon Valley.
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Mussoorie and Landour, 1860sJwalaji Temple (Benog Hill)

Situated at an altitude of 2240 m, this temple is 9 km west of Mussoorie. It is situated
on the top of Benog Tibba (Hill) and contains an old idol of Goddess Durga. There is a
marvelous view of the Aglar River valley. It cannot be accessed by vehicle although a
motor road goes most of the way from Mussoorie.
Cloud End
This hotel is surrounded by thick deodar forest. The bungalow, built in 1838 by a
British major, was one of the first four buildings of Mussoorie and has now been
converted into a hotel. The place provides peace and calm and is full of flora and
fauna.
Van Chetna Kendra:-11 km to the South of library point lies an old sanctuary
established in 1993 and covering an area of 339 hectares. It is famous for the extinct
bird species Mountain Quail (Pahari Bater), which was last spotted in 1876.
Mussoorie is a popular destination for honeymooning couples, mainly because of its
relatively cool climes and calm and lovely environment.Oak Grove School stands out
from the other notable institutions of Mussoorie because of two reasons - first of all, it
is affiliated to the CBSE, New Delhi, which is rarity amongst the residential schools of
Mussoorie. Secondly, it is a secular government aided school, run by Northern
Railway. The school was founded in 1888 by East Indian Railway (EIR), and passed to
the Indian Railways when railways were nationalised after Independence. It has three
separate semi independent wings, and is situated on two hills in Jharipani, 8 km from
Mussoorie town, near the famous Jharipani
WILD LIFE:Jim Corbett National Park:-
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Jim Corbett National Park is the oldest national park in India and was established in
1936 as Hailey National Park to protect the endangered Bengal tiger. It is located in
Nainital district of Uttarakhand and was named after Jim Corbett who played a key role
in its establishment. The park was the first to come under the Project Tiger
initiative.The park has sub-Himalayan belt geographical and ecological characteristics.
An ecotourism destination, it contains 488 different species of plants and a diverse
variety of fauna. The increase in tourist activities, among other problems, continues to
present a serious challenge to the park's ecological balance.
Corbett has been a haunt for tourists and wildlife lovers for a long time. Tourism
activity is only allowed in selected areas of Corbett Tiger Reserve so that people get an
opportunity to see its splendid landscape and the diverse wildlife. In recent years the
number of people coming here has increased dramatically. Presently, every season
more than 70,000 visitors come to the park from India and other countries.Corbett
National Park comprises 520.8 km2. area of hills, riverine belts, marshy depressions,
grass lands and large lake. The elevation ranges from 1,300 feet (400 m) to 4,000 feet
(1,200 m). Winter nights in Corbett Park are cold but the days are bright and sunny. It
rains from July to September.Dense moist deciduous forest mainly consists of sal,
haldu, pipal, rohini and mango trees, and these trees cover almost 73 per cent of the
park. The 10 per cent of the area consists of grasslands.It houses around 110 tree
species, 50 species of mammals, 580 bird species and 25 reptile species. The
endangered Bengal tiger of India resides here.
History
Some areas of the park were formerly part of the princely state of Tehri Garhwal. The
forests were cleared to make the area less vulnerable to Rohilla invaders. The Raja of
Tehri formally ceded a part of his princely state to the East India Company in return for
their assistance in ousting the Gurkhas from his domain. The Boksasa tribe from the
Teraisettled on the land and began growing crops, but in the early 1860s they were
evicted with the advent of British rule.
Efforts to save the forests of the region began in the 19th century under Major Ramsay,
the British Officer who was in-charge of the area during those times. The first step in
the protection of the area began in 1868 when the British forest department established
control over the land and prohibited cultivation and the operation of cattle stations. In
1879 these forests were constituted into a Reserve Forest where restricted felling was
permitted.In the early 1900s several Britishers, including E. R. Stevans and E. A.
Smythies, suggested the idea of setting up of a national park on this soil. The British
43
administration considered the possibility of creating a game reserve there in 1907. It

was only in the 1930s that the process for demarcation of such an area got underway,
assisted by Jim Corbett, who knew the area well. A reserve area known as Hailey
National Park covering 323.75 km2 (125.00 sq mi) was created in 1936 when Sir
Malcolm Hailey was Governor of United Provinces, and Asia's first national park came
into existence. Hunting was not allowed in the reserve, but only timber cutting for
domestic purposes. Soon after the establishment of the reserve, rules prohibiting killing
and capturing of mammals, reptiles and birds within its boundaries were passed.
The reserve was renamed in 195455 as Ramganga National Park and was again
renamed in 195556 as Corbett National Park. The new name honours the well-known
author and wildlife conservationist Jim Corbett, who played a key role in creating the
reserve by using his influence to persuade the provincial government to establish it.
The park fared well during the 1930s under an elected administration . But during the
Second World War, it suffered from excessive poaching and timber cutting. Over time
the area in the reserve was increased797.72 km2 (308.00 sq mi) were added in 1991
as a buffer for the Corbett Tiger Reserve. The 1991 additions included the entire
Kalagarh forest division, assimilating the 301.18 km2 (116.29 sq mi) area of Sonanadi
Wildlife Sanctuary as a part of the Kalagarh division. It was chosen in 1974 as the
location for launching Project Tiger, an ambitious and well known wildlife
conservation project. The reserve is administered from its headquarters in the district of
Nainital.
Corbett National Park is one of the thirteen protected areas covered by World Wildlife
Fund under their Terai Arc Landscape Programme. The programme aims to protect
three of the five terrestrial flagship species, the tiger, the Asian elephant and the Great
One-horned Rhinoceros, by restoring corridors of forest to link 13 protected areas of
Nepal and India to enable wildlife migration.
Flora
A total of 488 different species of plants have been recorded in the park Tree density
inside the reserve is higher in the areas of Sal forests and lowest in the AnogeissusAcacia catechu forests. Total tree basal cover is greater in Sal dominated areas of
woody vegetation. Healthy regeneration in sapling and seedling layers is occurring in
the Mallotus philippensis, Jamun and Diospyros tomentosa communities, but in the Sal
forests the regeneration of sapling and seedling is poor.
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Indian elephant at Corbett National Park

Over 586 species of resident and migratory birds have been categorised, including the
crested serpent eagle, blossom-headed parakeet and the red junglefowl ancestor of
all domestic fowl. 33 species of reptiles, seven species of amphibians, seven species of
fish and 36 species of dragonflies have also been recorded.Bengal tigers, although
plentiful, are not easily spotted due to the abundance of camouflage in the reserve.
Thick jungle, the Ramganga river, and plentiful prey make this reserve an ideal habitat
for tigers who are opportunistic feeders and prey upon a range of animals. The tigers in
the park have been known to kill much larger animals such as buffalo and even
elephant for food. The tigers prey upon the larger animals in rare cases of food
shortage. There have been incidents of tigers attacking domestic animals in times when
there is a shortage of prey.
leopards are found in hilly areas but may also venture into the low land jungles. Small
cats in the park include the jungle cat, fishing cat and leopard cat. Other mammals
include barking deer, sambar deer, hog deer and chital, Sloth and Himalayan black
bears, Indian grey mongoose, otters, yellow-throated martens, Himalayan goral, Indian
pangolins, and langur and Rhesus macaques. Owls and Nightjars can be heard during
the night.In the summer, Indian elephants can be seen in herds of several hundred. The
Indian python found in the reserve is a dangerous species, capable of killing a chital
deer. Local crocodiles were saved from extinction by captive breeding programs that
subsequently released crocodiles into the Ramganga river.
Ecotourism
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Early-morning encounter with a Sambar deer in Jim Corbett National Park, on a guided
elephant tour from the Dhikala tourist lodge.
Young elephant bull charging a jeep

Though the main focus is protection of wildlife, the reserve management has also
encouraged ecotourism. In 1993, a training course covering natural history, visitor
management and park interpretation was introduced to train nature guides. A second
course followed in 1995 which recruited more guides for the same purpose. This
allowed the staff of the reserve, previously preoccupied with guiding the visitors, to
carry out management activities uninterrupted. Additionally, the Indian government
has organised workshops on ecotourism in Corbett National Park and Garhwal region
to ensure that the local citizens profit from tourism while the park remains protected.
patil & Joshi (1997) consider summer (AprilJune) to be the best season for Indian
tourists to visit the park while recommending the winter months (NovemberJanuary)
for foreign tourists. According to Riley & Riley (2005): "Best chances of seeing a tiger
to come late in the dry season- April to mid June-and go out with mahouts and
elephants for several days."
As early as 1991, the Corbett National Park played host to 3237 tourist vehicles
carrying 45,215 visitors during the main tourist seasons between 15 November and 15
June. This heavy influx of tourists has led to visible stress signs on the natural
ecosystem. Excessive trampling of soil due to tourist pressure has led to reduction in
46
plant species and has also resulted in reduced soil moisture. The tourists have
increasingly used fuel wood for cooking. This is a cause of concern as this fuel wood is
obtained from the nearby forests, resulting in greater pressure on the forest ecosystem
of the park. Additionally, tourists have also caused problems by making noise, littering
and causing disturbances in general.
In 2007, young naturalist and photographer Kahini Ghosh Mehta took up the
challenge of promoting healthy tourism in Corbett National Park and made the first
comprehensive travel guide on Corbett. The film titled Wild Saga of Corbett
showcases how tourists can contribute in their own small way in conservation efforts.
The film is loaded with all information needed by a tourist before planning a visit to
the park along with tips from senior park officials, nature guides and naturalists.
Tourists can get a DVD copy of this film from the Bombay Natural History Society
(BNHS).
Dhikuli is a well known destination in the park and situated at the fringes of Patli Dun
valley. There is a rest house, which was built hundred of years ago. Kanda ridge forms
the backdrop, and from Dhikala, one can enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the
valley.
Jeep Safari is the most convenient way to travel within the national park; jeeps
can be rented for park trips from Ramnagar.
Treks: tourists are not allowed to walk inside the park, but only to go trekking
around the park in the company of a guide. The winter season is cold, so tourists
should make proper arrangements for their clothing, if they are traveling in the
winter season.
Kalagarh Dam is dam located in the south-west of the wildlife sanctuary. This
is one of the best places for a bird watching tour. Lots of migratory waterfowl
comes here in the winters.
Corbett Falls is a 20 m (66 ft) water fall situated 25 km (16 mi) from
Ramnagar, and 4 km (2.5 mi) from Kaladhungi, on the KaladhungiRamnagar
highway. The water falls is surrounded by dense forests and pin drop silence.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to Mid-June.
47
An elephant herd at Jim Corbett National Park

A major incident in the history of the reserve followed the construction of a dam at the
Kalagarh river and the submerging of 80 km2 (31 sq mi) of prime low lying riverine
area. The consequences ranged from local extinction of swamp deer to a massive
reduction in hog deer population. The reservoir
RAJA JI NATIONAL PARK

Rajaji National Park is an Indian national park that encompasses the Shivaliks, near
the foothills of the Himalayas. It is spread over 820 km. and three districts of
Uttarakhand: Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal. In 1983, three wildlife
sanctuaries in the area namely, Chilla, Motichur and Rajaji sanctuaries were merged
into one.Rajaji National Park has been named after C. Rajagopalachari (Rajaji), a
prominent leader of the Freedom Struggle, the second and last Governor-General of
independent India and one of the first recipients of India's highest civilian award
Bharat Ratna (in 1954).
Flora:-Rajaji National Park contains tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests,
in particular those of the Upper Gangetic Plains moist deciduous forests ecoregion.The
forest ecosystems of the Park are quite varied and diverse. Plants such as shorea,
mallotus, adina, terminalia, bridelia, dalbergia, acacia, syzygium and Phoebe are found
in the Park and studies[citation needed] have revealed some important associations between
them.
Fauna:-Rajaji National Park is predominantly formed from dense green jungles, and
this environment forms a habitat for a number of animals. The Park is at the
northwestern limit of distribution for both elephants and tigers in India, and has the
largest population of elephants in Uttarakhand. Other wild animal species found in the
Park include:Over 315 species of birds are found in the Park, whereas the wider region
has over 500 species of birds, including both residents and migrants. The most
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prominent avian species include pea fowl, woodpeckers, pheasants, kingfishers and
barbets, supplemented by a number of migratory species during the winter months. The
Park is also home to the Great Pied Hornbill, Himalayan Pied Kingfisher and the fire
tailed sunbird. This area is the first staging ground after the migratory birds cross over
the Himalayas into the Indian subcontinent.The rivers which flow through the Park
harbour species of fish such as trout and mahseer.
Access
The Park has several gates, and is accessible from Dehradun, Kotdwar, Haridwar and
Rishikesh. Saharanpur, which is linked by train to other parts of India, is another
popular point to reach the Mohand area of the Park in nearly an hour by road.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

At a Glance One of the finest bird parks in the world, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary also
known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park is a reserve that offers protection to faunal
species as well. Keoladeo, the name derives from an ancient Hindu temple, devoted to
Lord Shiva, which stands at the centre of the park. 'Ghana' means dense, referring to
the thick forest, which used to cover the area. Nesting indigenous water- birds as well
as migratory water birds and waterside birds, this sanctuary is also inhabited by
Sambar,
Chital,
Nilgai
and
Boar.
While many of India's parks have been developed from the hunting preserves of
princely India, Keoladeo, popularly known as Bharatpur Wildlife Sanctuary, is perhaps
the only case where the habitat has been created by a maharaja. In earlier times,
Bharatpur town used to be flooded regularly every monsoon. In 1760, an earthen dam
(Ajan Dam) was constructed, to save the town, from this annual vagary of nature. The
depression created by extraction of soil for the dam was cleared and this became the
Bharatpur
Lake.
At the beginning of this century, this lake was developed, and was divided into several
portions. A system of small dams, dykes, sluice gates, etc., was created to control water
level in different sections. This became the hunting preserve of the Bharatpur royalty,
and one of the best duck - shooting wetlands in the world. Hunting was prohibited by
mid-60s. The area was declared a national park on 10 March 1982, and accepted as a
49
World
Heritage
Site
in
December
1985.
Climate & Rainfall Bharatpur is located on the fringes of the Thar Desert. This
marshy land has very warm climate. Summers are invariably hot and winters are not
very cold. The temperature ranges from a maximum of 48C in summers to around
5C in winters .Carry light cottons during summers and woolens during winters.
Rainfall
is
less
but
sufficient.
Flora The term 'Ghana' means dense, referring to the thick forest, which used to cover
the area. The principal vegetation types are tropical dry deciduous trees, intermixed
with dry grassland in areas where forest has been tainted. Apart from the artificially
managed marshes; much of the area is covered by medium-sized trees and shrubs.
The north east area of the park is mostly dominated by jamun (Syzygium cumini),
babul (Acacia nilotica) and kadam (Mitragyna parvifolia). The open woodland is
mostly babul with a little amount of ber and kandi. Ber and kair dominates the
Scrublands.
Piloo (Salvadora persica) are also present in the park and happens to be only woody
plants found in saline soil. The aquatic vegetation is rich and provides food source for
waterfowls.
Fauna The major attractions of tourists visiting the park are the numerous migratory
birds, which come from as far away as Siberia and Central Asia and spend their winters
in Bharatpur, before returning to their breeding grounds. Migratory birds at Bharatpur
bird sanctuary include, several species of Cranes, Pelicans, Geese, Ducks, Eagles,
Hawks, Shanks, Stints, Wagtails, Warblers, Wheatears, Flycatchers, Buntings, Larks
and
Pipits,
etc.
How to Reach Bharatpur is easily reached by bus or train, also private cabs from New
Delhi or Agra can be hired. The Park is pretty close to the bus stand and railway
station.
ByAir
Delhi and Jaipur are the nearest airports for Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
BYRAIL
The nearest railway station is Bharatpur Junction which is 5 kms. away.
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BYROAD Bharatpur is well connected with other parts of the country by very fine
roads. You can travel through your own vehicle too. Although there are regular buses
are available from Delhi, Mathura, Jaipur, Alwar and neighboring.
Travel Tips
Visitors are advised to reach the gate half an hour in advance to complete the
formalities
for
entry
into
the
park.
Best Time to Visit
Bharatpur Wildlife Sanctuary is open throughout the year; still the ideal visiting
months are from August-November for resident breeding birds and October- February
for migrant birds
Sariska Tiger Reserve

The Sariska Tiger Reserve is an Indian national park located in the Alwar district of
the state of Rajasthan. The topography of Sariska supports scrub-thorn arid forests, dry
deciduous forests, rocks and grasses. This area was a hunting preserve of the erstwhile
Alwar state and it was declared a wildlife reserve in 1955. In 1978, it was given the
status of a tiger reserve making it a part of India's Project Tiger scheme. The present
area of the park is 866 km. The park is situated 107 km from Jaipur and 200 km from
Delhi.
The area of Sariska, being a part of the Aravalli Range, is rich in mineral resources,
such as copper. In spite of the Supreme Court's 1991 ban on mining in the area, marble
mining continues to threaten the environment.
The best and the most attractive feature of the Sariska Tiger Reserve has always been
its Bengal Tigers. This is the first ever Tiger Reserve in the world where the relocation
of tigers has been done successfully, makes it one of a kind. The best part of the
relocation is that these tigers adapted the place very quickly which is resulting in the
growth of their population.
Historical places
51
An image of the Sariska Palace within Tiger Reserve.

The reserve is also the location of several sites of historical importance such as the
16th-century Kankwadi fort, originally built by Jai Singh II, is located near the centre
of the park. The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb briefly imprisoned there his brother Dara
Shikoh in the struggle for succession of the throne. Pandupol in the hills in the centre
of the reserve is believed to be one of the retreats of Pandava. Hanuman temple in
Pandupol is a favourite pilgrimage site which is the source of problems to wildlife
especially due to heavy traffic. Nilkanth temples were built by Bargujars. Neelkanth or
Rajor Garh was the capital of Bargujars. Tal Briksh to the north is specials by its warm
water spring. Bhartrihari, not far from the Sariska village, is crowded by pilgrims. The
ruler of Ujjain, Raja Bhartrihari meditated at this place. The area also has buildings
associated with the kings of Alwar such as the Sariska Palace, which was used as a
royal hunting lodge of Maharaja Jay Singh.
Tiger population
In 2004, there were strong and persistent reports that no tigers were being sighted in
Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan. It was not only that tigers were not being seen but
also and more alarmingly, there were no indirect evidence of the tigers' presence (such
as pugmarks, scratch marks on trees, etc.) that are being found. The Rajasthan Forest
Department took the stand that "the tigers had temporarily migrated outside the reserve
and would be back after the rains". The Project Tiger, now National Tiger
Conservation Authority (NTCA), backed this assumption. There were some 16 tigers in
the last years before. In January 2005, journalist Jay Mazoomdaar broke the news that
there were no tigers left in Sariska. Soon the Rajasthan Forest Department and the
Project Tiger Directorate declared an "emergency tiger census" in Sariska and the
Central Bureau of Investigation, India's premier intelligence agency, conducted a
probe. After a two month exercise they finally declared that Sariska indeed did not
have any tigers left. Poaching was blamed to be one of the major reasons for the
disappearance of tigers. 3 Tigers were re-introduced to Sariska Tiger Reserve and
authorities planned to introduce two more by the end of the next year. According to
researches, Sariska Tiger Reserve is likely to grow number of tigers to 16.Recently,
52
two tiger cubs with their tigress mother were spotted in the reserve bringing the total
number of tigers to seven with five adults.
Relocation efforts
In 2005, the Government of Rajasthan, in co-operation with the Government of India

and Wildlife Institute of India (WII), planned the re-introduction of tigers to Sariska
and also the relocation of villages. Some plans to construct by-pass roads were also
there. However, it took several years to take more concrete steps. It was decided that
one male and two female tigers from are to be moved there. The Rajasthan forest
officials rushed to fly two tigers from Ranthambhore in JuneJuly 2008 ignoring
recommendations of the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Tiger
Task Force. The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) along with the Government of
Rajasthan started tracking the relocated tigers with the help of ISRO's reconnaissance
satellites.The first aerial translocation of the male tiger (Dara) from Ranthambhore to
Sariska was done on 28 June 2008 by Wing Commander Vimal Raj of the Indian Air
Force using a Mi-17 Helicopter and when the relocated tiger made its first kill in the
enclosure there was a hope that tigers may adapt to the new environment in Sariska
Reserve.
Only two of the four villages' experts had said needed to be relocated were actually
moved, though the second, Kankwari, was shifted long after the tigers were reintroduced. However, Kankwari fort has been renovated by the state tourism
department, which can possibly violate wildlife protection norms. The first relocated
village was Bhagani. Also, the diversion of roads crossing the reserve, an issue critical
to the survival of its wildlife, continues to be a problem.
One more tigress was shifted to Sariska from Ranthambhore in February 2009.Thus,
the reserve had one tiger and two tigresses. On 28 July 2010, another tigress was
brought here from Ranthambhore National Park. Thus, altogether five tigers two
males and three females were dwelling in the reserve till November 2010 when the
first relocated tiger died due to poisoning.
53
Unfortunately, the first three of the five so far relocated tigers came from one father.
Moreover, the first two tigresses have the same mother. The breeding of close relatives
leadstoinbreeding.
JAIPUR:Jaipur is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It was founded on
18 November 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amber, after whom the
city has been named. The city today has a population of 3.1 million. Jaipur is known as
the Pink City of India.The city is remarkable among pre-modern Indian cities for the
width and regularity of its streets which are laid out into six sectors separated by broad
streets 34 m (111 ft) wide. The urban quarters are further divided by networks of
gridded streets. Five quarters wrap around the east, south, and west sides of a central
palace quarter, with a sixth quarter immediately to the east. The Palace quarter encloses
the sprawling Hawa Mahal palace complex, formal gardens, and a small lake.
Nahargarh Fort, which was the residence of the King Sawai Jai Singh II, crowns the
hill in the northwest corner of the old city. The observatory, Jantar Mantar, is one of
the World Heritage Sites.[2] Included on the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, along with
Delhi and Agra, Jaipur is an extremely popular tourist destination in Rajasthan and
India.
54
Arts and crafts

The prior rulers of Jaipur patronised a number of arts and crafts. They invited skilled artisans, artists
and craftsmen from India and abroad. The communities settled in the city and made Jaipur their
home. As a result, Jaipur is a major hub for arts and crafts. Some of the crafts include bandhani;
block printing; stone carving and sculpture; tarkashi; zari, gota, kinari and zardozi; silver
jewellery; gems, kundan, meenakari and jewellery; miniature paintings; blue pottery;
ivory carving; shellac work; leatherware patwa craft, etc.Jaipur has its own performing arts,
such as the Jaipur Gharana of Kathak.Transport
One of the many gated entries to JaipurJaipur Kishangarh Express Way
Jaipur BRTS
Jaipur International Airport
RoadsNational Highway No.8 links Delhi to Mumbai, National Highway 12 links to
Kota, Baran District and National Highway 11 links Bikaner to Agra, passing
through Jaipur district with a total length of 366 km. RSRTC operates bus service
to all the parts of Rajasthan and New Delhi, Uttar pradesh, Haryana, Madhya
pradesh, and Gujarat.
RailJaipur is connected to Delhi and all main cities in India

Jaipur Metro
55
Jaipur MetroA rapid transit rail project by the name Jaipur Metro is under progress.
It will provide means of faster commuting for the city residents. The metro
poject in the pink city is expected to start from December 2013.
Jaipur Airport
Jaipur International Airport is in the satellite town of Sanganer, 10 km from the citycentre, and offers sporadic service to major domestic and international locations.
Terminal 1 was earlier used for international and domestic flights, while Terminal 2
was reserved for domestic carriers. Currently however, operations at Terminal 1
have been suspended for renovation reasons,and Terminal 2 is fully functional. The
airport handled 255,704 international and 1,267,876 passengers in 20092010.
Jaipur Airport also provides air cargo services. The up-gradation of airport has
offered improved connectivity and wider choice of services to air travelers,
boosting international tourism and economic development of the region.
Frequently, during winter, many flights for Indira Gandhi International Airport
are diverted to Jaipur airport due to heavy fog in Delhi.
Khajuraho Group of Monuments

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Khajuraho, a town in the Indian state of
Madhya Pradesh, located in Chhatarpur District, about 620 kilometres (385 mi)
southeast of New Delhi, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.
Khajuraho has the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their
erotic sculptures.
56
The name Khajuraho, ancient "Kharjuravhaka", is derived from the Sanskrit words
kharjura = date palm and vhaka = "one who carries". Locals living in the Khajuraho
village always knew about and kept up the temples as best as they could. They were
pointed out to the English in the late 19th century when the jungles had taken a toll on
the monuments. In the 19th century, British engineer T.S. Burt arrived in the area,
followed by General Alexander Cunningham. Cunningham put Khajuraho on the world
map when he explored the site on behalf of the Archaeological Survey of India and
described what he found in glowing terms. The Khajuraho Group of Monuments has
been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is considered to be one of the
"seven wonders" of India.
Khajuraho is a town in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, located in Chhatarpur
District, about 620 kilometres (385 mi) southeast of New Delhi, the capital city of
India. According to the 2001 India census,. Khajuraho has a population of 19,282.
Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. The town has an average
literacy rate of 53%, lower than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 62%,
and female literacy is 43%. In Khajuraho, 19% of the population is under 6 years of
age.
History
Some Bargujar moved eastward to central India; they ruled over the Northeastern
region of Rajasthan, called Dhundhar, and were referred to as Dhundhel or Dhundhela
in ancient times, for the region they governed. Later on they called themselves
Chandelas; those who were in the ruling class having gotra Kashyap were definitely all
Bargujars; they were vassals of Gurjara - Pratihara empire of North India, which lasted
from 500 CE to 1300 CE and at its peak the major monuments were built. The
Bargujars also built the Kalinjar fort and Neelkanth Mahadev temple, similar to one at
Sariska National Park, and Baroli, being Shiva
The city was the cultural capital of Chandel Rajputs, a Hindu dynasty that ruled this
part of India from the 10 to 12th centuries. The political capital of the Chandelas was
Kalinjar. The Khajuraho temples were built over a span of 200 years, from 950 to
1150. The Chandela capital was moved to Mahoba after this time, but Khajuraho
continued to flourish for some time. Khajuraho has no forts because the Chandel Kings
never lived in their cultural capital.
The whole area was enclosed by a wall with eight originates, each flanked by two
golden palm trees. There were originally over 80 Hindu temples, of which only 25 now
57
stand in a reasonable state of preservation, scattered over an area of about 20 square

kilometres (8 sq mi). The erotic sculptures were crafted by Chandella artisans. The
temples, maintained by the locals, were pointed out to the English in the late 19th
century when the jungles had taken a toll on the monuments. Today, the temples serve
as fine examples of Indian architectural styles that have gained popularity due to their
explicit depiction of sexual life during medieval times.
Architecture
Lakshmana temple at Khajuraho, a panchayatana temple. Two of the four secondary

shrines can be seen. Another view
Devi Jagadambi Temple
Dulhadeo Temple
58
The temples are grouped into three geographical divisions: western, eastern and
southern.
The Khajuraho temples are made of sandstone. The builders didn't use mortar: the
stones were put together with mortise and tenon joints and they were held in place by
gravity. This form of construction requires very precise joints. The columns and
architraves were built with megaliths that weighed up to 20 tons.
The Saraswati temple on the campus of the Birla Institute of Technology and Science
in Pilani, India, is modeled after the Khajuraho temples.
Outside wall of one of the temples

While the sexual nature of these carvings have caused the site to be referred to as the
Kamasutra temple, they do not illustrate the meticulously described positions. Neither
do they express the philosophy of Vatsyayana's famous sutra. As "a strange union of
Tantrism and fertility motifs, with a heavy dose of magic" they belief a document
which focuses on pleasure rather than procreation. That is, fertility is moot.
The strategically placed sculptures are "symbolical-magical diagrams, or yantras"
designed to appease malevolent spirits. This alamkara (ornamentation) expresses
sophisticated artistic transcendence over the natural; sexual images imply a virile, thus
powerful, ruler.Between 950 and 1150, the Chandela monarchs built these temples
when the Tantric tradition may have been accepted. In the days before the Mughal
conquests, when boys lived in hermitages, following brahmacharya until they became
men, they could learn about the world and prepare themselves to become householders
through examining these sculptures and the worldly desires they depicted.
While recording the television show Lost Worlds (History Channel) at Khajuraho, Alex
Evans, a contemporary stonemason and sculptor gave his expert opinion and
forensically examined the tool marks and construction techniques involved in creating
59
the stunning stonework at the sites. He also recreated a stone sculpture under 4 feet that
took about 60 days to carve in an attempt to develop a rough idea how much work must
have been involved. Roger Hopkins and Mark Lehner also conducted experiments to
quarry limestone which took 12 quarrymen 22 days to quarry about 400 tons of stone. ]
These temples would have required hundreds of highly trained sculptors.
The Khajuraho temples are now set in a parkland landscape. When India gained
independence from Britain in 1947 the landscape setting was semi-desert and scrub.
The archaeological park now has something of the character of a public park, with
mowed grass, rose beds and ornamental trees. This design is aimed for tourists comfort
but has no relationship with the historic landscape at the time the temples were built.
The development of landscape archaeology as an academic discipline raises questions
concerning the earlier landscape of Khajuraho and the original relationship between the
temple complex and the surrounding area. There are no records of what the original
landscape might have been, but it is known that a large community of priests used the
temple complex and that Indian gardens in the 10th century predominantly had fragrant
trees, shady gardens, pools, climbing vines, birds and animals and nikunj houses. They
did not have lawns.
Travel agency
This travel agency in South Norwood, Massachusetts employs Portuguese-speaking

agents and displays the flag of Brazil in its store window.
60
A travel agency is a private retailer or public service that provides tourism related
services to the public on behalf of suppliers such as airlines, car rentals, cruise lines,
hotels, railways, and package tours. In addition to dealing with ordinary tourists most
travel agencies have a separate department devoted to making travel arrangements for
business travelers and some travel agencies specialize in commercial and business
travel only. There are also travel agencies that serve as general sales agents for foreign
travel companies, allowing them to have offices in countries other than where their
headquarters are located.
Origins
The British company Cox & Kings is sometimes said to be the oldest travel agency in
the world, but this rests upon the services that the original bank, established in 1758,
supplied to its wealthy clients. The modern travel agency first appeared in the second
half of the 19th century. Thomas Cook, in addition to developing the package tour,
established a chain of agencies in the last quarter of the 19th century, in association
with the Midland Railway. They not only sold their own tours to the public, but in
addition, represented other tour companies. Other British pioneer travel agencies were
Dean & Dawson, the Polytechnic Touring Association and the Co-operative Wholesale
Society. The oldest travel agency in North America is Brownell Travel; on July 4,
1887, Walter T. Brownell led ten travelers on a European tour, setting sail from New
York on the SS Devonia.
Travel agencies became more commonplace with the development of commercial
aviation, starting in the 1920s. Originally, travel agencies largely catered to middle and
upper class customers, but the post-war boom in mass-market package holidays
resulted in travel agencies on the main streets of most British towns, catering to a
working-class clientele, looking for a convenient way to book overseas beach holidays.
Operations
A travel agency's main function is to act as an agent, selling travel products and
services on behalf of a supplier. Consequently, unlike other retail businesses, they do
not keep a stock in hand. A package holiday or a ticket is not purchased from a supplier
unless a customer requests that purchase. The holiday or ticket is supplied to them at a
discount. The profit is therefore the difference between the advertised price which the
customer pays and the discounted price at which it is supplied to the agent. This is
known as the commission. In many countries, all individuals or companies that sell
61
tickets are required to be licensed as a travel agent. In some countries, airlines have
stopped giving commission to travel agencies. Therefore, travel agencies are now
forced to charge a percentage premium or a standard flat fee, per sale. However, some
companies still give them a set percentage for selling their product. Major tour
companies can afford to do this, because if they were to sell a thousand trips at a
cheaper rate, they still come out better than if they sell a hundred trips at a higher rate.
This process benefits both parties. It is also cheaper to offer commissions to travel
agents rather than engage in advertising and distribution campaigns without using
agents.
Other commercial operations are undertaken, especially by the larger chains. These can
include the sale of in-house insurance, travel guide books and timetables, car rentals,
and the services of an on-site Bureau de change, dealing in the most popular holiday
currencies.
The majority of travel agents have felt the need to protect themselves and their clients
against the possibilities of commercial failure, either their own or a supplier's. They
will advertise the fact that they are surety bonded, meaning in the case of a failure, the
customers are guaranteed either an equivalent holiday to that which they have lost or if
they prefer, a refund. Many British and American agencies and tour operators are
bonded with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), for those who issue
air tickets, Air Travel Organisers' Licensing (ATOL) for those who order tickets in, the
Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) or the American Society of Travel
Agents (ASTA), for those who sell package holidays on behalf of a tour company.
A travel agent is supposed to offer impartial travel advice to the customer. However, this function
almost disappeared with the mass-market package holiday and some agency chains seemed to
develop a 'holiday supermarket' concept, in which customers choose their holiday from brochures on
racks and then book it from a counter. Again, a variety of social and economic changes have now
contrived to bring this aspect to the fore once more, particularly with the advent of multiple, nofrills, low-cost airlines.
Commission
Several areas of a travel agencys focus pay commissions to the agency which becomes its principal
income. These are mainly car rentals, cruise lines, hotels, railways, sightseeing tours, tour
operators, etc. A fixed percentage of the main element of the price is paid to the agent as a
commission. Commissions are not paid on the Tax component of the price.
62
However regarding air travel, commissions are becoming a thing of the past. In the
United States, most airlines pay no commission at all to travel agencies. In this case, an
agency usually adds a service fee to the net price. Reduced commissions have taken
place since 1995, when first commission reductions hit North America: a cap of $50 on
return trips and $25 on one way. In 1999 European airlines began eliminating or
reducing commissions, while Singapore Airlines did so in parts of Asia. In 2002 Delta
Air Lines announced a zero commission base for USA and Canada; after a few months
United Airlines, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Northwest Airlines,
US Airways and American Trans Air joined Delta.
Types of agencies
There are three different types of agencies in the UK: multiples, miniples and
independent agencies. The former comprises a number of national chains, often owned
by international conglomerates, like Thomson Holidays, now a subsidiary of TUI AG,
the German multinational. It is now quite common for the large mass-market tour
companies to purchase a controlling interest in a chain of travel agencies, in order to
control the distribution of their product. (This is an example of vertical integration.)
The smaller chains are often based in particular regions or districts.
In the United States, there are four different types of agencies: mega, regional,
consortium and independent agencies. American Express and the American
Automobile Association (AAA) are examples of mega travel agencies.Independent
agencies usually cater to a special or niche market, such as the needs of residents in an
upmarket commuter town or suburb or a particular group interested in a similar
activity, such as sporting events, like football, golf or tennis.
There are two approaches of travel agencies. One is the traditional, multi-destination,
out-bound travel agency, based in the originating location of the traveler and the other
is the destination focused, in-bound travel agency, that is based in the destination and
delivers an expertise on that location. At present, the former is usually a larger operator
while the latter is often a smaller, independent operator.
Travel agencies in the 21st century
With general public access to the Internet, many airlines and other travel companies
began to sell directly to passengers. As a consequence, airlines no longer needed to pay
the commissions to travel agents on each ticket sold. Since 1997, travel agencies have
gradually been disintermediated, by the reduction in costs caused by removing layers
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from the package holiday distribution network. However, travel agents remain
dominant in some areas such as cruise vacations where they represent 77% of bookings
and 73% of packaged travel. In 2009, the market size for travel agencies experienced a
sharp decline, dropping from $17 billion the previous year to $14.5 billion.
In response, travel agencies have developed an internet presence of their own by
creating travel websites, with detailed information and online booking capabilities.
Major online travel agencies include: Expedia, Voyages-sncf.com, Travelocity, Orbitz,
CheapTickets, Priceline, CheapOair, Webjet, and Hotwire.com. Travel agencies also
use the services of the major computer reservations systems companies, also known as
Global Distribution Systems (GDS), including: SABRE, Amadeus CRS, Galileo CRS
and Worldspan, which is a subsidiary of Travelport, allowing them to book and sell
airline tickets, hotels, car rentals and other travel related services. Some online travel
websites allow visitors to compare hotel and flight rates with multiple companies for
free. They often allow visitors to sort the travel packages by amenities, price, and
proximity to a city or landmark.
Travel agents have applied dynamic packaging tools to provide fully bonded (full
financial protection) travel at prices equal to or lower than a member of the public can
book online. As such, the agencies' financial assets are protected in addition to
professional travel agency advice.
All travel sites that sell hotels online work together with GDS, suppliers and hotels
directly to search for room inventory. Once the travel site sells a hotel, the site will try
to get a confirmation for this hotel. Once confirmed or not, the customer is contacted
with the result. This means that booking a hotel on a travel website will not necessarily
result in an instant answer. Only some hotels on a travel website can be confirmed
instantly (which is normally marked as such on each site). As different travel websites
work with different suppliers together, each site has different hotels that it can confirm
instantly. Some examples of such online travel websites that sell hotel rooms are
Expedia, Orbitz and WorldHotel-Link.
The comparison sites, such as Kayak.com, TripAdvisor and SideStep search the
resellers site all at once to save time searching. None of these sites actually sell hotel
rooms.Often tour operators have hotel contracts, allotments and free sell agreements
which allow for the immediate confirmation of hotel rooms for vacation bookings.
Mainline service providers are those that actually produce the direct service, like
various hotels chains or airlines that have a website for online bookings. Portals will
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serve a consolidator of various airlines and hotels on the internet. They work on a
commission from these hotels and airlines. Often, they provide cheaper rates than the
mainline service providers as these sites get bulk deals from the service providers. A
meta search engine on the other hand, simply culls data from the internet on real time
rates for various search queries and diverts traffic to the mainline service providers for
an online booking. These websites usually do not have their own booking engine.
Careers
A travel agent may work for a travel agency or work freelance.With many people
switching to self-service internet websites, the number of available jobs as travel
agents is decreasing. Counteracting the decrease in jobs due to internet services is
the increase in the number of people travelling.Since 1995, many travel agents
have exited the industry, and relatively few young people have entered the field
due to less competitive salaries. However, others have abandoned the 'brick and
mortar' agency for a home-based business to reduce overheads and those who
remain have managed to survive by promoting other travel products such as cruise
lines and train excursions or by promoting their ability to aggressively research
and assemble complex travel packages on a moment's notice, essentially acting as
a very advanced concierge. In this regard, travel agents can remain competitive, if
they become "travel consultants" with flawless knowledge of destination regions
and specialize in topics like nautical tourism or cultural tourism.
HOTELS IN AGRA;The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra

Just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra boasts luxurious 5-star
accommodation with a flat-screen TV. This property houses 4 dining options and provides
free parking. There is 1 person looking at this hotel.
HOTEL MUMTAJ MAHAL

Located just 600 metres away from the iconic Taj Mahal, the UNESCO World Site Heritage, Hotel
Mumtaz Mahal features a meeting/banqueting space, business centre and a rooftop restaurant with
view of... There is 1 person looking at this hotel.
THE GATE WAY HOTEL
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FATEHABAD ROAD AGRA

Spread over 9 acres of landscaped gardens, The Gateway Hotel Fatehabad Agra enjoys beautiful
views of the Taj Mahal
HOWARD PLAZA
Easily accessible from Agras attractions, Howard Plaza offers 4-star accommodation 1.5 km from
the Taj Mahal. It features an outdoor pool, spa and fitness centre. Free parking is available.
RAY OF MAYA
Just 500 metres from the famous Taj Mahal, Ray of Maya offers soundproofed rooms with a private
balcony and TV. It features a restaurant, free Wi-Fi and free parking.
RADISSON HOTEL TAJ EAST GATE ROAD

Situated on 4.5 acres of land just 1 km from the Taj Mahal, this Radisson features a a health club with
outdoor pool and spa, as well as 5 dining options.
HOTEL AJAY INTERNATIONAL

Situated within 3 km from the famous Taj Mahal, Hotel Ajay International features a restaurant and a
24-hour front desk. Its rooms are all equipped with a cable TV.
HOTEL VIREN INTERNATIONAL

Situated just 3 km from the historical Taj mahal and 2 km from the ancient Red Fort, Hotel Viren
International features a 24-hour front desk and free private parking available for guests.
HOTEL SHYAM PLACE

Approximately 6 km from Agra Airport, Hotel Shyam Palace features a 24-hour front desk. The
famous Taj Mahal is just a minutes walk from the hotel.
HOTEL TAJ RESORT

Hotel Taj Resorts is situated 500 metres from UNESCO Heritage Site, Taj Mahal. Offering its guests
massage services and a sauna, this hotel also provides free parking.
HOTEL VIREN HOLIDAYS

Offering accommodation in Agra, Hotel Viren Holiday Home Agra is just 500 metres from the
famous Taj Mahal and 1 km from the Red Fort. Luggage can be stored at the 24-hour front desk.
SATYA INN
Located just 1 km from the majestic Taj Mahal, Satya Inn offers a 24-hour front desk, free
Wi-Fi in all public areas and a restaurant which serves cuisines from around the world.
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AMIGO GUEST HOUSE

Centrally located on the Fatehabad Road, Hotel Amigo Guest House is just 1 km away from the
iconic monument of Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
HOTEL GLORIA
Situated at a location just 500 metres away from the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage
Site and 1 km away from the ancient monument of Agra Fort, Hotel Gloria operates 24-hour front
desk and...
THE RETREAT
The Retreat is just 1 km from the World Heritage Site of Taj Mahal. It houses an outdoor
pool and features rooms with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi access.
HOTEL INDRAPRASTH RESIDENCY

Hotel Indraprasth Residency is conveniently located just 6 km from Taj Mahal and features
an in-house terrace restaurant, a tour desk and a 24-hour front desk. Wi-Fi is free in all
areas.
Hotel Viren Plaza

Set opposite the historical Taj Mahal, Hotel Viren Plaza offers a 24-hour front desk and free
parking facilities on site. Guests can also seek travel advice at the hotels travel desk
Hotel Jyoti ContinentaL

Hotel Jyoti Continental is a 3-star property in Agra, providing 24-hour room service, free
WiFI
in rooms, and free on-site parking
Taj Homestay
Situated in a peaceful residential district, Taj Homestay offers air-conditioned rooms with
daily breakfast, 24-hour room service and a private bathroom.
Tourist Rest House

Located in Agra, Tourist Rest House is 2.5 km from the famous Taj Mahal. It features free
parking, an outdoor cafe and air-conditioned rooms with a cable TV.
Operating a 24-hour front desk, Hotel Kanha Continental is situated conveniently within 1 km
from the notable Taj Mahal, one of the wonders of the world.
Hotel Delux Plaza
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Hotel Delux Plaza is conveniently located just 1 km from Taj Mahal and 2 km from Agra Fort.
It provides elegant accommodation and Wi-Fi access at an extra charge in public areas.
Maya Hotel & Restaurant
Just 500 metres from the famous Taj Mahal, Maya Hotel & Restaurant offers simple rooms
with a TV. This property has a restaurant, 24-hour front desk and provides free Wi-Fi.
Udupi Residency
Udupi Residency is situated within 1 km of one of the wonders of the world Taj Mahal. It
houses a restaurant and offers free Wi-Fi access in its public areas.
Hotel Viren Sofitel

Located in the city of Agra, Hotel Viren Sofitel is conveniently within 500 metres to the iconic
Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Wyndham Grand Agra

Grand and elegant, the 5-star Wyndham Grand Agra boasts beautiful landscaped gardens,
an outdoor pool and pampering spa treatments.
9 Star Hotel
Situated in Agra, 9 Star Hotel is within a convenient 1 km from the famous Taj Mahal, one of
the Wonders of the World. It operates a 24-hour front desk and provides free private parking
on site.
Hotel Priya
Hotel Priya is situated just opposite Shanti Mangalick Hospital in Agra. It houses a business
centre and an open-air garden restaurant offering views of the Taj Mahal. Free parking is
provided
Hotel Grace
Only 1.5 km from the famous Taj Mahal, Hotel Grace in Agra offers rooms with a balcony
and free Wi-Fi. At the 24-hour front desk, guests can store luggage, get newspapers or
exchange currency.
Hotel Crystal Retreat
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Just 500 metres from the renowned Taj Mahal and 2 km from Agra Fort, Crystal Retreat
features a rooftop restaurant and is a modern accommodation offering a flat-screen TV and
free Wi-Fi.
Sun Hotel
Centrally located in Agra City Centre, Sun Hotel is just 1 km from the famous Taj Mahal.
Providing free wired internet in its restaurant, it also has a doctor on-call and 24-hour front
desk.
Mansingh Palace, Agra

Centrally situated just 1.5 km from the famous Taj Mahal offering guests beautiful views,
Mansingh Palace, Agra features an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre
Trident Agra
Located 1.5 km from Taj Mahal, Trident Agra features an outdoor pool and 24-hour front
desk. A business centre, restaurant and bar are available. Some rooms offer garden or pool
views.
Grand Hotel
Housed in a colonial building, Grand Hotel is 4.5 km from the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. It
offers free parking and a free pick-up service from Agra Cantt Railway Station
Hotel Viren Residency Agra

Located in the city of Agra, Hotel Viren Residency is conveniently within 500 metres to the
iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hotel Anant Plaza

Hotel Anant Plaza is situated in Agra, just 500 metres from the famous Taj Mahal, a
UNESCO world Heritage Site and one of the new 7 Wonders of the World. It offers free
internet access in its lobby.
Hotel Crystal Inn

Located within walking distance of the famous Taj Mahal, Hotel Crystal Inn offers stylish
accommodation in Agra. It offers massage services and a rooftop restaurant with beautiful
Taj Mahal views.
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Hotel Rashmi Agra

Hotel Rashmi Agra is situated just 500 metres from one of the wonders of the world - the
majestic Taj Mahal. It features an open-air restaurant and complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Hotel Amar
Hotel Amar is located in Agra City, 2 km from Agra Fort. It offers 2 dining options, an outdoor
swimming pool and rooms with a TV. Free parking is provided.
Hotel Raj Palace

Just 3 km from the historic Agra Fort, Raj Palace offers homely air-conditioned rooms with
free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom. It provides free pickup from Agra airport and railway
station.
Hotel Bhoomi Residency

Located in Agra City and just 400 metres from the world famous Taj Mahal, Hotel Bhoomi
Residency features a rooftop swimming pool, 2 dining options and air-conditioned rooms
with a flat-screen TV.
Jaypee Palace Hotel

Just 2.5 km from Taj Mahal in Agra, 5-star Jaypee Hotel features landscaped gardens with
ponds and water features.
Hotel Taj Galaxy

Placed in the heart of Agra, Hotel Taj Galaxy is just 1 km away from the famous Taj Mahal.
Well-appointed rooms are equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi is available at all
areas of the...
Sai Home Stay Bed & Breakfast

Sai Home Stay Bed & Breakfast is housed in a traditional building, a 15-minute walk from
the world renowned Taj Mahal. It offers a restaurant, free parking on site and free Wi-Fi
access.
Hotel Taj Prince
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Hotel Taj Prince offers simple, air-conditioned accommodation just 500 metres away
from the majestic Taj Mahal. It has a tour desk which helps guests organise excursions
and provides room service
Hotel Alpine Inn

Hotel Alpine Inn is located in Agra, only 1.5 km from the famous Taj Mahal. Room service is
available for breakfast.
DolphInn Home Stay

Situated just 1 km from the grand Taj Mahal and 10 km from Kheria Airport, Dolph Inn Home
Stay offers free private parking and complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Hotel Taj Heritage

Located in central Agra, Hotel Taj Heritage is 1 km from the Taj Mahal. It features a
restaurant, massage services and air-conditioned rooms with a cable TV. Free parking is
provided
Pyrenees Home Stay

Enjoy views of the Taj Mahal from the rooftop of Pyrenees Home Stay. Featuring simple
rooms with a satellite TV, it offers a restaurant and 24-hour front desk.
Hotel Panna Paradise

Hotel Panna Paradise is located in the heart of Agra, just 2 km from the Taj Mahal. It
features a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and rooms with free Wi-Fi.
Friends Paying Guest House

Friends Paying Guest House is centrally located in Agra, just 500 metres from the beautiful
Taj Mahal.
The Taj Vilas

The Taj Vilas is conveniently situated just 1.5 km from the famous Taj Mahal. It features
clean and comfortable accommodation with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi access
Hotel Royale Residency

A 5-minute drive from the Taj Mahal, Hotel Royale Residency offers comfortable rooms and
free Wi-Fi. The hotel features an international buffet restaurant and a tour desk
Rajmahal Hotel
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Rajmaha Hotel is located in Agra City, home to the majestic Taj Mahal which is 3 km away.
Aside from a rooftop lounge, it also has a spa and outdoor pool
Hotel Red Inn

Located 8 km from the famous Taj Mahal, Hotel Red Inn offers a 24-hour front desk and
houses a restaurant. The hotel also has free Wi-Fi at all public areas.
Hotel Taj Plaza

Taj Plaza is a 5-minute walk from the Taj Mahal, some of its rooms offer views of the
mausoleum. The hotel also provides free private parking and a rooftop cafe.
Hotel Suryam Palace

Situated in Agra, Hotel Suryam Palace is within a 500-metre radius of the famous white
marble mausoleum Taj Mahal. It houses 2 dining options and offers free Wi-Fi access in
its public areas.
Hotel Mandakini Villas

Located a 5-minute walk from Taj Mahal, Agras Hotel Mandakini Villas offers free parking
and free airport/railway station shuttle. Modern and colourful rooms at the hotel feature cable
TV.
Taj Inn Hotel

Taj Hotel is located in the heart of Agra, 1 km from Taj Mahal. It offers 2 restaurants and an
outdoor barbeque area. Rooms have free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Taj Inn Hotel is 2 km
from Agra Fort
Siris 18
Siris 18 is located in Agra, 500 metres from TDI Mall and 1 kilometre from Pacific Mall. The
hotel offers 2 dining options and air-conditioned rooms. Free parking is provided.
TOUR PROGGRAMs:GOLDEN TRIANGLE Delhi, Agra, Jaipur.:-
TOUR PROGRAM
Day 1)
Night
DELHI
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February 8th, 2013

DELHI/AGRA:
0930 hrs: Pick up from Hotel within Delhi NCR for the
Tour.
- Early breakfast. - Visit to Qutub Minar.
- Visit to Humayuns Tomb and Bahai Temple.
- Drive Past Presidents House, Parliament House & India
Gate.
- Transfer to airport for departure as per flight schedule of
the guests.
1000 hrs : Half-day sightseeing of New Delhi. The tour to
New Delhi starts with a visit to the Qutab Minar, the tallest
stone tower in India. Built in the early 13th century a few
kilometres south of Delhi, the red sandstone tower of Qutub
Minar is 72.5 m high, tapering from 2.75 m in diameter at
its peak to 14.32 m at its base, and alternating angular and
rounded flutings. The surrounding archaeological area
contains funerary buildings, notably the magnificent AlaiDarwaza Gate, the masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art (built in
1311), and two mosques, including the Quwwatu'l-Islam,
the oldest in northern India, built of materials reused from
some 20 Brahman temples.
Then visit Humayun's Tomb, built by the widow of the
second Mughal Emperor, Humayun, it is an outstanding
monument in the Indo-Persian style This tomb, built in
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1570, is of particular cultural significance as it was the first

garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent. It inspired several
major architectural innovations, culminating in the
construction of the Taj Mahal.
The tour also includes a drive past the imposing India Gate,
the Parliament building and the Rashtrapati Bhawan (the
President's residence).
Later visit the famous Bahai Temple of Delhi, also known
as Lotus temple it is made up of marble, cement, dolomite
and sand. It welcomes people from all walks of life and
sects and is an ideal place for meditation and obtaining
peace and tranquility. The temple is built in the shape of a
lotus as this flower is the symbol of purity and peace. It
represents the Bahai faith, - an independent world religion;
divine in origin, all embracing in scope, broad in its
outlook, scientific in its method, humanitarian in its
principles, and dynamic in the influence.
1330 Hrs : Lunch at local restaurants
1430 Hrs: Leave for Agra by road
1800 Hrs: Reach Agra.
Overnight stay in Agra
Day 2)
AGRA
February 9th, 2013

AGRA/JAIPUR:
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- Early breakfast at the hotel.

- Check-out & proceed to Taj Mahal & Agra Fort.
- Later drive to Jaipur.
- Check-in at Jaipur hotel.
0630 Hrs: Breakfast at hotel.
0730 Hrs: Check-out and proceed to Taj Mahal.
The Taj Mahal is synonymous with beauty, love and
grandeur. This white marble mausoleum, built on the banks
of river Yamuna, epitomizes Shah Jahans love for his wife,
Mumtaz Mahal. Designed by a local architect, Ustad
Ahmad Lahori, the entire complex, with gardens, gateway
structures, and mosque, was completed in 1643. More than
three centuries later, the monument retains its romantic
aura. Set like a jewel within gardens whose four-fold design
echoes the Islamic idea of paradise, its millions of visitors
marvel at the play of light on its marble dome which seems
to turn from rose to pearl with the passage of the sun. There
is much to see - the exquisite calligraphy, the lyrical floral
motifs of the pietra dura decorations which form a mosaic
of colour; and the fountains and canals of the gardens which
reflect the monument in a series of ethereal images.
1200 Hrs: Enjoy lunch at local restaurant
1240 Hrs: Drive to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri
1430 Hrs: Visit to Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri, Akbars City of Victory, which lies on a hill
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top almost 40 kms from Agra. It has two different

complexes- the royal enclosure of the palaces with the
harem and official buildings; and the dargah of the Sufi
saint, Salim Chisti with a mosque and gateway. To wander
around the red sandstone courtyards of this World Heritage
Site is to travel back in time to an Imperial splendour. The
buildings at Fatehpur Sikri belong to a composite style of
architecture with the predominating Islamic style cleverly
blended with local Rajasthani and Gujarati styles, a melting
pot of cultures. In its heyday, the city was a large and
magnificent township; this is clearly visible even today,
centuries after it was abandoned.
1600 Hrs: Continue drive to Jaipur ..
1900 Hrs: Upon arrival check into the hotel.
Overnight stay at Hotel in Jaipur
Day 3)
JAIPUR
February 10th, 2013

SIGHTSEEING IN JAIPUR:
- Early breakfast
- Visit Hawa Mahal / City Palace / Jantar Mantar
- Visit local bazaar / shopping (optional).
0900 Hrs: The city tour takes in a visit to the Maharaja
Sawai Man Singh II Museum housed in the City Palace,
part of which is still the home of the Jaipur royal family.
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The museum has a collection of royal robes and precious

textiles, Mughal carpets, an armoury of old weapons,
miniature paintings portraying court scenes, battle scenes
and processions and manuscripts. Also visit the aweinspiring Jantar Mantar, an observatory built in the 18th
century with a collection of giant astronomical instruments
that continue to provide accurate information even today.
1230 Hrs: Lunch at a local restaurant.
1400 Hrs: Visit Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) - a
landmark of Jaipur and perhaps its signature monument, a
five-storied wonder with a spectacular pyramidal facade and
overhanging windows with latticed screens (there are 953 of
them), domes and spires.
1530 Hrs: A visit to a local bazaar / shopping (optional).
1730 Hrs: Return to Hotel.
Overnight stay in Jaipur
Day 4)
February 11th, 2013
JAIPUR / DELHI
- Early breakfast
- Visit to Amber Fort
0630 Hrs: Early breakfast
0730 Hrs: Checkout and drive to Amber Fort - (pronounced
Amer) was the former capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs
before it shifted to Jaipur. Its construction was started by
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Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and was completed by Mirza

Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh over a period of about
two centuries. The fort, set atop rugged hills, rises above the
waters of the Maotha Lake. Within its walls lies one of
Indias best-preserved medieval citadels, a stunning
complex of gardens, temples, pavilions and courtyards. The
Amber Fort is, in roughly equal proportions, a pleasurepalace, a former centre of administration and a military
stronghold -- all worth seeing. It is a classic fusion of
Mughal and Hindu architecture, built in red sandstone and
white marble.
1000 Hrs: Drive back to Delhi
1230 Hrs: Midway stay for lunch at a local restaurant
1330 Hrs: Continue drive to Delhi .
1600 Hrs: Reach Delhi and transfer to the airport onward
journey to Hyderabad.
TOUR ENDS
Buddhist Circuit Tour:Destinations Covered: Bodh Gaya - Dungeshwari Caves - Kesariya Vaishali - Rajgir- Nalanda - Kushinagar - Sarnath - Varanasi
Buddhist Circuit Tour Duration: 08 Nights / 09 Days
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Buddhist Circuit Tour India - Several religions

of the world have their origins in India. Apart from Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and
Sikhism were born here. Buddhism has transcended India's boundaries and taken root
in East, South and South East Asia. Gautam Buddha, born a prince in Lumbini set out
towards India in search of the questions that troubled him about life and suffering. His
penance and meditation for years showed him the path to 'nirvana'. After achieving
enlightenment, he set about preaching and sermonizing on the middle path to salvation,
till he left for his heavenly abode from Kushinagar.
On this guided tour, let's re-trace the steps of the Buddha from the place where he
meditated, to where he attained enlightenment, to where he gave his first sermon, to
where he donated his begging bowl before his death, and finally, to where he breathed
his last.
Day01:Gaya/BodhGaya
Arrive in Gaya.
Drive to Bodh Gaya 13 km and check into hotel.
Take a sightseeing tour of this holy seat of the Buddhist religion.
Here is where Gautam Buddha achieved enlightenment while meditating under a bodhi tree. There is
a serene temple here, as well as the offshoot of the tree that offered shade to Buddha. The original
tree was destroyed by Emperor Ashoka's queen, but a sapling of it was saved in time and planted in
Sri Lanka by his daughter. A sapling of that tree was brought back to Bodh Gaya, which still stands
to tell this tale.
A number of Buddhist nations like Thailand, Japan and Burma have set up monasteries and
meditation centres in Bodh Gaya. Some of these include: the Indosan Nipponji temple, the Thai
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monastery, the Tibetan Karma Temple and Namgyal Monastery, and others by the Chinese,
Burmese, Bhutanese, Vietnamese, Tamang, Daijokyo and Nepali Buddhist communities.
During October and March, monks from Dharamsala descend to Bodh Gaya. The Dalai Lama pays a
visit here too during December and January.
The Mahabodhi temple is a World Heritage site, built adjacent to the site of enlightenment in the 6th
century AD. The temple was attacked and plundered by Muslim invaders in the 11th century and rebuilt several times.
Return to hotel for overnight stay.
Day02:BodhGaya-Dungeshwari Caves-Gaya
After breakfast, proceed to Dungeshwari cave temples, 13 km.
Here Buddha spent years of penance before attaining 'nirvana' or enlightenment.
After lunch, return to Gaya to visit the Brahmajuni Hill, believed to be the site of Buddha's fire
sermon. There is a cave and a temple on the hill top.
Return to hotel for night stay.
Day03:BodhGaya-Rajgir
After breakfast, depart for Rajgir, 70 km, 2 hrs by road.
Arrive in Rajgir and check into hotel.
Rajgir was the capital of the Magadha kingdom and is a pilgrimage for Jains and Hindus as well. The
Japanese Buddhists have built the massive Vishwashanti Stupa on the Ratnagiri Hill which can be
accessed by a chairlift. The stupa has statues of Buddha at the four stages of his life - birth,
enlightenment, teaching and death. From the hill top, the Jain shrines can also be viewed, scattered
across 26 distant hills. Griddhakuta, located on Ratnagiri Hill is another site where Budhha stopped
by to preach.
Day04:Rajgir-Nalanda
After breakfast, proceed to Nalanda, 12 km.
Spread over 14 hectares, the Nalanda University Ruins Archaeological Complex is set amidst
expansive lawns which offset the spectacular layout and carvings of this ancient university. The
monasteries and the viharas are separated by a central valley. Interesting structures to look out for
include: steps leading up to perhaps a dais for professors and stupas with images of the Buddha
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carved in.
According to the Chinese traveler Xuan Zang who also taught at the university during 685 and 762
AD, 10,000 monks and professors resided here at the time.
After the walk around the ruins, visit the Xuan Zang Memorial Hall, a Chinese pagoda built by
Chinese Buddhists.
Return to Rajgir hotel for night stay.
Day05:Rajgir-Patna
After breakfast, proceed to Patna by road, 80 km.
Arrive in Patna and check into hotel.
Patna is Bihar's capital city and can be used as a base to visit the Buddhist sites of Vaishali and
Kesariya. It also rests on its ancient past as Pataliputra, the capital of the various dynasties that ruled
over the region.
After lunch, take a local sightseeing tour of Patna. This would include: Golghar (built as a granary),
Gandhi Museum, Patna Museum, Har Mandir Takht, Qila House or Jalan Museum with some really
rare relics like Napolean's bed and Marie Antoinette's porcelain; and the ruins of Pataliputra.
Day06:Patna-Vaishali-Kesariya
After an early breakfast, depart for Vaishali, 44 km.
This is where Buddha preached his last sermon. The ruins of the Kolhua complex enclose the 2300
year old Ashoka pillar. A Japanese Peace Pagoda has also been built here. After lunch, proceed to
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Kesariya, 70 km.
Kesariya marks the site where Buddha gave away his begging bowl before his death. A massive
Buddhist stupa built during the rule of the Pala kings is being excavated here. Return to Patna for
overnight stay.
Day07:Patna-Kushinagar-Gorakhpur
After breakfast, depart for Kushinagar, 220 km by road. Or else, you can take the train to Gorakhpur
and drive 55 km from there to this historic town.
Arrive in Gorakhpur and check into hotel.
Buddha breathed his last here, leaving a message for all mankind to find their salvation. Several
monuments built by devotees from across the world have built monuments on this holy site along the
Buddha Marg. These include: Vietnam's Linh Son Buddhists temple, meditation centre and gardens,
the Burmese Mahasukhamdadacham Thargyi Pagoda, the Mahaparinirvan Temple with a tranquil
and reclining Buddha and the Matahkuar temple, the Japanese - Sri Lanka temple and the Wat Thai
temple. The Ramabhar Stupa, or the Mukutbandhan Stupa is the site of the cremation of Buddha.
Return to Gorakhpur for overnight stay.
Day08:Gorakhpur-Sarnath
Depart in time for train to Varanasi which is 5 hrs from Gorakhpur.
Arrive in Varanasi and check into hotel.
Take a short break before heading to Sarnath, 10 km.
At Sarnath, Buddha gave his first sermon to a small band of followers after attaining nirvana.
Emperor Ashoka had monastaries and stupas built here which were destroyed by Muslim invaders in
later years. Some remains were discovered by British archaeologists in 1835. Sarnath is one of the
four main sites of the Budddhist religion, the others being Bodhgaya, Kushinagar and Lumbini in
Nepal.
Return to Varanasi for night stay.
Day09:Varanasi-Delhi/Mumbai/OnwardDestination
82
After breakfast, take a tour of this holiest of cities for the Hindus. The River Ganga is the lifeline of
the city, and all spiritual and religious activities are performed along its banks.
Take a cruise along the river between the Dasaswamedh Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat and visit the
temples.
Participate in or observe the "Ganga aarti" in the evening, a spiritually uplifting experience in which
the holy river is paid homage.
Take the evening flight out to Delhi or your preferred destination.
Tour Ends.
83

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MAHAMAYA TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

21.GOLDEN TRINGLE TOUR (PROG.)

THE LIGHT AND SOUND ON AGRA FORT

AGRA CANTT TRAIN TIME TABLE

1244 Uttar Pradesh

2244 Uttar Pradesh

1261 Grand Trunk

AGRA FORT TIME TABLE

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Agra Fort Kota

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M W T S 21:5on time 21:55

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Festivals & Fairs Year 2013 to 2015

Hindi Month and Tithi

Magh shukla Panchami

Phalgun Shukla Dashami

Phalgun Shukla Dashami

Phalgun Shukla Dashami

Phalgun Shukla Poornima

Chaitra Shukla Dytiya

Chaitra Shukla Dashami

Name of the Festivals

Hindi Month and Tithi

( Gokulpura & Moti Katra

Chaitra shukla Tritya &

Baishaksh Shukla Tritiya

Ashada Shukla Poornima

Shravan Shukla Tratiya

Shravan Krishna Shukla

Bhadra Krishna Ashtami