Tour to North India

8/14/2019 Tour to North India

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Welcome to the city of Delhi, the capital of India. A city that is as old as civilization itself and nurtured with

loving care in the hands of several dynasties. As history unfolds itself, we find Delhi a city of magnificent

kings and princes, men of great culture, learning and refinement who created famous masterpieces like the

Qutab Minar, the Diwan-e-Aam and the Pearl Mosque in the Red Fort. No wonder the city's history is

synonymous with the history of India. The evidence of this can be marked distinctly as the city is flourishedwith tombs, forts, monuments, ramparts and ruins where sightseeing is of great pleasure.

Jama Masjid

JamaMasjid is one of biggest mosques in India-A

magnificent architectural gift by emperor Shah Jahan.

Completed in 1658, this mosque has three gateways,

four angle towers and two minarets. You can enter the

mosque but take precaution to take off your shoes and

make sure that you are properly dressed before entering

. One can also go to the top of minarets. From here you

can have a birds eye view of Delhi.

This great mosque of Old Delhi is the largest in India, witha courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. It was

begun in 1644 and ended up being the final architectural

extravagance of Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who built the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort.

The highly decorative mosque has three great gates, four towers and two 40 m-high minarets constructed of

strips of red sandstone and white marble. Travellers can hire robes at the northern gate. This may be theonly time you get to dress like a local without feeling like an outsider , so make the most of it.

Nizam-ud-Din Shrine

It's one of Delhi's major attractions. It's the tomb of the famous Sufi saint Nizam-

ud-Din Auliya. Inside the premises of the shrine is a tank which is surrounded by

many other historically significant tombs. The shrine also has the tomb of Amir

Khusru and the grave of princess Jahanara, the daughter of Emperor Shah Jahan. Itis worth visiting the shrine at around sunset on Thursdays, as it is a popular time

for worship, and Qawwali singers start performing after the evening prayers.

The Bahai TempleCompleted in 1986,the Bahai temple is set amidst pools and

gardens. Adherents of any faith are free to visit the temple and pray

or meditate silently according to their own religion . The structure

is in lotus shape so it often called the lotus temple. The view of thetemple is spectacular before dusk when the temple is floodlit. East

of Nehru place, this temple is built in the shape of a lotus flower

and is the last of seven Major Bahai's temples built around the

world. Completed in1986 it is set among the lust landscaped


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gardens.

The structure is made up of pure white marble The architect Furiburz Sabha chose the lotus as the symbol

common to Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. Adherents of any faith are free to visit the temple and

pray or meditate.

Around the blooming petals there are nine pools of water, which light up, in natural light. It looksspectacular at dusk when it is flood lit.

ISKCON Temple

Built by the Hare Rama Hare Krishna cult followers this temple is dedicated to the

Lord Krishna. Built on a hillock, this complex is elegantly built and is one of the

largest temple complexes in India.

Laxmi Narain Temple (BIRLA MANDIR)

One of Delhi's major temples and a major tourist attraction. Built by

the industrialist G. D. Birla in 1938, this beautiful temple is located

in the west of Connaught Place. The temple is dedicated to Laxmi,

the goddess of prosperity and good fortune. The temple has well

grafted gardens. Popularly known as the Birla Mandir.

Laxmi Narayan Temple, also known as Birla Mandir , is one of

Delhi's major temples and a major tourist attraction. Built by theindustrialst G.D. Birla in 1938, this beautiful temple is located inthe west of Connaught Place.

The temple is dedicated to Laxmi (the goddess of prosperity) and Narayana (The preserver). The temple

was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi on condition that people of all castes be allowed to enter the temple.

Red Fort

Built in 1648, this sprawling fort of red sand stones along the river Yamuna is surrounded by a wall of

about 2.4 km in circumference. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. after he transferred his

capital from Agra to Delhi. The fort has two main entrances, the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate facing thefamed Chandni Chowk market. The Fort has Diwan-e-Aam, and Diwan-e-Khas where the king would grant


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audience to the public and would grant audience to important people respectively Adjacent to this is the

Rang Mahal, the water cooled Apartment for the royal ladies. A Light and Sound show is held in the

evening.

Here is a list of places you could visit in Delhi other than the ones mentioned above:

Qutab Minar

Qutab Minar is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, built in 1193 by

Qutab-ud-din Aibak immediately after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu

kingdom. The tower has five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting

balcony and tapers from a 15 m diameter at the base to just 2.5 m at thetop. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone; the fourth and fifth

storeys are of marble and sandstone. At the foot of the tower is the

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque to be built in India. An

inscription over its eastern gate provocatively informs that it was built with

material obtained from demolishing '27 Hindu temples'. A 7 m-high iron

pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque. It is said that if you can

encircle it with your hands while standing with your back to it your wish

will be fulfilled.

The origins of Qutab Minar are shrouded in controversy. Some believe it

was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim

rule in India. Others say it served as a minaret to the muezzins to call the

faithful to prayer.

No one can, however, dispute that the tower is not only one of the finest monuments in India, but also in the

world. Qutab-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced the construction of the QutabMinar in 1200 AD, but could only finish the basement. His successor, Iltutmush, added three more storeys,

and in 1368, Firoz Shah Tughlak constructed the fifth and the last storey.

The development of architectural styles from Aibak to Tughlak is quite evident in the minar. The relief

work and even the materials used for construction differ. The 238 feet Qutab Minar is 47 feet at the base

and tapers to nine feet at the apex. The tower is ornamented by bands of inscriptions and by four projecting

balconies supported by elaborately decorated brackets. Even in ruin, the Quwwat Ui Islam (Light of Islam)

Mosque in the Qutab complex is one of the most magnificent in the world. Qutab-ud-din Aibak started its

construction in 1193 and the mosque was completed in 1197.

Iltutmush in 1230 and Alla-ud-din Khilji in 1315 made additions to the building. The main mosque

comprises of an inner and outer courtyard, of which an exquisite colonnade, the pillars of which are made

of richly, surrounds the inner decorated shafts. Most of these shafts are from the 27 Hindu temples, which

were plundered to construct the mosque. It is, therefore, not surprising that the Muslim mosque has typical

Hindu ornamentation. Close to the mosque is one of Delhi's most curious antiques, the Iron Pillar.

AKSHARDHAM TEMPLE

Swaminarayan Akshardham reflects the essence and magnitude of India's ancient architecture, traditions

and timeless spirituality.

The main monument, depicting ancient Indian "vastu shastra" and architecture, is a marvel in pink


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sandstone and white marble that is 141 feet high, 316 feet wide and

370 feet long with 234 ornate pillars, over 20,000 sculptures and

statues of deities, eleven 72-foot-high huge domes (mandapams)

and decorative arches. And like a necklace, a double-storied

parikrama of red sandstone encircles the monuments with over 155small domes and 1,160 pillars. The whole monument rises on the

shoulders of 148 huge elephants with 11-feet tall panchdhatu statueof Swaminarayan presiding over the structure.

The other attractions

of the complex are

three exhibition hallsspaced around two

huge ponds, where oneis a venue for light-

and-sound show. The

three halls are

"Sahajanand Darshan",

"Neelkanth Darsdhan"

and "Sanskruti Vihar". "Sahajanand Darshan" is where life of Swaminarayan is displayed through robotic

shows, while "Neelkanth Darsdhan" has a huge I-Max theatre screening movie based on the life of the

Lord. Another amazing presentation is "Sanskruti Vihar" with 12-minute boat ride experience of India'sglorious heritage.

The sprawling Swaminarayan Akshardham complex spread over 30 acres on the banks of the Yamuna near

Noida Mor in East Delhi.

For visitors, entry to the complex is free. However, those who want to visit

exhibition halls and theatres, Rs.125 is to be paid and for children and senior

citizens the charges are Rs.75. "Over 6,000 visitors could easily witness theshows and enjoy boat-rides everyday, while over 25,000 people can visit the

temple. We have deployed almost 140 guides who will facilitate visitors

during their visit. It requires at least four hours to visit the entire complexthoroughly and see all the shows," said a temple management committee

member, adding that the opening ceremony would be telecast live on Aastha

channel. Elaborate security arrangements have also been made for the entire

complex. Besides installing close circuit television cameras it has also

deployed hundreds of its own security personnel.

neelkanth:The Rs.400-crore cultural complex, inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj of the BochasanwasiShri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), will be popularised by its builders as "a place forcultural education and entertainment". The temple complex has drawn inspiration for its architecture from

the historic temples of Badrinath (Uttaranchal), Somnath (Gujarat) and Konark (Orissa). It is the second

Akshardham complex in the country after the one at Gandhinagar in Gujarat.


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At the heart of the complex is a palace-like monument built of at least 12,000 tons of pink sandstone and

white marble brought in from Rajasthan. Topped with a series of domes, it stands 129 feet high, 275 feet

wide and 315 feet long. Almost every square inch of the exterior has been exquisitely carved with statues

and motifs of Hindu deities and Indian flora and fauna. The complex also has two huge exhibition halls;

one will take visitors on a visual journey through India's cultural heritage, while the other "will depict

Indian moral values through a light-and-sound show". The complex also boasts of an Imax cinema, a

canteen big enough to accommodate 5,000 people at one sitting, a research centre for "social harmony" and

meditation gardens dotted with fountains and bronze sculptures.

DILLI HAAT

The craftsmen who are registered with D.C.Handicrafts are the ones who are eligible to find a place here.

The 62 stalls selling handicrafts are allotted on a rotational basis to craftsmen who come from all corners of

the vast & varied land of India at a payment of mere INR 100 per day for a maximum period of 15 Days.

This ensures visitors buy authentic wares at prices that have not been inflated by high maintenance costs.

You can also savour the inimitable flavors of the delightful local foods from the various regions of India be

it the momos from Sikkim or the Bamboos hot chicken from Nagaland, Kahwa & Kebabs from Jammu,

Pooranpoli from Maharastra or the Gujrati Dhokla. As many as 25 food stalls offer you variety of foods

served in an Eco friendly manner.

The DILLI HAAT provides the ambience of a traditional Rural Haat or village market, but one suited for

more contemporary needs. Here one sees a synthesis of crafts, food ad cultural activity.

This Food and Craft Bazar is a treasure house of Indian culture, handicrafts and ethnic cuisine, A unique

bazaar, in the heart of the city, it displays the richness of Indian culture on a permanent basis.

GARDEN OF FIVE SENSES

The Garden of Five Senses is not just a park, it is a space with a variety of activities, inviting public

interaction and exploration. The project, developed by Delhi Tourism Transportation DevelopmentCorporation, was conceptualized to answer to the city's need for leisure space for the public, for people to

socialize and unwind. Such spaces add atmosphere and life to a city and cater to all sections of the society.

The twenty-acre site, located at Said-Ul-Azaib village, close to the Mehrauli heritage area in New Delhi, is

spectacular area in New Delhi, is spectacular. The Garden was inaugurated in February 2003. Majestic

rocks stand silhouetted against the sky, others lie strewn upon the ground in a casual yet alluring display of

nature's sculptural genius. It was the ideal ground on which to realize the concept of a public leisure space

that would awaken a sensory response and thereby a sensitivity to the environment.


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HUMAYUN TOMB

Located near the crossing of Mahura road and Lodhi road, this

magnificent garden tomb is the first substantial example of Mughal

architecture in India.

It was buit in 1565 A.D.nine years after the death of Humayun, by

his senior widow Bega Begam. Inside the walled enclosure themost notable feature are the garden squares (chaharbagh) with

pathways water channels, centrally located well proportional

mausoleum topped by double dome.

India Gate

At the centre of New Delhi stands the 42 m high India Gate, an "Arc-de-Triomphe" like archway in the

middle of a crossroad. Almost similar to its French counterpart, it commemorates the 70,000 Indian soldiers

who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I. The memorial bears the names of

more than 13,516 British and Indian soldiers killed in the NorthwesternFrontier in the Afghan war of 1919.

The foundation stone of India Gate was laid by His Royal Highness, theDuke of Connaught in 1921 and it was designed by Edwin Lutyens. The

monument was dedicated to the nation 10 years later by the then

Viceroy, Lord Irwin. Another memorial, Amar Jawan Jyoti was added

much later, after India got its independence. The eternal flame burns day

and night under the arch to remind the nation of soldiers who laid down

their lives in the Indo-Pakistan War of December 1971.

The entire arch stands on a low base of red Bharatpur stone and rises in

stages to a huge moulding. The cornice is inscribed with the Imperial

suns while both sides of the arch have INDIA, flanked by the datesMCMXIV (1914 left) and MCMXIX (1919 right). The shallow domed

bowl at the top was intended to be filled with burning oil on

anniversaries but this is rarely done.

During nightfall, India Gate is dramatically floodlit while the fountains nearby make a lovely display with

coloured lights. India Gate stands at one end of Rajpath, and the area surrounding it is generally referred to

as 'India Gate'.

Surrounding the imposing structure is a large expanse of lush green lawns, which is a popular picnic spot.

One can see hoards of people moving about the brightly lit area and on the lawns on summer evenings.

Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar (Yantra - instruments, mantra - formulae) was

constrcted in 1724. Maharaja Jai Singh of Jaipur who built this

observatory went on to build other observatories in Ujjain ,

Varanasi and Mathura. Jai Singh had found the existing

astronomical instruments too small to take correct measurements

and so he built these larger and more accurate instruments.


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The instruments at Jantar Mantar are fascinating for their ingenuity, but accurate observations can no longer

be made from here because of the tall buildings around.

LODHI TOMBThe old Lady Willington Park, now known as Lodhi Garden, is

dotted with monuments of Sayyid and Lodhi Periods, which includetombs mosques, and bridge .

The tombs of Muhammad Shah and Sikandar Lodhi are the good

examples of octagonal tombs. Shish and Bara Gumbad are square

tombs with imposing dome, turrets on corners and facades giving

false impression of being double storeyed.

It is a favourite point for early morning walkers from the posh southDelhi colonies.

Parliament House

The Parliament house is a cirular colonnaded builing . It also

houses ministerial offices,numerous committee rooms and an

excellent library as well. Conceived in the Imperial Style, the

Parliament House consists of an open verandah with 144 columns.

The domed circular central hall with oak paneled walls and the three semi circular buildings are used for

the Rajy Shabha and Lok Shabha meetings.

Purana Quila

One does not have to go far to see the old fort or Purans Quilastanding stoically amidst wild greenery.Built on the site of the

most ancient of the numerous cities of Delhi, Indraprastha,

Purana Quila is roughly rectangular in shape having a circuit of

nearly two kilometers.

The thick ramparts crowned by merlons have three gateways

provided with bastions on either side. It was surrounded by a

wide moat, connected to river Yamuna, which used to flow onthe east of the fort. The northern gate way, called the Talaqui darwaza or the forbidden gateway, combines

the typically Isalmic pointed arch with Hindu Chhatris and brackets;whereas the southern gateway calledthe Humayun Darwaza also had a similar plan.

The massive gateway and walls of Purana Quila were built by Humayun who laid his new capital Dinpanah

in 1534 A.D. Sher Shah who defeated Humayun in1540 A.D. Purana Quila is the venue for the spectacular

sound and light show held every evening built a few building in the complex.

to Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. Adherents of any faith are free to visit the temple and pray or

meditate.


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Around the blooming petals there are nine pools of water, which light up, in natural light. It looks

spectacular at dusk when it is flood lit.

SAFDARJANG TOMB

Safdarjung's Tomb is the last enclosed garden tomb in Delhi inthe tradition of Humayun's Tomb, though it if far less grand in

scale. It was built in 1753- 54 as mausoleum of Safdarjung, theviceroy of Awadh under the Mughal Emperor, Mohammed

Shah.

It has several smaller pavilions with evocative names like

Jangli Mahal, (Palace in the woods),Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace)

and Badshah Pasand ( King's favourite).

The complex also has a madarsa. The archaeologocal Survey ofIndia maintains a library over the main gateway.

Lal Quila

The red sandstone walls of the massive Red Fort (Lal Qila)

rise 33-m above the clamour of Old Delhi as a reminder of the

magnificent power and pomp of the Mughal emperors. Thewalls, built in 1638, were designed to keep out invaders, nowthey mainly keep out the noise and confusion of the city.

The main gate, Lahore Gate, is one of the emotional and

symbolic focal points of the modern Indian nation and attracts

a major crowd each Independence Day.

The vaulted arcade of Chatta Chowk, a bazaar selling tourist

trinkets, leads into the huge fort compound. Inside is a

veritable treasure trove of buildings, including the Drum House, the Hall of Public Audiences, the white

marble Hall of Private Audiences, the Pearl Mosque, Royal Baths and Palace of Color.

An evening sound and light show re-creates events in India's history connected with the fort.

Places to Visit/See - Agra

The world is divided between those who have seen the Taj and those who have not. Very soon, I hope to be

on the side that has seen the Taj." Words said by William Jefferson Clinton President, United States of


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America while addressing the Indian Parliament on 22.03.2000 rightly defining the immense architectural

and emotional significance the Taj Mahal has, in the hearts of people around the world.

Taj Mahal : Agra is famous as being home to one of the seven

wonders of the world-the Taj Mahal. The architectural splendour ofthe mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid remainder of the

mausoleums, the fort and the palaces is a vivid reminder of the

capital in the 16th and early 17th centuries.

Agra Fort : Built by the great Emperor Akbar in 1565 A.D. the fort is a masterpiece of designand construction. Within the fort are a number of exquisite building, including the Moti Masjid, Diwane-I-

Aam, Diwani-I-Khas and musanman Burj, where the Emperor Shah Jahan died in imprisonment besideJahangirs place, Khaas Mahal and the Sheesh Mahal.

Chini Ka Roza : The tomb of Afzal Khan, the persian poet and minister at Shah Jehan'scourt gets its name from the brightly coloured glazed tiles that decorate it . Lies just 1km beyond itmad -ud

-daula.

Sikandara : Welcome to Sikandra, a suburb of Agra, only 13 km. From the Agra Fort. The lastresting place of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Akbar was the greatest of the Mughal emperors and one of the

most secular minded royalties of his time. He was the heir to a long tradition of oriental refinement, a great

patron of the arts, literature, philosophy and science. A visit to Akbar's monument opens before one, the

completeness of Akbar's personality as completely as the Taj Mahal does of Mumtaz Mahal's.

Fatehpur Sikri : Imposing gateways and light- hearted palaces were built in red sandstonewithin this fortified city only to be abandoned a few years later. Among its many architectural game are the

places for his queens - Jodha Bai, Mariyam and his Turkish sultana, built in varying styles, each perfect initself.

The Diwan-e-Khas entirely unique in its concept is a tall vaulted room with an intricately carved central

pillar and capital supporting a platform that once held the emperor's throne. Narrow galleries link this to the

corners of the room where it is believed his ministers sat The airy panch mahal a 5 storied structure rising

in pyramidal fashion was probably used by the ladies of the court. Set like a jewel in a courtyard of pink

sandstone is the finest building here, the marble tomb of Salim Chisti enclosed by finely carved, lacy

marble screens. The Buland Darwaza, an imposing gateway 54 m high was built to commemorate Akbar's

Aligarh the famous university town is a center of Islamic studies. The city is also noted for its handicraftsand metal ware.


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PLACES TO VISIT IN MATHURA

KRISHNA JANMA BHUMI : The Birth Place of Lord

Krishna

DWARKADHEESH

TEMPLE : Built in

1814, it is the main

temple in the town.

During the festive

days of Holi,

Janmashthami and

Diwali, it is decorated on a grandiose scale.

GOVT. MESEUM : Located at Dampier Park, it has one of the finest collection of archaeological interest.

Rare items from the Gupta and Kushan period (400 B.C.-1200A.D.) are on display. Major attraction for

tourists.

JAMA MASJID : Built by Abo-in Nabir-Khan in 1661.A.D. the mosque has 4 lofty minarets, with brightcolored plaster mosaic of which a few panels currently exist.

BANKE BIHARI :

One of the oldest temple, it was rebuilt in 1921 disciples of Haridas Swami who

got the idol of Bankey Bihari from Nidhi Van.

GOVINDA DEV TEMPLE :

Built by Raja Man singh of Jaipur in 1590, The temple is

a testimony of the architectural splendor of medieval India.The temple walls average 10 ft. thickness. The upper

state is regular triforium. Originally seven stories high,

it's upper four stories were destroyed during the reign of

Aurangzeb. The Krishna idol was then removed to Jaipur

.


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Kusuma Sarovara

Kusuma Sarovara is a 460-feet-long lake and according to legend

gopis used to pick flowers from here for Krishna. The ghatas at this

kunda were built by Jawahir Singh around 1764.

ISKON temple

PLACES TO VISIT IN KASHMIR

Kashmir

As Mughal emperor Jehangir said of Kashmir, 'If there is paradise on earth, it is here, it is

here, in Kashmir' a quote that is oft repeated by anybody who has had the good fortune of

visiting arguably the most beautiful part of India. The sheer beauty of the mightyHimalayas and the lush green valleys attract hordes of people each year, who come to get

a glimpse of 'heaven'. Kashmir is also popular for its adventure tourism, replete as it is


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with breathtaking highways, beautiful rivers, majestic valleys, limpid lakes and evergreen

forests.

GULMARG

Gulmarg's legendary beauty, prime

location and proximity to Srinagar

naturally make it one of the premier hillresorts in the country. Originally called

'Gaurimarg' by shepherds, its present

name was given in the 16th century bySultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by

the sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned

with wild flowers. Gulmarg was afavourite haunt of Emperor Jehangir who

once collected 21 different varieties offlowers from here. Today Gulmarg is not

merely a mountain resort of exceptionalbeauty- it also has the highest green golf

course in the world, at an altitude of

2,650 m, and is the country's premier skiresort in the winter.

The journey to Gulmarg is half the enchantment of reaching there-- roads bordered byrigid avenues of poplar give over to flat expanses of rice fields interspersed with

picturesque villages. Depending on the season, nature's colours could be the translucent

green of spring, summer's rich emerald, or autumn's golden hues, when scarlet chilliesfestoon windows of village homes. After Tangmarg, the climb to Gulmarg begins throughfir-covered hillsides. At one point, known simply as View Point, travellers generally stop

their vehicles for a few minutes and look out a spectacle of snow-covered mountains,

almost within touching distance

Gulmarg's legendary beauty, prime location andproximity to Srinagar naturally make it one of

the premier hill resorts in the country.

Originally called Gaurimarg by shepherds, its

present name was given in the 16th century bySultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by the

sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned with wild

flowers. Gulmarg was a favourite haunt ofEmperor Jehangir who once collected 21

different varieties of flowers from here. Today

Gulmarg is not merely a mountain resort ofexceptional beauty- it also has the highest green
http://www.kashmirtourism.com/gulmarg.html


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golf course in the world, at an altitude of 2,650

m, and is the country's premier ski resort in the

winter.

The journey to Gulmarg is half the enchantment of

reaching there-- roads bordered by rigid avenues ofpoplar give over to flat expanses of rice fields

interspersed with picturesque villages. Depending on

the season, nature's colours could be the translucentgreen of spring, summers rich emerald, or autumns

golden hues, when scarlet chillies festoon windows of

village homes. After Tangmarg, the climb to Gulmarg

begins through fir-covered hillsides. At one point,known simply as View Point, travelers generally stop

their vehicles for a few minutes and look out a spectacle

of snow-covered mountains, almost within touching

distance.

What to do:

Horse riding/HikingCable car riding to Khilanmarg

Golf playing

Snow Skiing during winter months (End Dec -MiddleMarch)

Gulmarg Tourism

Gulmarg is surrounded by dense forests of tall conifers ,Gulmarg is

known for unparalled beauty nad is rated as one of the matchless

tourist spots of the world.It is famous for Golf hikes and boasts of a

beautiful highland golf course. It is premier resort for winter sports

in the country.The meadow of Flowers is a world famous touristspot in the Baramulla Distt of Kashmir. The altitude of Gulmarg is

2730 meters.

How to Reach Gulmarg: Gulmarg is in Baramula Distt and is

57Kms from Srinagar District .The nearest Airport in BadgamDistt.This Airport is connected with major cities of country. The

nearest Rail Head is at Jammu . The journey from Srinagar to

Gulmarg takes approx. 2 hours in bus and may take short time bychartered conveyance. The road to gulmarg is very beautiful and is

lined with poplar trees all through. All sorts of transport is available

to Gulmarg from Srinagar bus stand at Batmallo and from various

tour and travel opeartors at the prices fixed.


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Where to Stay in Gulmarg: Gulmarg boasts of a number of Hotels of various standards which offer good

accomodation and meals. Hotels of International standards are also available. JKTDC has huts on the offer

at Gulmarg and all these properties require advance booking from Srinagar when the season is on.

Assistance for booking accomodation can be had from the booking manager at Tourist reception centreSrinagar. The accomodation available there suits all budgets.

Recreational Activities in Gumlarg:

Gulmarg offers a beautiful Golf Course where equipment is also available on hire.

A Cable Car(Gandola) is also installed which is great hit with tourists and it takes tourists upto Kongdori.

Trek to Alpather Lake can be undertaken which is lake 13 Kms away from Gulamrg. This lake remains

frozen even in June

There is another spot called Khilanmarg which offers unparalled view of the Himalayan peaks .The famous shrine of Baba Reshi is also located near Gul Marg noted muslim saint who is revered by all

faiths.

Gulmarg-Khilanmarg-Apharwat-Alpather is one of the important trekking routes.

PAHALGAM - The Valley of Shepherds.

Situated at the confluence of the streamsflowing from SheshnagLake and the

Lidderriver, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was

once a humble shepherd's village with

breathtaking views. Now it is Kashmir'spremier resort, cool even during the

height of summer when the maximum

temperature does not exceed 250C. Anumber of hotels and lodges cater to all

preferences and budgets, from luxurious

hotels to unpretentious trekkers' lodges,including J&K TDC'shuts.

Around Pahalgam are many places of interest, and because the resort is set between fairly

steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. Pony fares are posted atprominent locations.

The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow ofBaisaran, surrounded by

thickly wooded forests of pine.Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot fora picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie

scenes
http://www.jktdc.com/http://www.jktdc.com/http://www.jktdc.com/


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Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from

Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder river, Pahalgam (2,130

m) was once a humble shepherd's village withbreathtaking views. Now it is Kashmir's premier resort,

cool even during the height of summer when the

maximum temperature does not exceed 250C. A numberof hotels and lodges cater to all preferences and

budgets, from luxurious hotels to unpretentious

trekkers' lodges.

The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating

meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded

forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is anidyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it

instantly as it has been the location of several movie

scenes.

Pahalgam has within it no fewer than eight tiny villages,

one of which is Mamal. There is a Shiva temple here,generally considered to be Kashmir's oldest existing

temple, dating to the 5th century.

Lidder River

Pahalgam is also associated with the annual Amarnath

Yatra. Chandanwari (2,895 m), 16 kms from Pahalgam,is the starting point of the yatra that takes place every

year in the month of Sawan (July to August). The road

from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is on fairly flat terrainand can be undertaken by car. From Chandanwari

onwards the track becomes much steeper, and is

accessible on foot or by pony. About 11 kms fromChandanwari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag (3,574

m), after which, 13 kms away is the last stop,

Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 kms away from

there. During the month of Sawan, an ice stalagmiteforms a natural shivling in the Amarnath cave, which

waxes and wanes with the moon.

Horse Riding/Hiking

Pahalgam is the base of a major trek that passes alongAru and Kolohi Glacier

Golf


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Pahalgam Club has a 9-hole golf course, which can be

used by tourists. Golf sets can be hired on the spot.

Pahalgam Tourism

Pahalgam has a golf course at 2400 meters above the sea level.

Camping equipment, ponies and skiing equipment is readily available.

Kolahoi is a popular destinantion via Aru a charming meadow.

Pahalgam is base camp for the pilgrims of Amarnath.

Pahalgam is in Anantnag District and is about 96 Kms from Srinagar.

The nearest Airport is in Badgam Distt. This Airport is connected withmajor cities of India.The nearest Rail Head is at Jammu and from there

National Highway NH1A connects the Kashmir valley with India. The

road to Pahalgam takes from Khannabal or alternatively from

Bijbehara villages from this National Highway. Every sort of transportto suit every budget from Buses to

Taxisply on this Highway.

It takes around 10 to 12 hours to cross this mountaineous road which crosses some beautiful spots andthe

famous Jawahar Tunnel linking Kashmir Valley with India. Bus service is available from Srinagar andAnantnag which leave at fixed time from the Bus stands.Taxis and other sort of transport can be hired from

Srinagar at pre-fixed rates.Assistance isavailable at Tourist Reception Centre Srinagar. On Road to

Pahalgam one comes across the beautiful Lidder Valley with important spots of Mattan and Aishmuqam.

Where to stay in Pahalgam?

Pahalgam has a number of Hotels and lodges of various types which are open only during summermonths.Accomodation needs to be booked well in advance from srinagar.

What to do in Pahalgam?

Lots of recreational activities are on the offer

Pahalgam offers trekking adventure. Trekking can be undertaken to Kolahoi Glacier which is very beautiful

via Aru village. Sledging at the frozen Glaciers is also offered by locals. Angling ( a license is required)

You can take long walks in the jungles and explore rich flora and fauna. Pahalgam is the main base camp to

Amarnath Cave. Alpine Skiing is also available at high altitudes. A Popular trek from Sonamarg to

Pahalgam and trek to Chandanwari and Sheshnag lake can also be undertaken. Some probability of white

water rafting is also available downstrean from Pahalgam in the Lidder river.

SONAMARG - The Meadow of Gold.

he drive to Sonamarg is throughtheSindh Valley which presentsyet anotherspectacular facet of countryside in

Kashmir. Situated at an altitude of 2730

m, Sonamarg (The meadow of gold)

has, as its backdrop, snowy mountainsagainst a cerulean sky. TheSindh River

that meanders through the valley


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abounds with troutandmahaseer.

Ponies can be hired for the trip up toThajiwasglacier, which is a major localattraction during the summer months.

Sonamarg is the base of a major trek that passes along several mountain lakes Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the take off station

for the drive to Ladakh across theZojila, a major pass in the Great Himalayan Range,

through which the Srinagar-Leh Road passes.The drive to Sonamarg is through the Sindh Valley

which presents yet another spectacular facet of

countryside in Kashmir. Situated at an altitude of 2730

m, Sonamarg (The meadow of gold) has, as itsbackdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. The

Sindh River that meanders through the valley abounds

with trout and mahaseer. Ponies can be hired for the trip

up to Thajiwas glacier, which is a major local attractionduring the summer months.

Sonamarg is the base of a major trek that passes alongseveral mountain lakes Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar,

Satsar and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the take off

station for the drive to Ladakh across the Zojila, a major

pass in the Great Himalayan Range, through which theSrinagar-Leh Road passes.

Sonamarg is also a base for undertaking the yatra to theholy Amarnath cave, during Sawan Purnima. For details

about the yatra, refer to the Amaranathji Yatra Link.

How to get there

Sonamarg is situated at a distance of 84 kms fromSrinagar, on the Srinagar-Ladakh Road.

kashmirtourism.com operates regular buses as well as

sightseeing buses during the season. The route passes

through the picturesque town of Ganderbal (21 kms),Kangan (40 kms) and Gund of the Sindh Valley, before

reaching the resort. Spectacular views of the Harmukh

range dominate the horizon all along the route.

Tourist Information & Assistance

The Tourist Office at Sonamarg is within the premises of the Tourist Complex, behind the

cafeteria. Tourists are advised to visit the office for information and assistance. In

particular, trekking trips into the mountains should be undertaken only after consulting

the Tourist Office at Srinagar or Sonamarg for safety and feasibility.


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Leh

Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is a popular, if unconventional, tourist spot of Kashmir. The

cold desert surrounding the city is visited by scores of tourists looking for a place off thebeaten path. Leh is a known as a center for Buddhist culture and religion, and the many

monasteries, temples and Gomphas dotting the city is a testimony of the piety and

religiosity of the people.

Leh Tourism

The palace is distinguished monument and a historical

building. The nine-storeyed palace was built by the17th century illustrious ruler of Ladakh, Sengge

Namgyal. It is an imposing structure, though in ruins

now, situated on a hill and commands a grand view ofthe Leh town.

The building in grand Tibetan architecture is said tohave inspired the famous potala of Lahasa, built half acentury later. Namgyal Tsemo, the peak overlooking

the town, are the ruins of the fortbuilt, by the king

Tashi namgyal in the 16th century, as a royal residence.

HOW TO REACH

Indian Airlines and Jet Airway cater to the need of

world class Air services for the tourists. Leh, the principal town of Ladakh has now

become gateway to the world by any connecting flight from Delhi one can fly in to Lehfrom abroad in a day as well. All through the year, there is air service from Delhi,

Chandigarh, Jammu and Srinagar.

BY ROAD

The main overland approach to Ladakh is from the Kashmir valley via the 434-km.

Srinagar-Leh road, which remains open for traffic from early June to November. Themost dramatic part of this road journey is the ascent up the 11,500 ft.(3505 m high Zoji-

la, the pass in the Great Himalayan Wall that serves as the gateway to Ladakh. The J&K

State Road Transport Corporation (J&KSRTC) operates regular Deluxe and Ordinary busservices between Srinagar and Leh on this route with an overnight halt at Kargil.Taxis

(cars and jeeps) are also available at Srinagar for the journey. Groups can charter Deluxe

and A-class buses for Leh, Kargil or Padum (Zanskar) from the J&K SRTC at Srinagar.

Since 1989, the 473-km Manali-Leh road has been serving as the second land approach toLadakh. Open for traffic from around mid-June to early October, this high road traverses

the upland desert plateaux of Rupsho whose altitude ranges from 3,660 m to 4,570 m. A

number of high passes fall enroute among which the highest one, known as Taglang-la, isthe worlds second highest motorable pass at an altitude of 17,469 feet (5,325 m.)

Himachal Pradesh Tourism, H.P. SRTC and J&K SRTC operate Deluxe and Ordinary bus


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services between Manali and Leh. The bus journey between Leh and Manali takes about

19 hours or two days with an overnight halt in camps at Serchu and Pang. Gypsy and jeep

taxis are also available, both at Manali and Leh.

Zangla Tourism

Zangla the old castle now in ruins except from a small

chappel, occupies a hill, overlooking the desertic valleybelow. Nearby is the old Nunnery worth a visit for the

austere life style of the small monastic community of nuns.

Lying deep in the northern arm of Zanskar at the end of the35 km. Long rough road from Padum, Zangla was being

ruled by a titular king till his death a few years back.

An old monastery situated in the nearby village of Tsa-zar has exquisite frescos that

should be missed. The village lies mid-way between Stongdey and Zangla. Zangla is the

nodal point on the popular Padum-Strongdey-Zangla-Karsha-Padum round trip, whichcovers most of the cultural sites of Zanskar.

The old rope suspension bridge spanning the tumultuous Zanskar near Zangla- a rare feat

of folk engineering - is no more in use, but still visible. The river is now crossed by a

temporary footbridge for approaching the left bank along which the trail to Karshafollows. Zangla is also the take-off point for the Padum-Markha valley treks.

The 240 km long Kargil-Padun road, of which the first 90 km stretch is paved, remains

opened from around mid July to early November.

In June, the summer is at its height in the region and the climate is ideal for trekking

along the route free from vehicular traffic of any kind and when the countryside is freshlyrejuvenated into life after months of frigid dormancy.

Zanskar

Zanskar is a modern day Shangri La owing to its near inaccessibility. The mountain

passes leading into Zanskar are open for only a few weeks in the summer months. Butonce there, the intrepid adventurer is amply rewarded for his or her pains. The

breathtaking beauty of this city in the cold desert area of Ladakh, the Gomphas and

Buddhist temples of Zanskar, are the major tour attractions of the city.


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Zanskar Tourism

Zanskar road winds down the steep slopes of thewatershed to the head of the Stod Valley, one of

Zanskar's main tributary valleys, the majestic "Drang-

Drung" glacier looms into full view. A long and windingriver of ice and snow, the Drang-Drung" is perhaps the

largest glacier in Ladakh, outside the Siachen formation.

It is from the cliff-like snout of this extensive glacier thatthe Stod or Doda River, the main tributary of river

Zanskar, rises.

Zanskar comprises a tri-armed valley system lyingbetween the Great Himalayan Range and the Zanskar

mountain; The three arms radiate star-like towards the

west, north and south from a wide central expanse where

the region's two principal drainage's meet to form the mainZanskar River. It is mainly along the course of this valley

system that the region's 10,000 strong, mainly Buddhistspopulation lives.

Spread over an estimated geographical area of 5000 sq. kms. High rise, mountains and

deep gorges surround Zanskar. The area remains inaccessible for nearly 8 months a year

due to heavy snowfall resulting in closure of all the access passes, including the Penzi-la.To-day, Zanskar has the distinction of being the least interfered with microcosms of

Ladakh, and one of the last few surviving cultural satellites of Tibet.

Within the mountain ramparts of this lost Shangrila stand a number of ancient yet active

monastic establishments. Some of these religious foundations have evolved around

remote meditation caves believed to have been used by a succession of famous Buddhistsaints for prolonged meditation in pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.

The 240 km long Kargil-Padun road, of which the first 90 km stretch is paved, remains

opened from around mid July to early November. In June, the summer is at its height inthe region and the climate is ideal for trekking along the route free from vehicular traffic

of any kind and when the countryside is freshly rejuvenated into life after months of

frigid dormancy.

The tourist Complex at Padum provides furnished rooms. There is catering arrangement

in the complex, while camping place nearby is available for budget tourists travellingwith personal tents. Padum town has several private hotels where rooms with basic

facilities are available.


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Kargil

Kargil district lies to the West of Ladakh. The people of Kargil are chiefly agrarian, and

have herded cattle and tended to crops for generations. The town of Kargil is the capitalof Kargil district. It is famous as one of the transit points on the famous Silk Route of

ancient Asia. The Suru River flows through the city, adding to its rugged charm.

Kargil Tourism

KARGIL (2704 m), 204 kms from Srinagar in the west

and 234 kms from Leh in the east, is the second largest

urban centre of Ladakh and headquarters of the districtof same name. A quite town now, Kargil once served as

important trade and transit centre in the Pan-Asian trade

network. Numerous caravans carrying exoticmerchandise comprising silk, brocade, carpets, felts, tea,

poppy, ivory etc. transited in the town on their way to and from China, Tibet, Yarkand

and Kashmir.

The old bazaar displayed a variety of Central Asian and

Tibetan commodities even after the cessation of the

Central Asian trade in 1949 till these were exhaustedabout two decades back. Similarly the ancient trade route

passing through the township was lined with several

caravanserais. Now, since 1975, travellers of numerousnationalities have replaced traders of the past and Kargil

has regained its importance as a centre of travel-related

activities.

Being located in the centre of the Himalayan region with tremendous potentials foradventure activities, Kargil serves as an important base for adventure tours in the heart of

Himalayas. It is also the take off station for visitors to the erotic Zanskar Valley. Tourists

travelling between Srinagar and Leh have to make a night halt here before starting thesecond leg of their journey.

The town lies nestling along the rising hillside of the lower Suru basin. Two tributaries ofthe Suru River that meet here are the Drass and Wakha. The land available along the

narrow valley as also the rising hillsides are intensively cultivated in neat terraces to glow

barley, wheat, peas, a variety of vegetables and other cereals. Kargil is famous for the fine

apricots grown here. In May the entire countryside becomes awash with fragrant whiteapricot blossoms while August, the ripening fruit lends it an orange hue.


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Patnitop

Patnitop is another unusual tourist spot of Kashmir. It is famous for its hill resorts, the

fragrant pine forests and breathtaking beauty.

Patnitop Tourism

Patnitop is enveloped by thickly wooded forests,Patnitop offers beautiful picnic spots,

peaceful walks and breathtaking views of the mountainscape of the Chenab basin. Inwinter, the resort is generally covered with athick mantle of snow thus providing

opportunities for various snow games includingskiing. It is the best developed tourist spot

of Jammu and is second to none in its natural charm, climate, pine forests and lush greencover.

This famous hill resort is perched on a beautiful plateau, at an altitude of 2024 metresacross which the Jammu-Srinagar Highway passes.

The occupancy of the huts and Dak Banglow is full in summer months. There is

ambitious plan of Patnitop Development Authority to develop Patnitop, Kud, Sud-

Mahadev, Mantalai circuit. The costruction work of Mall Road at Kud is also proposed tobe taken up. Trekking route from Kud to Patnitop-Sanasar has already been completed.

The complete tourist circuit covers Jammu-Katra-VaishnoDeviji, Kud-Sanasar, Patnitop-

Gourikund, Sudmahadev, Mantali, extending upto Latti-Dhuna.

There are a large number of huts and Tourists Bunglows, all managed by J&K TDC,

Having facilities of Drawing room/Dining room and fully equipped kitchen in all huts

and LPG facility.

Amarnathji Yatra - a journey into faith

"The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organised

travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages andembodying the spirit of wander, adventure and

spirituality"

One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most

ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his

presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, ritual and even


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astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time.

Shiva is known to have made his home in the Himalayas.

He built no house nor shelter, not for himself or his bride.

He was an ascetic, and yet married; he could be both for"he was the wild god sporting in the forest or taking his

ease on a cloud."

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in the Amarnathji

cave. Unknown to them, a pair of mating pigeons eavesdropped on this conversation and

having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their

eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the arduousroute to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).


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"The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldestorganised travel system, evolved over time by

Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander,

adventure and spirituality"

One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. Themost ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda

evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, ritualand even astronomy testify to his existence from the

dawn of time.

Shiva is known to have made his home in the

Himalayas. He built no house nor shelter, not forhimself or his bride. He was an ascetic, and yet

married; he could be both for "he was the wild god

sporting in the forest or taking his ease on a cloud."

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in the Amarnathji

cave. Unknown to them, a pair of mating pigeons eavesdropped on this conversationand having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave

their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the

arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).

The trek to Amarnathji, in the month of Shravan

(July - August) has the devout flock to this

incredible shrine, where the image of Shiva, inthe form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an

ice - stalagmite, and which waxes and waneswith the moon. By its side are, fascinatingly,two more ice - lingams, that of Parvati and of

their son, Ganesha.

According to an ancient tale, there was once a

Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik who wasgiven a sack of coal by a sadhu. Upon reaching

home he discovered that the sack, in fact,

contained gold. Overjoyed and overcome, ButaMalik rushed back to look for the sadhu and

thank him, but on the spot of their meeting

discovered a cave, and eventually this became aplace of pilgrimage for all believers. To date, a

percentage of the donations made by pilgrims

are given to the descendants of Malik, and the

remaining to the trust which manages the shrine.

Yet another legend has it that when Kashap Reshi drained the Kashmir valley of

water (it was believed to have been a vast lake), the cave and the lingam were


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Vaishno Devi

Vaishno Devi is the area of one of the holiest Hindu temples in India. Pilgrims travel tothis temple in the mountains for days at an end, wait in long lines to sight a glimpse of the

idol and offer their prayers in hushed, frantic murmurs on sighting the idol. It offersconsolation and hope to many believers as well as magnificent sightings of the mountains

and valleys beyond, while on the trek to the heavens.

Documents

Tour to North India