Kanpur and Bithoor – Hearts of Uttar Pradesh

Kanpur: Kanpur is ninth most populous city and is largest within the state of Uttar Pradesh. Kanpur has its own historical, religious and commercial importance. Kanpur is home to the globally famous IIT. It is the second largest city of the Hindi-speaking belt after Delhi. The great Hindu litterateurs such as Acharya Mahavir Parasad Dwivedi, Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi, Pratap Narain Mishra and Acharya Gaya Prasad Shukla “Sanehi” contributed a lot for the propagation and popularization of Hindi.

The name Kanpur is believed to have been derived from Kanhiyapur, the town of Kanhiya (Lord Krishna). In the course of time, Kanhiyapur probably was abbreviated as Kanhapur and subsequently as Kanpur. During the British Raj, the anglicized spelling of the city was termed as “Cawnpore”. One of the ancient stories revolves around the era of Mahabharata, where Duryodhana gifted this land to Karna for his bravery and strength to match up to Arjuna. Initially known as Karnapur, the city was later coined Kanpur. To tackle the traffic problem state government and local administration have planned to set up metro service in city known as Kanpur Metro.

Kanpur is famous for its Leather. It is one of the largest producers of sugarcane in Northern India. Kanpur is also known as a “Town of Export Excellence”.

Places to Visit:

• Amusement Parks:
• Dream World
• Jungle Park
• Micky House
• Mogli Park
• Green Park Stadium and its Modi Stadium, a cricket stadium
• Moti Jheel
• Nanarao Park
• Mahatma Gandhi Park a.k.a Katehri Bagh, Cantonment
• Kidwai Nagar Park
• Jungle Water Park, Bithoor road
• Company Bagh, Mall road
• Phool Bagh, Mall road
• Allen Forest Zoo

Historical Attractions:

• Gora Kabristan
• Radha-Krishna Mandir, or J K Temple
• Kherepati Temple
• Anandeshwar Temple
• ISKON Temple
• Bithoor
• Lav Kush Barrage
• Kanpur Memorial Church
• Gandhi Hall
• Kanpur Sangrahalaya
• Jama-ul-ulum Madarsa & Masjid
• Habiba Masjid
• Jajmau Tila
• Kanpur Central
• Musanagar tila
• Bhitargaon Temple
• Sarsaiyya Ghat
• Massacre Ghat
• Saja ud daulah Mosque
• Nanarao Fort, Bithur
• Jajmau Siddhant Ghat
• Baradevi Temple
• Boodha Bargad (Banyan) tree

Bithoor: Bithoor is situated on the Kannauj Road, 27 kms from center of Kanpur. Bithoor is far from the hustle and bustle and madding crowds of Kanpur, it offers a tranquil spot suffused with historical and religious significance. It is situated on the bank of River Ganges. During 1753-75, the administration of Bithoor was entrusted to Almas Ali Khan, who built a mosque near Lakshman Ghat on the right bank of Ganges under the rule of Nawab Shuja-ud-daula.

Bithoor was the capital of the Pargana from 1811 to 1819. After the departure of the courts, the place was assigned as a residence to Baji Rao, the deposed Peshwa. The palace of Nana Sahib was reduced to rubble by the British in 1857 and the only traces remaining of it are some large well heads and broken palace walls.

According to the Hindu scriptures, Lord Brahma came to Utpalaranya, since then this place was first witnessed the creation of mankind and was known as Brahmavarta or the seat of Brahma. On the completion of the Yajna, the forests of Utpalaranya, became known as Brahmavarta, from which the popular name, Bithoor is derived. In later centuries Brahmavarta flourished as the capital of the kingdom of Utpalaranya, over which ruled the emperor Uttanpad. His son Dhruva penanced here in order to please Brahma. The place is pointed out to be Dhruva Teela. A Shivalinga was worshipped by Lord Brahma which is still worshipped as Brahmeshwar Mahadeva at the principal Ghat of Bithoor named as The Brahmavarta Ghat.

While going for Ashwamedha Yajna, the nail of the horse shoe embedded in the steps of the Ghat is an object of special reverence for devotees as it is considered to be of the Brahma’s horse.

The existing Valmiki temple in Bithoor is said to have been rebuilt by Baji Rao Peshwa in the 19th century. There is a small pool inside Valmiki Ashram, famous as Sita-Kund. Sita ‘Rasoi’ is still preserved, near which stands ‘Swarga Naseinee’ or Deep Malika Stambha, studded with niches all around for illumination.

The historic town of Bithoor, once famous by the name of ‘Bavan Ghaton ki Nagri’, (city of 52 Ghats) is today left with only 29 Ghats. Bithoor is also very closely associated with the legends of Rama, Valmiki, Lav and Kush, and Dhruv, the legendary prince.

The best time to visit Bithoor is during October-March. Kartik Poornima Magh Poornima, Makar Sankranti Mela are the festivals celebrated with great zeal.

Places to Visit:

• Valmiki Ashram
• Brahmavart Ghat
• Patthar Ghat
• Dhruva Teela

Forts: The great freedom fighters like Nana Saheb, Tatya Tope and Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi started their struggle for freedom in the year 1857 from Bithoor and during their stay numerous forts were built which are still a source of inspiration and attraction to the Historian and research oriented people.

It is recommended that you consider booking long distance bus tickets on "Air Conditioned Volvo buses" operated by all operators as the quality of the other buses vary significantly. Bus tickets are easily available online. One can plan trip and do bus booking online in advance. Online bus booking is an easy process which can save your time and price.

Pilgrimage Tour in India – A Guide to Travel

Ancient period, India was a known most civilized and culturally developed country, the home of great poets, saints, philosopher, rulers, legendary warriors. Due to rich culture and heritage, the various regions of the world had been originated and flourished in India. From ancient era mystique and mythology in the soil of this country consequences plenty wonderful pilgrimage and worship places, these religious monuments gained a key prominence and evidence of most visited Indian places by locals and overseas tourists. India being versatile and a huge country, is known as divine destination of all kinds of pilgrims following any belief around the world. India has been quite famous all over the world, for its religious, spirituality and tolerance and its secular characteristics, also known as “yogabhoomi" and the gateway to the almighty heavens.

• Kedarnath: Kedarnath is located around 220 kilo meters distance from Rishikesh in Uttaranchal region. This wonderful and pious pilgrimage town is at the altitude of 3580 meters, laid on the amazing mountains of Kedarnath in Himalaya. One of the holiest pilgrimages for Hindus from all over the world. Often referred to as the abode of Lord Shiva. The daunting temple of Kedarnath is beautifully sounded by the lofty snow caped mountains and peaks. Indian renowned saint-philosopher Adi Shankaracharya built the temple in 8th centaury. This is one of the pilgrimage sites out of the 5 Kedarnath Shrines in India. This temple is constructed on the old temples which were built by Pandavas. There is Samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya Chorabari is named Gandhi Sarovar with floating ice on the glittering water of the lake and Vasuki pond.
• Badrinath: The temple of Shri Badrinathji is 15 mt.high, built in the form of a cone with a small cupola of a gilt bull and spire is Dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Set amidst a picturesque valley, at an altitude of 3,133 mt. above sea-level, it is located on the right bank of holy river Alaknanda. The other temples and places of worship worth a mention in Uttar Pradesh are Vishvanath Temple (Varanasi), Vindhyachal Temple, Rishikesh, Naina Devi Temple, Mathura, Mansa Devi, Har Ki Pauri, Ghat (Varanasi), Mathura-Vrindavan, Hemkund Sahib.
• Amritsar: The Golden Temple at Amritsar, is the most famous of Sikhs monuments, ornamented with a gilt by Raja Ranjit Singh. Surrounded with water on all the sides, it was erected in the 16th century. The mandir, a two storeyed structure is built on a 67 ft square of marble. Anandpur Sahib in Punjab is one of the most revered places of pilgrim for the Sikh community.
• Ajmer: Pushkar', 11 Kms West of Ajmer, along the picturesque Pushkar Lake lies the tranquil town with deep religious significance. An important pilgrimage centre of Hindus, flourishing with 400 temples and a lake encircles by 52 ghats. The biggest attraction being the temple of Lord Brahma. Pushkar is also the site for one of the largest and most colorful cattle fairs in the world.
• Varanasi: The major attraction of Varanasi is the long strings of ghats, which line the western bank of the Ganges. There are over a 100 bathing and burning ghats but the Manikarnika Ghat is the most sacred of them all. This is the main burning ghats and one of the most auspicious places where a Hindu can be cremated. Dasaswamedha Ghat is probably the most convenient starting point. At the time of sunrise, people visit this ghat to get an interesting introduction to the river. Here you'll witness the throng of people who come to the edge of the Ganges not only for a ritual bath, but to practice yoga, offer blessings, buy paan, sell flowers, get a massage, play cricket, have a swim or get a shave. Apart from the many ghats lining the river, the city's other highlights include the Golden Temple also known as Vishwanath Temple, built in a roofed quadrangle with stunning gilded towers. Shopping at markets famous for their ornamental brass work, lacquered toy, shawls, silks and sitars; visiting the nearby Buddhist centre of Sarnath. The Durga Mata temple was built in 18th century, stained in red with ochre is also a must see.

Travel Planning:

As India is a large geographic country and all pilgrims are spread throughout its’ boundary, it is very difficult to plan a trip where you can visit all place at one go. So choose the favorite tour and place which is nearby from your city and plan your travel accordingly. You can check flights, train or bus based on your travel budget. Bus booking is fairly easy nowadays on internet. If you plan early you’ll get budget tickets online. For Bus form bangalore to pune
online bus booking you can check different OTA’s website. Search best bus service, compare and buy cheap tickets.

Coorg – Scotland of India

252 kms from Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level lies Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or Kodagu (originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest on steep hill'. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.

Coorg is on the Western Ghats. Set amidst verdant valleys, imposing mountains and teak wood forests, this is one of the most beautiful hill stations you can visit. It lies on Karnataka's southwestern end, covering an area of 4,102 sq km.The river Cauvery originates here at Talacauvery and is worshipped by the locals.

History:

The majority of the early accounts of Coorg(Kodagu) are fundamentally eminent and the genuine record of history in Coorg is available only following the ninth century. On the word of inscriptions, Coorg was under the rule of many dynasties of South India such as Changalvas, Cholas, Gangas, Hoysalas, Kadambas and Pandyas. It is believed that early on the northern part of Kodagu was under the Kadambas and the south under the Gangas. The Cholas were a powerful force in the eleventh century they defeated the Gangas. However, the Changalva Arasus continued o rule the south Kodagu when Raja Chola was ruling in Tanjavur. The northern parts of Kodagu were ruled by the Kongalvas who were a vassal of the Cholas. The situation more or less remained the same till the invasion under Alauddin Khilji. In the fourteenth century the Changalvas became prominent rulers of Kodagu. For most of the period the influence of the Changalvas or the Kongalvas never reached beyond the borders of Kodagu.

Places to Visit:

Abbey falls: A big attraction for tourists and filmdom alike is the Abbey Falls, 8 km from Madikeri. Even during the summer there is plenty of water in these falls. The roar of the falls can be heard from the main road, from where a path goes through lovely coffee and cardamom plantations right up to them. The chirping of innumerable birds which are easier heard then seen, fill the air with sweet music. Do remember to take your binoculars and camera when you go there. As of Mar 2011, bathing in the falls is not allowed due to few drunken miscreants creating public nuisance.

Nagarahole: Wild Life Santuary: Nagarhole is a kannada word meaning "snake river" - which flows through the park. The park and animal life is part of the country's first "bio-sphere reserve". The Forest Department conducts tours along well-defined routes for tourists, in the early mornings and evenings. One can surely see the bison, elephant, spotted deer, sambhar, barking deer, wild boar, mongoose, peakcock, jungle fowl and many other birds and animals. Lucky ones get the chance of seeing Panther or Tiger.

Honnamana Kere: Honnamana Kere is a holy and tourist place located in Daddamalthe near Sulimalthe village 6 km away from Somwarpet town. The lake (See picture) is surrounded by beautiful landscape including Coffee estates and Cliffs. Special pooja is offered to the Goddess Honnamma on the Gowri festival every year. Thousands of devotees come to this sacred place on this day and offers pooja to the Goddess Honnamma followed by climbing the cliff. 'Bagina' which consists of sacred belongings of the Goddess is left in the lake. A new temple was built several years back with the aim to improve the place and offer better facilities to the devotees, this was possible by the financial assistance of the people living in the surrounding villages.

Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctury: Pushpagiri aka Kumaraparvatha trek path, Kodagu, 2009., Kodagu/Coorg. Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctury is 30 km from Somwarpet towards Kukke Subramanya. The Wildlife Sanctury is a apt for trekkers who want to experience the wilderness of Western Ghat. Home for different kinds of wild species like elephants, deers, wild cats etc.

Mallalli Falls: Mallalli Falls is situated around 25 km from Somwarpet. The exact location of Mallali falls is in Bettadahalli Gram Panchayat in Somwarpet taluk. It is an eye feasting sight of river Kumaradhara gushing through the valley and falling into a gorge, with lush green mountains around.

Madikeri: Madikeri is the capital of the Kodagu also known as Coorg. This place is known as the “Scotland of India”. Millions of tourists come to this place to visit coffee plantations, lush green forests, misty hills and some breath taking views of other areas. Madikeri is also known for it;s amazing climate. Madikeri also has a world record in the production of cardamom crop.

Travel to Coorg:

Closest Airport: Bangalore (260 km), Mangalore (135 km)

Closest Railway Station: Mysore (146 km)

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Bus form delhi to agra

Road: The Mysore - Mangalore highway (NH48) passes through Kodagu. The district headquarters Madikeri (Mercara), is 260 km from Bangalore and 120 km from Mysore. The distance from Mangalore is 136 km and from Cannanore and Tellicherry, it is about 115 km. There are regular buses plying from these places to Madikeri.

Bus booking is fairly easy nowadays on internet. If you plan early you’ll get budget tickets online. For online bus booking you can check different OTA’s website. Search best bus service, compare and buy cheap tickets.

Adventure Tours in Rajasthan

The spirit of adventure and bravery has always been a prominent part of life. In the days of yore, hunting was the major source of excitement for the people. Pitting their wits against the most ferocious of animals was considered a challenge. Wrestling was yet another outlet for those seeking a show of strength. Today times have changed but the search for adventure still remains. So if you're driven by the call of adventure, come to Rajasthan.
The royal land of Rajasthan, besides being a state of culture and heritage, of fantastic forts and grandiose palaces has another ace up its sleeve- that of being a destination for adventure tourism. With its alluring expanses of Thar Desert and myriad wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, Rajasthan is an ideal for an adventurous holiday.

Bus tickets are easily available online. One can plan trip and do bus booking online in advance. Online bus tickets booking is an easy process which can save your time and price.

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Camel Safari – Eco Adventure Travel in India

The Camel Safari Circuit in India comprises of Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Bikaner, all in Rajasthan. They were the princely

kingdoms in the desert belt of India Rajasthan. Each was comparable in size to many modern nations of Europe. All the former

capitals prospered from trade with the camel caravans that traveled from West Asia and Europe to Mongolia, and were

impressively fortified to protect these riches. The result was a wealth of palaces built for royalty, havelis or courtyard mansions built for merchants and nobility and intricately carved temples for the subjects. Materials used were normally sandstone, which was easily available and provided a better medium to the silavats who specialized in making stone resemble lace.

What to See:

A wide variety of safaris are offered by the Thar Desert. A short trek around the pretty town of Jaisalmer, or a longer safari taking you the length and breadth of the Great Indian Desert - options are many. In the longer version of the safari, you will feel the ambience of mediaeval times. Like a mediaeval trader you will have the opportunity of leading the caravan through the spice route in hostile conditions heading for one of the medieval kingdoms, in search of people to buy your goods. The desert safaris in India revolve primarily around the princely states of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner. Besides offering the breathtaking spectacle of the endless vistas of open desert sands, these safaris are a perfect way of experiencing the village life and the wildlife.

Rajasthan has been an important center of trade and commerce throughout the historical period. The passing of the caravans through the Thar Desert gave boost to the trade. Prosperity of the trade resulted in the huge profit, which was used by the nobility to build the impregnable forts, majestic palaces, grand mansions, and ormidable citadels. Sandstone is the basic material used in the construction of these masterpieces of art that are today in the ruined state due to ravages of the time.

A typical safari comprises traveling to the architectural ruins of Lodurva located in the vicinity of Jaisalmer, the sand dunes of the Samm, the oasis at Anasagar and the water source of Moolsagar. You will travel and sightseeing during the daytime and can spend your night by cooking by the campfire and having rest. You will be able to experience the lives of the villagers on the camels-halts in the en-route villages amidst the desert scrubs. It is sure to be a once in lifetime experience of the desert rural Indian life and traditional hospitality.

Travel Kit:

Camel Safari in India The climate is extreme in the desert-afternoons may seem much hotter than the actual 26-30 degree temperature may suggest. Night temperatures may drop below zero on the dunes. It is essential to stock both woolen and cotton clothing. Shorts and skirts are comfortable wear for camel safaris but remember some of the offbeat routes visit villages that have not seen many tourists and locals may look askance at ladies who do not wear ankle length clothing and men in shorts. Sun hats with large rims or cotton caps that can be dipped in water when it gets too hot around midday, are essential preferably with a balaclava or scarf for covering the neck and forehead. At Jodhpur you can buy umbrellas that are quite convenient for camel safaris. Sunscreen cream, moisturizers and lip salve area must. A water bottle can be comfortably slung on the camel saddle and it is practical also to carry tangerines as even on a deluxe safari it may not be practical to dismount each time to drink from the carted water supply. Bottled mineral water is available at Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. Find out if the baggage is being transferred by camel cart or vehicle. In case of the latter, a small handbag can carry the essentials you are likely to need on the way.

If prone to sickness, carry suitable medication against the swaying gait of the camel. A torch, penknife an even cutlery will be required. Finally patience is an important piece of baggage on a camel safari as it takes time to get to grips with camel travel and to reach destinations that may be on your travel priorities.

When to go:

Most camel safaris are organized in the winter, when the weather’s good. Rajasthan’s summers are almost unbearably hot and dry, so going on a camel safari during this time is virtually impossible. November to March, when days are cool (and nights cold!) is when most camel safaris are organized.

Getting there:

Most camel safaris start from Jaisalmer, which is connected by air, train and road to the rest of India. Rajasthan’s capital, Jaipur, is also a convenient base for exploring the state, whether on camel or otherwise. Jaipur has a well-connected airport, as well as regular train and bus links to a number of cities across India. All camel-safari towns in Rajasthan, such as Bikaner and Mandawa, are connected by road to Jaipur. Buses run between all the major towns of the state, and private cars or taxis can be hired to do the trip. You can plan your trip advance and do bus form jaipur to delhi to get cheap bus tickets. Bus booking is fairly easy and tickets are available online for Jaipur or Jaisalmer.