Friday, October 30, 2009

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

The Hawa Mahal, or the Palace of Winds, is arguably Jaipur’s best-known monument. For one, it is unlike any other Rajput monument – fort, palace or temple. Secondly, it’s a bit too whimsical and delicate, almost like a magical structure from the Arabian Nights. Despite its towering height and length, the Hawa Mahal looks like a light, airy structure which might blow away with the slightest wind.


Jagat Shri Bhrama Temple, Pushkar, India

The only standing Hindu temple in India dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, the structure around the temple was built in the 14th century and stands on a high platform near Pushkar lake.

Brahma is one of the Holy Trinity in Hinduism, sharing the honour with Vishnu the Preserver and Shiva the Destroyer.

Although a very large number of temples can be found all over India dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu, there are very few temples for Brahma, this being one of the holiest one.

Marble steps lead up to the temple where a silver turtle lies embossed in the floor facing the sanctorum.

The marble floor around the turtle is littered with hundreds of silver coins embedded in the floor, and so are the walls of the temple.

Images of the peacock, the vehicle of Brahma’s consort Saraswati, adorn the temple walls. Brahma here is shown in a life-size form with four hands and four faces, facing four different directons.

A hans (goose, the official carrier of Brahma) spans the gateway to the temple which is crowned with a red spire. A small statue of the milk goddess Gayatri (whom Brahma married) near Brahma’s idol is called Chaumurti. Steps within the silver-doored sanctuary lead down into a small cave which is a Hindu temple of Lord Shiva.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Dengue Cases in Delhi

Total cases this year 2009 = 320
Cases today-29-10-09 = 018
Avg no. of cases every day =18-20
Total no of deaths repoted = 002

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kathmandu,Nepal


Tribhuvan Museum at the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kathmandu Durbar Square highlights the life of King Tribhuvan (1906-1955) who helped free the country from the Rana regime. The gallery displays rare photographs and paintings of other Shah rulers. Of special interest are the personal effects of the late king such as his bicycle, photographic equipment including boxes of Kodak chemicals. The gallery also has photos depicting the funeral of the king. The Mahendra Museum sheds light on the life of late King Mahendra (1955-1972). Displays include his personal belongings such as his imported clothes, decorations, gifts and his literary creations

Monday, October 26, 2009

The Mall, Shimla, India


The Mall Road in Shimla is considered as the lifeline of the city. Most of the major hotels, restaurants and recreation centers are situated along the road, making it a place which cannot be left untouched by any visitor.
Mall Road is the main tourist attraction in the town and serves as the centre of Shimla's bustling social life. British constructed it and every precaution was taken to make sure that the road does not get adversely affected.
One such step was to ban entry of vehicles on the road.Buildings and other erections have colonial influence on its architecture.
The Mall Road has numerous showrooms, stores, departmental stores, shops, restaurants and cafes, stuck closely to each other. All kinds of handicraft products of Himachal Pradesh, like locally-made woolen cloths, pottery items, jewelry, books, and local eatable items, especially pickles, are available on the Mall Road. Additionally, it is famous for its wood shops.
These shops specialize in furniture manufacturing. The furniture made here is of antique look. Bargaining is not a bad idea here, as shopkeepers say haywire prices of the products and it is really tough to judge the actual price.
There are no vehicles allowed on the Mall, so it is always bustling with tourists on foot. The Mall is mostly full of jovial people. People enjoy pleasant environment and natural beauty and hang the whole day at the place.

Jhaku Temple, Shimla, India


Jakhu Temple is situated on the top of Jakhu Hill, in Shimla city of Himachal Pradesh, at the altitude of 2500 meters. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is believed to be in existence from the times of Ramayana.
Situated in the thick forests of Jakhu hills, the temple derives its name from the Hindi word Yakhsa. Yakshas are the mythological characters in Hindu mythology, believed to be a link between humans and Gods.
According to the legend, Jakhoo temple was formed when lord Hanuman visited Jakhu hill, during the famous Rama - Ravana fight. Lakshman, the younger brother of Ram, was critically injured during the fight and the only medicinal herb which could have saved his life was available in the Himalayan range.
Hanuman came to Himalayas, but got confused, so as to which was the particular herb. Finally, he got that herb and flew to Lanka, the kingdom of Ravana. It was on his way to Lanka that Hanuman rested on the Jakhu hills. It is said that the top of the mountain got flat by his and the mountain’s weight. The temple of Jakhu has since been highly revered by the locals.
There are hundreds of monkeys in and around the temple, who have made this temple and the area around it their habitat. You can easily offer them eatable with care, from a distance, without any danger of their harming you.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Golden Temple, Amritsar,India

Golden Temple is the most sacred shrine for the followers of Sikhism. Located at Amritsar in Punjab, Swarn Mandir is easily accessible by the local means of transport in Amritsar.
The formal name of Golden Temple is Harmandir Sahib, which suggests actually "the Temple of God". Golden Temple is an icon of brilliance and power of the Sikh people throughout the World.
Golden Temple or Harmandir Sahib is also known as Darbar Sahib.
The term Golden Temple was provided to the shrine, due to its gilded structure and picturesque beauty. Generally, one can find picture of Golden Temple in the homes of almost every Sikh round the World.
The Sikhs wish to pay a visit and obeisance to Harmandir Sahib. The advent of the Darbar Sahib is associated with the history and ideology of the Sikhism.
The architecture of the temple encompasses various symbols that are linked with other places of worship. These symbols portray the sense of forbearance and approval, which is put forward by the Sikh philosophy.

Tirupati Temple,Andhra Pradesh, India

Tirumala Tirupati Temple is accredited for being the most visited temple of India and second most visited shrine in the world after Vetican. Positioned on Venkatachala or Ventaka Hill (the seventh peak of the Tirupati Hill) in Chittoor district, Tirupati Temple is also the richest temple of the World. Dedicated to Sri Venketeshwara, the temple lies on the southern side of Swami Pushkarini. Tirupati Balaji Temple is accessible from anywhere in Andhra Pradesh. Tirupati has its own railway station that is connected with all the major cities of the country. The nearest airport to Tirupati lies at a distance of 10 kms in Renigunta. Almost every town and city of Andhra Pradesh offer regular bus services to Sri Venkateswara Temple. Tirupati temple forms the main part of the pilgrimage sites of the Hindus. Being presiding on the seventh peak of Tirupati Hill, Sri Venkateswara is also known as the Lord of the Seven Hills. The term 'Venkateswara' is more popular in southern part of India. However, the Lord is called as Lord Balaji too. He is regarded as the form of Lord Vishnu, who is considered as the preserver of this universe. The divine aura and significance of this temple attracts millions of devotees to its entrance, so long queues of pilgrims are not unusual.


Friday, October 23, 2009

Shirdi Saibaba temple, Shirdi,Maharshtra,India






The Shirdi Saibaba Temple, located at Shirdi, Maharashtra, India attracts millions of devotees of all religions, castes and creed who come to pay homage to Shri Sai Baba. The temple is a beautiful shrine that was built over the Samadhi of Shri Sai Baba.

World's Worst & Best Airports

Worst
1. Heathrow ,London-------------------- UK.
2.Charles de Gaulle,Paris-------------- France
3.Los Angeles International------------USA

Best
1.Changi------------------------Singapore.
2, Chek lap Kok-----------------Hong Kong.

Earthquake in Afganistan

A strong earthquake hit Afganistan
Time------------12.21 am afgan time.
Magnitude-------6.2
Centre-----------Hindu kusk mountains.
Area affected----Pakistan & Afgan cities.
Lagest quake in the area recorded earlier----7.8 on 14 march 1965.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Gyeongbokgung Palace,Seoul,Korea


Built in 1395, Gyeongbokgung Palace is also commonly referred to as the “Northern Palace” because it is located more toward the north, compared to the neighboring palaces of Changdeokgung (Eastern Palace) and Gyeongheegung (Western Palace).
Gyeongbokgung Palace is arguably the most beautiful and remains the grandest of all the five palaces.
The premises were destroyed by fire at the time of the Japan's occupation of Korea during 1592-1598. However, all of the palace's 7,700 rooms were later restored under the leadership of Heungseondaewongun in the years of King Gojong (1852~1919) .
Remarkably, the most representative edifices of the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeonghoe-ru Pavilion and Hyangwonjeong Pond are still relatively in tact. Woldae and the sculptures of Geunjeongjeon (The Royal Audience Chamber) represent the past sculpture art which was the trend back then. The National Palace Museum of Korea is located south of Heungnyemun Gate, and the National Folk Museum is located east within Hyangwonjeong.

St. Paul's Hill, Malaysia

The Portuguese colonised Melaka from 1511 to 1641. The first thing they did was build a fort overlooking the river, calling it A'Famosa. As Melaka was the centre of struggles between super powers of the time, and suffered the constant threat of attack, the A'Famosa fort was critical in Portugal maintaining its colonial foothold in the Far East.
Within the fort walls were housing and food stores, a castle, a meeting room for the Portuguese Council and five churches. A seven-month attack by the Dutch just about destroyed the entire fortress, leaving only the entrance façade and the structure of a church at the top of the hill.
Go for a stroll up St. Paul's Hill on a cool late afternoon and wander among the majestic trees and historical remnants. Here, you can almost imagine the glories and miseries of the besieged lives the Portuguese would have led right here all those years ago...

Most number of Diabetics in India

By the year 2010 India to have most no of Diabetics.
Total world population----by 2010- 7.0 bn
Adult population----------by 2010-4.3 bn
Diabetics------------------by 2010-285 mn
Diabetics in India---------by 2010-50.8 mn
Diabetics in China---------by 2010-43.2 mn
Diabetics in US------------by 2010-26.8 mn
by 2030 8.4 % of indian population will suffer from Diabetes against world average of 7.8 %.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Wong Tai Sin Temple,Kowloon, Hong Kong

Covering 18,000 square metres and located in a tranquil natural setting remote from the nearby housing estates and the bustle of their streets, the temple is, apart from being an important religious centre, a scenic attraction full of beautifully ornamented traditional buildings.
It commemorates the famous monk of yore Wong Tai Sin (also known as Huang Chu-ping), who was born around AD 328 and became a deity at Heng Shan (Red Pine Hill) in his later life.
In 1915, a Taoist priest, Liang Ren-an, brought a sacred portrait of Wong Tai Sin from Guangdong in Southern China to Hong Kong. It was only fitting therefore that this magnificent temple be built and dedicated to this honoured divinity revered down the ages for his benevolence. In perpetuation of such an unselfish philosophy, the temple preaches three traditional religions - Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism.
A two-year “Wong Tai Sin Temple Main Altar Refurbishment and Yuen Sun Hall Erection Project” commenced in April 2008. The original Main Altar and the platform in front of it will be temporary closed.
The sacred portrait of Wong Tai Sin, the patron deity in the Main Altar, was moved to G/F of the Hall of Fung Ming House. During the two-year renovation, visitors are welcome to continue their worship rituals in this Hall.
Other important fixtures include the Three Saints Hall, the Bronze Pavilion (females excluded), the Archives Hall, the Earthly Fountain, the Yue Hing Shrine where the Buddha of the Lighted Lamp is worshipped, the Unicorn (Confucian) Hall where Confucius is worshipped, and the extravagantly colourful Good Wish Garden that is lavishly decorated with many exotic examples of Chinoiserie.

Miu Fat Buddhist Monastery,Hong Kong

The monastery was built in 1950 but the adjoining three-storey Ten Thousand Buddhas Pagoda, which took six years to build, was completed and enshrined in May 1980. The magnificent Main Worship Hall has a building height of about 21 metres and features three 4.8 metre tall gold-plated statues of Buddha Sakyamuni. Its interior walls are adorned with thousands of Buddha images and paintings featuring Thai and Chinese culture. The Pagoda comprises a vihara and the Court of the Jade Buddha. A 20-metre column carved with giant gold-plated dragons on both sides guards the main entrance of the pagoda.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet

Originally built by King Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century, Potala Palace is located on the Red Hill of Lhasa, Tibet. Destroyed by lightning and war, Potala Palace had been rebuilt by the Fifth Dalai Lama in 1645. Since then, Potala Palace has become the seat of Dalai Lamas and also the political center of Tibet. The thirteenth Dalai Lama extended it to the present size, 117 meters (384 ft) in height and 360 meters (1,180 ft) in width, covering an area of more than 130, 000 sq meters (about 32 acres). Mainly comprised by the White Palace (administerial building) and the Red Palace (religious building), Potala Palace is famous for its grand buildings, complicated constructions, devotional atmosphere and splendid artworks.




Bingling Lamasery, China

It is situated in southwestern Yongjing County, on the steep cliffs along the north bank of the Yellow River. It can be only reached after traveling 46 miles by car and then by boat. The word "Bingling" means "thousand Buddhas," or "10 thousand Buddhas" in Tibetan language. The Bingling Lamasery has a history of over 1,500 years. The grottoes are 1.2 miles long and were built in four layers into the mountain. The temple houses 183 grottoes, nearly 800 statues and about a quarter acre of frescoes.

Mt Kailash-Mansarover Yatra


Holy Mount Kailash - Mansarover is one of the most popular ultimate Hindu pilgrimage sites in Himalayan region dedicated to Lord Shiva where every devotee wants to go. Mount Kailash, which is believed to have been formed 30 million years ago when Himalayas were in their early stage of formation, is one of the most revered places in the Himalayas.

Mt Kailash- God Shiva's Paradise.

An Enchanting Pilgrimage

Mt Kailash in Tibetan Himalayas.

6714 m tall mountain.

Tibets's Mt Meru, cosmic centre of the universe.

The foot of Mt Kailash is sacred to Jain's as their first thirthankara attained nirvana here.

Lake Mansarover --88 km circumfrence.

Source of Asia's four great rivers

Brahmaputra

Indus

Karnali

Sutlej

Aug 1998 landslide killed 200 people.

Medical fitness is done for yatra.

Trek begins at Mangti.

40 Km uphill.

2740 m high camp at Budhi.

Spectacular Chiyalekh valley of rare wild flowers.

cobra flower, iris,may apple flower, kasturi kamal.

Gunji camp-3500 m -ved vasya cave.

5334 m- highest indian point on the peak.

Takalakot-4000m

Bone rattling 140 km bus ride

pass Rakshas tal- the salty lake

Deraphuk village

Three day 56 Km parikarma.

Drolma la pass at 5550 m.

Shiv Sthal ---flat strech-- Yama god of death judges people

discarded clothes put here for it will delay yamas summons.

Gauri kund-emarald green lake where parvati bathed-lord shiva's wife.

88 km lake mansarover.

Mt kailash

Diwali,Air & Noise pollution levels in Delhi

Noise Levels in Delhi
Standard level----------55-65 db
On Diwali in 2008-------67-85 db
On Diwali in 2009-------71 -82 db
Normal day in 2008----53 -69 db
Normal day in 2009----54-71 db
Air pollution levels in Delhi
Standard level-----SO2-----80
Diwali---SO2 2008---------7-24
Diwali---SO2 2009---------8-42
Standard level-----NO2----80
Diwali---NO2-2008--------33-83
Diwali---NO2-2009--------32-65
Standard level-----SPM----200
Diwali---SPM-2008--------692-1331
Diwali---SPM-2009--------522-739
Standard level-----RSPM---100
Diwali---RSPM-2008-------578-931
Diwali---RSPM-2009-------414-580

Mount Abu, Rajasthan,India


During the British rule in India, it was the favorite summer destination of the British, who came here to escape the dusty, dry heat of the plains particularly Rajasthan. It also served as a sanatorium for the troops. The small huts and cottages here tell stories of those times even today.Mount Abu was the home of many saints and sages in the old days. Legend has it that all the 330 million gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon used to visit this holy mountain. It is also the place where the great saint Vashishth lived and performed a yagna (sacrificial worship on a fire pit) to create four Agnikula (four clans of fire) to protect the earth from demons. The yagna was supposed to have been performed near a natural spring, which emerged from a rock shaped like a cow's head.



Nagarkot, Nepal

Nagarkot, located 32 kilometers east of Kathmandu, is one of the most scenic spots in Bhaktapur district and is renowned for its spectacular sunrise view of the Himalaya when the weather is clear. Visitors often travel to Nagarkot from Kathmandu to spend the night so that they can be there for the breathtaking sunrise. Nagarkot has become famous as one of the best spots to view Mount Everest as well as other snow-topped peaks of the Himalayan range of eastern Nepal. It also offers an excellent view of the Indrawati river valley to the east. With an elevation of 2,195 meters, Nagarkot also offers a panoramic view of the Valley and is described by visitors as a place whose beauty endures year round.

Dhulikhel, Kathmandu,Nepal











Established in 1981, Dhulikhel Mountain Resort pioneered the Resort concept in Nepal. The resort rests on 20 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and is back-dropped by the breathtaking panorama of the Himalaya. Designed with an ethnic theme, the beautifully furbished cottages are made from red brick with thatch roofs to reflect the traditional architecture of the region.Located on the Arniko Highway (highway to Tibet) about an hour drive from Kathmandu, you can find Dhulikhel Mountain Resort 4 km east of Dhulikhel town, towards the Tibetan Border. The resorts proximity to nearby historical sites, rural villages, natural wilderness and one of Nepal’s finest rafting rivers makes it an ideal stop-off for hiking, whitewater rafting, mountain biking or just relaxing in the pristine environment.We invite you to come and enjoy the majesty of Nepal and the Himalaya in the lap of luxury, let us pamper you with our twenty-eight years of experience in hospitality, share our passion for Nepal’s rich and vibrant culture and revel in the breathtaking views of the snow capped Himalaya.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Iraqis killed in war

2004 to 2008
Total no of persons killed =85,694
No of persons wounded=1,47,195
Population of iraq=29 million
No of children killed=1247
No of women killed=2334
Total no of persons killed in 2004=11313
Total no of persons killed in 2005=15817
Total no of persons killed in 2006=32622
Total no of persons killed in 2007=19155
Total no of persons killed in 2008= 6787
No of unidentified bodies=15000

Bako National Park, Malaysia

Sarawak's oldest national park was established in 1957.
Covers a modest 27 sq. km., and is about 37km from Kuching.
It's known for its extraordinary natural scenery, habitats, plants and wild life.
Its most significant features are secluded coves and rugged rocky headlands with magnificent steep cliffs that overlook the South China Sea.
The sea spray, wave action and the wind have also carved out magnificent sea arches and sea stacks at the base of the cliffs, some rearing above the waves like a mighty serpent's head.
The attractive sandstone formations appear pink with iron patterns on the cliff. Further inland, waterfalls tumble down into freshwater pools in a tranquil and idyllic jungle setting.
Bako contains an incredible variety of plant species and vegetation types, and this is one of the park’s great attractions. At Bako it is possible to see almost every type of vegetation found in Borneo.
Bako is also home to approximately 275 rare proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo. The best times for seeing wildlife at Bako are just after dawn and just before dusk, when the animals are at their most active. Bako is a fascinating place for bird watching, as over 150 species have been recorded here.
Bako’s extensive trail system is made up of 16 colour-coded jungle trails which offer a range of walking and hiking options. The fit and adventurous can opt for full-day jungle hikes or overnight camping expeditions, whilst those who prefer to take it easy can opt for a relaxing forest walk.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Search Operations by dogs



Dog Breed-----------cocker spaniel
Colours available---15
Length--------------15-17 inches
Weight--------------12-15 kg
Nickname------------merry cocker
Rare colour---------sable
Avg lifespan--------12-15 yrs
Used in-------------search operations
Nature--------------Loyal,affectionate,

Friday, October 16, 2009

Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India

Just 40 kms away from Kullu to the north, Manali is situated near the end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. The landscape here is breath taking. One sees well-defined snow capped peaks, the Beas river with its clear water meanders through the town. On the other side are deodar and pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchards. It is an excellent place for a holiday, a favorite resort for trekkers to Lahaul, Spiti, Bara Bhangal (Kangra), and Zanskar ranges. From temples to antiquity, to picturesque sight-seeing spots and adventure activities, Manali is a popular resort for all seasons and for all travellers.

Terror attacks in Pakistan.--A country in turmoil.

Oct 9----Peshawar--- 49 Dead.
Oct 10---Rawalpindi--- 20 Dead.
Oct 12---Swat valley--- 41 Dead.
Oct 15---Lahore,------- 39 Dead.
Peshawar, Kohat
Oct 16---Peshawar-----12 Dead
Oct 20---Islamabad----09 Dead
Nov 02--Rawalpindi----29 Dead
last week---Peshawar--100 Dead
Since mid october-----300 dead
Nov 10---Charsadda---20 Dead
Nov 12--Peshawar-----07 Dead
Nov 14---Peshawar----10 Dead
Nov 15---Peshawar-----03 Dead
Nov 19---Peshawar-----19 Dead

Dec 4----Lahore---------40 Dead
Dec 7----Peshawar-------05 Dead

Dec 8----Multan----------12 Dead
Dec 16--Dera Ghazi Khan--22 Dead
Dec 28--Karachi----------43 Dead
Jan 01--Lakki Merwat----25 Dead
Feb 05-Karachi-----------25 Dead
Mar 12-Lahore------------45 Dead

Fuel wastage on New Delhi Roads, India

Total fuel wasted per day = Rs 10 Crore.
Govt subsidy lost = Rs 1.5 crore
Vehicles added per day on delhi roads. = 1000
Total vehicles on roads = 60 Lakh
Avg time spent by a vehicle on delhi roads = 90 min.
Fuel wasted by car per day =2.5 lit--cost 7.5 crore rupees
Fuel wasted by two wheelers =0.75 lit- cost 2.5 crore rupees
Toatl fuel wasted per day = 30 lakh litres

Thursday, October 15, 2009

The Berlin Wall--facts --now fallen

Basic Facts (at the time of July 31, 1989)
Total border lenght around West Berlin: 96 mi / 155 km
Border between East and West Berlin: 27 mi / 43.1 km
Border between West Berlin and East Germany: 69 mi / 111.9 km
Border through residential areas in Berlin: 23 mi / 37 km
Concrete segment wall: 3.6m (11.81 ft.) high, 66 mi / 106 km
Wire mesh fencing: 41 mi / 66.5 km
Anti-vehicle trenches: 65 mi / 105.5 km
Contact or signal fence: 79 mi / 127.5 km
Column track: 6-7 m (7.33 yd) wide, 77 mi / 124.3 km
Number of watch towers: 302
Number of bunkers: 20
Persons killed on the Berlin Wall: 192
Persons injured by shooting: ca. 200
The Berlin Wall was a symbol of the Cold War and separation of Germany and Berlin.For more than 30 years tourists also came to Berlin to view the Berlin Wall.Today tourists will be disappointed about the Berlin Wall as a tourist attraction. In Berlin only a few sections of the former Berlin Wall and some watch towers still exist and it's to be expected that even more of these Berlin Wall sections on original places will disappear within the next years.

Samares Manor,St Clement, Jersey, UK

This beautiful house has extensive grounds that include one of the largest herd gardens in the UK, plus a Japanese, a drought and water/rock gardens. There is a plant trail, children’s activities and play areas, and guided tours of the Manor House every day (except Sun). The manor’s picturesque Victorian courtyard is the home of the Jersey Rural Life & Carriage Museum; and contains a unique collection of vehicles and exhibits and is open for free guided tours every day.

Pallot Steam, Motor & General Museum, Trinity, Jersey, UK

This fascinating museum, managed by a Trust, was established by its founder, the late Don Pallot, with the object of promoting the permanent preservation of the Island’s mechanical heritage. Whatever the weather, take a step back in time and enjoy the varied collections of steam locos and engines, vintage commercial, military and classic vehicles, bicycles and toys, tractors, agricultural implements and machinery, photographs, lamps, organs and numerous items of memorabilia.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Amar Sagar Lake, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India


Amar Sagar is a small and beautiful lake cum Oasis and is adjacent to a 17th Century palace called the Amar Singh Palace. Maharawal Akhai Singh built this palace in honor of one of his predecessors Amar Singh. Next to the palace are pavilions with a large stairs leading down to the Amar Sagar Lake. This haveli has been constructed in the pattern of apartments. The Amar Sagar is a five story high haveli and is famous for its murals. Wherever you go in this haveli, you will notice beautiful murals painted with delicate efforts. You can find many of wells and ponds in the surrounding which have a royal air about them. There is an old Shiva temple in the complex itself. Amar Singh built this because he was supposed to be an ardent follower of Lord Shiva, a Hindu God related to destruction.

Jaiselmer Fort,Rajasthan,India


Jaisalmer Fort is a monument worth visiting and worth retaining in your conscious mind. Like various other cities of Rajasthan, in Jaisalmer too you will find different facets of its own glorious heritage. Though you can find historical monuments scattered all over the city, the Jaisalmer Fort will immediately command your attention. Made of sand stones and locally known as Sonar Quila, the Jaisalmer Fort is a dominating structure amidst sands. The city is said to be founded by one Raja Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput ruler, in approximately 1156 A D. Legends go by that he did it on the behest of a local hermit named Eesaal. The raja choose Trikuta hill as the new site for his fort as his earlier adobe at Luderwa(16 k.m from present Jaisalmer) was too vulnerable to his comfort. But it should always be kept in mind that these legends are most of the time product of conscious minds that are very vulnerable to the oriental exaggeration. Jaisalmer fort is the second oldest in Rajasthan. Two hundred and fifty feet tall and reinforced by imposing crenellated sandstone wall 30 feet high; it has 99 bastions, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647. Wells within the fort still provide a regular source of water. Even today, you will find that nearly one fourth of the old city's population resides within the fort. If you are a student of cross-cultural merging, the subtle fusion of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles, visible in this fort, will catch your fancy. Ganesh Pol, Akshya Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol are a must see.

Temple of sleeping buddha, Beijing,China


The Temple of the Sleeping Buddha is located in the western suburbs of Beijing. It was build in the Tang Dynasty ( 618-907) and rebuild and renamed in Yuan (1271-1368), Ming (1368-1644), Qing (1644-1911) Dynasties.
The Hall of the Sleeping Buddha is the main structure of the temple. Entering the temple and passing through the Glazed Archway, the Mountain Gate Hall, Devaraja Hall and the Hall of the Buddhas of Three Ages, you come to the Hall of the Sleeping Buddha.
In the hall is the bronze status of Sakyamuni in recumbent position. Cast in 1321, the statue weights about 54 tons and is 5.3 meters in length. Around the status are his 12 disciples molded in clay. The posture of the group is said to be represent a scene in which Sakyamuni was giving instructions to his disciples as he neared the end of his earthly existence.

The Great wall of China


The Great Wall is perhaps China’s most famous and most mythologized site. Several sections are conveniently visited from Beijing, including at Badaling, the most popular site, about 70 km (43 mi.) northwest of Beijing and at Mutianyu, 90 km (56 mi.) northeast of Beijing. These impressive brick and earth structures date from the Ming dynasty, when the wall was fortified against Mongol forces to the north. The Ming wall is about 26 feet tall and 23 feet wide at the base, and could accommodate up to six horsemen riding abreast. Watch towers were built on high points every 200-300 meters or so with small garrison forces that could communicate with fire signals or fireworks. These stretches of the wall are part of a system that extends from the Shanhaiguan fortress on the Bohai Gulf in the east to the Jiayuguan fortress in the west, altogether some 6000 km (3700 mi).
The Ming sections of the wall are only a late stage in a long history, much of which has little to do with the present structures. The wall is most often associated with the First Emperor of China (Qin Shi Huangdi, reigned 221-210 BC), who after unifying China by conquest undertook to link up previously existing sections of walls belonging to conquered states, but on a course far to the north of the present wall. The First Emperor mobilized massive conscripted labor forces, including convicts and prisoners, by some accounts up to a million strong, to conduct this building campaign.

Summer Palace,Beijing , China


Fifteen kilometers (9 miles) to the northwest of Beijing is the Summer Palace. Now a large park of 716 acres, it was formerly the imperial garden retreat from the summer heat of Beijing. Surrounding hills shelter the site, and the Kunming Lake provides a cooling effect. The site was used as an imperial park as early as the mid-12th century, and continued as an imperial garden in the Ming and Qing dynasties. In 1860 Anglo-French forces burned the site to the ground. It was reconstructed by the Empress Dowager Cixi in 1888, using funds that had been reserved for building a modern naval force. The large marble boat that sits immobile by the edge of the lake is an ironic reminder of the waste and mismanagement that led to the decline of the imperial state.

Tiananmen Square , Beijing, China

Just south of the Forbidden City is Tiananmen Square (The Gate of Heavenly Peace Square), the largest inner-city square in the world that can hold up to a million people. It was cleared in 1958 to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic, replacing an older open space in front of the Gate of Heavenly Peace, the main entrance to the imperial city, that had a longer history of political importance. On May 4, 1919, students demonstrated here against provisions of the Treaty of Versailles following World War I that were considered unfair to China. The May Fourth Movement spawned here was a widespread movement for political and literary modernization that impacted the rest of the century.

Beijing, China



As the capital of the People's Republic of China, Beijing is the nation's center of government, economy, culture, and international activities, as well as serving as a transportation hub to the entire country. With a population of 11 million people, Beijing contains 18 districts and counties covering an area of 10,450 square miles. The suburbs contain: Dongcheng, Xicheng, Xuanwu, Chongwen, Chaoyang, Haidian, Fengtai, and Shijingshan. An outer suburban area consists of: Fangshan, Mengtougou, Changping, Tongxian, Shunyi, Daxing, Huairou, Miyun, Pinggu, and Yianqing.Beijing City is an independently administered municipal district located in the northeastern part of China at an elevation of 143 feet above sea level. Beijing has a continental climate. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 24 degrees Fahrenheit. At an average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit, July is the warmest. The best time to visit Beijing is May, September and October.
Beijing has a long history. As early as 500,000 years ago, ancient "Peking Man" lived at Zhoukoudian 30 miles southwest of Beijing. King Wu was the first to declare Beijing the capital city in 1057 B.C. Established in 1045 B.C., Beijing is an ancient cultural city, serving for 800 years as the capital of the Liao, Jin, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Taktshang,Paro Valley, Bhutan


The broad Paro valley is the entry point for all visitors flying into Bhutan on the national carrier, Druk Air. As the plane takes a dramatic sweep into Paro, the flight captain usually warns relieved passengers not to worry if the aircraft’s wings appear to be almost touching the mountainsides. Paro lies at an elevation of 2,280m.
Places to visit include the Paro Dzong, the National Museum housed in a round fortress called the Ta Dzong, and the ruins of the Drugyal Dzong, a 17th century fortress that used to keep invading Tibetan forces at bay, destroyed in fire in 1951.
The Tiger’s Nest or the Taktshang is one of the most popular spiritual heritage sites, perched precariously on the rock face of a sheer cliff 2950m above the ground. It is a short climb of 1.5 hours to 2 hours to the top. For those less inclined to climbing, you can catch a good bird’s eye view from the bottom of the monastery.

Punakha Dzong, Bhutan


Punakha is the ancient capital of Bhutan and lies at an elevation of 1,220m. It takes approximately 2 1/4 hours drive from Thimphu across Dochu-la pass (3116m). Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong.
Built in 1637, the Dzong is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture, sitting at the fork of two rivers, portraying the image of a medieval city from a distance. The Dzong was destroyed by fire and glacial floods over the years but has been carefully restored and is, today, a fine example of Bhutanese craftsmanship.
Punakha is a sub-tropical valley where food grains, vegetables and fruits grow in abundance.
A short drive up the valley is the Khamsum Yulley Chorten (stupa), constructed in 1992, as one of three such chortens in the world, one being the National Memorial Chorten in Thimphu.Punakha is the ancient capital of Bhutan and lies at an elevation of 1,220m. It takes approximately 2 1/4 hours drive from Thimphu across Dochu-la pass (3116m). Once you cross the pass, you wind down into a warm fertile valley and meander along a gently flowing aquamarine river that leads you to the Punakha Dzong.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Etruscan museum of Villa Giulia, Rome,Italy


Villa Giulia, located in Villa Borghese area, was built as a country retreat for Pope Julius III, at the time it hosted a collection of innumerable statues which were moved to the Vatican Museums after the Pope's death. Vignola, Vasari and the sculptor Ammannati planned the gardens (Michelangelo contributed as well).
Since 1889 it has been the most important Etruscan museum in Italy. It exhibits handicrafts originating from the main excavations in Lazio and in Tuscany. The facade of the Villa Giulia, the pattern (1552) of which reminds a triumphial arch, the courtyard andthe gardens, as well as the splendid Nymphaeum, a scenographic complex with stairs, caves, passages, four caryatids supporting a little balcony and, underneath, the Acqua Vergine Fountain, are particularly admirable. It decayed along the centuries and acquired its old splendour in 1889; ever since that year it has been the most important Etruscan museum in Italy (Villa Giulia National Museum) hosting handicrafts originating from th emain excavations in Latium and Tuscany:We would like to recall the "Dawn Faliscan Crater" of the 4th century BC, the very famous "Couple Sarcophagus" from Cerveteri of the 6th century BC; the "Ficoroni BUckle" and the "Veio Apollo".

Roman Colosseum,Italy

The Roman Colosseum or Coliseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commisioned in AD 72 by Emperor Vespasian. It was completed by his son, Titus, in 80, with later improvements by Domitian. The Colosseum is located just east of the Roman Forum and was built to a practical design, with its 80 arched entrances allowing easy access to 55,000 spectators, who were seated according to rank.
The Coliseum is huge, an ellipse 188m long and 156 wide. Originally 240 masts were attached to stone corbels on the 4th level.








Castles of Catalonia,Spain


In the Middle Ages, feudal lords, beautiful maidens and valiant soldiers populated castles which, centuries later, now open their gates and portcullises to you. In Catalonia there are some 600 medieval fortresses, many of which are open for visits all year round.

Avila, Spain


Avila, a World Heritage Site, rises under the shelter of the Gredos Sierra. Behind the walls of this capital of Castile-León, a priceless compound is concealed, made up of Renaissance churches and palaces: a silent witness to the bygone splendour of the city when it was a textile power.
Being the birthplace of Santa Teresa de Jesús, the city has a number of religious buildings —inside and outside the walled enclosure— related to the life of the mystic.

Lake Garda, Italy


Infamous as Mussolini’s Republic of Salo headquarters and later the place of his execution, Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. Watering the fertile plains of Lombardy and the Veneto in the south, it is become temperamental up north where it expands to the Alps. The lake’s shores are beautiful with lush greenery and exotic flowers. The region around the lake was earlier a Roman settlement. The hot springs in Sirmione led to the lake’s popularity as a holiday destination. The spring still draws visitors from far and distant lands. Grada is the cleanest of the major lakes and draws swimmers and windsurfers. In fact it is consider the wind surfing Mecca of Europe.

Positano, Italy


A drive down the Amalfi coast is one of Italy's most popular excursion and attracts millions of tourists every year. Positano is an old coastal village that dates back to the 10th century AD. It was once the chief seaport for trade with the Middle East. It has also been a muse to countless artists who’ve come to her for inspiration. Today, Positano has become an upscale resort for movie sets and holidaying celebrities. It is now teeming with tourists who come by busloads during summer. If you don’t want to get lost among the myriad tour groups, you should visit any other time of the year as Postiano is a great all-year destination.
Positano has only 3700 inhabitants and situated close to Salerno. It is a fabulous mountain holiday spot and at the same time a perfect seaside holiday spot with ten sun-kissed beaches.
It was part of the Amalfi Republic in the 8th, 10th and 11th centuries and was one of the most important commercial centers in the 10th century. It region was extremely prosperous in the 16th and 17th centuries when trade flourished with the Middle East.

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Vatican Museum, Italy


The origin of the Vatican Museum dates back to the early 16th century as a collection of sculptures by Pope Julius II (1503-1513). He placed in what today is the Cortile Ottagono within the museum complex. The popes displayed their art collections to the public as a tool to promote knowledge of art history and culture. The Museums of Antiquities contain the richest collection of classical art in the work. The collection was mainly due to the effort put in by Popes Clement IV, Pius VI, Pius VII and Gregory XVI. They reorganized and expanded the collection of Roman antiquities that was amassed during the RenaissanceHe placed in what today is the Cortile Ottagono within the museum complex. The popes displayed their art collections to the public as a tool to promote knowledge of art history and culture. The Museums of Antiquities contain the richest collection of classical art in the work. The collection was mainly due to the effort put in by Popes Clement IV, Pius VI, Pius VII and Gregory XVI. They reorganized and expanded the collection of Roman antiquities that was amassed during the Renaissance

Black Forest,Germany

The Black Forest is fundamentally known for three specific features-- its location on the highlands, the wonderful scenery and woods, and the typical Black Forest Gateau which finds its triumph on delectable cherry shnapps and the classic cuckoo-clock.
One of its more famous, and frequently visited natural habitats is the Black Forest Region, known as Schwarzwald by native speakers.Other famous features of the Black Forest region included the traditional, uniquely-designed hats that featured huge pompoms, caled the Bollenhut, produced by the inhabitants of the forest. These distinctive hats were part of Germany's more traditional costumes

The Church of our lady,Dresden, Germany



The Church of Our Lady that impressively stands at the moment in Dresden sadly is not the original church that once stood in that same spot. The original Dresdner Frauenkirche was constructed between the years 1726 and 1743 at the time of Saxony Prince elector Frederick August I. These prince electors compose an electing body whose job was to elect who would be the next Holy Roman emperor. Surprisingly, Frederick August I who was a Catholic Christian did not hinder the construction of a new and large Lutheran church in one of the cities in his state.
And so, the baroque-styled Lutheran Church of Our Lady in Dresden was completed in less than 20 years. The most noticeable and distinguishing feature of the Church of Our Lady, Dresden is undoubtedly the church's high dome which reaches more than 300-feet in height and is made of 12,000 tons of sandstone. This intricate work of art and engineering found in the Church of Our Lady, Dresden is known as die Steinerne Glocke which means Stone Bell.
The Church of Our Lady in the City of Dresden had suffered damages during the Seven Years' War in the late 1700's. However, it received further damages during the Second World War which left it in utter ruins. The church however, underwent reconstruction and was finally rebuilt on 2005.

THE DEUTSCHE GUGGENHEIN MUSEUM - BERLIN,GERMANY




This 510-square-meter art gallery is a showcase of modern art, both in the structure itself and in the extensive exhibits it opens for the visual pleasure of the general public. The museum opened in November 1997 with the exhibit Visions of Paris: Delaunay's Series, and has since become a moving force behind the promotion of arts and culture and emerging German artists.

Located on Unter den Liden, a historical place in the heart of Berlin, the spacious museum mounts four major exhibitions annually, with special highlight on the arts of the 20 and 21st century. The works are commissioned by some of the most interesting artists in modern German art like Jeff Wall, Phoebe Washburn, Hanne Darboven and William Kentridge.

The museum can be reached through a major train station. It is built between the River Rhine and the Cologne Cathedral.

The Forum - This is a special 500-seater hall in the museum where special events like concerts, literary readings and cultural conferences and performances are held.