Majestic Hill Forts Of Rajasthan - Included In World Heritage Sites by UNESCO

All people living in this world almost have heard about the beauty and historic culture of Rajasthan. The state is very popular for its historic beauty because many rulers have ruled in the different cities of Rajasthan. Due to this they had constructed many forts and palaces for their living. But after their death, these forts and palaces became tourists’ places because of their beauty. To prevent the natural and cultural beauty of Rajasthan forts is the duty of the people because one cannot get these forts built again.

Gagron Fort (Image by William Warren on Flickr)

Kumbhalgadh Fort (Image by Tushar Dayal on Flickr)

Six majestic hill forts of Rajasthan Gagron Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Amber Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Chittorgarh Fort and Ranthambore Fort have been included in UNESCO world heritage sites. Aim of putting these forts in world heritage sites is to prevent its value universally. They are included in UNESCO world heritage sites after the approval in 37th meeting of ‘World Heritage’ committee in Cambodia. After the addition of these forts in heritage sites, they will receive the international recognition by the efforts of UNESCO.

Amber Fort (Image by Anthony Gurr on Flickr)

Jaisalmer Fort (Image by Wolfgang on Flickr)

 

All these forts are surrounded by various landscapes of deserts, dense forests, hills and rivers for the defense of the forts. They have water harvesting structures that are still in use today. Six hill forts reflect the power of Rajputs and their political independence.

Chittorgadh Fort (Image by Sandeepgill47 on Flickr)

Vijay Stambh - Tower of Victory in Chittorgarh Fort (Image by Amit Rawat on Flickr )

Ranthambore Fort (Image by TuAnh Nguyen on Flickr)

Forts have several unique properties and for this reason they join UNESCO world heritage sites. Its universal values are:-

Integrity

These six forts form the complete group when seen in a series and demonstrate the properties of universal value without depending on future addition of any forts to the series.

Authenticity

All these forts depict the history, culture and bravery of ancient ruler of Rajasthan. The authenticity of the forts is maintained even today because of their originality in the basic architecture.

Cultural Beauty

The six forts when combined show their eternal beauty all over the world. All of them attract people throughout the world.

Great architecture

All these forts depict the great art and culture of the states and represent the glory of their rulers. These buildings are very good epitomes of art and architecture.

Due to these properties, six Rajasthan hill forts join UNESCO world heritage sites. When UNESCO declared this news, all ‘Rajasthanis’ have celebrated the feeling of happiness together. As soon as this announcement has spread over the state, great enthusiasms have been seen on the faces of all people of Rajasthan.

Following the blog ABC Wednesday for "W"

Cultural Tour of Royal Rajasthan

India is a very colorful and exotic place for travelling because it has diverse culture. It has variety of food, costumes, traditions, etc. It is a perfect destination for all the tourists since many years. The history of India is very vibrant and ethnic from many years. Among its many states, Rajasthan is one the popular and famous state. Tourists among various countries and itself India are attracted towards the beauty of this state. Museums are also one of the attractions of Rajasthan where tourist can get knowledge of the ancient times. The culture of Rajasthan is very vast and dynamic. Historical places in Rajasthan speak a lot about its culture, tradition, socio-economic customs.

Albert Hall Museum, Jaipur (Image by Anil Khubani on Flickr)

Interior area of Albert hall museum (Image by i2n2 on Flickr)

Painting of Albert hall museum (Image by John McCAbe on flickr)

Sculpture of Albert hall museum (Image by Shashi Rajput on flickr)

In cultural tour of Rajasthan, one can visit places likes:-

•    Forts are the places that remind us about our culture and traditions. They are symbol of old civilization and they are very valuable archeological assets of our country.

•    The various temples depict the Hindu tradition and their culture.

•    Palaces of Rajasthan are beautifully designed and their artistic works are well known in the whole country.

 

Chittorgarh Fort

 

Dadhimait Mata temple (Image in Wikipedia)

 

City Palace, Jaipur 

Tradition and lifestyle

Many religions are found in Rajasthan but Hinduism is the dominant religion. Different people practice their own customs rituals, beliefs and behavior. All this depicts that Rajasthan has unity in diversity. The festivals of this state are the symbol of its rich heritage. Various festivals are celebrated throughout the year like pushkar fair, desert festival, camel festival and teej. Through these the visitors can enjoy the true colors of Rajasthan.

Desert festival, Jaisalmer (Shobha yatra), Image by anupama kinagi on flickr

Desert festival, Jaisalmer (Image by anupama kinagi on flickr)

 Art and literature

Rajasthan has a magnificent architecture .The stone work of this state is very popular and this is the best place where the tourists can shop handicrafts, paintings & work of art.

 

Handicrafts in Celebration Mall, Udaipur

Dance and music

It is the prime part of Rajasthan culture. The devotional and classical songs of Rajasthan talks about it rich past. The folk dance like Ghumar, kathputli etc is the source of great enjoyment for the tourists.

Bhavai folk dance, Rajasthan (Image by selvin kurian on flickr)

Various instruments like Ektara, dholak, sitar etc attracts the music lovers. 
 

Ektara seller man in Jaisalmer

Food and Flavours

The tourists can enjoy delicious food & Snacks in Rajasthan. Lassi of Jodhpur, milk sweets of bharatpur, sohan halwa of Ajmer are one of the specialties of Rajasthan.

Special Makhania Lassi, Jodhpur 

A Visit to Rajasthan is a complete package for the Tourists to enjoy all aspects of life. www.ercotravels.com

Following the blog ABC Wednesday for "T"

Fascinate in the Incredible Sights of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, a larger state (Area wise) in India popular all across the globe due to its historical stories related to kings, monuments, wildlife, culture, sand dunes, heritage sites, festivals, folk dances, etc.  “Land of Kings” is the another name of this state. Many kings conquer this state and reign there for some time. So, many trails of kings collected there, which can be heard now from the mouth of local populations. Even the palaces which they used to live is also located there and are in the glamorous look. Some places of this state like Bikaner and Jaiselmer are full of deserts. Sand dune activity is the popular one of these places.

Camel Safari in Jaiselmer

Mount Abu Hill Station (Image on Wikipedia)

Dilwara Temple Near Mount Abu(Image by Sensaos on Flickr )

Interior view of Dilwara Temples (Image by Rakhee on Flickr )

City Palace, Udaipur

Hill Stations like Mount Abu and Udaipur are famous tourist places in Rajasthan. The large number of tourists travel there to seek the beauty of this state. Mount Abu is famous for its hills, climate and religious temples like the famous group of temples known as Dilwara temples. Aravalli mountain ranges give a unique view of nature at this place. Udaipur is also known as the City of Lakes and Palaces as many Lakes and Palaces are there. Serene atmosphere makes anyone captivate to this place for a long time. One of the Palaces is City Palace of Udaipur, located on the bank of the famous Lake Pichola. This palace itself tells the history behind the Rajasthan especially the Udaipur. Like City Palace, many palaces are there that located in the lake or on the side of a lake. The boat ride is available there to visit all the palaces.

Rajasthani Flok dance

Rajasthani cuisine

Ghevar

The culture of the Rajasthan is famous worldwide. Either it is classical music or the folk dances depicts the reflection of its culture. Folk dances include Ghoomar, Kalbeliya, Bhavai, Kuchchi Ghodi, etc. reflects the proper culture as the dancers wear the traditional dresses that bewitched the eyes of the people. Music is also traditional like the famous ones are Bhajans, Banis, etc. all sung with the traditional instruments like Dholak, Sitar, Sarangi, etc. Food of this state, also influenced the visitors. Bikaneri Bhujia, Mirchi Bada, Pyaaj Kachori and Ghevar are the famous dishes of Rajasthan that reflects the old culture of the state. Marwari Bhojanalayas are most common and located at very least distances.

Deer Family in Ranthambore National park (Image by Saran Vaid on Flickr)

Tiger in Sariska National Park (Image by Koshy Koshy on Flickr)

Wildlife of the state is another good way to explore this state. Many national parks and sanctuaries are available there that contains a variety of flora and fauna. Some of the popular parks include Desert National Park in Jaisalmer, Ranthambore National Park in Jaipur, Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar, Tal Chhapar Sanctuary in Sujangarh, etc. All these contain the threatened species, rare species as well as extinct species of both flora and fauna.

handicraft Items shop in Jaipur, Rajasthan 

Handicraft items are also famous thing of this state. Wooden furniture, carpets, pottery, etc. all dubbed with block prints, tie & die, bagaru prints, sanganer prints, zari embroidery, etc. that attracts anyone towards it and made to purchase it once at least.

Shopping in Jaipur (Image by Eric Parker on Flickr)

Camel Race in Pushkar, Rajasthan (Image by thijsvanbokkem on Flickr)

Festival time is the best to visit this place as the whole state is covered with colors of joy and happiness. Fun and amusement surround the state from everywhere. Some of the main festivals include Deepawali, Gangaur, Teej, Gogaji, Makar Sankranti, Holi and Janmashtami. Desert festival of Rajasthan held once in a year during winter period. Ladies and gents dressed traditionally and dance to the rhythm of the famous songs. Fairs are also held in this period of time. Local population displays the shows of puppeteers, acrobats, camel race, snake charmers and many more. So, at this time, anyone dwell in this region for a long time.

Climate of mount about

Climate of Rajasthan varies from place to place like in Udaipur and Mount Abu, it is very cool and placid while in Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, it is very hot in summers and very cold in winters. Thus, Rajasthan is a state having all the qualities either it is desert or a hill station, one can find it there in a best possible mood.

Following the blog ABC Wednesday for "S"

Qutub Minar – The Tower that Survived History

Rome wasn't built in a day! The same is also true about Qutub Minar in Delhi, the capital of India. This amazing tower is a five-story brick Minar, whose construction was started in 1192 AD by Qutbu'd-Din Aibak. Iltutmush completed this monument during the time period of 1211-36 AD. Qutub or Qutb Minar is made of marble and red sandstone and is the tallest standing minar in India. Qutub Minar is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a major tourist attraction of Delhi.

Image by AnkurDauneria on flickr.com

Some basic information about Qutub Minar is as follows:

Year of Foundation  – 1192 AD

Commissioned by – Qutbu'd-Din Aibak

Total Height – 72.5 meters

Base diameter – 14.32 meters

Diameter at the top – 2.75 meters

Number of stairs – 379

Listed as World Heritage Site – 1993

Qutub Minar – Image by Sharkawi Che Din on flickr.com

The purpose of its constructed is doubtful as many believe it was created to mark the victory over Delhi by Qutbu'd-Din Aibak while many others say that it was just a minaret to call for Islamic prayers. There are many tombs and ruins near the Minar belonging to different rulers and kingdoms. Other attractions around Qutub Minar are Iron Pillar, Alai Minar, Alai Darwaza and Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque.

Iron Pillar – Image by gwashley by flickr.com

Alai Minar in Qutb Complex

Qutub Minar was damaged multiple times because of natural cause like earthquakes and lightning strikes. Many rulers repaired it time and again to preserve this wonderful monument.

Our Entry for ABC Wednesday - Q is for Qutub Minar

Priceless Heritage of Orchha

Orchha is a small town, situated in the Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh. It was the ancient capital city of the Bundela Kings. Many palaces and temples make this destination a popular tourist places in Madhya Pradesh. It is bordered by the beautiful Betwa River. It reflects the sumptuousness and the magnificence of the Bundelas. Being an artificial island, it lives up to its name. It is placed in the lustrous countryside and this pretty locale is bestowed with natural beauty and splendor.

Orchha

With its stunning forts, regal palaces, carved temples and chhatris, it presents a matchless spectrum and is a delightful place for nature lovers. It is renowned for its world class paintings. The frescoes that placed on the walls of the beautiful temples and the royal palace of Orchha makes the viewer spellbound in its beauty.  A number of places are there that attract tourists:-

Jehangir Mahal Palace

The Jehangir Mahal Palace is located in Orchha and a must visit site. This palace was completed in 1598 by the Salem Prince of Mughal. It was mainly built as a garrison to counter the attack of the rebels Bundela Empire. It is basically popular for its wonderful architectural design. The dome of the palace was built according to Timurud customs. Numerous windows are available in the palace that passes natural air and a good source of light.  

Jehangir Mahal Palace

Raj Mahal

Raj Mahal temple is one of the most visited attractions of Orchha. It is the place which receives thousands of travelers from across the globe. The construction of the temple began in the 16th century by Rudra Pratap Singh. The Mahal was not completed by Rudra, so the completion is carried out by his successor Madhukar Shah.

Raj Mahal

Chaturbhuj Temple

Chaturbhuj temple is located in the state of Madhya Pradesh and is another popular attraction of the tourists. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is mostly worshipped in this place. The name of the temple simply reflects Lord Vishnu. The architecture of the temple is beautiful enough to dwell anyone into it.

Chaturbhuj Temple

Laxminarayan temple

This temple is one of the three major temples of Orchha and is most visited by the tourists. Its construction was started by Vir Singh Deo but later dilapidated and renovated by Prithvi Singh. It is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi though there is no ideal of the goddess inside the temple.

Laxminarayan Temple

Phool Bagh

Phool Bagh or garden is a beautiful place and an ideal picnic spot. It is located in Orchha state of Madhya Pradesh. This garden was built as a memorial for the prince of Orchha and remind his martyrs. It is surrounded by beautiful flowers and the rulers of the Orchha used it as a summer place. In this popular garden, there is a wonderful fountain that is known as Chandan Katora. 

Phool Bagh

Chhatries in Orchha

Chhatries in Orchha bears grandeur of the palace. These are the prominent attractions in Orchha. These are beautifully constructed and symbolize the immense contribution of the ruler of each dynasty of Bundelkhand. All the chhatries represent the enriched cultural heritage and traditional legacy. There are about 14 chhatries which were erected after the name of the royal dynasty of Bundelkhand to crown their success in the wars with the neighboring rulers. 

Chhaties in Orchha

Ram Raja Temple

This temple is popular as it bears the relics to the religious history and architectural ancestry of the archaic times. Initially, it was a huge palace of Madhukar Shah but later transformed into a temple. 

Ram Raja Temple

Many other attractions are there such as Rai Parveen Mahal, Orchha sanctuary, etc. that are most visited by tourists. Thus, the place is popular for its royal architectural grandeur. A large number of people from across the globe come to India to visit this place. visit: www.ercotravels.com

Following the blog ABC Wednesday for "P"

Switch to “One Tree Hill Point” after a fuss with your Better Half

Squabble is the part of life. Nobody left with this. It happened to you also within the past time with anyone, maybe it was with your friend, girlfriend, boyfriend, wife, husband, sister, brother, father, mother or anybody else. It always stumbles when you are in a relationship with somebody. Whether it is a relation of daughter, son, or wife and husband. So, everybody is a part of this tiff whether he/she is in a relationship with another person or not. No matter if the fuss is with an unknown person. But, it hurts a lot when your beloved one or the better half screwed you on the half-baked points terribly. Oh! That really chopped you.

Neral to Matheran Hill Station by Toys Train

After indulging in fuss, stress is the next thing that knocks at your door. Many things are there to get rid of all this. But, sometimes one needs an irenic place where nobody vexed you. Instead of being a part of the depressed people forum, try to go ahead with your life and rejuvenate it while traveling to some reposing places. 

One Tree Hill Point

"One tree hill point” is one of the places that takes you far from all these squeezed things. It can be your choice to lose your temper perfectly. Being located in the hills of Matheran, Mumbai, visited by a large number of tourists. The name of the hill point clearly confesses you that a tree perched at the top of this huge hill which is a Jambhul tree. To reach the point, you have to hike through Shivaji’s ladder. Hiking up and climbing down from the hill to the valley is really a unique experience that draws you away from all those knick knacks that annoyed you in the day-to-day life. The place is a refreshing retreat from all the frenzied things.

Shivaji’s Ladder

View from "One Tree Hill Point"

Cool air, calm surroundings, glistening sunlight, peaky hills, eye feasting views, picturesque sightseeing, deep valley, etc. all merge together to make this destination one of the best ones. Besides this, palatable cuisines and further opportunities of exploring the surrounding areas make the trip more delightful. Also, it is the best place for writers and poets. Writing in the midst of the same location can be venturesome but really a right choice by them. Due to all these things, one can cite its glory as:-

“Sun shines over the hill,

People start running to the hill,

Sun goes down the hill,

People climb down the hill,

Moon turns over the hill,

And turns it into a rosewood hill”

 This place is adventurous enough for trek lovers. Trekking can be done to reach on the top of the hill. Walking on the foot is another good idea as it gives you a unique experience in the sense of passing through the forested paths. Another way to reach there is horse riding which is a thrilling experience as it passes through the gorges of the valley.

Trekking Route

A single visit to this point makes you feel as you are in heaven and reminds you of the trip again and again. Click all the breathtaking views and in the time of squabble, remind the lush green hills, cozy air, that beautiful Jambhul tree, trek experience, etc.. that gives you peace of mind and relaxes your body. It gives you the feel as you get back to that place where nobody even try to screw you. This really soothes your mind and take you away from the psychotic problems of life. So, make your life strain free by visiting this miraculous destination at least once in a lifetime.

Following the blog ABC Wednesday for "O"