AGRA_____________________________

Agra is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River. The city achieved fame as the capital of the Mughal emperors from 1526 to 1658 AD and remains a major tourist destination because of the many splendidMughal-era buildings, most notably the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, all three of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Agra is a vibrant centre of Culture, Art and religiousphilosophies that have enriched mankind and shaped human thought over centuries. Agra's climate is tropical and prone to extremes, reaching as high as 45C (113F) during the summers and as low as 4C (40F) in the winters. The rainy season is between June and September and the city receives an annual rainfall of 660 millimeters (26 inches).

Religious Spots

Radhaswami Samadhi
It is often called the Mecca of Radhaswami religion. The holy ashes of the founder of the religion have been preserved here. On the sprawling lawns here, is a beautiful marvel temple with beautiful carving of fruits, flowers, leaves and plants which have been reduced into stone true to nature, and are distinctive specimens of the plastic arts. Open Time : 9 A.M. to 5.30 P.M.

Other Religious Places

* * * * * * * * * Kailash temple Mankameshwar temple Balkeshwar temple Prithvinath temple Rajeshwar temple Guru ka tal gurudwara Baptist Church Catholic Church Digambar Jain Mandir

Historical Places

Taj Mahal
One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Taj Mahal, is Indias most fascinating and beautiful monument. The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the final resting place for his beloved queen, Mumtaz. The monument was completed in 1653 A.D. This perfectly symmetrical monument took 22 years (1630-1652) tocomplete. Approximately 20,000 workers, Masons and jewelers worked hard to build it. Built by the Persian architect, Ustad Isa, The Taj Mahal is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River. It can be observed like a Mirage from the Agra Fort from where Emperor Shah Jahan looked at it, for the last eight years of his life as a prisoner of his son Aurangzeb. It is a masterpiece of symmetry, which seems to be floating in the air from a distance. The verses of Holy Koran as inscribed on it and at the top of gate with 22 small domes signify the number of years the monument took to built. The Taj Mahal has been built on a Marvel Platform that stands above a standstone platform. The most elegant dome of the Taj is the one with a diameter of 60 feet and a height of 80 feet. Directly under this dome is the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan's tomb was irected next to the dome by his son Aurangzeb. Fantastic Inley works using semi-precious stones decorate and interiors. Open Time : 6 A.M. to 7.30 P.M. (Friday is closed)

Agra Fort
The great Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the Agra Fort in 1565 A.D, although additions were made till the time of his grandson Shah Jahan. The forbidding exteriors of this fort hide an inner paradise. The fort is crescent shaped, flattened on the east with a long, nearly straight wall facing the river. It has a total perimeter of 2.4 km, and is ringed by double castellated ramparts of red sandstone punctuated at regular intervals by bastions. There are a number of exquisite buildings like the Moti Masjid-a white marvel mosque akin to a perfect pearl, Diwan-e-Am, Diwan-e-Khaas, Jehangir's Palace, Khaas Mahal, Shish Mahal and Musamman or Samman Burj-where Shahjahan was held captive in 1666 A.D. Open Time : Sunrise to Sunset. Sikandra Agra Fort Sikandra The mausoleum of Emperor Akbar represents his philosophy and secular outlook, combining the best of Hindu and Muslim architectures in a superlative region. Completed in 1613 A.D. by his son Jahangir, it is one of the well preserved monuments. This was also the last resting place of the Mughal Empror

Akbar. Open Time : Sunrise to Sunset.

Itmad-e-Daulah
Itmad-e-Daulah is the tomb of Mirza Ghyas Beg, a persian who offered his services in Akbars Court. The tomb was designed by Emperor Jehangir's Queen, Noorjahan, for his father Mirza Ghyas Beg during 1622-1628 A.D. Open Time : Sun rise to Sunset.

Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar during 1564 A.D. Mughal Emperor Akbar had no heir. He visited holy men to enlist their prayers for his son. When he visited Sheikh Salim Chishti who lived at the village of Sikri, the saint foretold the emperor that he would be blessed with a son. When his son was born, he constructed his capital city and named it Fatehpur Sikri. The beautiful marvel tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti still attracts thousands who seek blessings of the revered saint. Other renowned places are Dewane-e-Am, Dewane-e-Khaas, Buland Darwaja, Panch Mahal, Jodha Bai Palace and Birbal Bhawan. Fatehpur Sikri is about 39 K.M. from Agra. Open Time : Sunrise to Sunset.

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Allahabad Tourist Place

Allahabad is one of the largest cities of the State ofUttar Pradesh in India. The ancient name of the city in was Prayaga ("place of sacrifice" and "Confluence") and is considered to be the place where Brahma offered his sacrifice after creating the world. It is one of the sites for the grand Kumbh Mela. Allahabad is of religious importance to the Hindus as it is situated at the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga and Yamuna, and the Hindu belief says that the invisible Sarasvati River also joins here. The summer season is from April to June with the maximum temperatures ranging between 40C to 45C. Monsoon begins in early July and lasts till September. The winter season lasts for the months of December, January and February in which temperatures drop to zero degrees Celsius with a maximum of 12 to 14 C.Allahabad also witnesses severe fog in January resulting in massive traffic jams. It does not snow in Allahabad. Lowest temperature recorded -2 C; highest, 48 C.

Religious Spots
Sangam

Around 7 km from Civil Lines, overlooked by the eastern ramparts of the fort, wide flood plains and muddy banks protrude towards the sacred Sangam. At the point at which the brown Ganges meets the Greenish Yamuna, pandas (priests) perch on small platforms to perform puja and assist the devout in their ritual ablutions in the shallow waters. Beaches and ghats are littered with the shorn hair of pilgrims who come to offer pind for their deceased parents. The sacred Sangam is the confluence of three of the holiest rivers in the Hindu mythology Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati. At the Sangam, the waters of the Ganges and the Yamuna can be distinctly seen merging into one. It is during the Kumbh / Ardh Kumbh that the Sangam truly comes alive, attracting the devout from all across the country. The holy Sangam is the site for Annual Magha Mela/Ardh Kumbh/Kumbh Mela. Boats are available for visitors.

Kumbh Mela
Hindus traditionally regard river confluences as auspicious places, so the Sangam at Allahabad, where the Yamuna and the Ganges meet the River of Enlightenment, the mythical Saraswati is considered at the most auspicious place for the Hindus. According to a legend, Vishnu was carrying a kumbh (pot) of amrita (nectar), when a scuffle broke out between the gods, and four drops were spilled. They fell to earth at the four tirthas of Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik and Ujjain (tirtha means "ford of a river". Sangam is a place where the devout can cross from this finite world into divine celestial realms. The event is commemorated every three years by the Kumbh Mela, held at each tirtha in turn; the Sangam is known as Tirtharaja, the "King of Tirthas", and its Mela, once every twelve years, is the greatest and holiest of all.

Patalpuri Temple
Patalpuri is an underground temple, inside the Allahabad fort. In this temple lies the Akshaya Vat or the immortal tree. It is believed that Lord Rama, has visited the temple and the temple was also seen by the famous Chinese traveller and writer Hiuen Tsang during his visit to this place.

Akshaya Vat
The immortal tree within the Patalauri temple, has found mention in the description of several ancient scriptures, writers and historians. The tree stands in a deep niche above an underground shaft, which is said to lead to Triveni.

Hanuman Mandir

The Hanuman Mandir near Sangam is unique in North India, for its supine image of Hanumana. The big idol of Lord Hanumana is in a reclining posture. When the Ganga is in spate, this temple gets submerged.

Shankar Viman Mandapam

Shankar Viman Mandapam is 130 feet high with four floors, it has the idols of Kumaril Bhatt, Jagatguru Shankaracharya, Kamakshi Devi (with 51 Shaktipeethas around), Yogsahastra Sahastrayoga Linga (with 108 Shivas around).

Mankameshwar Temple
Mankameshwar temple is situated near Saraswati Ghat, on the banks of Yamuna, this is one of the famous Shiva Temples of Allahabad.

Historical Places
Allahabad Fort
The massive fort built by Emperor Akbar in 1583 A.D., the fort stands on the banks of the Yamuna near the confluence site. In its prime, the fort was unrivalled for its design, construction and craftsmanship. This huge, majestic fort has three magnificent galleries flanked by high towers. At present is used by the army and only a limited area is open for visitors. The magnificent outer wall is intact and rises above the water edge. Visitors are allowed to see the Ashokan Pillar and Saraswati Kup, a well, said to be the source of the Saraswati River and Jodhabai Palace. The Patalpur temple is also here. So is the much revered Akshaya Vat or immortal Banyan tree.

Ashoka Pillar
This gigantic Ashoka pillar, of polished sandstone stands 10.6 meters high and dates back to 232 B.C. The pillar has several edicts and a Persian inscription of Emperor Jahangir in scripted on it, commemorating his accession to the throne.

Parks and Gardens

Minto Park
Minto Park is situated near Saraswati Ghat, it has a stone memorial with a four-lion symbol on top, the foundation of which was laid by Lord Minto in 1910.

Bithoor Tourist Place

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About the place Bithoor was earlier known as Brahmavarta. It is a centre of Hindu pilgrimage and is situated near Kanpur. According to Hindu mythology it is the place where Lord Brahma, the God of Creation, started creating world. Religious Spots

Valmiki Ashram The Valmiki Ashram is located at a height and it is accessible by a flight of stairs which are known as the "stairway to heaven". A panoramic view of Bithoor can be enjoyed from this ashram.

Brahmavart Ghat Brahmavart Ghat is considered the holiest Ghat of Bithoor. Devotees of Lord Brahma pray at the altar of the "Wooden Slippers" after a ritual dip in the Ganga.

Dhruva teela Dhruva teela marks the place where the child Dhruva meditated single mindedly as he stood on one leg. As a reward, God granted Dhruva the divine boon to shine for all time as a star.

Other Places Ram Janki temple, Luv-Kush temple, Haridham Ashram and NanaRao Smarak.

Braj Bhoomi Tourist Place

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Bithoor Braj_Bhoomi Chitrakoot Deogarh Jaunpur Jhansi Kalinjar Kanpur Kapilvastu Kushinagar Lucknow Mahoba Sarnath Sravasti Varanasi Helplines

About the place

Brajbhoomi the land where Lord Krishna was born and spent his youth is a famous pilgrimage place for Hindus. Braj Bhoomi is the name which covers all the places where Lord Krishna has spent his childhood and days of youth. The land of Braj starts from Kotban near Hodel about 95 km from Delhi and ends at Runakta which is known specially for its association with the great poet Surdas, an ardent Krishna devotee. Brajbhoomi can be divided into two distinct units The Eastern Part in the Trans-Yamuna zone with places like Gokul, Mahavan, Baldeo, Mat and Bajna. The Western Side of the Yamuna covering the Mathura region that encompasses Vrindavan, Govardhan, Kusum Sarovar, Barsana and Nandgaon The city Mathura, in Uttar Pradesh, is the nucleus of Brajbhoomi.

Religious Spots
Mathura
The birth place of Lord Krishna, "the best known, best loved and most complex of Lord

Vishnu's manifestations" - Mathura is today an important place of pilgrimage. The city is situated on the right bank of the Yamuna River and the continuous line of ghats along the river makes a splendid spectacle when viewed from the opposite bank. Today, Mathura is a city of temples and shrines abustle with the thousands of devotees who come to visit the city of Lord Krishna.

Katra Keshav Dev :

A splendid temple at the Katra Keshav Dev marks the spot that is believed to be the Shri Krishna Janmasthan - the birthplace of the Lord, by his devotees.

Gita Mandir :
The Gita Mandir, located on the Mathura -Vrindavan Road has a fine image ofShri Krishna in its sanctum. The whole of the Bhagwad Gita is inscribed on the walls of this temple.

Dwarikadhish Temple :
The most popular shrine at Mathura is the Dwarikadhish Temple to the north of the town, dedicated to Shri Krishna. This was built in 1815 by a staunch and wealthy devotee, Seth Gokuldas Parikh, Treasurer of the State of Gwalior. Ghats : There are about 25 ghats in Mathura today, of which the most important is the Vishram Ghat. Where according to legend, Shri Krishna took his rest after killing Kansa. It is at Vishram Ghat that the traditional parikrama (circumbulation of all the important religious and cultural places of the city) starts and ends. The 12 ghats to the north of Vishram Ghat include the Ganesh Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat with its Neelakantheshwar Temple, Saraswati Sangam Ghat, Chakratirtha Ghat, Krishnaganga Ghat, Somatirth or Swami Ghat, Ghantagharan Ghat, Dharapattan Ghat, Vaikuntha Ghat, Navtirtha or Varahkshetra Ghat, Asikunda ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. To the south, there are 11 ghats - the Guptatirth Ghat, Prayag Ghat marked by the Veni Madhav Temple, Shyam Ghat, Ram Ghat, Kankhal Ghat, the site of the Janmashtami and Jhula festivals, Dhruva ghat, Saptrishi Ghat, Mokshatirth Ghat, Surya Ghat, Ravan Koti Ghat and Buddha Ghat. The Vishram Ghat is lined with elegant temples and some of Mathura's most important shrines are found here - the Mukut Temple, Radha-Damodar, Murli Manohar, Neelkantheshwar, Yamuna-Krishna, Langali Hanuman and Narasimha temples. The baithak of the great Vaishnava Saint, Shri Chaitanya, is also near by. The aarti held at the Vishram Ghat each evening is not to be missed, for the little oil lamps that are floated on the river set the placid water as sparkle with myriad flickering lights. No pilgrimage to Mathura is complete without a visit to its kunds. Tradition has it that there were 159 ancient kunds in all. Of these only four survive and can be seen. There is the elegant shiv Tal, the more famous Potara Kund associated closely with Lord Krishna besides the Balbhadra and Saraswati kunds.

Sati Burj :
Sati Burj, 17 mt. high, built of red sandstone in 1570 AD, is a slim tower which commemorates the death of a noble lady - widow of Raja Bihari Mal of Amer who committed sati. The four storeyed towers was erected by Raja Bhagwan Das on the right bank of the Yamuna at Sati Ghat

Jama Masjid :
The Jama Masjid with its four lofty minarets and bright mosaic, built in 1661 AD, is also a must see. Government Museum : The Government Museum, Mathura originally founded by F.S. Growse in 1874, is today one of the leading centres for research, study and the preservation of Mathura' s splendid heritage of art. The museum housed in a fine octagonal, red sandstone building, located at Dampier Park, has the largest collection of Kushana sculptures in the country. The Museum has also fine collections of stone sculpture and terracotta, gold, silver and copper coins, clay seals, ancient pottery, paintings and bronzes.

Braj Parikrama
The Rainy month of Bhadon, the month when the Lord Krishna was born, is a time of colourful celebrations. The famous Braj Parikrama - a pilgrimage of all the places in Braj that associated with Shri Krishna, is undertaken. Traditionally, the Chaurasi kos (84 kos) pilgrimage of Braj Mandal, with its 12 vanas (forests). 24 upvanas (groves), sacred hill Govardhan, divine River Yamuna and numerous holy places along its banks, is undertaken annually by lakhs of devotees from all over the country. The Yatra extends to Kotban to the north of Mathura, to Nandgaon, Barsana and the Govardhan Hill to the west and South-west of the city and to the banks of the Yamuna to the east, where the Baldeo Temple is located.

Gokul
The most celebrated of Shri Krishna's abode, Gokul lies to the west of Sadabad, 1.6 km from Mahavan and 15 km south-east of Mathura, on the Mathura - Etah metalled road. It was here that Lord Krishna was brought up in secrecy by Yashoda, in the pastoral beauty of this village on the banks of the Yamuna. Gokul attained importance during the time of Vallabhacharya (1479-1531) when it became a major centre of the Bhakti cult. The three oldest temples in the place are those dedicated to Gokulnath, Madan Mohan and Vitthalnath, said to have been built around 1511. The other temples include those of Dwarika Nath and Balkrishna in the shrines which were built in the honour of Lord Mahadeo in 1602 by Raja Vijai Singh of Jodhpur. Important sites worth visiting in Gokul include the Gokulnath Temple, Raja Thakur Temple, Gopal Lalji Temple and the Morwala Temple.

Mahavan
Around 18 km from Mathura, lying on the left bank of the River Yamuna, is the large shrine of Mathuranath. It is famed for its Chaurasi Khambha (eighty four pillars). The palace of Rohini, the mother of Baldeo is now the Chhathi-Palana Temple. Other important shrines include the Shymlalji Temple, the Yogmaya Temple, Tranairatri Temple and the Mahamall Rai Ji's palace.

Baldeo
Baldeo is 20 km south-east of Mathura and 8.5 km south - east of Mahavan on the road to Sadabad. It derives its name from the famous temple dedicated to Balram, the elder brother of Lord Krishna. It was built by Shyam Das of Delhi 200 years ago. The main image in the sanctum is that the Baldeo or Balram with his spouse Revati. Near by is the brick lined tank, the Khir Sagar or Balbhadra Kund, from where the original image housed in the temple was found.

Govardhan
Govardhan is situated 26 km west of Mathura on the state highway to Deeg. A famous place of Hindu pilgrimage, Govardhan is located on a narrow sandstone hill known as Giriraj which is about 8 km in length. The young Lord Krishna is said to have held Giriraj up on the tip of a finger for 7 days and nights to shield the people of Braj from the deluge of rain sent down by Lord Indra. Govardhan is set along the edge of a large masonry tank known as the Mansi Ganga, which is believed to have been brought into existence by the operation of the divine will.

Barsana
Barsana, 50 km to the north-west of Mathura and 19 km north-west of Govardhan, is situated at the foot of a hill that is named after Brahma. Barsana was once the home of Radha-Rani, Krishna's beloved and consort. Temples dedicated to the divine couple ornament the four elevations of the hill. The main among them is the Radha-Rani Temple, more fondly referred to as the Ladliji Temple. The most beautiful temple at Barsana, it was built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo of Orchha in 1675. The new marble temple adjoining it is a later addition. The other three shrines are the Man Mandir, Dargah and Mor-Kutir temples. The area between the hill housing the Radha-Rani Temple and the adjoining one, is known as the Sankari-Khor. This is the venue of the annual fair held in the month of Bhadon (July-August).

Barsana is also famous for its 'Latthmar' Holi-celebration of the festival of colour that is unique to this town.

Nandgoan
Nadgaon lies 8.5 km north of Barsana on the metalled road to Mathura (56 km). According to tradition, it was the home of Shri Krishna's foster father, Nand. On the top of the hill is the spacious temple of Nand Rai, built by the Jat ruler Roop Singh. The other temples here are dedicated to Narsingha, Gophinath, Nritya Gopal, Girdhari, Nand Nandan and Yashoda Nandan which is located half way up the hill. A little beyond is the Pan Sarovar, a large lake with masonry ghats along its sides. Legend has it, that this was the place where Shri Krishna used to take his cows for water. Not far away is the Kadamb grove called Udhoji - Ka- Kyar.

Radhakund
Just 5 km north of Govardhan and 26 km west of Mathura, Radhakund is a large lake, where Shri Krishna is said to have killed Arista - the bull demon. To commemorate this event, every year on the 8th day of the dark half of the month of Kartik (Oct./Nov.), a large fair is held here.

Vrindavan
Vrindavan, just 15 km from Mathura, is another major place of pilgrimage. It is noted for its numerous temples - both old and modern. The name Vrindavan evokes the playfulness and lovable characteristics of Shri Krishna. This is the wood where he frolicked with the gopis and tenderly wooed Radha. Vrindavan today, is noted for its numerous temples. The most important are :

Madan Mohan Temple :

The Madan Mohan Temple located near the Kali Ghat which was built by Kapur Ram Das of Multan. This is the oldest existent temple in Vrindavan today. The temple is closely associated with the saint Chaitanya. The original idol of Lord Madan Gopal was shifted from the shrine to Karauli in Rajasthan for safe keeping, during Aurangzeb's rule. Today, replica of the image is worshipped at the temple.

Banke Bihari Temple :

The Banke Bihari Temple built in 1864 is the most popular shrine at Vrindavan. The image of Banke Bihari was discovered in Nidhi Vana by Swami Haridas Ji, the great Krishna devotee, belonging to the Nimbarka sect.

Radha Vallab Temple :

The famous Radha Vallab Temple set up by the Radha-Vallab sect has the crown of Radha-Rani placed next to the Shri Krishna idol in the sanctum.

Jaipur Temple :

The Jaipur Temple which was built by Sawai Madhav Singh, the Maharaja of Jaipur in 1917, is a richly embellished and opulent temple. The fine hand - carved sandstone is of unparalleled workmanship. The temple is dedicated to Shri Radha-Madhav.

Shahji Temple :
The Shahji Temple, another popular temple at Vrindavan, was designed and built in 1876 by a wealthy jeweller, Shah Kundan Lal of Lucknow. The deities at the temple are popularly known as the Chhote Radha Raman.

Rangaji Temple :
The Rangaji Temple, built in 1851, is dedicated to Lord Ranganatha or Rangaji depicted as Lord Vishnu in his Sheshashayi pose, resting on the coils of the sacred Shesha-nag. The temple built in the Dravidian style has a tall gopuram (gateway) of six storeys and gold plated Dhwaja Stambha, 50 feet high. A water tank and a picturesque garden lie within the temple enclosure. The annual festival of Jal Vihar of the presiding deity is performed with great pomp and splendour at the tank. The temple is also famous for its 'Brahmotsav' celebration in March-April, more popularly known as the 'Rath ka Mela'. The ten day long celebrations are marked by the pulling of the rath (the chariot car) by the devotees from the temple to the adjoining gardens.

Govind Deo Temple :

The Govind Deo Temple was once a magnificent seven storeyed structure built in the form of a Greek cross. It is said that the Emperor Akbar donated some of the red sandstone that had been brought for the Red Fort at Agra, for the construction of this temple. Built at the astronomical cost of one Crore rupees in 1590 by his general Man Singh, the temple combines western, Hindu and Muslim architectural elements in its structure.

Shri Krishna-Balram Temple :

The Shri Krishna-Balram Temple built by the International Society for Shri Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), is one the most beautiful temples in Vrindavan today. The principal deities of this temple are Shri Krishna - Balram and Shri Radha - Shyam Sundar. Adjoining the temple is the samadhi of Shri Prabhupada, the founder of the ISKCON sect, built in pure white marble.

Chitrakoot Tourist Place

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Allahabad Bithoor Braj_Bhoomi Chitrakoot Deogarh Jaunpur Jhansi Kalinjar Kanpur Kapilvastu Kushinagar Lucknow Mahoba Sarnath Sravasti Varanasi Helplines

About the place

Chitrakoot or "the hill of many wonders" is a hallowed centre of pilgrimage. It is believed to be the placewhere Lord Rama and Sita spent their 14 years of exile and where the Sage Atri and Sati Anasuya meditated. The holy town is set on the banks of the RiverMandakini, also known as the Payaswaini River. Theriverside is lined with ghats and the town dotted with temples dedicated to several deities of the Hindu pantheon.

Religious Spots
Kamadgiri
Kamadgiri is a forested hill of prime religious significance; this is believed to be the original Chitrakoot. The Bharat Milap Temple is located here. Pilgrims perform a ritual to seek blessings.

Sphatik Shila
Sphatik Shila is a picturesque spot marked by two immense rocks. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama and Sita feasted their eyes on the beauty of Chitrakoot.

Hanuman Dhara
Hanuman Dhara is located on a steep hillside; it is approachable by a flight of 360 steps. Here, the waters of a natural spring cascade over an image of Lord Hanuman.

Ram Ghat
Ram Ghat is on the banks of the River Mandakini, and it is the centre of ritual activity. This ghat is the most frequented in Chitrakoot. The "Aarti" performed in the evening is particularly beautiful.

Janki Kund
Janki kund is an unusual cave over the Mandakini. Said to be the place where Sita bathed. Deogarh is situated on the right bank of the Betwa River, at the western end of the Lalitpur range of hills at a distance of 123 km from Jhansi. It possesses the remains of a fine Vishnu templedating to the Gupta era, and several Jain temples.The architecture and sculpture of these temples display ahigh level of craftsmanship.

Religious Spots
Dashavatar Temple
Dashavatar temple was built by Guptas. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was earlier known as Panchyatan temple in North India. The terraced basement above the high plinth is decorated with sculpted panels. The figures of Ganga and Yamuna adorn the carved doorway leading to the sanctum sanctorum. Three large carved panels along the side walls-the Gajendramoksha panel, the Nar Narayan Tapasya and the Anantshayi Vishnudepict scenes from Vaishnava mythology. Only the lower portion remains of the spire, which was the most important part of the temple.

Jain Temples
The jain temples are situated inside the fort of Kanali on the hills overlooking the Betwa and are 31 in number. This place was a Jain centre from the 6th to the 17th century. The temples flourish in

panels depicting scenes from Jain mythology, Tirthankara images, votive pillars, votive tablets, Jain imagesvisible from all sides and pillars carved with a thousand Jain figures.

Museum
Deogarh Archaeological Museum The site museum has a fine collection of sculpture, discovered from the surrounding.

Jhansi Tourist Place

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About the Place

Jhansi, the gateway to Bundelkhand, was a strongholdof the Chandela kings but lost its importance after the eclipse of the dynasty in the 11th century. It rose to prominence again in the 17th century

under Raja Bir Singh Deo who was a close associate of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir. However, its greatest claim to fame is its fiery queen Rani Laxmibai.

Historical Places
Jhansi Fort
Jhansi Fort was constructed in the 17th century fort and was made by Raja Bir Singh on top of a hill as an army stronghold. The Karak Bijli tank is within the fort. There is also a museum which has a collectiion of sculpture and provides an insight into the history of Bundelkhand.

Museum
Government Museum, Jhansi
The Government Museum of Jhansi has the weapons, statues, dresses and photographs that represent the Chandela dynasty and a picture gallery of the Gupta period are the highlights. There are also terracottas, bronzes,manuscripts, paintings and coins.

Rani Mahal
Rani Mahal the palace of Rani Laxmi Bai has now been converted into a museum. It houses a collection of archaeological remains of the period between 9th and 12th centuries AD.

Kalinjar Tourist Place

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Kalinjar Kanpur Kapilvastu Kushinagar Lucknow Mahoba Sarnath Sravasti Varanasi Helplines

About the place

Kalinjar is located in the ancient land of Jejakbhukti, which is an integral part of Bundelkhand. The Kalinjar fort and town were of strategic importance during medieval times. The township of Kalinjar was also-once protected by ramparts pierced by four gateways, only three of which remain today Kamta Dwar, Panna Dwar and Rewa Dwar. Dotted with remnants of the past, this historic fort is well worth a visit.

Religious Spots
Neelkanth Temple
Neelkanth Temple was built by the Chandela ruler Parmardi dev. In a position by the rock-cut Swagger Roan pool, stands a massive 18-armed image of Al Bhairav, the fearsome aspect of Lord Shiva.

Vankhandeshwar Mahadev Temple

Vankhandeshwar Mahadev Temple is located at the source of the Shivasari Ganga, this temple is also worth a visit.

Historical Places
Kalinjar Fort

Kalinjar Fort is situated at a height of 700 ft. on the Vindhya ranges, this fort is accessible through seven gateways-the Alamgir Darwaza, Ganesh Dwar, Chauburji Darwaza, Buddha Bhadra Darwaza, Hanuman Dwar, Lal Darwaza and Bara Darwaza. Within the fort are two palaces-the Raja Mahal and the Rani Mahal. The other places of interest in the fort are Sita Sej, a small cave containing a stone bed and pillow once used by hermits; a reservoir known as Patal Ganga; Pandu-Kund, where water trickles from the horizontal crevices of stratified rocks; Buddha-Budhi taal, whose waters are believed to possess healing qualities; Bhairon-ki-Jharia or Manduk Bhairon; the Mrigdhara or Antelopes spring situated within an inner chamber of the rampart, and Koito Birth, which is an important place of pilgrimage where lepers are believed to be cured.

Kanpur Tourist Place

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About the place

Kanpur is the biggest city of the state and is main centre of commercial and industrial activities. The city is situated on the banks of the River Ganga. The city is believed to be founded by King Hindu Singh of the erstwhile state of Sachendi, Kanpur was originally known as 'Kanhpur.

Kanpur stands as one of North Indias major industrial centres with its own historical, religious and commercial importance. The city was formerly known as Manchester of the country is now also called the commercial capital of the state.

Religious Spots
Jajmau
Jajmau,known as Siddhapuri in ancient times, is supposed to have been the kingdom of Yayati, the Pauranic king and the high mound overhanging the Ganga is known as the site of his fort. The mound of Jajmau, on the eastern end of the city occupies a high place among ancient cities of the region. Excavations of the mound were undertaken during 1957-58 which unearthed antiquities ranging from 600 BC to 1600 AD. Today, Jajmau houses the Siddhnath and Siddha Devi temples and the mausoleum of Makhdum Shah Ala-ul-Haq, the famous Sufi saint, built by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in 1358. A mosque built by Kulich Khan in 1679 also stands here.

Shri Radhakrishna Temple (J.K. Temple)

Shri Radhakrishna Temple is famously known as J.K. Temple in Kanpur. Beautifully constructed, J.K. temple is a boon to the devotees. Built by J.K. Trust this architectural delight is a unique blend of ancient architecture with the modern. Among the five shrines that the temple has the central one is consecrated to Shri Radhakrishna and the other are adorned with idols of Shri Laxminarayan, Shri. Ardhanarishwar, Shri Narmadeshwar and Shri Hanumana.

Jain Glass Temple

Jain Glass Temple is situated in Maheshwari Mohal behind the Kamla Tower. It is a beautiful temple highly decorated with glass and enamel work.

The Kanpur Memorial Church

Kanpur Memorial Church The Kanpur Memorial Church (All Souls Cathedral) The Kanpur Memorial Church was built in 1875, in honor of the British who lost their lives in the war of 1857. The Church was designed by Walter Granville, architect of the east Bengal Railway. The complete Church in Lombardic gothic style is handsomely executed in bright red brick, with

polychrome dressings. The interior contains monuments to the mutiny, including several memorial tablets.

Parks & Gardens

Phool Bagh
Phool Bagh is a beautiful park in the heart of the city on the Mall Road. In the centre of the park is a building known as Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial. After the first World War there was an Orthopedic Rehabilitation Hospital in this building. It is now known as Ganesh Udyan.

Nana Rao Park

The Nana Rao Park is located at the west of Phool Bagh. It is the site of the 'Bibighar of 1857. The Park was renamed as Nana Rao Park after independence.

Important Educational Institutes

Harcourt Butler Technological Institute : The Harcourt Butler Technological Institute was established in 1920 at Kanpur and is engaged in imparting technical training and industrial research. Indian Institute of Technology : The Indian Institute of Technology at Kanpur was set up in 1959. It provides education in the fields of engineering, technology, science and humanities. Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology : Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology was established in 1957 to provide education of agriculture, animal husbandry and veterinary science for the benefit of rural people.

Other Places
Among other sites worth visiting at Kanpur are the Hanuman temple-Panki, Anandeshwar temple, Jageshwar temple, Dwarikadhish temple, Prayagnarayan temple, Kailash temple, Buddhadevi temple, Kherepati temple, Varahidevi temple, Bhairav temple and Tulsi Upvan (Moti Jheel).

Allen Forest Zoo

The Allen Forest Zoo or the Kanpur Zoo was opened in 1971 and is ranked among one of the best zoos in the country. It is an ideal place for outdoor life and picnics amongst picturesque surroundings.

Kamla Retreat
Kamla Retreat lies to the west of the Agricultural College in immediate neighborhood of the Allen Forest. It is under the possession of Singhania family and is a beauty spot of the city. There is a swimming tank with equipment for producing artificial waves and suitable arrangement for lighting. Besides parks and a canal with facilities for boating, a zoo is also maintained. Kamla Retreat also houses a museum which has a good collection of historical and archaeological artifacts.

Kapilvastu Tourist Place

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About the place

Kapilvastu lies at a distance of 20km from Siddharthnagar. Kapilvastu was the ancient capital of the Sakya clan whose ruler was the father of the Buddha, for which reason the Buddha is also referred to as

the Sakyamuni. The Sakya domain was one of the sixteen independent principalities of the 6th century BC. Today, Kapilvastu Comprises of Several villages, chief among them being Piprahwa and Ganvaria. A large stupa stands at the ancient site which is said to have housed the bone relics of the Buddha. The presences of these relics are testified by an ancient Brahmi inscription discovered at Piprahwa. The ruins of thepalace are spread over a large area.

Religious Spots
Stupa Complex
Stupa complex is the main archaeological site which was discovered duringexcavations in 1973-74. The seals and inscriptions over the lid of the pot discovered read "Om Deoputra Vihare Kapilvastu Bhikschu Mahasanghasa" and "Om Deoputra Vihare Kapilvastu Bhikschu Sanghasa". The title Deoputra refers to Kanishka, a great patron of Buddhism who built the biggest Vihara at Kapilvastu and renovated the main stupa here.

Palace Site
Palace Site is a place where the ruins of the palace of King Shuddhodhan, father of Prince Gautam (Lord Buddha) are excavated by Dr. K.M. Srivastava. It is said that Lord Buddha has spent his first 29 years of life at this palace.

Kushinagar Tourist Place

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About the place

Kushinagar, is one of the principal centre of Buddhist pilgrimage, is the place where Lord Buddha left his corporeal self and attained Mahaparinirvana. The credit for bringing this ancient site to light goes to General A. Cunningham and A.C.I. Carlyl, who, after excavating the site in 1861, Later, between 1904 and 1912, several excavations conducted by theArchaeological Survey of India at Kushinagar confirmed its identity. The monuments of Kushinagar are situated in three distinct groups comprising the main site of the Nirvana Temple, the central stupa and surrounding monasteries, the Mathakuar shrine to the southwest, and the Ramabhar Stupa a kilometer to the east

Religious Spots
Nirvana Stupa
Nirvana Stupa is a huge brickwork stupa, exposed by Carlyl in 1876, which stands at a height of 2.74 mtr. A copper vessel was unearthed at this site. It bore an inscription in ancient Brahmi, which stated that Lord Buddha's remains had been deposited here.

Nirvana Temple
Nirvana temple houses over 6 mtrs long statue of reclining Buddha. The image was unearthed during the excavations of 1876. Carved from Chunar sandstone, the statue represents the dying Buddha reclining on his right side. An inscription below dates the statue to the fifth century AD.

Mathakuar Shrine
Mathakuar shrine lies about 400 yards from the Parinirvana stupa. A black stone image of the Buddha in the bhumi sparsha mudra was recovered here. The last sermon by Lord Buddha was given here.

Ramabhar Stupa

Ramabhar Stupa is a large stupa which rises to a height of 49 ft. It marks the site where the Lord Buddha was cremated. In ancient Buddhist texts this stupa has been referred to as Mukut-Bandhan Vihar.

Chinese Temple
Chinese Temple is famous for its beautiful statue of Lord Buddha.

Japanese Temple
Japanese Temple has the beautiful Ashta Dhatu (eight metals) statue of Lord Buddha. This statue was bought from Japan.

Museum
Kushinagar Museum
The Kushinagar Museum is also known as the Buddha Museum.

Other Places
Other places of interest include Pawanagar (Fazilnagar) and the Sun Temple at Turkpatti.

Lucknow Tourist Place

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About the Place

Lucknow, is the capital of Uttar Pradesh. The cityextends along the banks of the River Gomti. The creator of Lucknow as it is today was Nawab Asaf ud Daula. The city became known as a centre for Urdu poetry and courtly diction, and reached its acme during the reign of Wajid Ali Shah who was a connoisseur of music and poetry. It was during his reign that the British appropriated Awadh. Today, the city is dotted with remnants of its rich historic past. Lucknow is also known for its elaborate cuisine and 'Chikankaari' or exquisite shadow-work embroidery on fine muslin cloth.

Historical Places
Hussainabad Imambara Chhota Imambara Hussainabad Imambara is also called Chhota Imambara. Hussainabad Imambara is located near the Rumi Darwaza. It was built between 1837 and 1842 and thats why it is famous as Chhota Imambara. This structure contains the tombs of Muhammad Ali Shah, its builder, and of his mother. It is approached through a fine garden. The Imambara has a white dome and numerous turrets and minarets. Shah Najaf Imambara Shah Najaf Imambara is a white-domed structure and it derived its name from the town of Najaf. The place is about 200km south of Baghdad where the saint Hazrat Ali is buried. The Shah Najaf Imambara is situated on the right bank of the Gomti. In this tomb are buried the remains of Ghazi-ud-din Haider and his wives, including Mubarak Mahal, his European wife. The

entrance leads to a beautiful garden. The silver tomb of Ghazi-ud-din Haider lies in the centre of the building and is flanked by the more imposing silver and gold tomb of Mubarak Mahal on both the sides.

Parks & Gardens

Dudhwa National Park
Dudhwa is at a distance of 220km from Lucknow. The Dudhwa National Park is located close to the border with Nepal. The National Park covers an area of 490 sq km. The National park is also recognized as a Tiger Reserve.

Mahoba Tourist Place

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About the Place

Mahoba is 140 km from Jhansi and associated with the Chandela kings who ruled over Bundelkhand between the 9th and the 11th centuries. Today, the town is known for its fine betel leafcultivation and granite rocks. There are many places of historical and archaeological interest as well as scenic lakes dotted with rocky islets. The temples of Mahoba are built in the same style as the Khajurahotemples. There are also a number of Buddhist and Jain shrines at Mahoba.

Religious Spots
Kakramath Temple
Kakramath temple is a well-preserved granite temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located at the Madan Sagar. The temples basic plan is similar to the temples of Khajuraho. The Madan Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu stands nearby.

Vijay Sagar Pakshi Vihar

Vijay Sagar Pakshi Vihar is a bird sanctuary which is a distance of 5 km from town. The bird sanctuary has been developed on the shores of Vijay-Sagar, built by Vijay Pal Chandela (1035-1060 AD).

Sun Temple Mahoba

Sun Temple at Rahila Sagar The Sun Temple lies to the west of Rahila Sagar, in the 9th century with graniterock. The temple is, built by Chandela ruler Rahila who ruled between 890 and 910 Ad.

Manaiya Devi Temple

Manaiya Devi Temple is the temple of the tutelary deity of the Chandelas and stands on the shores of Madan Sagar, near the fort. In front of it is monolithicgranite, pillar, 18 ft. high and 1.75 ft wide at the base. The shrine of Pir Mubarak Shah, a Muslim saint who came from Arabia in 1252 AD, is nearby.

Lakes and Hills

Kirat Sagar Kirat Sagar, built by Kirtivarman between 1060 AD and 1100 AD, has fine embankments with granite steps. Madan Sagar, built by Madan Verma between 1128 AD and 1165 AD, is very

picturesque. Other lakes include Kalyan Sagar, Vijay Sagar and Rahila Sagar. Gokhar Hill Gokhar hill is the hill where Guru Gorakhnath resided with his disciples. It has dramatic granite rock formations, with caves and waterfalls. The spot is ideal for climbing and picnics.

Other Places
Other places of interest include the Jain and Buddhist shrines, the Alha Udal Chowk, Barichandrika Devi Temple, Ram Kurd, Suraj Kurd and Shiva Temple at Katheswar.

Sarnath Tourist Place

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About the Place

In the deer park of Sarnath Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma, and Sarnath is the place where theBuddhist Sangha came into existence through the enlightenment of Kondanna. Sarnath is at a distance of 10km from Varanasi. Sarnath is also known as Mrigadava, Migadaya, Rishipattana, Isipatana. The Emperor Ashoka, who spread Lord Buddhas message of love and compassion throughout his vastempire, visited Sarnath around 234 BC, and erected a stupa here. Several Buddhist structures were raised at Sarnath between the 3rd century BC and the 11th century AD, and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail.

Religious Spots
Chaukhandi Stupa
Chaukhandi Stupa issaidto be built by Emperor Ashoka. It is the first monument seen by the people when they enter Sarnath. It is a lofty mound of brick - work whose square edifice is surrounded by a Octagonal tower.

Dhamek Stupa
Dhamek Stupa is the most remarkable structure at Sarnath. It is cylindrical in shape with, 28 mts. in diameter at the base and 43.6 mts. in height. The Dhamek Stupa is built party of stone and partly of brick. The stone facing the lower part is adorned with delicate floral carvings of Gupta origin.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is the modern temple erected by the Mahabodhi Society. The temple was made by Kosetsu Nosu, Japans foremost painter and a rich repository of Buddhist literature. The ancient Mulagandha Kuti Temple is among the brick ruins of Sarnath.

Museum
Sarnath Museum

Sarnath Museum has a rich collection of Buddhist sculptures comprising numerous Buddha and Bodhisattva images.

Sravasti Tourist Place

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Sravasti
Sravasti anciently was known as Savatthi. The city was was one of the six largest cities in India during Gautama Buddhas lifetime. The city was located in the fertile Gangetic plains in the present days Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh. Jetavana monastery was a famous monastery close to Savatthi. Sravasti has been identified with the remains at Saheth - Maheth on the borders of the Gonda and Bahraich districts. It is situated on the banks of the River Rapti. Srarvasti also claims the glory of being was born, brought up and attained enlightment. Jain devotee visit Sravasti, during the month of

kartik(Oct - Nov).

Religious Spots
Maheth
Maheth covers an area of about 400 acres, and has been identified with theremains of the city proper. Excavations have exposed the massive gates of the city, ramparts and also the ruins of other structures which testify to theprosperity of ancient Sravasti. The Sobhanath Temple is located here. Pakki Kuti and Kacchi Kuti were probably Buddhist shrines before they were converted into Brahmanical temples.

Sobhanath Temple
Sobhanath Temple is believed to be the birthplace of Jain Tirthankar Sambhavnath.

Saheth
Saheth, covers an area of 32 acres, and lies about a quarter of a mile to the south - west of Maheth. This was the site of the Jetavana monastery. It became an important place of pilgrimage, adorned with numerous shrines, stupas and monasteries. The stupas belong mostly to the Kushana period, while the temples are in the Gupta style. The remains date from the Mauryan era (3rd century BC ) to the 12th century AD. A colossal statue of the Buddha was also found here which is now preserved in the Indian Museum, Calcutta. The Emperor Ashoka visited Jetavana, and the Chinese pilgrim Hiuen- Tsang mentions two Ashokan pillars at Sravasti.

Other Places
Other places of interest include the Swarnagandha Kuti.

Varanasi Tourist Place

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Varanasi the city of Lord Shiva.

VaranasiVaranasi is also known as Benares, Banaras, or Benaras or Kashi or Kasi is a famous Hindu holy city situated on the banks of the River Ganga. It is one ofthe oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, dating back thousands of years and contemporaneous with the Sumer civilisation. The city is called Kasi, "the luminous" in the Rigveda. It is often also referred to as "city of temples and learning".

Religious Spots
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is also known as the Golden Temple. It is dedicated to Lord shiva, the presiding deity of the city. Varanasi is Said to bethe point at which the first jyotirlinga, the fiery pillar of light by which shiva manifested has supremacy over others gods, broke through the Earths crust and flared towards the heavens. More than the Gaths and even the Ganga, the Shivalinga installed in the temple remains the devotional focus of Varanasi.

Annapurna Temple

The Annapurna Temple is near the Kashi Vishwanath temple. This is a nice temple of Devi Annapurna, believed as the "Godess of Fooding".

Sankatha Temple
Sankatha Temple is the important temple of Godess of Remedy near the Sindhia Ghat of Devi Sankatha. Inside the temple premises there is a huge statue of a Lion. Also there are nine temples of nine planets nearby to this temple.

Kalbhairav Temple
Kalbhairav Temple is the ancient temple of Varanasi near the Head Post Office, VishesharGanj. God KalBhairav is believed as "Kotwal of Varanasi", without his permission no one can stay in Kashi.

Mritunjay Mahadev Temple

Mritunjay Mahadev Temple lies on the route of Daranagar to Kalbhairav temple. This temple is of Lord Shiva. Just besides this temple there is a Well of much religious importance, whose water is said to be mixture of several underground streams and good for eliminating several diseases.

New Vishwanath Temple

New Vishwanath Temple is situated in the premises of Banaras Hindu University. The Temple is now a modern place of worship planned by Pandit Malviya and built by the Birlas. Open to all, irrespective of caste or creed.

Durga Temple
Durga Temple is commonly called the Monkey temple. The temple was built in the 18th century. There is nice stonework done of the temple. Goddess DURGA is believed to be as the symbol of Strength and Power which govern the entire world. There is a pond adjacent to the temple called "Durgakund".

Tulsi Manas Temple

Tulsi Manas Temple is constructed by family of Varanasi, this modern temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It is situated at the place where Tulisdas, the great medieval seer, lived and wrote the epic "Shri Ramcharitmanas", which narrates the life of Lord Rama, the hero of the Ramayana. Verses from Tulidass epic are inscribed on the walls. It is just nearby to Durga Temple.

Sankatmochan Temple
Sankatmochan Temple lies besides the Assi river stream, on the way of Durga Temple to Banaras Hindu Temple. The Sankatmochan Temple is well known temple of Lord Hanuman. Lord Hanuman is also

known as "Sankatmochan" the god who protects from the troubles. This temple is founded by Goswami Tulsidas. This temple is also known as "Monkey" temple, as lots of monkeys are there inside the premises.

Bharat Mata Temple

The Bharat Mata Temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936 and houses one perfect relief maps of India carved out of marble. The Temple was gifted by the nationalists Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta (Barat Ratana) and shri Durga Prasad Khatri, leading numismatists and antiquarians.

Ghats The holy city of Varanasi has 84 ghats. Some of the important ghats are : Ghats Bharat Mata Temple Assi Ghat is a clay banked ghat. The Ghat is in the southernmost in the sacred city. The Ghat is at the confluence of the Assi and the Ganges, pilgrims bath prior to worshipping at a huge lingam under a peepal tree. Tulsi Ghat Tulsi Ghat is one of the Varanasis oldest Ghat which was earlier known as Lolarka Ghat. The Ghat was renamed after the saint Tulsidas, who lived here in the 16th century. Dasashvamedha Ghat Dasashvamedha Ghat is a centrally located ghat. Dashashwamedha is Varanasis most popular and accessible bathing ghat, with rows of pandas sitting on wooden platforms under bamboo umbrellas, masseurs plying their trade and boatmen jostling for custom. Its name, "ten horse sacrifices", derives from a complex series of sacrifices performed by Brahma to test King Divodasa : Shiva and Parvati were sure the kings resolve would fail, and he would be compelled to leave Kashi, thereby allowing them to return to their city. However, the sacrifices were so perfect that Brahma established the Brahmeshvara lingam here. Since that time, Dashashwamedha has become one of the most celebrated tirthas on earth, where pilgrims can reap the benefits of the huge sacrifice merely by bathing.