Chilika Lake Orissa

Chilika , the largest brackish water lake in Asia covering an area of over 1000 sq km. is a great attraction to tourists all over the world for fishing, bird watching and boating. In winter Chilika affluters with thousands of indigeneous and migratory birds of many varieties from far and near - even from distant Siberia. One can have a glimpse of the lake even from moving trains or vehicles. The serene atmosphere with the vast expanse of water on one side and green vegetation, hills on the other side is a treat to the eyes. A cruise in Chilika will be a life long memory to cherish.

Howrah Bridge- Kolkata

West Bengal is known for its magnificent architecture. One of the best architectural structures in the state is the Howrah Bridge, which connects the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah. The bridge is one of the largest cantilever bridges in the world and the largest cantilever bridge in India. It was built to support military transportation during the world war. Today, it stands as a British engineering marvel in India. It was renamed as ‘Rabindra Setu’ after the famous Nobel Laureate of West Bengal, Mr. Rabindra Nath Tagore, in 1965. However, it is still popularly known as Howrah Bridge, amongst the localites and tourists. Howrah Bridge was built to replace the Floating Pontoon Bridge, which was built over Hooghly in 1874. The bridge was constructed by the construction company Rendel Palmer & Tritton and Cleveland Bridge & Engineering Co. Ltd, in order to handle the ever-increasing traffic of Kolkata, which had become unmanageable by then. Howrah Bridge took a period of about 6 years to get built, with the construction starting in 1937 and ending by the year 1943, after which the bridge was opened to general public. Howrah Bridge is 705 meters long and 30 m wide. On an average, it handles the traffic of about 150,000 vehicles and 4,000,000 pedestrians. A few years back, the bridge also handled a tram route, but it is currently being used as a road bridge only. The bridge also has two sister bridges as well, Vidyasagar Setu and Vivekananda Setu, over the same river, at distinct points. It is the sixth longest bridge in the world of its own kind.

Sydney Harbour Bridge- Australia

The Sydney Harbour Bridge, also affectionately known as the 'Coathanger', was opened on March 19th 1932 by Premier Jack Lang, after six years of construction. Made of steel the bridge contains 6 million hand driven rivets. The surface area that requires painting is equal to about the surface area of 60 sports fields. The Bridge has huge hinges to absorb the expansion caused by the hot Sydney sun. You will see them on either side of the bridge at the footings of the Pylons.

You can have a close hand look while you are in Sydney by visiting the South Eastern Pylon. It is a walking trip and recommended for the fit only. It is a longish walk to get to the base of the Pylon and then there are 200 steps to the top. Entry for adults is now $8.50 (23 June 2003), kids between 8 and 12 years three dollars and under 8 years its free. (Prices valid until 30 November 2003).

The views and photo opportunities are fantastic. (If you can make it, we've got to say it is tough). There is a great display on how the thing was built. It has a similar place in Sydney history to the Statue of Liberty in New York as far as many migrants to Australia go. In sight of the bridge you knew you had made it.

The displaced peoples of Europe who came to Australia in the days of the grand ships can get very misty when you ask them what they felt when they saw this grand old arch on their arrival in Sydney from the aftermath of World War Two as they sailed up Port Jackson (Sydney Harbour). The old Bridge has been replaced as "the" landmark of Sydney by the bold architecture of the Opera House.

But a grand old bridge it is, and one you will remember whenever you think of Sydney after your visit.

When it opened it cost a car six pence to cross. A horse and rider was 3 pence. These days a return trip (for some reason the only kind) costs two dollars twenty (gst). Horses and riders are banned, that's the changing times. You can walk across free and you are allowed to bicycle in a special lane.

Amber Fort- Jaipur

The Amber Fort was built in the 16th century by Raja Man Singh. The construction of the Amber Fort was started by Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by his descendant Jai Singh I. The Amber Fort is built in red sandstone and white Amer Fortmarble. The palace complex has very interesting apartments, the likes of which are not to be found anywhere else in India, leave aside Jaipur. The rugged forbidding exterior of Amber Fort belies an inner paradise where a beautiful fusion of Mughal and Hindu styles finds its ultimate refinement. Painted scenes of hunting and war adorn the walls of the Amber Fort with precious stones and mirrors set into the plaster.

The fort has 4 sections; each with the premises and one has to climb up through the imposing stairway or else the broad aisle, where one can ride on the elephant back for royal feel. The main gate Surajpol that leads to the Jaleb chowk, which is the main courtyard from where one can walk up the stairway, that leads to the palace. Jaleb Chowk was also the area where returning armies were welcome and they would display their war earnings to the population at large.

Standing tall on the Delhi-Jaipur highway, the palace is located on a hillside, overlooking the Maotha Lake. Three charismatic rulers oversaw the construction of this monument. It was started by Raja Man Singh I, army commander of Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1592 and was completed by Mirza Raja Jai Singh and Sawai Jai Singh, over a period of about two centuries. Amber Fort, as it is commonly known, is a classic fusion of Mughal and Hindu architecture, beautifully built in red sandstone and white marble. You can climb up the hill to the Amber Fort (approx 15 minutes), or travel in royal style on elephant back.

Lak Kila( Red Fort)- Delhi

Red Fort is the most famous monument of the Delhi, which I also know as “Lal Qila”. It stands as a powerful reminder of the Mughal emperors who ruled India.

Red Fort walls, which stretch for over 2 kilometers were built in 1638 to keep out invaders. However they failed to stop the Red Fort being captured by the Sikhs and British. To take your imaginations back to ancient era, wonderful a one hour sound and light show of the Fort’s history is held each evening. Diwan-i-Aam, Nahr-i-Behisht, Moti Masjid, Zenana, Hayat Bakhsh Bagh are the important buildings within the court. The Royal Baths, the Shahi Burj, “Palace of Colors” the Rang Mahalor are the other attractions within the monument.

India Gate- Delhi

The India Gate is the national rather International monument of India situated in the Dil of Dilli, India Gate was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens. It is a prominent landmark in Delhi and commemorates the 90,000 soldiers of the British Indian Army who lost their lives while fighting for the British Raj in World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. It is composed of red sand stone and granite.
Following India’s independence, India Gate became the site of the Indian Army’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, known as the Amar Jawan Jyoti (The flame of the immortal soldier).

Atlantis Water Park- Dubai

"Transpotainment" system uses flowing rivers, water escalators, and other conveyance means to transport guests to the slides in inner tubes. Riders can go from one ride to another without ever leaving their tubes. Other features: uphill water coasters, action river, speed slides, tube slides, body slides, interactive water play structure with dump bucket, and children's pools.Aquaventure and all water park attractions are available for registered guests of Atlantis and are included in the rates. Guests of the adjacent Comfort Inn may also visit Aquaventure. The park imay make day passes available to the general public, based on availability.

Burj-Al-Arab - DUBAI

In its relatively short tenure on the Dubai coastline this legendary and symbolic hotel has attracted international attention and awe, ensuring its place as one of the most photographed structures in the world, and consistently voted the worlds most luxurious hotel. Designed to resemble a billowing sail, Burj Al Arab soars to a height of 321 metres, dominating the Dubai skyline. Illuminated at night by choreographed lighting representing water and fire – Burj Al Arab is simply individual, inspired, impressive.

This all-suite luxury hotel in Dubai reflects the very finest that the world has to offer. With a discreet in-suite check-in, private reception desk on every floor and a brigade of highly trained butlers, you can be assured of the ultimate in personal service throughout your stay. Upgrade your experience at Burj Al Arab with your chauffeur driven Rolls Royce.

Zoo- Mysore

Mysore Zoo (Chamarajendra Zoological Garden) was started in 1892 by chamaraja Wodeyar X, then the king of Mysore. Initially as a private Zoo, and was named as Khas-Bangale. It was also called as Thamash Bangle. The Zoo which has now spread over an area of 250 acres was initially ment for the exclusive visit of the royal family but public entry started as early as 1920. It is located inside the city unlike many other Zoos in India and Mysore Zoo is considered to be one of the best in the world.

The Zoo has about 1500 animals, ranging from the opossum to orangutan. This Zoo houses a wide range of animals. Mysore Zoo was the first in the country to obtain gorilla and penguin’s. Many animals which are imported from countries like Africa, America, and Australian countries under conservation project due to the successful breeding of the white tiger. It is also credited with achieving considerable break-through in captive breeding of many animals. elephants also breed well in captivity in this Zoo.

The Zoo has a small museum which exhibits the stuffed animals. A small library is also located in the Zoo. Painting and essay competitions are periodically conducted by the zoo authority the children to create awareness and love in them for animals.

Ms.Sally Walker (USA) started the friends of Mysore Zoo (FMZ) in 1980. At present there is a scheme for ‘Adopting’ an animal. Which means you can take care of the feeding expenses of an animal for a certain of time. Karanji Lake is a part of Mysore Zoo. The lake attracts about 45 varieties of birds; some of the birds migrate here from too far aways places. The lake has been renovated recently and boating facility is also available.

Kamala Nehru Park- Mumbai

The Kamala Nehru Park sprawling over an area of 3,300 sq m is located at the top of Malabar hills. Inspired by an old nursery rhyme “There was an old woman” the biggest attraction of the park is a large shoe shaped structure. The Kamala Nehru Park is widely visited by school children and the Old Woman’s Shoe is their favorite place for playing.

The view from atop Malabar hill is bound to steal your heart away. At night the city street lights around the Marine Drive looks like a large golden necklace studded with gems. This is also referred as the “Queen’s necklace”.

The Kamala Nehru Park has a collection of wide range of flowers. The lush green lawns and shady trees inside the park make it a favorite picnic spot. The park is largely visited by bourgeois middle class people. Named after the wife of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, the Kamala Nehru Park is as important to Mumbai as is the Eiffel tower to Paris.

Borra Caves- Vishakapatnam

Borra caves are situated at the distance of 90- 95 km from the city of Visakhapatnam. They are located at the height of 1450 feet above the sea level. They are spread in the Ananthagiri hill ranges of eastern ghats, which ranges between 800 to 1300 meters M.S.L. In Andhra Pradesh. November and December are considered as the best time to visit these caves.
Borra caves are the natural caves, that are said to have originated from the Gosthani river, which flows through these caves. The caves were created due to the flow of river over the limestone area. The pressure was exerted by the humic acid in the water on the mineral deposits and the limestone dissolved in the water. The dissolved limestone trickled down drop by drop forming the different shapes in the cave. These Borra caves spreaded over the one square km and are formed over the period of millions. The opening of the cave measures upto 100 m horizontally and 75 m vertically. The cave is filled with stalagmite and stalactite formations. Visitors have given different names to the different shapes of these stalagmite and stalactite formations such as Shiv Parvathi, Mother child, Human brain, crocodile, Rushis Beard etc. Some more interesting structures inside the cave include mushroom formation, temple, church and many more. You may find here crystal white calcium stones in various forms. The Borra caves glitters and illuminates by the sixty three lamps of mercury, sodium vapour and halogen.

The caves of Borra are said to be more than 150 years old. These wonder caves were discovered by the British geologist William King Gorge in the year 1807. The local tribals inhabitating in this area have a different story to tell. They say once a cowherd lost his cow while grazing. He soon realized that his cow had fallen down. He got worried, on looking down he found 60 feet deep hole, where he saw his cow was alive and feeding on the grass deep below. This was the time when the tribal has discovered the cave.

Kanheri Caves-Mumbai

Through the meandering paths of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, you can reach the staircase that leads to Kanheri Caves of Maharashtra. Located in the picturesque surroundings of Borivali, Kanheri Caves have a distinctive aura about them. These caves remind one of the other rock-cut caves, which have been the seat of Buddhist monks at different times. Abode of monks during the 1st to 9th century, these caves are rather simple and partially adorned.

The term Kanheri has been derived from a Sanskrit term 'Krishnagiri', which means 'black in color'. And these caves have been chiseled out of a gigantic basaltic rock. Indeed, Kanheri Caves is an excellent illustration, which portrays rise and fall of Buddhism in India. Most of them are small cells, which are cut into the ends of a hill and each of them has a stone platform to serve as a bed. There is one congregation hall that is supported by massive stone pillars.

Majority of the caves are monasteries, intended for living, study and meditation. All of them have elaborately carved sculptures, reliefs and pillars and encompass rock-cut stupas for worship. The unique figure of Avalokiteshwara captures the attention of everyone. No less than a hundred inscriptions have been found here, in Brahmi, Devanagari and Pallavi scripts. One Chaitya cave has some defaced woodwork on its roof.

By the time this region was swayed by the Mauryan and Kushan empires, Kanheri became a major center of university in India. While going further up the hill, you would come across many watercourses that reveal the ancient water system. A trip to Kanheri Caves would definitely be an interesting one, especially in the company of ancient structures and scenic beauty of Sanjay Gandhi National Park

Juhu Beach-Mumbai

Juhu Beach is the most famous beach in Mumbai city. It is situated on the shores of Arabian Sea in Juhu suburb. There are three main entrances to the beach. One is from the Vile Parle side, another is from the Santacruz side and the third one is from the Andheri side. Many tourists make it a point to visit the beach when they come to Mumbai, as it is a relatively uncrowded free space in the city, although it does get crowded in the evenings and weekends.

It is famous for its Mumbai street food, notably bhelpuri, pani puri, chaats, and of course pav bhaji. The nature of the food stands hygiene standards are often high. On the southern end of Juhu beach there are many luxury hotels and apartments.

Gateway of India-Mumbai

The Gateway of India or more often called as Gateway of India Mumbay was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay, prior to the Darbar in Delhi in December 1911. The foundation stone was laid on March 31, 1913 and George Wittet's final design sanctioned in August 1914. Between 1915 and 1919 work proceeded on reclamations at Apollo Pier for the land on which the Gateway of India and the new sea wall would be built. The foundations were completed in 1920. The Gateway of India Mumbay is built from yellow Kharodi basalt and reinforced concrete. The central dome is 48 feet in diameter and 83 feet above ground at its highest point. The construction was completed in 1924, and the Gateway was opened on December 4, 1924 by the Viceroy

Hot Water Beach- New Zealand

Hot Water Beach is on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. Its name comes from underground, natural hot springs which filter up through the sand between the high and low water tidal reaches. Make sure you visit this stunning geothermal attraction and stay at the new Hot Water Beach Holiday Park , the only holiday park in the Hot Water Beach area. A talk on the basal phylogeny of the angiosperms, we went back to our caravan to shower, borrowed trowels, and headed to Hot Water beach, where everyone else from the conference was going.
We joined the crowds dug into the beach around the hot springs, and had fun engineering channels to try to get the right amount of hot water. Then it was back to the same pub — it was that or Chinese — where we had pizza and ate apples.Tuesday was the "free" day at the conference. We did some washing, had breakfast with coffee of dishwashing liquid quality, and then drove to Hahei (near Hot Water Beach). We hired snorkeling gear and did the Gemstone Bay "snorkeling trail", which has numbered buoys with information. It was a bit mirky and there wasn't that much to be seen, but good fun. And we had the bay pretty much to ourselves, too!

After that we walked to Cathedral Cove, along with hundreds of other people. After a quick visit to the pa on the headland south of Hot Water beach, we drove north to the Eggcentric cafe for coffee and cake, and then to the ferry landing — this was maybe 100 metres from where we were staying in Whitianga, but it was a 40 kilometre drive to get back!
Then it was back to the conference venue for a barbecue, after which we walked along the beach, ate ice cream, and just fitted in a visit to an Internet cafe before it closed at 9pm.

Eiffel Tower- Paris

You couldn't possibly visit Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Even if you do not want to visit this world famous structure, you will see its top from all over Paris. The tower rises 300 meters tall (984 ft); when it was completed at the end of the 19th century it was twice as high as the Washington Monument, at the time the tallest structure in the world.

1889 World Exhibition

The Eiffel Tower was built for the World Exhibition in 1889, held in celebration of the French Revolution in 1789.
The construction was only meant to last for the duration of the Exposition, but it still stands today, despite all protests from contemporary artists who feared the construction would be the advent of structures without 'individuality' and despite the many people who feared that this huge 'object' would not fit into the architecture of Paris.

Today, there is no such aversion anymore among the Parisians, and one could not imagine Paris without the Eiffel Tower, in fact it has become the symbol of the City of Light.

Gustave Eiffel

The man behind the Eiffel Tower was Gustave Eiffel, known from his revolutionary bridge building techniques, as employed in the great viaduct at Garabit in 1884. These techniques would form the basis for the construction of the Eiffel Tower. He was also known for the construction of the Statue of Liberty's iron framework.

The structure took more than two years to complete. Each one of the about 12,000 iron pieces were designed

separately to give them exactly the shape needed. All pieces were prefabricated and fit together using approx. 7 million nails.

The Tallest

Inaugurated March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower would be the tallest structure in the world until the completion of the Chrysler Building in 1930.

Ooty-Tamil Nadu

To feel the touch of nature, Ooty is a right spot for the lover of nature. It is located at a distance of 105 km away from Coimbatore. It sparkles with fresh vegetation and sceneries. It is “queen of all hill station”. The height of the hills in the Nilgiri range varies between 2280 and 2290 meters. It attracts the tourist by its charming flowers. Lofty mountains, dense forest, acres and acres of tea estates are green feast for the eyes of the tourist.

The fast food world man runs his life in this world of tension; and living in the sweltering heat; to while away his short leisure hour he can spend that with nature (ooty).The weather of valley is salubrious. Ooty is a best place to know the culture and tradition of India and tribal people.

Botanical gardens, lamb’s rock and Dobabetta peak, kalhatty fallskandal, cross shrine, mini garden and rose garden; Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park are till more amusing places in Ooty and its surroundings. Ooty lake boating is a remarkable spot which highly entertains the tourist. Udagamandalam otherwise called as Ooty. Its mountain train journey on a ratchet and restrain track which commences from kallar will give a new adventures effect. Finally Nature never betrays the tourist.

Hawa Mahal-Jaipur

Hawa Mahal is a major landmark and a famous tourist attraction of Jaipur. The Palace offers a beautiful sight to behold. The splendid Rajputana architecture of Hawa Mahal, still speaks the glory of the royal family. However, one can also find a glimpse of Mughal architecture, which is blended perfectly to make it different from others. The literal meaning of Hawa Mahal is Palace of Winds. Hawa Mahal was built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799.

Hawa Mahal is a pyramid-shaped facade with five stories. It has 953 small windows decorated with tiny lattice work. These pink sandstone windows commonly known as "Jharokhas" are constructed in such a style, that it looks like a giant honeycomb. The air circulation through windows represents the marvelous touch of Mughal designing, which keeps the Palace always cool. The small screened balconies and arched roofs with hanging cornices enhance the beauty of the Palace. The Pyramidal outline and replication of pattern makes it more attractive in appearance.

As a matter of fact, Hawa Mahal is believed to build for the women of the Royal Families, since they had to observe strict "purdah" (cover). The small windows and screened balconies serve the women to watch processions and different activities taking place on the streets. In this manner, the women could enjoy a sense of freedom without showing themselves.

Early morning is considered as the best time to visit the Palace, when it is drenched in the golden light of the Sun. At this time, Hawa Mahal appears incredible. One cannot possibly describe the beauty of the Palace in words. The golden light of the early morning sun floats beautifully through the windows of this palace creating a wonderful sight for one and all. The palace has to be visited to experience the true beauty.

Birla Mandir-Delhi

Built in 1938, famous Birla Mandir in Delhi was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Indian Nation) on the express condition that people of all castes and especially untouchables would be allowed in. (Refer to section People). Consequently a plaque at the gate reiterates that people of all faiths and classes are welcome. Till date, it remains one of the most popular temples in Delhi.

Birla Mandir is also famous for the festival of Janmashtami (birth of the Hindu deity Krishna). The festival is celebrated here with much goodwill and cheer.

The temple is designed in the Orissan style, with tall curved towers capped by large amalakas (circular ribbed motif at the summit of a temple tower). The exterior is faced with the white marble and red sandstone typical of Delhi’s Mughal architecture. The interior court is overlooked by two-storey verandahs on three sides; there are gardens and fountains at the rear.