Exploring the Splendor of Delhi

New Delhi, the national capital of India, is surely a best tourist destination in India. Being a national capital, it is connected to all media of transport like airport, railways & roadways. This place is rich in cultural heritage. If you just love to watch the ancient architecture, then this is surely a must place to visit. The place is full of mesmerizing sites that truly reflect the rich legacies of the ancient rulers.

The place is full of magnificent masterpieces of architecture. Some of the must to visit sites are Red Fort, Humayun Tomb, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Akshardham Temple & many more. The city is basically divided into two parts, i.e. one is known New Delhi while the other is known as Old Delhi. You will surely get wonderful experience after visiting the astonishing sites in Delhi.

The place contains three World Heritage Sites. Let me give a brief overview about these.

Humayun Tomb: This is the mausoleum of the famous Mughal ruler Humayun. This is popularly known as the “Mini Taj” in Delhi. The mesmerizing sculpture on this site was built of sandstone & marble. The structure is inspired by the Persian architecture & contains the dome like structure. The arches & domes offer magnificence to the structure. The artistic craving has been provided in order to offer mesmerizing view.

Red Fort: This is a most amazing masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The magnificent palace was the residence of the Mughal rulers for about 200 years. The structure was crafted by the red sandstone. It was declared as a UNESCO World heritage site in the year 2007. The fort is spread in a perimeter of around 2 km. It is octagonal in shape & decoration gives an amalgamation of Persian & Indian craftsmanship.

Qutub Minar. This grand old structure is another UNESCO World Heritage site in Delhi. The structure was built by red sandstone & marble. It was built by as a victory tower by Qutub ud din Aibak, after defeating the last Hindu ruler in the year 1193.

Apart from these world heritage sites, there is much more to explore in Delhi. Akshardham Temple is one of the most visited temples of North India. This magnificent temple is spread in a large area of about 8000 meters square. It is one of the hot tourist spots in Delhi. The structure is completely built from the stone & marble. The temple is situated on the bank of the river Yamuna, giving an astonishing view. The other worth to watch sites in Delhi are Parliament House, Lotus Temple, India Gate etc.

One more thing that you don’t want to miss is to visit the famous Chandani Chowk Bazaar. It is basically a handicraft market where you get amazing artistic items of Indian handloom industries. The “Rickshaw Ride at Chandani Chowk bazaar” is a must to do activity.

Historical Rajasthan – Forts and Palaces Tour of Rajasthan

The name Rajasthan is self- explanatory as it reflects the meaning ‘Land of Rajas’; located in the north-west of India. It is surrounded by enduring Aravallis ranges on one hand and the distinctive Thar Desert on the other. The state of Rajasthan was formed in 1956 but its reference is found both in Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Forts and Palaces Tour of Rajasthan include a visit to heritage hotels, which were once the Havelis of the kings and rich merchants. They stand as symbol of rich culture grandeur even today. It mystifies the audiences who specifically visit the land to see in reality what they have read in books about king and their subjects, and lifestyle in the imposing and monumental forts and palaces.

The warrior class Rajput of the 6th and 7th century can easily be compared with European Knights. The legends of their valour are as old as 12th century; and they share their lineage with Kshatriyas, the combatant class that came to power in Vedic times. The arid zone of Great Indian Desert throbs with life when the multi-hued spruced population comes together to celebrate life in the form of fairs harvest celebration or religious occasions marked for deity. This culture dates back to antiquity; it is for this reason the architecture, arts and crafts, songs, dress-code, palaces and forts are facsimiles of tradition of the land.

The Rajasthan Tours of forts and palaces showcases a rich historical background and includes cities like Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Udaipur with romantic Lake Palace, Bundi, and Jaipur- the capital of Rajasthan in its itinerary. A good India tour operator will also include interesting excursions for you as you tour the royal citadels in the desert state, depending on your interests and passions.

Jaipur prides its City Palace comprising of Chandra Mahal, Shri Govind Dev Temple and City Palace Museum; the fusion of Mughal and Rajasthani architecture is very evident here. 5-storeyed structure of pink sandstone, Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds was built in 1799. Its symmetrical balconies were specifically designed for ladies viewing in privacy and the building garners a high souvenir value.

Jaisalmer a bastion city in the heart of the desert state is enriched with yellow sandstone rhythmic architectural monuments. Jaisalmer Fort is the oldest one you will see in the state. Jodhpur or the blue city is fortified with 10 km stretch of stone wall on a sandstone hill. Inside, rests the well protected Mehrangarh fort, which never fails to mesmerize tourists. Udaipur, the jewel of the state, was under the Sisodia rule for 1200 years. Its City Palace highlights include an interior decor of mirror work and ivory inter-spaced inlay work that cannot be described in words. The Peacock Courtyard of the palace is quite charming.

A more comprehensive Historical Tour to Rajasthan also offers you a glimpse into the history of Bhil and Mina tribes and races, who are believed to be the earliest settlers here. It was only around 1400 BC that Aryans (or the Rajputs) made way to this land. Luxurious Rajasthan Forts and Palaces Tours offer you special indulgences along the way that may range from a stay in grand Mughal-style camps to a ride in the glorious Palace On Wheels, famous as one of the Top 10 Luxury Trains of the World.

Dingle Peninsula in Ireland is an Archaeologist’s Dream

The Dingle Peninsula in the west of County Kerry Ireland is home to a wealth of archaeological and historical heritage and is of great interest to archaeologists, historians and folklorists or to anyone interested in their Gaelic or Celtic roots.

Even in the pre-historic period, the area was inhabited, and many monuments of this era, such as Ogham Stones, Promontory Forts, Megalithic Graves and Beehive Huts can be seen.

Evidence of one of the earliest human settlements (8000-4000BC) in the area was found at Ferriter’s Cove, near Ballyferriter. This was a temporary settlement, which was used on a seasonal basis. Remnants of a wide variety of food such as hazel nuts, red deer, pig, hare and birds have been found there as well as fishbones, shellfish and even a cow.

The Loch a’Duin valley near Cloghane contains a number of monuments from the Bronze Age. In this valley, there are over 90 stone structures dating from 2500 BC up to modern times. There are several kilometres of stone wall running through this area, much of it covered by peat bog which has built up over the past 3,000 years. From archaeological excavations and pollen studies, it has emerged that the Loch a’Duin Valley was used for agricultural purposes from 1600 BC to the beginning of the Iron Age. The Iron Age (500 BC – 500 AD) is often associated with the Celtic Period and the Dingle Peninsula has many monuments and relics of this era.

On the hillside above Camp village, about ten miles west of Tralee, one will find Cathair Con Ri (Caherconree), which is considered to be the finest examples of a promontory hill fort in Ireland. The fort is situated about 2050 feet up in the Sliabh Mish mountains. Three sides of the promontory on which it is built are protected by steep cliffs, while the fourth side is defended by a drystone wall which, although it is collapsed in places, is up to 3 metres high and 4.5 metres wide. The high wall marks the boundary to the barony of Corca Dhuibhne which encompasses most of the Dingle Peninsula. Nobody knows the true purpose of Caherconree. What was its use? Was it defensive, territorial, or the residence of a local tribe?

The Dingle Peninsula has a large collection of Ogham stones (almost 70). Ogham is the earliest form of Irish writing, and the stones may have been used as landmarks, or could also have been associated with ownership of the land. The stones carry the name of a male, and also refer to his father and grandfather. The name of Dovinia or Duibhne (as in Corca Dhuibhne, the tribe of Duibhne), appears on several of these stones. Duibhne was a Celtic Goddess of fertility and protection. One of the best examples of ogham stones is situated in Dun Chaoin (Dunquin), on the mainland just across the bay from the Blasket Islands, on the peak of Dun Mor (the big fortress).

The Dingle Peninsula’s remoteness on the edge of the known world is a possible explanation for such a concentration of Early Christian monastic settlements which were established there. Today there are over 30 monastic sites with a variety of remains such as holy wells, beehive huts, oratories, churches, cross slabs, shrines, burials and sun dials. Some of these have been excavated, explored and studied carefully.

There are numerous ring forts surviving from this period which are associated with human and animal habitation. Although a mythology has grown up around these ring forts – they are often referred to as ‘Fairy Forts’ and are endowed with magical properties – they were in fact practical structures used for habitation and defense. There are excellent examples of Ring Forts to be found at at Dun Clar at Annascaul and Cathair Deargain near Ballydavid.

No Viking remains survive on the peninsula; but the Vikings named the bay near Ballydavid “Smerwick” which translates as “the bay of butter”.

From the Norman period (1170 onwards) there are the remains of five tower houses on the peninsula, the most impressive ones being at Minard, Gallarus and Rathinnane.

History didn’t stop there and there is a wealth of items of interest to the modern historian to be found on the peninsula also.

Trip to Three Jewels of North India: Delhi, Jaipur and Agra

Are you completely exhausted physically and mentally running behind the harsh day-to-day routine? Do you want to release stress spending some time with family? Are you planning for a vacation trip to rejuvenate and return with stress-free body, mind, and soul? Then, the golden triangle tour might be your right choice. During a Delhi Agra Jaipur tour, you will be allured with the glimpses of fascinating art, the rich cultural heritage, and the lovable art of world monuments of different dynasties. Historical places of Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur and sightseeing in those places will enthral your entire journey. The trip usually takes 7 to 8 days in total starting and ending in Delhi. Flights, trains, luxury Volvo buses, hired cars, and hotels whatever may be your choices are included in the charges.

Delhi

The capital city of India, Delhi is a blend of rulers from many dynasties, particularly the Mughals made many historic forts, iconic monuments, and tombs. The places of Delhi sightseeing that may create your interest to visit are the Majestic Red Fort, the Qutub Minar, the Parliament House, the India gate, the Gandhi Smriti. You will be fascinated by exploring the Lotus Temple and Laxmi Narayan Temple. The crowning glory of New Delhi, the Rashtrapati Bhawan or the President Palace will magnetize you with charm. Don’t forget to visit the crowded colourful bazaars of Old Delhi.

Agra

Agra is the most wonderful destination of the tourists from all corner of the world due to the TajMahal, the iconic cenotaph of Mumtaj, the queen of famous Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. It is aptly regarded as the greatest wonder of the world and you will be wondered seeing its marble and enchanted watching the majestic grandeur on the marble. After visiting the TajMahal, it will be placed in your heart symbolizing and glorifying the eternal love. In the evening you can enjoy with your family the Mohabbat-e-Taj show describing the Mughal era. Visit other historical places of Agra, such as the Itmad-ud-Daula, the Tomb of Akbar the Great, and the Agra Fort. The Taj Hotel Agra is one of the famous hotels to stay in Agra.

Jaipur

Jaipur is the epitome of magnificence, the largest city of Rajasthan. The city is rich in majestic palaces, beautiful havelis, tranquil temples, and splendid fortresses. It is a versatile tourist destination captivating exquisite handicrafts and spectacular pieces of jewellery. Jaipur is renowned as the Pink City due to its picturesque view of pink houses. During your stay here you must visit Amer Fort, Nahargarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort, City Palace, HawaMahal, JalMahal, Jantar Mantar, and Abhaneri as part of Jaipur sightseeing.

Top 10 Cities in India

Desert tribes and urban dwellers, farmers and priests, all of them have found their unique niche in the diverse India.

The epitome of diverse cultures is found across the different region of India. Myriad of languages, traditions, food, climate and religion form the intricate tapestry of the Indian cityscapes. While each region of India has its on unique attractions, they share the common magnetism that only India is capable of effecting on its residents and guests.

Cities in Rajasthan: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Udaipur

Mentioning one Rajput city over another is not doing justice to all the spectacular cities in the largest state of India, Rajasthan. As majestic as the state name, this land, part of the Thar Desert, is home to several magnificent monuments, forts, temples and other beauties of nature that are only unique to a desert climate. The following Rajput cities have no shortage of opulent palaces, stoic forts, stunning temples which are built from centuries ago and boast of such exquisitely intricate carved structures. One can only be awed by the talents of the artisans and builders of the days gone by. The artistic talents are also clearly visible in the carvings and designs of havelis (ancestral bungalows built by the merchant class) The ‘Pink City’, or the Old City part of Jaipur, is one place where visitors on tour, actually get to experience life as royalty. As the exotic capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur is the proud home of the City Palace and Hawa Mahal. Jodhpur’s Meharangarh Fort with its imposing walls shield lavish palaces with elaborate courtyards and opulent chambers, the Fort Museum for journey to the grand past are some of the remarkable sights in this rustic countryside. The oldest fortress city, Jaisalmer stand proud as its golden sandstone fort walls glow brilliantly in bright hours of the day and at dusk, illuminated to transform into marigolds blooming out of the rocky hills. Camel safaris for sunset or overnight trips are integral part for most tours in this desert region of India. Udaipur, the City of Lakes also known as the Venice of the East presents palaces amidst vast stunning lakes and island delights in this romantic city.

Kerala

A botanical paradise with some of the best beaches in India, and the most unique experience of backwaters cruising, the cities in Kerala state are scenic and refreshing travel destinations. A welcome change from the bustling busy cities, the calm waters and serene atmosphere can be lulling while awakening the senses for the nature delights found in this southern region of India. Visitors on tour to this rural yet modern state of picturesque villages and cities are spoilt for choice in the various travel attractions. From the popular backwater cruises, to the excellent beaches and renowned wildlife attractions such as the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this quiet destination is brimming with wonderful choices. Religious harmony is also clearly evident with the co-existence of the major pilgrimage centre at Sabarimalai and numerous churches including the St Francis Church.

Delhi

A trip to Delhi is a feast for all the senses with its vibrant colours, tangy and spicy food, heart-thumping music, sweet scents of sandalwood and jasmine and silky smooth saris and lehengas. It is an enchanting vacation in Delhi as you find traditions entwined with modern lifestyles. The capital city of India has plenty to offer as a travel destination. Powerful emperors of ambitious kingdoms had their turns ruling Delhi as it remained strong in times of rejuvenation and destruction. From the era of the Delhi Sultanate, to the Mughals and beyond, Delhi has played witnessed to victories of great dynasties and mourned their fall. With such a rich historical tapestry, unsurprisingly there are numerous historic monuments including forts and tombs. The Red Fort, also known as Lal Quila, is the place to learn the history of Shah Jahan’s capital. A fine architectural specimen, it comprises several amazing buildings which include a main palace. Tughlaqabad Fort remains majestic despite its state of ruin. The Qutub Minar, built out of red sandstone, was the victory tower symbolizing the past power of the Delhi Sultanate. Modern tour attractions include the Lotus Temple, a meditation house, affectionately called the Taj of modern India, The Garden of Five Sense and The Dilli Haat, the India gate, a war memorial arch, and Raj Ghat- the cremation site of the Father of India, Mahatma Gandhi.

Agra

The heart skips a beat when a person steps onto the homeland of the greatest love monument the world has ever known. Tours to India, especially to Uttar Pradesh will inevitably lead to Agra, the city of Emperors. The ancient imperial seat of the Mughal Empire, flourished tremendously largely due to its strategic location by the banks of Yamuna River and the Grand Trunk Road. With its brimming coffers, the Mughal rulers welcomed artisans from Central Asia and other region of India. These talented and skilled craftsmen, with their artistic gifts and workmanship, had bestowed upon the world, some of the most magnificent monuments now still standing tall and proud. Travels to Agra are inherently to pay homage to Agra Fort, Itimad-ud Daulah’s Tomb and the Taj Mahal.

Mumbai

The bustling populous city, home to the glamourous Bollywood, Mumbai is Indian chaos redefined. Its cosmopolitan allure lies in the historic monuments which have bore witness to traditional lifestyles and the modern trendsetters. While it can take sometime to take in the potent atmosphere, once settling in, there will be so much more to discover in this vibrant region of India. For all its modern amenities, the famous buildings that are part of most travel itineraries, are with long and rich past. These attractions include the ‘Gateway of India’ the towering arch which curtains the sea beyond which is the sole reason for Mumbai’s existence as a major trading and shipping harbour. There are other fine buildings such as the Rajabai Clock Tower, Chatrapati Shivaji Terminus and the University halls, just to name a few. Not forgetting the humble origins of this metropolitan, there are still some fishing communities, namely the Koli Fishing Village with colourful fishing boats by the river.

Darjeeling

Tea gardens in endless valleys, quaint Toy Train- renowned all over the world and inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, superb trekking trails that reward trekkers with spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks with lush green footholds are some of nature’s bounties found in the modern and rustic city of Darjeeling. The refreshing views and air filled with pleasant aroma from the tea gardens are welcome respite from the busier and bustling cities from other region of India. Sharing the border with Nepal, the culture and languages spoken here are inclined towards the Nepalese influence which is more proof of the infused tapestry of communities in India. Whether it is an adventure seeking travel or tours to scenic spots, Darjeeling will not disappoint. White water rafting, incredibly beautiful views, ecstatic joyrides on the quaint trains across steep ascents and z-crossings, mingling with the warm locals are ways to soak in the unique atmosphere in the ‘Queen of Hills’.

Chennai

The smallest of the four metropolitan cities and the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, previously known as Madras has a vibe and allure epitomized by its magnetic melee that is a daily affair just about everywhere. Homeland to the proud Tamilians, it is a city that just reaches out to visitors and residents to experience its mayhem which is typical of any urban region of India. Lying by the Bay of Bengal, with the largest beach in India, the Marina Beach, Chennai is a juxtaposition of culture, nature amidst progressive development. Murugan Temple, one of the many temples in this city, with the famed Anna Velankanni Church by the Elliots Beach and the Makka Masjid shows the harmony among the various religions. The various dance and music festivals along with the religious revelry such as Pongal and Deepavali will enthrall visitors with the burst of colours and loud crackers while avid shoppers will be spoilt for choice at the fabric and sari paradise centres such as Parry’s and Washerpermet. Chennai is mermerizing not so much for the attractions as it is for the hustle bustle that is inherent of Indian charm.

Goa

The endless stretch of beautiful beaches- Agonda, Calangunte, Colva and Vagator just to name few famed sun-kissed sandy coasts- are synonymous with this small state by the Arabian sea. Yes, this former Portuguese fortress is more than just a beach destination. The opulent churches, including Basilica of Bom Jesus of Old Goa, Church of Our Lady of the Rosary- Goa’s oldest, Se Cathedral- one of the biggest churches in Asia- still stand magnificent after centuries of history. Fortresses from the Portuguese era- Aguada Fort and others are solemn symbols of the colonial history. River cruises down Mandovi’s placid waters, especially the Sunset cruises that transport visitors to exotic experiences at famed forts and enjoy traditional Goa performances are another fascinating facet of Goa. The delightful cuisines of various influences- European and Indian are tantalising to say the least. Goan tallest peaks by the Western Ghats are also haven to the states prominent wildlife sanctuaries. Whether one chooses to tour the vibrant North where beach rave is renowned or the secluded soothing South, their unique charms never fail to enchant visitors to Goa.

Varanasi

Spiritualism, mysticism and religious rites are the very essence of India’s cultural capital, Varanasi also known as Benaras. As Mark Twain eloquently noted- ‘ Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together’. The ancient age has not slowed down the spiritual activities and religious practises in the city in anyway. The temples and ghats (steps leading to the waters) are often bustling with prayers (poojas), religious songs (bhajans) and devotees bathing or performing ablutions along the river waters. Whether one visits Varanasi as pilgrims or tourists, the magic of the religious mayhem is the city’s inexplicable quality. While the Hindus are purposeful in their temple visits and prayers, visitors will certainly relish long walks without purpose, through the intricate alleys and streets where the spirit of Varanasi is felt all around.

Bangalore

The modern capital of Karnataka is also known as the ‘Silicon Valley of India’. Known of its pleasant climate and vibrant community, it offers numerous attractions and modern experiences, making it one of the most developed cities in the southern region of India. Picnic spots along picturesque lakes such as Sankey Tank, Lumbhini Garden and Ulsoor Lake, among others are popular for pleasant time with family and friends. The Banerghatta National Park, Cubbon Park and the Rangantittu Bird Sanctuary will be a hit with nature lovers. The HAL museum will appeal those interested in aeronautics and the Nehru Planetarium is another fascinating venue. Popular travel attractions are the Tipu Sultan Palace, ISCKON temple for its unique architecture and the beautiful Bangalore Palace. Temples from the past such as the Cholan Someshwara temple and the Gavi Gangadhareshvara Cave temple are avenues to learn the rich history of the cosmopolitan city. A not to be missed experience is to try the variety of Karnataka cuisines available in Bangalore, where some of the best dosa (Indian pancake), Punjabi food and fresh variety of seafood can be found. The intriguing nightlife is magnetic to any party lover.

Travel Recommendations For Gambia

Review a list of Gambia travel agencies who can provide professional assistance in preparing your journey to this African destination. They can offer such things as cheaper flights, better and safer hotels and other important services.

The Republic of Gambia, often referred to as Gambia, is a country in the western part of Africa. Gambia is the smallest country on the continent, and it surrounded by Senegal practically from all sides, except for a small patch of coastline in the Atlantic Ocean. Gambia is home to some white sand beaches. The main beach resorts include Kololi, Kotu and Cape Point.

The country is situated along the Gambia River, which flows right through the country’s center into the Atlantic Ocean. Gambia is home to the population of about 1.7 million. Gambia has a few noteworthy landmarks and monuments. Perhaps the most famous of them are the Senegambia Stone Circles, which serve as burial sites, joined together in large numbers and looking more like pillars.

Those, who visit the country’s capital, the city of Banjul, will surely need to see the Arch 22, Fort Bullen and the Banjul State House. This trio creates the group of the city’s most popular landmarks. There are also the important historical remains of Fort James in James Island.

Gambia is a small country, but even in terms of its size Banjul is tiny. However, it leads to certain advantages: the city is pleasant and clean, friendly and unlike bustling large cities. Banjul is situated on St Mary’s Island on the banks of the River Gambia. It is a great place to get acquainted with the culture of the country. The centre is known for many old British colonial buildings, colourful street markets and craft stalls. Boat excursions to Albreda are offered to familiarize the visitors with the period of slave trading as one of the biggest mistakes of the mankind. Banjul’s most impressive building is the State House, which is the seat of government and the office of the country’s president.

Arch 22 is considered the highest structure in Gambia, dominating the city streets of Banjul. It commemorates the military revolution that brought President Yahya Jammeh to power. The arch itself is constituted of three floors, with spiral stairs and elevators. Already from the second floor, one can get a great view over the whole city of Banjul. There is also a small cafe and a shop here.

Senegambia Stone Circles can be found on the north bank of the Gambia River. Often called Wassu Stone Circles, they are seen as one of the more important destinations. It is widely believed that these are ancient burial sites. The stones are huge and reach almost three meters in height. Visitors can find out more about the Wassu stone circles in a visitor centre.

Fort Bullen was aimed at fighting off French slavers along the River Gambia. After being abandoned for some time, the fort was revived again during World War II, when it was used as an observatory and a base for British artillery. Today, Fort Bullen is one of Gambia’s best historic monuments.

Another historic attraction, Fort James, lies in ruins. However, it still conveys the sense of history of the country. Fort James was located in the place where many slaves waited for ships to take them to America. At other times, the fort was occupied by the British, French and Dutch authorities. Gambia is known to have 7 natural reserves and national parks, which occupy 3.6% of the territory of the country. Abuko Nature Reserve has a great variety of wildlife, including porcupines, monkeys, and reptiles, such as lizards, geckos and snakes. It was created back in 1968 not far from the capital of the country. Apart from Abuko, Gambia is famous for its protected forests and marshes, special reserves for birds and chimpanzees.

Car Rental in Manama – A 60-Second Travel Guide to Top Tourist Attractions

All roads in Bahrain lead to Manama. If you’re flying to this capital very soon, do not forget to arrange for a car rental in Manama. Here are some of the tourist destinations you can easily drive yourself to.

Al-Fateh Mosque – Forget big. The Al-Fateh isn’t just big; it’s gigantic. It’s one of the few mosques in the world that can accommodate more than 7,000 people at one time!

Corniche al-Fateh – For a lighthearted jaunt into the east coast of Manama, drive to this seaside promenade. Aside from a great view of the towering skyscrapers in the south and the planes landing and taking off in a nearby airport, you also have a wide range of fun rides and shisha bars to choose from!

Bahrain Fort – Bahrain Fort was named a World Heritage site by the UNESCO in 2005. This recently renovated fort was built sometime in the 14th century. Recent excavations revealed, however, that the fort itself was built on an even older settlement, which dates as far back as 3,000 BC.

Bin Matar House – The Bin Matar House is also called the Place of Memory, and quite aptly so. A famous architect named Mussa Bin Hamad designed it in 1905. In the 1940s, the well-known physician Bandar Kab used it as a clinic. From the 50s and well onto the 90s, the building was used by the Eslah Club.

Barbar Temple – Another one of Bahrain’s famous archaeological sites, this temple is said to have been built in 3000 BC. Pottery, weapons, tools, and even small gold pieces were found there upon excavation.

Of course, there is more to Manama than its historical structures. Get your fill of the city by trying the local treats and immersing yourself in cultural activities.

Culture and Heritage Tours in India

Culture and heritage tours in India are a wonderful way in which to have a wonderful family vacation that may even spark some educational benefits for the children. Once they can see many of the historical buildings, artifacts, and more, there love for learning may be go in second gear. Taking part in these tours will bring history to life so much more than reading the facts in a history book.

A few of the most popular culture and heritage tours in India include Palaces, Forts, & Temples of North & Central India; Classical India; Heritage of Rajashtan; and Spiritual South India.

The Palaces, Forts, and Temples of North & Central India will take you on an enchanted journey through Delhi, Agra, Gwailor, Orcha, Bhopal, and Indore on an 11 nights and 12 days tour. This tour can be booked from October until April. A few of the attractions you will enjoy include Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar all in Delhi then on day three take a train ride to the ghost city of Fatehpur Kikri, and onward to view the Taj Mahal. Day 4 takes you to Gwailior Fort. Day 5 you will encounter the medieval city of Orchha as well as other attractions around the area. On day six in Ghopal, you will visit the Taj-ul-Masajid.

The Classical India tour is 9 nights and 10 days that will take you to various cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Jhansi, Kharjuraho, and Varanasi. Each step of the way, you will learn more about India and its magnificent culture and as well, as visit many historical sights along the way.

Spiritual South India will take you to many unique temples and other spiritual settings including attractions in the cities of Chennai, Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Tanjore, Trichy, Madurai, and Trivandrum.

As you can see, there are a large variety of culture and heritage tours throughout India that will allow you to embrace the history of India as well as learn about their culture and heritage.

Other culture and heritage tours your family may enjoy while visiting India include Colorful Rajasthan With Taj, Grand South India Tour, Southern Sojourn, East Bengal History Tour, Temples Of Orissa, On The Path Of Buddha, Cultural Odyssey, Heritage Of India, India’s Best, The Kamasutra Holiday, Gurudwara Special, Enchanting Southern India, Rajputana Retreat, On The Maharaja Trail, and Rajasthani Splendor.

The choice for touring India is a lifetime experience that you will truly remember for many years to come no matter what tour you choose or if you would rather just lounge around on the beach and visit a few historical sights. India has so much to offer from history to culture, beaches to wildlife, along with romance and serenity. Let India embrace you as you take your family on a vacation that will give them years of fond memories.

Taj Mahal Tour – An Eternal Memoir of Love

Agra is one of the prominent destinations of the World Tourism map because of its three UNESCO World Heritage monuments: the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri & Agra Fort. It is situated on the banks of river Yamuna in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. This is a prominent destination of Golden Traingle Tour which is most sought after India tour and travel packages. The architectural marvel of this historic city summons scores of tourists to this place which makes it the most visited city of India. People from across the world seek taj mahal tour packages so that they can enjoy the splendor of Mughal era buildings, most notably the Taj Mahal. Some of the well known places of Agra tour are:

Taj Mahal:

It is the most famous and the most visited monument of India. People from across the world prefer Taj Mahal tour packages so that they can enjoy this encrypted story of romance at its best. This undying symbol of love is one of the Seven Wonders of the Worldwhich was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Though it is a mausoleum but its crafted beauty, inlay decorations, lattice work and calligraphic work mesmerizes each and every visitor who comes to see this grand edifice.

This is an architecture of eternal love carved out of the white marble which took 22 years to be built by 20,000 skilled artisans.

Taj Mahal the epitome of love is not only known for its phenomenal beauty but also for the finest blend of Indo-Islamic architectural patterns. Further delicate pierce work, Arch of Jali, Inlay detail, incised painting and Herringbone provide grandeur to this architectural delight.

Agra Fort:

It is among the must see destinations during Agra tour which is located on the right bank of the river Yamuna. This is one of the most robustly built strongholds of the Mughals which is famous for its architectural designs of construction and decorations. This embellished Mughal architecture is surrounded by a 21.4 m high fortified wall. The double ramparts have been provided here with broad massive circular bastions at regular intervals. Though this fort has many gates but public can enter only through the Amar Singh gate. Some of the well known impressive monuments within the fort are Diwan-I-Am or the Hall of Public Audience which is well-known for its beautiful jali screen work; Khass Mahal, Shah Jahan’s sleeping quarter built entirely of marble and The Sheesh Mahal which is famous for its glass mosaic decoration and central fountain.

Jama Masjid:

It is located opposite to the Agra fort, popularly known as the ‘Friday Mosque’, which was built by Shah Jahan in 1648 and dedicated to his favorite daughter, Jahanara Begum. It is among the well known attractions of Agra which summons scores of tourists because of its architectural supremacy. The Buland Darwaza that leads to Jama Masjid is the foremost attraction of the Masjid because of its 40 meters height. This huge gate was constructed to commemorate Akbar’s victory in the Kandesh military campaign.

Some of the other well known attractions of this place are Rambagh in Agra, Dayal Bagh Temple, Sikandra in Agra, Fatehpur Sikri and many more…

Development on Tangasseri, Kollam

Tangasseri, Kollam is stepping into the Kerala tourism spotlight with many of its sights and sounds marked for development. A land scaped park is coming up within the fishing harbour complex at Tangasseri with the ruins of the 16th century Portuguese built Fort Thomas as the backdrop. The fort, situated on the tangasseri panhandle of Kollam, was once the citadel, from where the Portuguese controlled the coastal belt from Kollam to Anchuthengu. During the latter half of the 17th century, they surrendered the fort to the Dutch and towards the end of the 18th century, the fort came under the British.

The ruins of the fort will get a facelift on getting the sanction from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)and concrete steps will be taken, for the first time preserve and beautify the remains. The project would be completed in two phases and the ongoing first phase, which will cost Rs 70 lakh is being carried out by the Harbour Engineering Department, with architectural consultancy from Chennai based firm. In this phase, to be commissioned by the end of October, tiles will be laid on the fort complex and lights and seats will be installed. The adjacent park will comprise a children’s enclave and a cafeteria. A tiled pathway will be laid to reach the 2.5 km-long breakwater.

Lookouts into the sea will be constructed along the breakwater in the second phase. There will be a pathway meandering through the panhandle and leading to the inspection bungalow of the Harbour Engineering Department on the border of the century-old lighthouse built by the British. The first and second phases together cost Rs.1.9 crore.

The breakwater has developed into a reef and has become a marine attraction as it hosts fascinating range of marine life.

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