Incredible India | Tourist Places in India: Rajasthan

Showing posts with label Rajasthan. Show all posts

A miracle on Mount Abu

Peace Park is a cascade of brilliant colors and luxuriant tropical foliage.

Mount Abu, a popular hill station in Rajasthan, northern India, stands majestically like a jagged rock in the desert of the Aravalli mountain range.

Although known more for temples and pilgrimage sites, this is also where you can find the Peace Park, a nonreligious and nondenominational tourist destination that is a respite for the soul as well as the senses.
The eight-hectare development has produced lush gardens from barren soil. It is under the stewardship of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual University, an international organization that teaches meditation and spirituality.

The park is run by a family—Kishor and Vasanti Shah and their son Bejul—all longtime meditation practitioners. There are 55 volunteers from Brahma Kumaris, and 55 laborers and gardeners who tend to the garden with love.

THE PARK has an ornamental feeling, planted as it was with love and spiritual inspiration along paths that wind around.

Peace Park is a miracle in itself because most of the flora and fauna were sourced from outside Mount Abu and planted on difficult soil. It has withstood the harshest weather conditions, from droughts to frosts, yet the plants are able to thrive and bring happiness to the average 150,000 visitors a month, says Bejul.

During Diwali, the Indian New Year, some 70,000 come to enjoy the cascade of brilliant colors, the tropical foliage and the quiet mystical atmosphere. When India’s president Pratibha Patil was still the governor of Rajasthan, she would take silent walks here to start her day.

Although the family had no background in gardening, Vasanti would have visions of the plants that would enhance the Peace Park’s horticulture profile.

THE SOUND of water gushing from the Shiva Lingam fountain is a mystical pleasure in the rock garden.

The walk begins with rows of dense evergreens of thuja compactas, casuarinas or saru trees, potted dracaenas, coleuses, African lilies and begonias that run the concourse. The entrance is surrounded by geraniums, white lilies, chrysanthemums and water plants.

Peace Park sweeps down like a terrace with living walls of plants to create different garden themes and plots. Trees of white lace flowers fence in the pergola. Visitors look up in awe at the dombias, large trees with blossoms bobbing down in bunches of brilliant hues. There are more walls of orange, pink and yellow hibiscus that create little intimate pockets.

Cool early mornings in Peace Park are magical, as pale pinks and oranges diffuse gray clouds, and the lyrical sounds of hummingbirds and sparrows provide calming music. Birds sleep on purple bauhinias, and squirrels scamper around the bottlebrushes and fig trees.

Delicate scent

SCULPTURAL shrubs and hedges line the escarpment to greet the visitor.

Sparrows and eagles hover above the lemon tree plantation. By day, the champa trees (the equivalent of sampaguita) exude their delicate scent. After 8 p.m., the night queen shrubs release a fragrance that is more powerful than burning incense.

Among the visual surprises of Peace Park are the variegated foliage and the thickness of growth that can turn simple aloe vera plants into lush hedges with red flowers. When birds of paradise, ox daises, flowering aloe veras and geraniums bloom in summer, they look like a fireworks display, a sudden burst of color.
In the rock garden, the soothing sound of water trickling from the Shiva Lingam sculpture as it cascades from level to level adds inexplicable gratification. The rocks themselves are hosts to succulents sitting in crevices. They are softened by creeping vines of monsteras and plots of white daisies. Shade is provided by a canopy of fir trees, bottle and fan palms planted along the pond.

The park has covered spaces where the teachings of Brahma Kumaris are visually explained. Although Peace Park doesn’t charge fees, visitors are required to watch an audiovisual presentation in its mini-theater on the soul, the Supreme Soul, and the importance of now.

WHEN people leave Peace Park, they are sometimes inspired to give up bad habits.

The Meditation Cave simulates worship in wilderness and seclusion. An orb-shaped stone, symbolic of the form of the Supreme as Light, is the centerpiece. The chanting of “Om Namah Shivaya” (translated as an adoration of Shiva or God the Benefactor) creates a hypnotic effect. Meanwhile, a Meditation Dome silences the chatter of the mind for any visitor.

Peace Park offers other exhibits such as angels and swans, and a train which illustrates the various stages in man’s life, the benefits of meditation, and how changing thought patterns can improve the quality of one’s life.
Past the topiaries of bougainvilleas, date palms and shrubs of salvias are little signs with sayings, such as, “Whatever actions I create, others will follow.” In the middle of the terrace of potted roses, a sign reads, “To remain happy, forget the past, learn from it and don’t repeat.”

Visitors can walk in silence under the rose vines or meditate under the passion fruit climbers and date palms. At the apex of this terraced park is the giant “Aum” or peace sign amid begonias and bamboos. It overlooks the patches of citruses and bougainvilleas.

When people leave Peace Park, sometimes they are inspired to give up bad habits such as smoking or getting easily upset. Or at least, a sign in the flower beds offers this sage advice: “Good thoughts which transform the self can transform the world.”

India Top Tourist Spots | Top Tourist Attractions of India | Top Tourist Destinations in India | Top Tourist places in India | Famous Tourist places in India | Must see Destinations in India

India is a spiritual land, a land where the religion and philosophy have attained their cultivating points. India travel is very special because India has a very rich and dynamic culture that attracts every traveller. India is like a reward to every traveller who explores this mysterious country.

Tourist Places in India like rivers, seas, mountains and deserts create an interesting puzzle that makes India Travel an unforgettable experience. India is a vast subcontinent bringing together people of different languages and numerous dialects. In each region people embrace their own languages and beliefs, making India a land full of history and tradition. It is true that the Indian History begins thousand years ago. India travel is a fascinating experience and nobody can doubt it.

Tourist destinations in India include Historical Monuments, Forts, Palaces, ancient Temples and the architectural sites. India has tremendous variations in topography and climate from the desert regions of Rajasthan to the scenic Hill Stations, green valleys of Himachal, the rain forests of the North East, the extensive sun-drenched beaches, the Wildlife Sanctuaries .

This India tourist site provides the necessary India tourist information for the various destinations you would like to explore in the magical land of India. India travel by air or railway is great but you won't really feel the soul of India if you don't meet the people, live their traditions, eat their food, and have plenty of sightseeing. Check here the tourist place of India you would love to explore.

India Travel

You can find information on the following Top tourist destinations in India:

Must see Destinations in India

Kashmir

The valley of Kashmir is as rich with history and political controversy as it is with culture and natural phenomena. Sample exquisitely spiced native cuisines and festive teas, then walk off your meal along the rugged trekking routes to the north. Marvel at the famous houseboats of Srinagar and take a spiritual moment to reflect at one of the many pilgrimage sites and religious shrines that dot the region. Of course, native craftsmanship makes for excellent souvenirs—carpets and textiles are an especial shopping must.

Leh Ladakh

The Ladakh capital city of Leh lies near the eastern parts of Jammu and Kashmir, on the crossroads of the historic "Silk Route" from Sinkiang to West Asia and to the plains of India. The humbling monasteries of Shey, Hemis, Alchi, Thikse and Lamayuru will nurture your spiritual needs, and the landscape of Leh provides for a number of adventure activities including mountaineering, white-water rafting and trekking along the Markha Valley.

Munnar

Sprawling tea plantations surround the serene hills of Munnar, which attract adventure travelers hungry for paragliding, treks to Anaimudi (South India’s highest peak) and hikes originating at the confluence of three mountain streams.

The stone Christ Church, built by the British in 1910, is adorned with renowned works of stained glass, and Eravikulam National Park, about 10 miles away, is home to equally colorful wildlife, including the endangered Nilgiri Tahr (ibex), ruddy mongoose and 120 bird species.

Manali

In Hinduism, Manu was said to have survived a great flood that destroyed the rest of the world. He then recreated mankind in this Kullu Valley town. What a rush, huh? No wonder the towering peaks and verdant terrain of Manali attracts adventure travelers, with heli-skiing, hiking, mountaineering and river rafting the favored active pursuits.

Come down from your endorphin high by breathing deeply at the four-story, wooden Hidimba Devi Temple, which sits in the middle of a nearby deciduous forest, or take a medicinal soak in the hot springs burbling from the ground a 30-minute walk from town.

Goa

East meets West in this sun-soaked state, where Indian culture intertwines with Portuguese influences left over from a 500-year occupation. The beaches have long served as a magnet for serene hedonists.

To the north, the tourist-centric scene is prevalent, with an international flair that is now skewing more hip than hippie. Travel south for stretches of unspoiled sand and an escape from large resorts. Temples, mosques and wildlife sanctuaries provide diversions from the beach.

Shimla:

Snow-capped Himalayan peaks and green pastures surround Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Enjoy a heritage walk through Shimla’s Victorian-era architecture, labyrinthine bazaars and lengthy pedestrian shopping mall. Don’t cause too much trouble taking in the town from Scandal Point, a large, open square; keep in mind that Shimla was a retreat destination for Mahatma Gandhi, who frequented a Georgian mansion in Shimla’s suburbs from the mid-1930s to ’40s.

Kodaikanal:

Kodaikanal has an endangered animal called the grizzled giant squirrel. To us, that alone is reason to book a trip ("grizzled giant squirrel" might be the best animal name ever). Perched on the woodsy southern crest of the Palani Hills, nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, this popular lakeside resort town is a magnet for nature lovers. Wander the peaceful slopes, keeping an eye out for birds, exotic flowers and, of course, grizzled giant squirrels.

Gangtok:

The capital of the state of Sikkim, Gangtok is an attractive tourist destination, reflecting a unique ambience which derives from its happy blend of tradition and modernity. Alongside the deeply felt presence of stupas and monasteries, Gangtok also bustles like any other thriving town. Some of the key places to visit include Rumtek Monastery, Do-Drul Chorten, Enchey Monastery, Tashi View Point and the local bazaar, Lal Bazaar.

Mysore:

The kings of the Wodeyar dynasty set the bar high for the southern cultural capital of Mysore. Ornate palaces and the Gothic St. Philomena’s Church with its 175-foot spires pack a visual punch; local institutions keep Carnatic classical music and dance in the public eye. A prominent 11th-century temple sits atop 1,000 steps on the city’s outskirts. Dress to the nines and party like a rock star in celebration of Mysore heritage during the lively Dussehra festival, held for 10 days in October/November.

Coorg:

The misty hills, lush teakwood and sandalwood forests, and acres of tea and coffee plantations of Kodagu are, in a word, stunning. Also known as Coorg and dubbed "The Scotland of India," Kodagu is a postcard-perfect region of scattered villages and hamlets, which are the epitome of old-world charm. Kodagu is ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, angling and white-water rafting, and major festivals like Keil Poldu (worship of weapons), Cauvery Shankaramana (return of the river goddess) and the Huttari (harvest) festival are a huge draw.

Amritsar:

Amritsar is a major commercial and cultural centre in the heart of Punjab. The city is the spiritual and cultural centre of the Sikh religion and is home to the Harmandir Sahib, also known as the Golden Temple. Respectfully marvel at the Indian and Pakistani soldiers who march-off nightly at the Wagha Border, and at the Jallian Wala Bagh the site of the 1919 Amritsar Massacre in 1919.

Darjeeling:

This little tea town came into prominence during the British Raj. It was then that Darjeeling was developed as a hill station and tea plantation area, thanks to its cooler temperatures. Today, Darjeeling's tea estates are world-renowned, but there's more to it than its picturesque rolling hills sheathed in green.Nestled in the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling offers breath-taking views of the great mountains including Mt Everest.

Tiger Hill, at an altitude of 2,590 meters gives visitors a glimpse of the Kanchen Junga range. Plus there's plenty of rock-climbing and trekking opportunities for the adventurous.The ropeway and cable car rides, the natural history museum, the zoological parks and botanical gardens all give tourists a flavour of the natural wealth of the Himalayas. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway with its toy train is also worth a visit, being named a World Heritage Site.

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan:

The 'Golden City' has long been a tourist hotspot thanks to its royal history. The desert town boasts of the Jaisalmer Fort (that houses the Raj Mahal), a number of havelis, the most impressive being the Amar Sagar, Patwon-ki-Haveli and Nathmalji-ki-Haveli, and ornate Jain temples.Tourists can explore the Thar desert perched atop camels, visit the Desert National Park for a gander at the fauna, or the Akal Wood Fossil Park. Of course, there's plenty of shopping to be done for traditional Rajasthani art, clothes and jewellery.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh:

Agra needs no introduction. The timeless Taj Mahal makes it to almost every must-visit list, and deservedly so. The white marble structure and the sprawling campus around it are simply magnificent. And while the Taj will be the highlight of any visit to the city, there are quite a few other architectural delights the city offers visitors.

The Agra Fort is another majestic construction, bearing plenty of evidence of the regalia of Mughal times. Some other attractions include the Sikandra complex, Swami Bagh and Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb.

Jaipur, Rajasthan:

It is Jaipur's rich history and culture that have made it one of the three major tourist centres in the state.Imposing forts, awe-inspiring palaces and exquisite temples are all there and plenty of them. Visit the Jaigarh and Amber Forts and catch the Amber sound and light show for a glimpse of the city's history.The City Palace and Jal Mahal are must-sees. There are also a number of gardens that are perfect for long walks in beautiful surrounds.

New Delhi:

There is plenty to see and do in the country's capital, so make sure you draw up an itinerary.The imposing Red Fort and sprawling complex of Humayun's Tomb are a definite must-see, as are the Qutub Minar and Baha'i Temple. Visit Rajpath, from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate to take in the majesty of the place. And The world biggest Akshardham templeDrop by Connaught Place for some great shopping and dining and Chandi Chowk for a true Delhi experience.

Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

One of the country's rapidly growing IT hubs, this capital city also boasts a rich cultural heritage going back many centuries.The famed Charminar and Golconda Fort are big tourist draws and the market around Charminar is great for a bargain. Another architectural gems include the Falaknuma Palace and Mecca Masjid. The Hussain Sagar and Sharmipet lakes and the gardens and parks nearby all present wonderful picnic opportunities. Of course there are numerous mosques and temples to not only seek some spiritual upliftment but also to feast your eyes on.And while your travelling the length and breadth of the city, make sure to load up on plenty of Hyderabadi biryani, you won't regret it!

Bengaluru, Karnataka:

This buzzing metro might be one of the most recognised Indian cities abroad, but the 'Garden City' had plenty going for it long before it became an IT hub.

Bengaluru offers a blend of the old and the new and won't disappoint. The Bangalore Palace and Summer Palace are a glimpse into the city's royal past and the imposing Vidhana Soudha structure an example of its prosperous present.There are plenty of ancient religious centres, such as St Mary's Basilica, St Patric's Church, the Masjid-e-Khadria and Shri Nimishamba Devi Temple.Younger tourists will enjoy the plentiful shopping at the many malls, all offering the biggest brands, and the thriving nightlife complete with pubs and lounge bars.