Most Visited Temples in India

From the arresting Himalayan ranges in the North, to Kanyakumari in the South India is suffused with famous temples which date back to ancient times. The adornment in these traditional temples is one of the world’s primary artistic legacies. Today they are a paradigm of how life was earlier and that how the worshiping has been after years of passing.

Have a look at some of the most famous ones.

Khajuraho Temples- Khajuraho temple is situated in Madhya Pradesh. The Khajuraho temples are internationally famous for the erotic sculptures that enrich the walls. Architecturally these temples are unique. They are built on high platforms, several meters off the ground in a combination of light sandstone and granite. Each of these temples has an entrance hall or mandapa, and a sanctum sanctorum or garbha griha. The roofs of these various sections have a discrete form. The porch and hall have pyramidal roofs which are made of several horizontal layers. The inner roof is a conical tower, a massive load of stone made of minute towers called Shikhara.

Meenakshi Temple-.The Meenakshi temple has distinguished and elegantly carved towers, dedicated to Goddess Meenakashi in Madurai (Tamil Nadu). Considered as the south gateway, the Meenakshi temple consists of identical temples of God Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, each one as high as about nine storeys. The temple is an outstanding example of sculpture and architecture. The Meenakshi temple has grandiose stonewalls and towers. The image of Goddess Meenakshi is said to be carved out of a lone emerald. The temple was refurbished many times adding corridors and grand sculptures to it. According to the legend of this temple the marriage of the goddess Meenakshi to Shiva took place in Madurai and is still celebrated every summer with grand gusto.

Sun Temple -The wonderful Sun temple is a living monument of Orissa’s splendid past. The Sun Temple of Konark is regarded as the crest of art and architecture of the ancient Kalinga era. The entire temple was designed in the form of a mammoth chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of elegantly carved wheels. Each of the wheels is nearly 10 feet in diameter. The studies represent the imposing parade of the Sun God. The temple holds the distinction of being one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

Golden Temple- The temple is in the capital city of Punjab (Amritsar). It was built by the fifth guru of the Sikhs and is located on a small island in the centre of a pool called the Amrit-sar (‘pool of nectar’) and is linked to land by a marble walkway. The golden color comes from the cover of gold foil. The architecture of the temple is considered as an epitome of creativity and it represents a unique accord between the Muslims and the Hindus. Symbolically, it has entrances on all four sides to show that it is open to worshippers of all castes and creeds.

Mahabodhi Temple- The fifty meter high Mahabodhi Temple is located in Bihar in the city of Gaya. The temple is an evidence of the history of Buddhism.  It is one of the four holy sites related to the life of the Lord Buddha, particularly the attainment of Enlightenment. This temple is located near the spot where Gautama Siddhartha had attained salvation. The temple is considered as one of the earliest Buddhist temples built entirely in brick. The sculpted stone balustrades are an outstanding example of stone. The four towers on the corners rise gracefully. Delimited on all four sides by stone railings, Mahabodhi Temple bears railings of two types, the older railings are made from sandstone and the other railings are of unrefined granite.

Ajanta Ellora Caves- The famous caves of Ajanta and Ellora are situated in the state of Maharashtra. These caves are regarded as a world heritage site and were dug out from a solid rock. They symbolize the three faiths of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. They are placed in a horseshoe shape. Out of the total 34 caves, 12 caves to the south are Buddhist, the 17 in the centre are dedicated to Hinduism, and the 5 caves to the north are dedicated to Jainism. These caves are divided into ‘Chaitya-Grihas’ (stupa halls) and ‘Viharas’ (dwelling halls). The carvings and the paintings in the caves portray the life of Lord Buddha. Along with this, several types of human and animal figures are also carved out of the rocks. Aurangabad is the closest city from these cave temples. These caves are a famous heritage site of India.

Dilwara Jain Temples- Dilwara Jain temples, Mount Abu are sacred pilgrimage place of the Jains. The temples are a mix of simplicity as well as delicacy. They are five in number all of which are built in white marble. The two most famous of these are Vimala Vasahi and Luna Vasahi. The Vimala Vasahi is dedicated to the 1st Jain Tirthankara (saint). The entrance to the temple is from the east through a arched porch which leads to a six-pillared pergola with a three-tiered smosan (representation of the holy mountain of the Jains) in the center. The smosan is surrounded by 10 statues including that of the founder Vimala and his family, each seated on a beautiful elephant made out of a single block of white marble, about four feet high. The Luna Vasahi is dedicated to the 22^nd Jain Tirthankara (saint). It is slightly smaller then the Vimala Vasahi. The eight pillars of Luna Vasahi assembly hall are of different types. The emphasize is on the ceiling with superbly carved figures of dancers, animals and parade of horsemen.

The Indian temples portray a true intermingling of different cultures of India. The Indian temples are a perfect example of Unity in Diversity, because there is hardly any city, town or village in the country that does not have temples. The Indian temples depict the different sects’ prevalent here. Thus the Hindu temples are amongst the finest in India that are spread almost in every segment.

The temple tours take on a sanctified journey to all the Important Temples in India. The statuary and embellishment in these antique temples showcase one of the world’s leading artistic legacies. Temples of India reflect religious harmony. They are the finest examples of temple craftsmanship of India. So explore these temples and know about the rich cultural legacy of India and experience the memorable India Temples Tour.

Pushkar Fair- The Most Memorable Trip to Rajasthan

When it comes to celebrate fairs and festivals in India, there is no comparison to Pushkar Fair. This is one of the most famous fairs held at Pushkar town which is located just 11Km from Ajmer, Rajasthan. It is the small peaceful and the sacred town along the bank of the picturesque Pushkar Lake that comes alive during Pushkar fair. Today it is considered as one of the most popular and colorful fairs and festivals in India that attracts numerous tourists from every corner of the world. This cultural cum trade fair provides ample of opportunities for vacationers to enjoy the attractive and lively spectacle of Rajasthan. More Information Available at http://www.indiantravelpackages.com/

During Pushkar fair this small town comes alive and brings the rich tradition of Rajasthan enhancing the glory of the golden sand. Stunning fair ground with decorated camels and cattle, meditating, adventures competitions and vibrant stalls are few essential characteristics of this fair that make it more unique and different. Spending holiday or visiting Pushkar fair in true sense can be your lifetime experience.

This famous fair usually begins on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi and continues for five days till Kartik Purnima. Generally, the time of the fair coincides with the bright half of the moon during the months of October-November. Adding to this, it is also believed that during this fair and time, the Gods visit Pushkar for 5 days every year. This sacred conviction towards the existence of God results in gathering of unbelievable number of devotees who flock to the Pushkar Lake to wash away their sins. In fact, the Pushkar Lake is yet important facet of the fair that adds a unique charisma and provides an ideal setting to the Pushkar Camel fair. Lake is believed to posses some medicinal properties and many devotees perform ceremony of ritual bath in the Pushkar Lake on the Full moon day of Kartik Purnima.

The next major feature of the Pushkar Mela is its camel and cattle fair which is also considered to be the largest cattle fair in the entire Asia. Visitors and tourists gather here in huge numbers to view the participation of numerous camels, mules, horses, cows, goats and sheep along with their masters. In addition, most of the days of the fair are dedicated to selling and purchasing of cattle and camel. However, this entire process normally takes lot of days as initially the sellers draw in customers by praising their animals and once the deal get finalized lots of negotiations take place.

Apart from all this, those who are looking for more fun and enjoyment cannot afford to miss the camel race that take place in Pushkar Fair. This camel race is very popular in the midst of visitors from across the world. Spectators, visitors and participants, each of them have a gala time during the race. In addition to this, the camel beauty contest is another vital and unique feature of Pushkar fair. It is the most interesting part of this event when camel are decorated and paraded. All the camels are cleaned, washed, adorned and interestingly decorated to form patterns.

Vacationers can also find special stalls that set up selling finery and jewelry items for the camels. In Pushkar fair, visitors can also find some of the most beautiful and splendid varieties of ornaments, accessories and other jewelry at different stalls. Craftsmen who make these ornaments or accessories are engaged in this craft for whole year and wait for the fair to make some profits. In addition to this, numerous stalls of trinkets, chains, nose rings, necklaces, anklets, toe rings and the ivory bangles worn from wrist to shoulder attract many women in the fair. Garments and tattoos are also very popular among womenfolk.

This is one of the few festivals and fairs that make this desert turn into a place of action and enjoyment. The place becomes filled with thousands of camels, stalls and camping families. Definitely, a trip to this fair can be the life long experience as there is so much to explore, participate and enjoy.

This is one of the few festivals and fairs that make this desert turn into a place of action and enjoyment. The place becomes filled with thousands of camels, stalls and camping families. This year Pushkar Fair is going to start from 30th October- 2nd November, 2009. So, for all those who are looking to be a part or have close glimpses of this unique cultural cum trade fair must visit this destination. Definitely, a trip to this fair can be the life long experience as there is so much to explore, participate and enjoy. Online Booking for Pushkar Fair 2009 available at http://www.indiantravelpackages.com/

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Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra

Badrinath and Kedarnath are the two famous heavenly places for worship. Thousands of pilgrims visit these shrines with deep religious feeling from all over the world every year. According to Indian religious books Badrinath and Kedarnath are considered as the holiest places of India.

The spiritual yatra for Badrinath and Kedarnath is going to start from the month of April and will goes till the end of November. This is the best time to visit these dham and enjoy the scenic beauty of the environment and nature.

Badrinath – Badrinath is dedicated to lord Vishnu, the main temple was built in the 8^th cenntury by the Hindu reformist Adi Sankaracharya. Badrinath shrine has been eternal source of attraction to the people of Indian sub-continent. There are three main attractions of the temple- Garbha Griba, Darshan Mandap and Sabha Mandap. The most important afar from these all attraction is the ideal of Badrinath that is completely sculpted in black stone. This is the main spiritual view for which the people from all over the country come here to pray for their peace of mind.

Kedarnath -Kedarnath is among the twelve Jyotirling of Lord Siva. Lord Shiva manifested in the form of Jyotirlingam or the cosmic light. The temple here is surrounded by lofty snow covered peaks. It is another famous dham among the Char- dham in India. Kedarnath Temple has Garbha Griha for worship and Mandap appt for assemblies of pilgrims from all across the country. The beautiful temple is decorated with fixtures of various deities and scenes from mythology. A conical rock formed inside the temple is worshipped as Lord Shiva in his Sadashiva form.

The Journey do not ends here. Beside these Divine places we also have Gaurikund, Sonprayag, Guptkashi, Gandhi Sarovar, Valley of Flowers, Vasuki Tal and Joshimath. Here you can have the view of nature and its beauty. These are the other places that you can View on the way to Badrinath and Kedarnath.

Char Dham Yatra

Char Dham (Four Pilgrimage) comprises of four spiritual pilgrimages – Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri. Nestled in the lap of Himalayas these Dham (Sacred Places) are famous for peaceful and cultural destinations. Nature in its entire splendor will leave an experience that will stay with you and behind. Millions of people visit Char Dham from India and abroad every Year in search of peace of mind.

Himalayas are famous for pilgrimages and are considered as the “land of Gods”. The best time for visiting Char Dham is between April and November.

Pilgrims from India visit Char Dham in aspiration of washing away their sins and to attain salvation. Char Dham Yatra (Tour) starts from Yamunotri, passing through Gangotri, Kedarnath and ends with the final step at Badrinath.

The Four Destinations of Char Dham Yatra (Tour):

Yamunotri– Yamunotri is the source of river Goddess Yamuna. It is the first mile stone for Char Dham Yatra well known for unique hot springs where raw rice is cooked and made into Prasad.

Gangotri– Himalayas is the most scared spot where Ganga, the stream of life touches earth for the first time. This is the origin place of the river Ganga. That is why this place is called Gangotri.

Kedarnath– Kedarnath has got its name after the name of Lord Shiva. It is venerated as one of the twelve jyotirling (linga of light) in the form of shiva. Kedarnath is flanked by the breathtaking snow capped peaks.

Badrinath– This holy pilgrimage is the seat of the Lord Vishnu in his aspect of Badrinarayan. Badrinath is the most important and most visited Dham among all.

Indiantraveldestinations.com celebrates Pushkar Fair (Mela) 2008

Pushkar Fair is celebrated in Pushkar (near Ajmer), in month of November every year. Pushkar Mela/Fair is known as a huge cattle trading hub, camel race, cultural fest, folk music, dances and lots more.

Preparation for Pushkar Mela 2008 is at its peak. Pushkar fest is one of the most popular and oldest fest in India. Pushkar is a small town in Rajasthan with a great religious and cultural value. Indian people consider it a sacred place as it’s the only place in the world dedicated to Brahma.

Every year in the month of November or Kartik (according to Hindi calendar), Pushkar Fair is organized. Pushkar Fair is the grandest event in terms of cultural fest, cattle trading and several other things related to cattle. Camel Race is one of the most exclusive things about Pushkar Fair.

About Pushkar Fair

Pushkar Fair is mainly known for camels and other cattle. People from all over India come over here with their camels to sell. They even decorate, design, dress and shave their camel to attract the customers. Last year more than 50,000 camels were brought to the festival. For tourists, Camel Race is one of the main things to see here. And one must not forget the folk songs, music and rituals adding to the ambiance of Pushkar fest.

More to Explore in Pushkar Fair

The entire city is molded into the color and joy of Pushkar fest. One must see places like Pushkar Lake, Savitri Temple, Varah Temple, Mahadeo Temple, Ramvaikunth Temple, Holy Ghats, and numerous other places in Pushkar city. However, the best experience is when one directly goes to the venue and sees all these with proximity.

Pushkar Mela 2008

Pushkar fair 2008 is expected to be the grandest fest ever. More tourists, locals, camels are expected to be part of the festival. Especially for tourists, this time more folk colors, music, dances, shows and many other things are added. Foreigners or local tourists, Pushkar Mela 2008 has several things for everyone. One should start preparing now as several travel operators have already opened their bookings and other services dedicatedly for Pushkar Mela.

Get more and detailed knowledge on Pushkar Mela 2008 on http://www.indiantraveldestinations.com/