Monsoon Trecking at Lohgad
First rains of the season always bring with it a sense of entrapment. With man perennially trapped in an urban cage, watching the rain fall evokes a desire to escape into the arms of Mother Nature. The primal instincts of roaming wild in nature and a thirst to escape the daily humdrums of our busy city lives takes over. To quenched this thirst many head towards the mighty mountain top of Lohgad.
Lohgad is one of the two forts guarding the trade route between Kalyan and Nalasopara harbors & markets of Deccan plateau (other fort being Rajmachi). Today, most of the forts are in dilapidated states, however Lohgad is
still in much better condition. For trekker's Lohgad should be a real treat to visit giving a wonderful panoramic view from its top. Lohgad is situated about 5 Km. from Malavali station. First one should reach Lonavala by any Central-Southern mail/express, catch a local train from Lonavala to Malavali. From Malavali one can catch a rickshaw to Bhaje village. 1½ hours walk from Bhaje will lead to Lohgadwadi.15 min walk from Lohgadwadi will take you to the top.Being a well preserved fort the entrance to the fort is in good condition. The fortification are also quiet good. There are some stone-scripts(Shilalekh) in the den, the only place where night stay can be made on Lohgad. There is a mosque atop Lohgad. From Lohgad, Tung and Tikona hills are seen to the south, Dukes nose at west, Pavana dam offers a wonderful view in the south direction.
Sightseeing at Lohgad :
Vinchu Kata :
The fort houses many old constructions and much of its fortification is very intact. This becomes clear as we move. The entrances and the ramparts are as they were 200 years ago. As we enter the Ganesh Darwaaja, we come across an inscription on a rectangular stone. If it is not stone, one has to check every stone there. The words on it tell that the construction was initiated and done by Dhondopant under Nana Phadnis. Here are the
galleries for guards.Between Narayan & Hanuman Darwaaja there are two go downs. These were used for storage of granary.After entering the Maha Darwaaja we come across an old 'Dargah'. Besides the Dargah we come across the remnants of the court. Going towards right we come across 'Laxmi Kothi'. It is a big cave where 50 people can stay. The Kothi has many rooms. On Lohgad Laxmi Kothi is the only place for us to stay. The treasury of Nana Phadnis was kept here. In front of this place are two cannons. Besides the cave are many other caves. On the northern side of the fort is a newly built Dargah. This is the tomb of Sheikh Umar. The history is interesting. Three Arabs named Sheikh Umar, Sheikh Salla and Sheikh Malang invaded Pune. Salla resided in Pune city and destroyed the temples. Malang went and stayed on what is known as Malanggad, near Kalyan. Umar seized Lohgad. A sage was meditating here. Umar threw him off the cliff and became the ruler here. Today his Dargah has gained importance as pilgrimage.
Bhaje Caves :
The fort is not so big as the main forts, but it acquired significance due to its geographical location and the
dominance of Buddhists and later the Satvaahans here. Building forts strengthened the peaks of Sahyadri, and the marvelous caves and sculptures beautified their faces. The artistic works not only reveal the cultural development, but also show an advanced architecture that is not achievable today. The caves of Ajantha and Verul are the best works, so are the caves of Karla and Bhaje. Karla caves are little farther from here, but Bhaje caves are near Malavali. The ancient Viharas and Stupas of Buddhists indicate that they were Heenyana Buddhists, who do not believe in idol worship. Mahayana Buddhists carved idols of Buddha. Here we can find 8 more Stupas. There is a temple, which is Surya-Mandir or Temple of Sun. the chariot of Sun God is carved hereFor more images, click here
For a 360 degree view of Lohgad click here (the view would take 2 minutes to load)
Labels: Forts, Trecking, Western India
posted by Rishil Babu @ 9:06 PM,
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The Magnificent Maharashtra : Golden Glory of The Marathas
Maharashtra nestles on the west coast of India, in the arms of the Arabian Sea. Providing more than 20 percent of the value of India's industrial output, it is among the most commercially important states. Caressing an ancient history that goes back nearly 2,500 years, the cordial land of Maharashtra is trimmed with exquisite sculptures and world-renowned frescoes that line the forlorn rock-cut caves of this great state.
In more recent times, Maharashtra was the dominion of the valiant Marathas, whose legendary hero, Shivaji, challenged the prestige of the Mughals in the 17th century.
To dilate the turmoil of his guerrilla warfare, Maratha women modified the 'sari' to nine yards from the traditional six, wearing it to look like 'dhoti'. You can still see the distinctive and unique style, cheerfully retained in its vibrant culture. Be a part of the extravagant 'Ganesh Chaturthi' festival, a 10 day celebration in respect of Elephant God, Ganesh. Another thing that you cannot forget after a vacation trip to this magical land is its magnificent fast food cuisine. Offering a multicultural medley of a multi-dimensional menu, the fast food joints, ubiquitous in Maharashtra, is a must visit for every tourist. The state has a 720-km coastline dotted by rugs standing as mute witnesses down the ages to the march of warrior kings, foreign trading vessels and invaders from across the seas. Maharashtra - Tourist Destinations
Maharashtra, one of the largest industrialized states of India, attracts thousands of
tourists from across the globe every year. Situated in the western and central parts of the country, Maharashtra extends over the Sahayadri mountain ranges and a vast coastline of 720 kms of the Arabian Sea. A land of rich art & culture and traditions, Maharashtra is known for its outstanding architecture, serene beaches, imposing forts and monuments, museums and picturesque temples.Maharashtra - Temples
Maharashtra, renowned as a major centre of Indian Temple architecture, has a wealth of venerable pilgrimage centres. The region soaked in the tales of valour of Marathas, is home to several exquisite temples. Some of the popular temples are Elephanta Cave Temple Kailashnatha Temple, Ajanta Caves Temple, Ellora Caves Temple, Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbadevi Temple, Balaji Temple, Bhimshankar Temple, Grishneshwar Temple, Tryambakeshwar Temple, Mahalakshmi Temple and Bhivani Temple.
Maharashtra - Cuisine
For Maharashtrians food means God, so they believe in offering their food first to
the God as a thanksgiving ritual. In Maharashtra you can savour a wide range of delicious cuisine, which give distinctive flavours. Maharashtra cuisine can be broadly divided into two types such as Konkani and Varadi. Although these cuisines are quite different from each other, but both extensively use seafood and coconut. Almost all the vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes in Maharashtra is served with cooked rice and soft breads. Vada or Amboli, is a special rice-puri served as a part of the main meal in Maharashtra. Some other specialties of Maharashtra include Chaat, Pani Puri, Bhelpuri, Paw Bhaji Dosai, Kebabs, Baida Roti, Tandoori Chicken and Fish Koliwada. Maharashtra - Hills
Blessed with natural beauty, Maharashtra also shows evidence of a divine hand in its mountains and hills. The Western Ghat range running parallel to its coast from north to south, at an average height of 1,200 metres. With its foothills sometimes approaching the sea-coast and sometimes moving 50 to 60 kms away, Maharashtra Hills seem to be playing the hide and seek game with the beautiful Arabian Sea. Within
these mountains, lies the hill stations of Maharashtra. Popular hill stations of Maharashtra include Mahabaleshwar, Khandala, Panchgani, Amboli, Bhandardara, Chikhaldara Hills, Jawahar, Lonavala and Karla, Malshej Ghat Matheran, Panhala and Toranmal. Maharashtra - Caves
Built artistically several centuries ago, some dating to the 2nd B.C, the Caves of Maharashtra offer an exceptional appeal and aura. Situated amidst the formidable Sahayadri ranges, the caves housed the monks of different religions in olden days. Known for their excellent paintings and sculpture, the Maharashtra Caves will leave you spellbound. While you visit Maharashtra don’t forget to pay a visit to these caves. Most popular caves are Karla Caves, Kanheri Caves, Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves, Junnar Caves, Bhaja Caves and Aurangabad Caves.
Maharashtra - Shopping
Although Maharashtra has several places for shopping, but Mumbai is the ultimate shopper’s paradise. Mumbai offers exciting shopping opportunities under the sun as well as under the moon. In Mumbai, Chor Bazaar, Zaveri Bazaar, Breach Candy, Kemps Corner, Colaba Causeway, Fashion Street are the famous shopping areas. In these bustling markets, you can shop a wide range of products. Maharashtra has also a rich heritage of handicrafts, while shopping you can buy handicraft items in the shopping centres of the state. Apart from Mumbai, Aurangabad is also a good destination for doing some shopping. Aurangabad region is renowned for 2000-year-old craft of weaving Paithani Sarees. Popular items which you can check out in Maharashtra are Paithani
and Himroo Sarees, Narayan Pethsaris sarees, Lacquer ware, Bidri Ware, Warli Tribal Paintings and Kolhapuri Chappals. How To Reach
Mumbai is one of the busiest cities in India, always bustling with enthusiasm. The international and domestic airports are located to the north of the city, Sahar, at a distance of 30 km from downtown. Mumbai handles flights from 37 airlines, which fly to the major cities in asia, the far and the middle East, major destinations in Europe - such as London and Paris - and New York and Chicago. Both the terminals are furnished with world class facilities to satisfy an international traveller. On arrival at Sahar International Airport, the immigration, baggage retrival and customs
counters precede the remaining of the services. Exchange can be obtained at bank counters just outside the customs area. Tourists will also get innumerable taxis and autorickshaws just outside the airport premises. Mumbai is well connected to the rest of the country by central and western railway lines. Trains to Mumbai for most central, southern and eastern regions arrive at CST which is located at the heart of the city. Trains from Northern India arrive at Bombay Central. Both stations are centrally located and taxis are readily available.
Across Mumbai Central Station is the terminus for interstate buses. Maharashtra State buses terminate at Asiad Bus Stand at Dadar. As an important junction on the National Highway network of India, it is limked to all major towns and cities of the country. NH 3 connects Mumbai to Indore and Gwalior, NH 4 to Pune, and NH 8 to Ahmedabad and Delhi. The port of Mumbai is located to the south of the city and handles around 1/6th of India's total inborne trade. A better route to Maharashtra may be to avail a ferry service. One can get ferry ships from the Ferry Wharf, near the Prince's Dock, as well as the Gateway of India. The Port of Mumbai operates its own railway, running between Ballard Pier and Wadala. This is linked to the Central and Western Railways at the interchange Railway Yard at Wadala.
More quality links below.
Labels: Forts, Western India
posted by Rishil Babu @ 12:50 AM,
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GOA the Tourist Paradise of India
Also Known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan.The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world.
Legends from Hindu mythology credit Lord Parshuram, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu with the creation of Goa. Over the centuries various dynasties have ruled Goa. Rashtrakutas, Kadambas, Silaharas, Chalukyas, Bahamani Muslims and most famously the Portuguese have been rulers of Goa. The vast green expanse of the Sahyadri mountain range ensures that Goa has an abundance of water. The sea and rivers abound in seafood - prawns, mackerels, sardines, crabs and lobsters are the most popular with the locals and the visitors. Along with English which is widely spoken all over Goa, Konkani and Marathi are the state languages. The national language Hindi is also well understood in most areas around the state. Goan cuisine is a blend of different influences the Goans had to
endure during the centuries. The staple food in Goa is fish and rice, both among the Hindus and the Catholics. Unlike the Christian food the Hindu Goan food is not strongly influenced by the Portuguese cuisine. 40 lovely beaches, most of them pollution free, though not all of them as safe as swimmers would wish. The most developed beach segment is the Calangute - Baga - Anjuna belt in the Bardesh subdivision north of Panaji. The north Goa beaches in Pernem subdivision are delightfully primitive and untouched: Keri beach (with Tiracol and an ancient Portuguese fort on the other bank); Arambol (also known as Harmal); Mandrem (a toddy tappers' and palm distillers' hamlet with two little beaches: Lemos and Asvem) and Morji. The local people are friendly and un-interfering, the markets fairly well stocked and the public transportation system reasonably efficient. By way of accommodation there are somewhat Spartan cottages and thatched huts.
Highly recommended places to visit in GOA.
Mayem Lake
The picturesque Mayem Lake just 35 kms from Panaji, encircled by rolling lush green
hills, is an ideal picnic spot with paddle boating facilities. In fact, those interested in experiencing a bit of rural Goa, can stay in Mayem Lake View cottages, hidden in the wooded slopes overlooking a calm spread of water.
Arvalem Waterfalls
This waterfall, which cascades down from the mountains, from a height of 50 meters, is one of the most amazing spots and best viewed after the monsoons, when the ferocity of this waterfall is mind-blowing. Near the waterfall, is the temple of Shri Rudreshwar and this site is important for the religious rites to appease the souls of the departed. Hindu religion followers perform these rites on the 12th day after the death.
Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary
With an area of 240 sq. kms, this sanctuary is Goa's largest wildlife preserve. Located close to the Molem village at the foot of the Western Ghats, this sanctuary lies on the eastern border of the state. It is 53 kms away from the state capital Panaji, with evergreen forests and deciduous trees encompassing this preserve.Dudhsagar Waterfalls
Literally meaning 'The Sea of Milk', these falls are situated on the Goa-Karnataka border, at a distance of 60 kms from Panaji and 10 kms from Colem railway station. Water plummets hundreds of feet in large volumes, forming one of the most spectacular of all natural phenomena in Goa. It is a popular destination for hikers and trekkers. The falls are best seen after monsoon, between October and December, but right up to April there is enough water to make a visit worthwhile.
Savoi Verem Plantation
The Savoi-Verem plantation, owned by the Shetye families of South Goa, is a great half-day excursion to make, and an opportunity to see traditional Goan methods of organic farming. The ascent to the plantation is staggeringly beautiful where one can walk through the plantation with a guide, identifying different spices and exotic fruits, crushing and smelling the leaves and watching the monkey-men gather betel-nuts in the trees. Once there, you can also have a traditional Goan lunch, served out of earthenware, on banana leaves on a verandah overlooking the natural lake.
Menezes Braganza’s House
Menezes Braganza's House at Chandor belonged to Luis de Menezes Braganza, an
influential journalist and politician (1878-1938). The late 16th century mansion was later extended in the 18th and 19th century, which was divided between two families staying in separate wings.Mapusa Market
Mapusa is the administrative head quarters and the main town of the Bardez Taluka. Its main feature is the municipal market that is worth a visit as to get the feel of the Goan colour. The thrill of bargain hunting while you browse along the colourful and vibrant shops of textile and silk, jewellery, spices, fruits and vegetables and the fish market is also a beautiful experience.
Pottery Handicraft Workshop
Talking of original designs, it should be interesting to visit Kumbhar Pottery studio at Bicholim, that has some very interesting pieces. The eleven-year-old studio experiments with clay and earth to combine the many aesthetic sensibilities that Goa has developed over the years. One finds distinctive Portuguese influence amalgamated with Hindu traditional art resulting into beautiful objects and that is where Goan pottery stands out from the rest.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Ten kms northeast of the Usgao Tisk village in north Goa lies the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. One of the smallest preserves in Goa, it covers an area of merely 8 sq. kms. Animals such as the black-faced langur, Indian bison, jackal and wild boar are commonly found here. Various species of deer can also be spotted. Besides being home to animals, this preserve is also a treat for bird watchers and butterfly spotters.Handicraft Emporium
The Goa Handicrafts, Rural & Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited (GHRSSIDC), a Government of Goa Undertaking, was set up in October 1980. Its main objective is to encourage, promote and market the myriad of Goan handicrafts by making these items available through its various outlets.
Shopping in GOA
For travellers to Goa, the visit is not complete unless they take back a souvenir of their memorable sojourn in this magnificent paradise. Naturally, shopping should be a priority on the itinerary of every tourist, along with the sightseeing attractions. The excellent local handicrafts of Goa are easily the most popular souvenir items and include brassware, terracotta, shell work, crochet, carved furniture, bamboo work, papier-mache, etc. These are available in the Government Emporia and also at shops and stalls near the popular tourist spots.
Getting to GOA
By Road
The Goa Transport Corporation, Kadamba, runs long-distance services throughout the state from their main stand at Panjim, Mapusa, Margao and from locations in the adjoining states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. Private buses, serving everywhere else, including the coastal resorts, are affordable, frequent, and provide a relaxed mode of commuting.
By Rail
The Konkan Railway makes Goa easily accessible by rail from cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Mangalore, Ernakulam and Thiruvanantapuram. Goa is also linked to Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune via Londa.
By Air
Dabolim Airport, 30-km from the state capital Panaji, has coach services operating to and from the airport. All the major hotels also arrange transport services for the guests and prepaid taxi services are also available. All the major airline services have daily flights to Goa from Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai and Pune and twice a week from Chennai and Kochi. The International Service of airlines also connects Goa with Kuwait and Sharjah twice a week.
Labels: Beaches, Western India
posted by Rishil Babu @ 6:22 AM,
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