Metro Mirror

Maharashtra Tourism
Cities of Maharashtra Ajanta Caves Ajanta and Ellora are the pride of Maharashtra. The rock-cut caves of both these sites are world famous and illustrate the degree of skill and artistry that Indian craftsmen had achieved several hundred years ago. Ajanta dates from 100 B.C. while Ellora is younger by some 600 years. The village of Ajanta is in the Sahyadri hills, about 99 kms. From Aurangabad; a few miles away in a mammoth horseshoe-formed rock, are 30 caves overlooking a gorge, `each forming a room in the hill and some with inner rooms. Al these have been carved out of solid rock with little more than a hammer and chisel and the faith and inspiration of Buddhism. Here, for the Buddhist monks, the artisans excavated Chaityas (chapels) for prayer and Viharas (monasteries) where they lived and taught. Many of the caves have the most exquisite detailed carvings on the walls, pillars and entrances as well as magnificent wall paintings. These caves were discovered early in the 19th century quite by chance by a party of British Officers on manoeuvres. Today the paintings and sculptures on Buddha�s life, belonging to the more mellow and ritualistic Mahayana Buddhism period, are world famous. Copies of them were shown in the Crystal Palace exhibition in London in 1866. These were destroyed in a fire there. Further copies were published soon afterwards and four volumes of reproductions were brought out in 1933 by Ghulam Yazdani, the Director of Archaeology of the then Hyderabad State. Ajanta has formed an epicentre of interest for those who appreciate and are eager to know more about Indian history and art. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and has been listed in the World Heritage list of monuments.The 30 caves of Ajanta were created over a span of some 600 years. In their range of time and treatments they provide a panorama of life in ancient India and are a source of all kinds of information... hair styles, ornaments, textiles, musical instruments, details of architecture, customs etc. It was from this collection of classical Indian art that a particular style was formed that traveled with Buddhism to many parts of the world. Similar paintings can be seen in Sigiriya in Sri Lanka, Bamiyan in Afghanistan, temples and shrines in Tibet, Nepal, China and Japan. Royal patronage made Ajanta possible. Professional artists carried out much of the work and each contributed his own individual skill and devotion to this monumental work. Visitors often ask how the artist who painted the detailed frescoes and chiseled out the intricate carvings, managed to work in the dark interiors of the caves. It has been noticed that the caves are illuminated by natural light for part of the day and it is presumed that metal mirrors or sheets of white cloth were used to reflect sunlight into the inner recesses. Ellora Caves The cave temples and monasteries at Ellora, excavated out of the vertical face of an escarpment, are 26 km north of Aurangabad. Extending in a linear arrangement, the 34 caves contain Buddhist Chaityas or halls of worship, and Viharas, or monasteries, Hindu and Jai temples. Spanning a period of about 600 years between the 5 th and 11 th century AD, the earliest excavation here is of the Dhumar Lena (Cave 29).The most imposing excavation is, without doubt, that of the magnificent Kailasa Temple (Cave 16) which is the largest monolithic structure in the world. Interestingly, Ellora, unlike the site of Ajanta, was never 'rediscovered'. Known as Verul in ancient times, it has continuously attracted pilgrims through the centuries to the present day. Ellora has been designed as a World Heritage Site, to be preserved as an artistic legacy that will continue to inspire and enrich the lives of generations to come.. Mumbai Welcome to the city that never sleeps! Pulsating, Alive, On the Move, Vibrant, Fun -- this is Mumbai or as it is still frequently referred to -- Bombay. The most modern city in India, it captures the spirit of the changing pace set by liberalization and modernisation. Once a cluster of seven islands, Mumbai was presented to King Charles II in 1661 as part of the dowry when he married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal. Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets, business houses and many different communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere. On the surface, it represents the ever-changing face of today's India -- the old coupled with the dynamic new, and yet at its very core, the heart of the city is steeped in Indian customs and values. It is the capital of Maharashtra state, and its official language is Marathi although English and Hindi are widely spoken and understood. The fast-paced life has given rise to hordes of "fast-food outlets" on almost every road, offering lip-smacking choices of Mumbai's very own pau bhaji, bhel puri and kababs. There is no dearth, though, of multi-culinary delicacies dished out in posh restaurants by expert chefs. Mumbai is a shopper's delight with bargain buys, exclusive boutiques, ethnic markets and mini bazaars. This busy city is also the hub of a thriving cultural life, with a constant stream of performances in music, dance and drama. The seat of the Hindi film industry, known locally as Bollywood, it produces the largest number of films in the world. Mumbai caters to the adventurous and the romantic through its sporting activities, nightclubs, pubs, theatres, beaches and restaurants. Old and new, rich and poor, classical and modern -- its all here for you to savour and enjoy! Having pulsating lifestyle with full of vibrancy and fun, Mumbai lives with the spirit of the changing pace set by liberalization and modernization. Mumbai is the centre of interest for foreign investors. It has changed itself into a thriving market, and an MNC's heaven. Known as the fastest city of India, Mumbai is the only city where tourists can enjoy a fine nightlife. This is the place of beaches like Marina beach and Juhu beach, and one can also opt to see the site seeings like Gateway of India, Essel World, Mani Bhawan, Jehangir Art Gallery, Siddhivinayak Temple and Bollywood. Mumbai is also the centre for all glamorous happenings in India with a constant stream of performances in film, music, dance and drama. Mumbai also offers lots of adventurous and romantic activities through its nightclubs, pubs, theatres, beaches and restaurants. And don't forget to taste the mouth-watering Mumbai's own pau bhaji, bhel puri and kebabs. Mumbai History After the death of Asoka, Bombay had been taken over by various Hindu rulers until 1343. Mohammedans from Gujarat took the possession in the same year and ruled for nearly two centuries. Then came the Portuguese in1534 and kept the name Mumbai Excursions Elephanta caves are in the magnificent Elephanta Island, which is 11 km from Mumbai. It has beautiful carvings, sculptures, and a temple of the Hindu God, Lord Shiva. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a commercial, military and religions centre for centuries Mumbai Entertainment To take a break from the day long exhausted work schedules, Mumbai has lots of sites, which can give a breathing rest. Gateway of India is a popular place where foreigners as well Indians enjoy a lot in Mumbai. One can also board a short journey Mumbai Travel Tips The local trains along with the local bus service run by the BEST carry the huge Mumbai's commuters. Local Trains leave every few minutes from stations in both directions from 4.30 am to 1.30 am. There are also yellow and black taxis, which are a convenient Mumbai Shopping Mumbai offers quite wide ranges to the shoppers. Ranges are different, and there are places, which can be suited with every type of pockets. Chor Bazaar, Mutton Street and Zaveri Bazar are some of the important areas, where shoppers enjoy with delight. Phenomenal collection of antiques, jewellery, wooden articles, How to Reach Mumbai Being a metro city and the capital of Maharashtra, Mumbai is well connected to the rest of the world and India. International fights are landed at Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (formerly known as Sahar Airport) while at Chhatrapati Shivaji Domestic Mumbai Accommodation Being Mumbai a metro city of India, it offers a wide range of hotels to tourists. One can find here budget hotels to star hotels with different levels of comfort and budget, which can fit with every pocket. All the hotels offer excellent service, comfort and cleanliness. For higher people, the Taj Mahal Hotel is near the Gateway of India Mumbai Tourist Attractions Gateway of India is regarded to be the starting point for most tourists who want to travel around the Mumbai city. This 26m-high structure has four turrets and intricate latticework carved into the yellow basalt stone. Mumbaites, as well as the foreign tourists come down Mumbai Fairs and Festivals Ganesh Chaturthi is the biggest festival in Mumbai. It is celebrated with great grandeur for 11 days in the months of October or November. Hindu God Ganesh is worshipped in this festival. Pune Surrounded with green hills and placid lakes and having a salubrious climate, Pune is known as the Queen of the Deccan and Oxford of the East. This cultural capital of Maharashtra is among the greenest urban areas in India. Being witnessed the ups and downs of the Maratha Empire and its great ruler Shivaji, Pune has lot to narrate about its historic past. Pune is now a center for Marathi theatre, education, crafts, culture and art. The city has one of the India's oldest universities that attract students both from India and abroad. In coarse of time, Pune is becoming a commercial hub for Maharashtra state next to Mumbai with the investors and MNCs showing interest to this city. Here, one can enjoy the narrow but historic lanes of the walled city as well as the spacious and dazzling streets of the new city. Pune offers both traditional Maharashtra as well as the up-to-date and lively new look Maharashtra. Enjoy! Pune Excursions Tourists can visit Panset Dam for water sports. Here one can try kayaking or wind surfing at the newly developed water sports complex. Special facilities for speedboats and water scooters too are available. Pune Tourist Attractions Osho Ashram, also known as the Osho Communal Centre is located at the greenery area of 17 Koregoan Park of the city. The Ashram offers a variety of expensive courses on meditation. Osho Ashram attracts Pune Entertainment Being a modern city, Pune offers a lot to culture and music buffs, food and fashion lovers. Discotheques and pubs are there in the Cantonment area. 'Rain dances' and beauty pageants are held regularly Pune Fairs and Festivals This is the most important and biggest festival in Pune. It falls on the 4th day of the bright fortnight of Bhadrapada (August - September). People buy Ganesh images to keep in their houses as a divine guest for five to ten days. Pune History Rulers of different dynasties have ruled Pune. Evidence found as copper plates of 758 AD and of 768 AD reveal that the Rashtrakootas ruled this region at that time. The Pune Gazetteer explains the term Pune as Punya How to Reach Pune Indian Airlines and other private airlines are providing regular flights to Pune from Delhi. Three different flights arrived from Mumbai daily. There are four flights a week to Chennai and Bangalore. Pune city is only 12 km from the Airport Pune Accommodation Puran Poli (a paratha stuffed with jaggery and dal), Aamti (masala dal), and Alu chi Vadi (steamed arbi leaves, fried in an unusual sweet and spicy masala) are the traditional Maharashtrian cuisines that are served at the Pune restaurants Pune Travel Tips September to June is the best time to visit Pune. The winters are fairly cool and the monsoons have heavy rains. Visiting Lonavala and Khandala are best during this season, which is not far from Pune. Pune Shopping Tulsi Baug is a noisy and unorganized market area with temporary stalls and lined shops. But here, tourists can get household items; jewellery, Maharashtrians traditional wares, pearl nose ring, necklace and the nine-yard sarees from this busy market. Nagpur Nagpur is one of the major industrial cities of Maharashtra. This district is famous for its orange productions. Many big and leading companies open their base in this city. Many businessmen come to this city everyday for this reason. As it is one of the major cities of Maharashtra, it is well connected by train, air and road with other parts of the Maharashtra state and India. Two flights are arrived and departed for Mumbai from Nagpur airport everyday. In Nagpur, visitors can enjoy the cool environment of Gavilgad Fort, which is 200-300 years old. Lonar Lake is the third largest natural salt-water lake in the world. Marbat and Ramjanam rath yatra are the local festivals, which are enjoyed by the millions every month. Visiting the city during this time is really enjoying. Tourists can also organized excursions for Adasa, Khekranala, Markanda, Dhapewada, Nagardhan, Nawegaon Dam, Ramtek and Pavnar. Nagpur Excursions Adasa is located at a distance of 45 km from Nagpur. This small village has a plethora of ancient and magnificent temples. There is also a Ganapati Temple here, which is worth to be visited. The idol of the Lord is a single stone, set up to facilitate Nagpur Tourist Attractions It is located near the hill station of Chikhaldara in Amravati district. The Hindu rulers originally constructed Gavilgad fort. It is located at a height of about 370 ft above sea level (MSL). Historians believe that it is 200-300 years old, although the fort's Nagpur Entertainment There are number of movie theatres in Nagpur. Here, one can enjoy Hollywood, Bollywood and Marathi films. Marathi theatre is known to be one of the oldest and well established of regional theatres in India. So, one can enjoy the taste of Nagpur Fairs & Festivals Marbat is celebrated only in the Nagpur region, especially in the Nagpur city. People prepare statues of evil forces and take out procession in this festival. These statues are burnt at the end, and assumed that all evil forces are burnt. It is believed History of Nagpur Gond prince of Deogad kingdom, Bhakt Buland, founded Nagpur in the early 18th century in the Chhindwara district. He tried to change the life of Nagpur as his new capital after seeing the advantage of civilized life of Delhi. His successor Chand Sultan How to Reach Nagpur Nagpur is connected with domestic flights with the cities of Mumbai, Calcutta, Delhi Hyderabad, Pune, Bhubaneswar and Raipur. Nagpur's Sonegaon airport is nearly 8 km south of the city. Two flights arrived Nagpur daily from Mumbai. Nagpur Accommodation As the orange production of Nagpur are so large, many businessmen as well as tourists visit the city everyday. To cater this ever increasing need, many government as well as private hotels are opening day by day in the city. Nagpur Travel Tips Winter is regarded to be the best time to visit Nagpur. But is advisable to carry cardigans as the temperature falls down below 120 C in December. It will be useful to carry a first aid box as well. Nagpur Shopping Nagpur being a major city of Maharashtra has quite wide ranges of shopping places. Street shops are there at major streets for fashionable items as well as the show rooms for the deeper pockets. Sitabuldi, WHC Road, Nashik Having many temples and pilgrimage sites, Nashik is known to be a holy city for Hindus in India. Nashik has always been the centre of commerce and trade in India since historical past. Many historic events of the Indian freedom struggle too had been occurred in this place. Ramkund, Muktidham Temple, Coin Museum and Pandavleni Caves are some of the important tourist sites of Nashik. Nashik is developing as a lively city with a blend of the ancient and the modern touches. The city has numerous forts, temples, historic sites as well as a home for industries. Nashik is also popular for fruit and vegetable productions. Grapes, strawberries and onions are amongst the highest in the country. Tourists can also organize trips to Shirdi, Trimbakeshwar, Dudhasagar Waterfalls, Saptashringi Devi Temple, Nandurmadhmeshwar, Bhandardara Jawhar and Nandur Madhameshwar Bird Sanctuary, which are not so far the city. Reaching Nashik too is so easy as the Nashik railway station is one of the major stations of the Central Railway. Nashik is 220 km away from Pune. Nearest airport is Mumbai or Pune with a distance of 175 km. Nashik Excursions Shirdi, a small village in Kopargam Taluk, in Ahmadnagar, Maharashtra is regarded to be an important pilgrimage place in India as sage Sai Baba lived here till his death. It is about 285 km, which is Nashik Tourist Attractions Chitrarao Khatarkar built Ramkund in 1696. This holy tank is 27 m by 12 m in area. It is believed that Rama and Sita used to bath in this tank during their exile. People bring ashes of their deceased relatives and immerse it in this holy tank. Nashik Entertainment There are number of movie theatres in Nashik. Here, one can enjoy Hollywood, Bollywood and Marathi films. Marathi theatre is known to be one of the oldest and well established of regional theatres in India. Nashik Fair & Festivals This festival is celebrated by giving tilguls and specially made sweet ladoos to each other and even if possible by flying kites. Makar Sankranti generally falls in the month of January. In typical Marathi the saying goes tilgul gya ani gaud bola (take this tilgul and be sweet and kind to each other). Nashik History Nashik was included also under Ashok's mighty empire. Later, Nashik district became very prosperous during the era of the Satavahana as it lay on the trade route to Broach (Gujarat). During Mughal period, the city was named as Gulshanabad appreciating its beauty. How to Reach Nashik Nearest airport is Mumbai or Pune with a distance of 175 km. Nashik railway station is one of the major stations of the Central Railway. There are a number of trains that connect Nashik to other cities and towns. Nashik Accommodation As a pilgrimage holy city, Nashik is not lacked with visitors. So, one can find good ranges of hotels here as well. A range of accommodation is available from the upper end to small local dharamshalas (guest houses) in Nashik. Nashik Travel Tips Tourist can comfortably use taxis, tourist cars, auto-rickshaws and vans, which are ideal for local transport. Nashik Shopping Nashik is known to be a religious city. Kumb Mela is organized here for every three years in the city. Little brass statues and beaded necklaces are available everywhere. Nashik is popular for its jewellery as well. Adgaonkar Bandhu, Adgaonkar Saraf, Aurangabad This city is named after Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. It was called Fatehpur before it took its present name. This city is gateway to the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves. Developed as a modern city, Aurangabad provides all comforts and modern facilities. There are several luxury budget and star hotels, which caters the tourists of the city. Siteseeings at Aurangabad Caves, Bibi Ka Maqbara, Himroo Factory and Panchakki are always worth to be organized. Daulatabad, Khuldabad Anwa Temple, Pitalkhora Caves, Lonar Crater and Paithan can also be organized as excursions. Sunheri Mahal Museum, University Museum and Chhatrapati Shivaji Museum are three the museums in the city, housing art treasures of the region. Aurangabad Excursions This city is named after Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb. It was called Fatehpur before it took its present name. This city is gateway to the World Heritage Sites of Ajanta and Ellora caves. Developed as a modern city Aurangabad Tourist Attraction Aurangabad caves are just a few kilometers away from the famous monument of Bibi Ka Maqbara. These caves are believed to be excavated between 2nd and 6th century AD. Aurangabad caves are carved out of the hillside and are a fine Aurangabad Entertainment Aurangabad has number of art galleries; where one can hang out at the evenings and have a look at the exhibitions going on there. Aurangabad Art Emporium and Madilgekar Art Studio are some of the important art galleries Aurangabad Fair & Festivals Ajanta and Ellora Festivals: It is the festival of classical dance and music under the backdrops of the Ellora Caves. The festival usually falls in March. The festival showcases best talents from across India. Maharashtra government organizes Aurangabad History The name is derived from the Mughal ruler, Aurangazeb. Its ancient history dates back up to the eras of Buddhism, but the modern history of Aurangabad is traced back to 1610. The Buddhist caves in Aurangabad and Ellora are the clear How to Reach Aurangabad Aurangabad airport is directly air-linked to Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur and Udaipur. The airport is conveniently located at a distance of around 10 km east of the town. Aurangabad is known to be the gateway to the region, as most of the visitors who are Aurangabad Restaurants There are different ranges of hotels in Aurangabad. One can stay at the government tourist lodge as well as private budget and star hotels. Hotel Taj Residency, Rama International and Hotel Quality Inn Vedant are some of the popular hotels in the city. Aurangabad Travel Tips There are several government and local buses in Aurangabad for traveling to Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Private auto rickshaws are the easiest way to travel for local transport. But one can also hire cars and local taxis to travel within the city and Shopping in Aurangabad Aurangabad is rich in its culture and heritage as well as its art and crafts. Whenever we talk of shopping in Aurangabad, himroo shawls, mashroo and kimkhab weaves click on one's mind. We can't also forget the well-known fine paithani silk