J. Paul Getty Museum, California

The J. Paul Getty Museum seeks to further knowledge of the visual arts and to nurture critical seeing by collecting, preserving, exhibiting and interpreting works of art of the highest quality. To fulfill its mission, the Museum continues to develop its collection through purchase and gifts, complementing its impact through special exhibitions, publications, educational programs developed for a wide range of audiences, and a related performing arts program. The Museum strives to provide its visitors with access to the most innovative research in the visual arts while they enjoy a unique experience in viewing works of art at our Getty Center and Getty Villa sites. While benefiting from the broader context of the Getty Trust, the Museum also extends the reach of its mission via the internet and through the regular exchange of works of art, staff, and expertise.

The J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Center in Los Angeles houses European paintings, drawings, sculpture, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and European and American photographs.

The J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Villa in Malibu opened on January 28, 2006, after the completion of a major renovation project. As a museum and educational center dedicated to the study of the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria, the Getty Villa serves a varied audience through exhibitions, conservation, scholarship, research, and public programs. The Villa houses approximately 44,000 works of art from the Museum's extensive collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities, of which over 1,200 are on view.

Annual National Shrimp Festival, USA

The Annual National Shrimp Festival is held each year during the second full weekend in October on the beautiful beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. The Festival is one of the nation’s premier outdoor festivals featuring over 300 vendors that offer fine art, arts and crafts, a retail marketplace and of course, SHRIMP!!

The Festival is produced by the Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce and a dedicated group of committee members who work tirelessly all year long to produce such an enjoyable festival. The mission of the Annual National Shrimp Festival is to promote Gulf Shores and the surrounding area through a festival that includes Fine Art, Arts & Crafts, music and food with an emphasis on seafood, during the month of October.

Celebrating its 37th year in 2008, the Festival attracts over 300,000 people who come to view Fine Arts and Arts & Crafts from over 200 artists during the four day Festival. Two stages offer continuous musical entertainment while the little one’s attention is captured in the Children’s Activity Village where they create their own “art” and participate in other fun-filled activities.

Huntsville Museum of Art, USA

Visit the Huntsville Museum of Art in our beautiful location in Big Spring International Park. Take a stroll through our latest exhibitions, admire student artwork in the Children’s Community Gallery, sign up for an art class at the Museum Academy, and shop for local artwork in SPACE 300.

The Huntsville Museum of Art, North Alabama’s leading visual arts center, moved to its beautiful facility in Big Spring International Park in March 1998. The nationally-accredited Museum fills its seven galleries with a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, including prestigious traveling exhibits and the work of nationally and regionally acclaimed artists. The Museum’s own 2,522-piece permanent collection also forms the basis for several exhibitions each year.

In addition, the Museum offers reception areas on the gallery level and in the Great Hall for weddings, meetings and other events. Visitors can also shop for local art in SPACE 300, Art for Today's Collector.
Named as one of the state’s “Top 10” destinations by the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel, the Huntsville Museum of Art is gaining a reputation throughout the South for bringing high-caliber touring exhibitions to the region. Nearly 40,000 people visited the Museum during A Taste for Splendor: Russian Imperial and European Treasures from the Hillwood Museum. Another 23,000 visited the blockbuster exhibition Land of the Winged Horsemen: Art in Poland.

Major Himalayan Hill Stations

Gulmarg and Sonamarg:- A huge cup shaped meadow, lush and green with slopes where the silence is broken only by the tinkle of cowbells, Gulmarg looks like a fantasy set in a film and not surprisingly have been the venue of several films.

Srinagar:- The capital of Jammu and Kashmir and the largest city in the state, Srinagar (1,730m) is famous for its canals, Houseboats and Mughal Gardens. The city itself is quite unlike most other large Indian cities for here you are much more in Central Asia than on the Indian sub-continent.

Ladakh:- Ladakh is a land like no other. Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalayas and the Karakoram, it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar Range.Ladakh is full of amazing sights - strange Gompas perched on soaring heights; the barren, shattered looking landscapes splashed with small brilliant patches of green; ancient palaces clinging to sheer rock walls.

Shimla:- Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations.

Kullu:- Kullu was once known as Kulanthpitha, which means the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley'.

Manali:- Surrounded by towering peaks at an arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline. It is a flourishing orchard industry, a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks as well as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers.

And some more like:- Dalhousie, Sarahan, Nainital, Mussorie, Rishikesh, Gangtok, Darjeeling, Kailash Mansarovar.

Religions in Himalaya

Land Of Lord Shiva:- Since time immemorial, the Himalayas has been recognized as the sanctuary for ascetics and philosophers. The Himalayas also occupy a central place in Hinduism. The whole region is considered the realm of Shiva- the supreme ascetic, and ‘Pashupati’ - the protecting deity of pastoral herds. Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of a lingam - a phallus symbolizing the male principle in the universe. In his manifestation as the cosmic darer, the ‘Natraja’, he rhythmically creates and destroys the cosmos.

Famous shrines like the ice cave at Amarnath in Kashmir, the glacial formation at Kedarnath in Garhwal, and Jageshwar amidst a thick stand of deodar in Kumaon are dedicated to him. Kalidas, a resident of Ujjain, a city of Shiva, aptly described the Himalaya as the dazzling laughter of Shiva.

Nor is Vishnu the protector forgotten here. Interstingly, Sankara, a Saiva 9akso spelt as Shaiv) South Indian saint from Kerala, at the southernmost tip of India, is credited with the restoration and consecration of the Badrinath shrine - one of the four major pilgrimages prescribed for a believing Hindu. It is a ‘Dhama’ (an important sacred destination).

Trans-Buddhism:- Gompas (monasteries) like Hemis and Lamayuru in Ladakh or Rumtek in Sikkim hold an important place for Buddhist worshippers. Many of these have preserved with loving care the heritage of Tibetan art and culture.There is a venerated Sikh shrine at Hemkund, a high-altitude lake on the fringer of the Valley of Flowers. Legend informs us that it was here that a Sikh guru did penance and was rewarded with a divine vision.

Influence Of Islam:- Islam and Christianity also have a distinct presence in the Himalayas. While the Muslims of the valley of Kashmir are mostly descendants of people who converted to Islam after the conquest by Muslim invaders, the Ladakhis adopted Islam after encountering it via the Central Asian trade route. On India's northeastern frontier, Christian missionaries won many converts among the tribes. Proselytizing has gone hand in hand with the spread of education and health care. One can also discern traces of animist of Bon worship in tribal areas bordering Tibet. In Kumaon, Gharwal and Himachal local, pre-Aryan deities vie with the Gods of the Hindu pantheon for propitiation by the faithful.

Religious Harmony:- By and large, different religious groups have coexisted peacefully in the Himalayas. There is certainly something in the atmosphere, which makes the spirit soar and quest for eternal truths. This is what renders even more painful the ravages wrought in the environment.The people of the Himalayas have a distinct economic, political and religious identity. They display a remarkable similarity in ways of life, social customers, economic practices and religious beliefs. Their occupations and ethnic characteristics are akin to those of the people who live in the north and south of them. In the southern belt, the Hindu influence predominates while to the north the imprint of Tibet and its Buddhism is more markedly discernible. However, the most impressive feature of life here is its dynamic synthesis of the diverse influences to which it has been subject throughout history.The region has always been an integral part of India geographically and culturally. Kashmir and Kumaon as well as Nepal and Assam find repeated mention in ancient Indian literature and inscriptions. It seems that this area came that this area came under the influence of Tibet only after the death of King Harsha in the 7th century AD. Scholar - Monk’s negotiated perilous passes and frozen slopes to share the message of Indian religious teachings and culture.

The Muslim Invasion:- The Muslims established themselves in the Indian plains in the 11th and 12th centuries. All major northern states succembed before the onslaught, and the political system was drastically changed. One of the commanders of Qutubuddin Aibak attempted an invasion of Tibet but could not advance beyond the foothills. Muhammad bin Tughluq (also spelt as Tughlaq) also failed in a similar attempt. The Himalayan frontier maintained its essential character. Some Rajput princes, escaping from the Turko-Afghan invaders, took to the hills with the remains of their armies and camp followers and founded independent principalities there. They brought Hindu culture and traditions with them but, inevitably, also absorbed local traditions and practices. Most of them recognized the suzerainty of the Emperor of Delhi. The Mughals sought to freeze the frontier, some even tried to expand their control northwards. Akbar brought Kashmir under his control in 1586 and Shah Jahan sought to subdue Ladakh so that Kashmir could be protected against any attack from Central Asia. Aurangzeb in his time authorized his men in Bengal to invade Assam. As Ladakh was then being threatened by an expansionist Tibet, it thought it wise to forge close links with the Mughals and it was finally rendered a vassal in 1665.

The Royal Chitwan National Park, Himalaya

Royal Chitwan National Park is Nepal’s first and most famous national park is situated in the Chitwan Doon or the lowlands of the inner Terai. Covering an area of 932-sq-kms the park includes hilly areas of the Shiwalik range covered by deciduous Sal forest.

A fifth of the park is made up of the floodplains of the Narayani, Rapti and the Reu Rivers and is covered by dense tall Elephant grass interspersed with revenine forests of silk cotton (Kapok), Acacia and Sisam trees.

This ecologically diverse area is the last remaining home in Nepal for more than 300 of the endangered Asian one-horned inoceros and harbours one of the largest populations of the elusive and rare Royal Bengal Tiger. Besides Rhino and Tiger, Chitwan also support a great variety of flora and fauna. There are four species of Deer, including the Spotted Chittal, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Wild Dog, Small Wild Cats, the white stockinged Gaur (world’s largest wild cattle) and many other smaller animals.

The swampy areas and numerous Ox-bow lakes of Chitwan provide a home for Marsh Crocodiles. In a stretch of the Narayani River is found one of the few remaining of the populations of the rare and endangered fish-only eating Gharial. In the summers the park is alive with migrants such as the fabulous paradise flycatcher, the Indian Pitta ans Parakeets.

Ecotourism in Himalayas

Nature worship and the conservation ethic have been an integral part of Indian thought and traditions and its also followed by India's Himalayan neighbours. For centuries, the country has nurtured the philosophy of the oneness of life, the tradition that humankind is a part of nature and one should look upon all creation with the eyes of a friend.

It is tragic that in recent years, the mad pursuit for material ends has created in India and elsewhere a situation in which progress has become synonymous with exploitation of nature in all its manifestations. Today the entire Himalayan range, with its rich and unique biological diversity, is facing a deep crisis and is in the danger being destroyed. It is being relentlessly denuded of its rich forest cover. Fortunately, this has been led to some realisation, and now the beginnings of a new awakening about human responsibility towards nature are discernible.

Climate of Himalayas

The Himalayas with dazzling pinnacles of snow-covered ranges extend for 2,250-km from the Namcha Barwa on the bend of the Tsang-po (Brahmaputra) to Nanga Parbat on the Indus. The range runs east to west up to central-Nepal and then takes a southeast to northwest direction. The average width of the Himalayas is about 200-km.

Climatic Variation In The Himalayas:- The Himalayan Alpine climate varies according to the elevation. It gets colder as the elevation increases and gets wetter as the elevation drops. As a result the temeparture and climatic changes in the Himalayan regions change very quickly. All of a sudden there can be occurances of monsoons, floods, high winds, snowstorms and other types of precipitation, which makes the climate over here quiet an unpredictable and dangerous one.

The two major seasons of the Himalayan region are winter and summer. During the winter the region recieves the maximum snow with very icy temperatures. Summer are quiet mild over here, making the places overe here quiet good summer holiday hideouts. Usually throughout the year te Alpine Himalayan region recieves Snow.

The Awesome Himalayan Panorama:- To know the mountains one has to be amongst them. In the evening as one begin settling down so do the mountains, valleys and clouds. It is a wonderful sight to see a sea of clouds sinks in repose in the deep valleys. At the same time the setting sun converts the surrounding peaks into molten gold which gradually fade away into pale pink and steel grey.

At night, the moon lends a peculiar charm to the snow transferring the rugged peaks and ridges into soft contours. The hamlets in the valleys, surrounded by fields, are in deep slumber. The silence of the mountains is complete. The only sound one can hear is of the campfire.

In the morning, the rising glow of the sun reflects from peak to peak and then descends to the lower slopes awakening all. The sun’s warmth rouses the clouds to gradually climb the mountains, hugging the valley sides as they rise and engulf the peaks with their crowns of snow. This is an experience so vivid and revitalizing that it can never be forgotten.

Himalayan Legends & Pilgrimages

As an abode of peace, there are many references to the Himalya as the place where sages and common people have meditated in the pursuit of peace most myths associated with the Himalayas have a base in the idea of penance most myths associated with the Himalayas have a base in the idea of penance.

Kedarnath:- A story goes that there were once two sages, Nara and Narayana. They meditated for long years in the Himalayas. Lord Siva was impressed by their dedication, and after many years, came along to meet them. As the two sages sat awed by his very presence, the Lord said he was so happy that he would grant them a boon. The sages asked that the Lord might rest on these mountains forever. Since then the Jyotirlinga or the symbol of Saivite worship, installed itself at a place called Kedarnath and people from all over the world visit it to catch a glimpse of Shiva’s (also spelt as Shiv, Siva or Shiva) essence.

Pancha Kendaras:- Even the Pandavas, the five heroic brothers of the epic, Mahabharata, are said to have visited the Lord here. When Lord Shiva saw them coming he, however, changed his form into one of a buffalo and tried to run away. The five brothers managed to get hold of him, but only his posterior. It is believed that in Kedaradesa only the posterior part of the Lord remains. His body was separated into five parts and spread all over the Himalyas and these five sites are together known as “Pancha Kendaras”. The devotees visit all of them.

History According To Other Mythological Texts

Once upon a time, there lived a king called “Milinda”. He asked a sage called “Nagasena” about the Himalyas. The sage replied in a single verse which when translated reads: “The Himalya, the king of the mountains, five and thousand league in extent at the circumference, with its ranges or eight hundred and forty thousand peaks, the source of five hundred rivers, the dwelling place of multitudes of mighty creatures, the producer of manifold perfumes, enriched with hundreds of magical drugs, it is seen to rise aloft like a cloud in the centre of the earth.”

In fact, a text called the Sama Veda (Sam Veda) does describe the mountain ranges to be the centre of the earth. To the sage’s description may be added that these ranges are the youngest in India and one of the youngest mountain systems of the world. With many peaks yet to be christened, these mountain ranges have also given birth to many heroes who have scaled its heights.

Many other texts use very colourful adjectives to describe the mountains. Some call it, “the measuring rod of the earth”, The oldest Veda, the Rig Veda refers to the Himalyas as ‘Himavan’, a deity and asks: “To which other deity shall we offer our prayers? On account of your prowess, mountains like the Himalyas and the oceans with rivers are created and the distant quarters are designated as your mere arms.”

No wonder then that a mountain of so many aspects is viewed in Indian mythology as having a ‘divine soul’. It is called “Devatatma” in a Sanskrit poet Kalidasa’s works. That divinity is an all-pervading idea can be seen by the fact that there is a reference to a situation where a sage catches sight of the mountain ranges in Krishna’s stomach!

Krishna was the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver in yet another instance, the path to heaven, it is said runs up the Himalya the hero of the Mahabharata, Yudhishtra, is said to have climbed these peaks in his progress towards heaven the one leading to the heavens is called “Swargarohini”, where Swarga means heaven “Arohini” means ascent. Chomolungma is the “Goddess mother of the earth” in Tibetan.

History of Himalayas

The Himalayas are not merely a geographical feature, a range of mountains; they epitomise a people’s civilisational identity that goes back to the dawn of history. If these majestic mountains were not there, the rain clouds sweeping up from the Indian Ocean would have passed over the Indian subcontinent into central Asia leaving it a burning desert.

Archaeological evidence reveals that urban civilisation first emerged in the valleys of the rivers coursing down from the Himalayan mountains. When man elsewhere was cautiously emerging from his cave shelters, spectacular cities flourished at Mohenjodaro and Harappa in the Indus valley.

Bang Khunphrom Palace & The Bank of Thailand Museum, Bangkok

The palace was once the residence of H.R.H. Prince Baripatra Sukhumbhand, the 33rd son of King Rama V. The construction of the main building (or tamnak yai) was finished in 1906 before another building called tamnak somdet was built to be the residence of his mother, H.M. Queen Sukhumala Marasri. Different ages of building resulted in different art styles of the whole palace. But they magically created the stunning impression for the beholders.

After the political transformation in 1932, the prince and his family moved to Bandung, Indonesia and Bang Khunphrom palace was turned into the offices for several organizations. Since 1992, the palace has become the Bank of Thailand National Museum featuring the prince’s life, the history of the central bank and Thai and foreign currencies.

National Museum, Bangkok

Established in 1926 in the reign of King Rama VII, it is located within walking distance of the Grand Palace next to Thammasat University, this is the largest and most comprehensive museum in Southeast Asia. It contains an 18th century palace and a group of well-designed buildings, housing Thailand's artistic treasures from prehistoric to contemporary.

The National Museum houses three permanent exhibition galleries as follows:

1. The Thai History Gallery

2. The Archaeological & Art History Collections

3. The Decorative Arts & Ethnological Collections

The Erawan Museum: The museum of three-headed elephant, Bangkok

Located in Samut Prakan Province (29 km south of Bangkok) is a graceful museum, which contains a priceless collection of antiques. Many of them, in the past, were viewed as sacred objects that brought fertility and prosperity to the land. The building itself was designed and built in a unique style.

Standing on the museum’s rooftop is a statue of Airavata (Erawan in Thai), a three-headed elephant in Hindu mythology. The Erawan is not only the god Indra’s vehicle but also a symbol of the eastern cosmography. Since its completion, the elephant has become one of the most revered objects in the province.

Ancient City (Muang Boran), Bangkok

Ancient City, covering about 320 acres, is the world's largest outdoor museum, and presents about 100 scaled-down replicas of Thailand's historic monuments and works of art. The structures are sited orderly in accordance with their geographical locations from the northern to the southern parts.

Though it takes an entire day to cover the area, it's worth a visit, especially for those who don't have enough time to tour the real places.

Phuttha Monthon Park & Utthayan Road, Bangkok

Covering an area of about 400 hectares, this large Buddhist park was built to celebrate the completion of the 25th century of the Buddhist era.The main attraction is the magnificent Walking Buddha statue 16 m high that can be seen from afar. There are replicas of important places in the life of the Buddha, e.g. the places where he was born, where he attained enlightenment and where he reached nirvana.

The park, with a great number of shady trees, features artificial lakes which contains lots of fish, and a botanical garden, part of which are plants that are mentioned in Buddhist history. Another outstanding feature of Phuttha Monthon Park is Utthayan Road, the 3.8 km road leading to the front gate of the park. It is magnificently lined with over 700 lamps, each adorned at the top of the post with the golden figure of the mythical bird called hansa. One will have a more splendid view of the road if coming at night when all lamps are turned on.

Vimanmek Mansion Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok

Located in the Dusit Palace area behind the old National Assembly Building, this three-storey European style mansion is the biggest golden teakwood building in the world. It was originally built in 1868 by command of King Rama V as a summer house on the island of Ko Si Chang off Chon Buri province. It was moved to Dusit Palace compound in 1901 and used as a royal residence.

After having been deserted for decades, it was renovated by order of H.M. Queen Sirikit in 1982 and opened to the public as the private museum of King Rama V with 31 exhibition rooms in total. Some rooms such as the bedrooms, the throne room and the bathrooms, are kept in the original condition, while the others are used to display art works. The collection consists mostly of photographs of royalty and other personages.

Also displayed are antique furniture, elegant Thai ceramics, precious china, European porcelain, splendid gift items from abroad and many other invaluable memorabilia.There are several other buildings in the compound that are worth visiting. Most of them display a variety of artefacts and precious art objects.

Royal Albert Hall, London

Opened in 1871 the Royal Albert Hall London is one of the capital’s most prestigious historic buildings and tourist attractions. It has been the scene of over 150,000 performances including the celebrated BBC Proms.

The Royal Albert Hall recently launched Family tours of the hall. Suitable for children over seven, these tours are an exciting and informative way to experience the Albert Hall, London and learn about one of the most famous entertainment venues in the world – contact the venue for more details.

It’s worth bearing in mind that the Royal Albert Hall is located close to London’s main museums: the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and the V&A.

Kensington Palace, London

Kensington Palace, former home of Lady Diana, Princess Of Wales and birthplace of Queen Victoria.Set in Kensington Gardens in the Royal Borough Of Kensington, this London palace was William III and Mary II’s principal (though not official) residence when in London. Although the palace was originally a Jacobean manor house, Sir Christopher Wren designed much of its current architecture.

Visitors to Kensington Palace can experience an age of elegance in the State Apartments with displays of royal court and ceremonial dress at this most fashionable Royal address, as well as strolling round the pleasant gardens here.

Kew Garden, London

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these magnificent London gardens, glasshouses and galleries are a living exhibit as well as an important historical legacy – its modern history really begins in the century when Henry VII moved his court to Richmond Palace in the summer months and nearby Kew village flourished. Since 1840 Kew Park has been open to the public and is without a doubt the most impressive London garden.

Given the size of this London attraction, Kew Garden could easily be a complete day out in itself – bring a picnic or use one of the four restaurants and cafés. A walking tour is a good way to experience the magnificent range of plants from the rainforest through to desert - guided tours of the park leave from Victoria Gate Centre at 11am and 2pm daily.

London visitors should note that Kew Gardens is accessible via the London Underground (Kew has its own stop on the District Line) and mainline rail services (trains depart regularly from central London).

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Tour and Exhibition, London

Shakespeare's Globe London was founded by the pioneering American actor and director Sam Wannamaker and has become one of London's most successful theatres and a top London attraction in its own right.

Built in 1599, the original building that housed Shakespeare's theatre in London was an open-air playhouse where the playwright penned many of his greatest plays. This modern building is a faithful reconstruction of the Globe and perfectly evokes the atmosphere of Elizabethan London (albeit with more modern facilities for theatregoers!)

Resident storytellers on the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Tour And Exhibition introduce visitors to all aspects of the Globe, historical and contemporary, including Sam Wannamaker's epic struggle to recreate the theatre for which Shakespeare wrote many of his works.

HMS Belfast

HMS Belfast was launched in 1938 and served with distinction in both the Second World War and the Korean War. She is now the only surviving example of the great fleets of big gun armoured warships built for the Royal Navy in the first half of the twentieth century. She was built by Harland and Wolff in Belfast (builders of RMS Titanic), and was launched on St Patrick's Day, 17 March 1938, by Mrs Neville Chamberlain, wife of the then Prime Minister.

On 5 August 1939 HMS Belfast was commissioned into the Royal Navy and just a month later she was at war. On 21 November 1939, whilst leaving the Firth of Forth, HMS Belfast was severely damaged by a German magnetic mine, the damage was so severe that it was almost three years before she was fit for action again. She continued to serve in active military engagements until 1952, including participation in the destruction of the battle cruiser Scharnhorst the Normandy Landings and the Korean War. She remained in service until 1965. In May 1971, after 32 years service, HMS Belfast was 'Reduced to Disposal', in preparation for her sale and destruction by the ship's breakers. With the encouragement of the Imperial War Museum, an independent trust was formed, led by one of HMS Belfast's former captains, Rear-Admiral Sir Morgan Morgan Giles. The trust succeeded in bringing her to London where she opened to visitors on Trafalgar Day, 21 October 1971. She has been a popular London Thames attraction ever since. HMS Belfast has been part of the Imperial War Museum since 1978 and is the first ship to be preserved for the nation since Nelson's Victory.

Today London visitors can explore her nine decks including the massive boiler and engine rooms, operate the anti-aircraft guns and experience what life was like for those on board. An audio guide is available for visitors in four different languages.

HMS Belfast is moored on the River Thames, between London Bridge and Tower Bridge. The nearest tube is London Bridge Station.

The Tower Bridge

One the most impressive structures and sites in the capital, Tower Bridge in London has stood over the River Thames since 1894 and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world.

At the Tower Bridge Exhibition you can enjoy the breathtaking views from the high-level walkways (an exhilarating tour, as long as you don’t suffer from vertigo!) learn about the history of the Bridge and how it was built. Interactive displays and videos provide an entertaining and informative guide to Tower Bridge in London and its place in the history of the River Thames.

London visitors can also descend into the Victorian Engine Rooms, home of the original steam engines. Exciting hands-on mechanisms and information panels explain about the ingenious technology used over the years to keep Tower Bridge in motion.

London Zoo

Opened in 1828, ZSL London Zoo is the world's oldest scientific zoo and today houses over 650 different species of animal and is the only zoo in London where you can experience big animals such as elephants, rhinos and giraffes.

Visit the “Into Africa” exhibit where you can come face to face with some of Africa's most unusual animals including zebras and hunting dogs, or try “Meet The Monkeys” an exciting walk-through experience. Other new exhibits include the Butterfly Paradise, where you can enjoy myriad species of butterfly as they fly around you.

With over 12,000 animals to see and incredible animal displays taking place throughout the day (including feeds and keeper talks) you could easily spend a whole day at this London attraction.

Tower of London

As one of the most famous castles in the world, Tower Of London tickets normally cost £16.00 for an adult ticket and £9.50 for children making this one of the best savings on London attractions to be had for pass holders.

For over 900 years the Tower Of London has dominated the city of London – no surprise then that it is one of the capital’s most prominent landmarks and an essential place to visit if you’re on the London sightseeing trail.

Throughout its long history the Tower Of London has been England’s most feared castle, a place of execution, torture and imprisonment – its nickname “The Bloody Tower” says it all! It is definitely a must see on a sightseeing tour of London.

However, during its colourful past the London Tower has also been a Royal Palace, an arsenal, a fortress, the royal mint, a menagerie, a jewel house, and now a major tourist site.

London visitors can discover its long and eventful history, its buildings and collections – Tower Of London prices include access to the Crown Jewels exhibition and Royal Armouries.

New York, USA

Let's face it New York City has it all! From Historic landmarks to Broadway theaters to hundreds of museums. Attractions are everywhere! Your journey to the Big Apple Begins here. When you get to our detail pages you will find useful information about each attraction, links that will keep you up to date and a handy cross reference scheme that will let you know where you are in the city. The NYC Neighborhoods section of the site shows you what's around each sight and has great tips on dinning and entertainment in the area.

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is one of New York City’s most famous landmarks. The terminal opened in 1913, after about 10 years of construction. Over the years, the terminal suffered deterioration and possible demolition. But the city wasn't going to let Grand Central suffer this fate. In the 1960's, the terminal was designated an historical landmark, despite some serious opposition. In the 1990's, the terminal was completely renovated and is now quite the midtown destination. Grand Central Terminal is home to five fine restaurants, twenty casual restaurants, and about fifty unique specialty shops. The terminal hosts large public events in its 12,000 square foot Vanderbilt Hall. To see this great terminal up close, you can take a self-guided walking tour or a one-hour private guided tour. If you choose the self-guided tour, visit the Grand Central Terminal's official website (using the link below) to print out a great itinerary for your tour. If you choose the guided tour, be sure to book at least 2-3 weeks early. More information and booking options are found on the official website. And while you're in the main terminal, be sure to look up at the spectacular ceiling, an astronomical mural painted by Paul Helleu.

Chrysler Building

In the summer of 1929, a "race for the sky" broke out on the island of Manhattan. Automobile tycoon Walter Chrysler battled Wall Street powerhouse Bank of Manhattan Trust Company for the title of world's tallest building in what many historians consider to be the most intense race in skyscraper history. In the spring of 1930, just when it appeared that the bank might capture the coveted title, a small crew jacked a needle-thin spire hidden in Chrysler's building through the top of the crown to claim the title of world's tallest at 1,046 feet. Not only was the Chrysler Building the world's tallest structure, it was also one of the most decorated office buildings in the world. Chrysler wanted "a bold structure, declaring the glories of the modern age" -- and he got it. He decorated his skyscraper with hubcaps, mudguards, and hood ornaments, just like his cars, hoping that such a distinctive building would make his car company a household name. Today, the Chrysler Building is recognized as New York City's greatest display of Art Deco, a decorative style characterized by sharp angular or zigzag surface forms and ornaments. Only four months after the completion of the Chrysler Building, the world's tallest championship title would be claimed by a new structure, the Empire State Building.

Empire State Building

New York's famous Empire State Building, a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark, soars more than a quarter of a mile into the atmosphere above the heart of Manhattan. Located on the 86th floor, 1,050 feet above the city's bustling streets, the Observatory offers panoramic views from within a glass enclosed pavilion and from the surrounding open-air promenade. The observatory is handicap accessible. The building, one of New York City's main tourist attractions, offers a variety of activities for its visitors. One can tour the Observatory 365 days per year, day and night, rain or shine for breathtaking views of Manhattan and beyond. Also, there are two restaurants, a sushi bar, three coffee shops, a drug store, a Hallmark card shop, a post office and two banks, in addition to the plethora of restaurants and nightlife activities in the surrounding area. Majestic art deco masterpiece. World-renowned landmark; the symbol of New York. Indoor/outdoor observatories offer spectacular daytime and nighttime views from 1,050 to 1,250 feet above Manhattan. Call for current schedule.

Rockefeller Center

Today, Rockefeller Center is a fascinating combination of contradictions: at once futuristic and classical, with soaring buildings and underground tunnels, inspired by both hard-headed commercialism and philanthropic idealism. Below street level, the Center's buildings are linked by a pedestrian shopping concourse. This is an oasis of order in the heart of the busiest city in the world, a city within a city, functionally efficient and aesthetically elegant. In 1988, Rockefeller Center was declared a national historic landmark.

Times Square, New York

When the New York Times erected a new building on 43rd Street at the turn of the 20th century, the neighborhood took on the name "Times Square." A decade later, theater, vaudeville and cabaret migrated to the streets nearby, attracting much tourism by the 1920s. But the market crash of 1929 led to a sharp decline in theater attendance, and to the transformation of performance halls into cheap "grinder" houses that screened sexually explicit films. In the early 1980s, the city made major efforts to restore the neighborhood to its former, more wholesome, glory. Now it is the site of the most famous New year's Eve countdown in the world.

Ellis Island - Part of Statue of Liberty

Ellis Island is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. It was added to the National Park System in May of 1965 and through extensive restoration, its main building opened over a quarter century later on September 10, 1990 as a national museum of immigration. Ellis Island is federal property partly within the territorial jurisdiction of the both the States of New York and New Jersey.

Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World

Located on a 12 acre island, the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World was a gift of friendship from the people of France to the people of the United States and is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. The Statue of Liberty was dedicated on October 28, 1886, designated as a National Monument in 1924 and restored for her centennial on July 4, 1986.

Interlaken, Switzerland

Situated in Bernese Oberland, Interlaken is a striking tourist destination in Europe. The Interlaken resort region consists of the quaint villages of Iseltwald, Bönigen and Ringgenberg-Goldswil on Lake Brienz, Wilderswil at the entrance to the mountain valleys and the mountain villages of Beatenberg and Habkern. Experience a memorable holiday at the extraordinary place of Interlaken between the lakes of Thun and Brienz, at the foot of the imposing mountain peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau!

Warm Summer: There are a number of first-rate tourist spots near Interlaken. Some terrific places around Interlaken are Jungfraujoch also known as the top of Europe as well as the Schilthorn peak, with its revolving restaurant. There are also numerous adventure sports facilities for such sports such as paragliding and river rafting. During summers, tourists can also enjoy an extensive range of hiking and biking paths around the region.

Chilling Winter: During winters, Interlaken has a lot to offer. Tourists can enjoy Skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing or just walk along snow packed trails. Interlaken can be reached from the Jungfrau Region or the Beatenberg which are just a few minutes by train or bus from Interlaken.

Montreux: The lovely little towns of Montreux and Vevey are nestled on the waterfront of a pristine lake. Enjoy the 15 km of lakeside where steamships ply up and down, the snow-capped mountains, the charming hotels and their many international celebrities.The vine cultivation is a serious business in this region. The pleasant climate also makes Montreux and Vevey a very well-suited resort for a relaxing break or for weekend trips.

Why Visit Montreux?

To Adore the shores of Lake Geneva.
Warm Sunlight and Pleasant Temperatures
One of the finest panoramas in Switzerland
Intense cultural life with exhibitions, concerts and, above all, the famous Montreux Jazz Festival.

Western Switzerland

Jura, Neuchâtel & Fribourg: The lakes of Biel, Murten and Neuchâtel flow along the foot of the Jura. The Franches Montagnes in the Neuchâtel region and the foothills of the Alps of Fribourg on the other side of the lakes are excellent for hiking, camping and fishing. The waterfalls of the Doubs and the gorges of the Areuse are very impressive. The other tourist places are the Lac Talliers, the medieval town of Romont, south of Morat and the Folk Art Museum at Tafers. Fribourg, an amalgamation of Roman and German cultures, is one of the historic cities in Switzerland. In the south of the Fribourg is the Gruyère region, in the foothills of the Alps; famous for its dairy farming which produces one of the best Swiss cheeses: Gruyère. Do not miss the Horological Museum at La-Chaux-de-Fonds. The area is also famous for its food and wines.

Lausanne: Lausanne is located on the northern shores of Lake Geneva. The pace of life here in this city is slow. A funicular connects Ouchy to the inner city of Lausanne. The canton Vaud, famous for its excellent wine is dominated by many many rivulets and rolling hills. The small town of Romainmotier in Lausanne is home to one of the most important historic buildings of Switzerland: the Benedictine monastery Church of St Pierre built in the 11th century. Les Diablerets is a terrific place to enjoy some panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the icy peaks and green valleys of the Alps. Summer skiing on the glacier here is also a very popular activity. Rafting or hydrospeeding down the Sarine from Château d'Oex is the area's pioneering sport. During the summers, rock festivals in Leysin are very popular. Another event that should not be missed is the renowned International Jazz Festival at Montreux. At Villars, enjoy the soothing climate and a great game of golf at the 18-hole golf course. Wood sculpture, cheese-making and paper cut-out artistry are some traditional activities of the region.

Eastern Switzerland

Switzerland is known as the Paradise of Europe. A tourist planning for a Switzerland Tour is always inquisitive about the tourist places in Switzerland during that Switzerland Tour. Fortunately in the whole of Western Europe, which is thronged by the travelers during the vacations, Switzerland has the best of tourist destinations for Switzerland vacation. For the convenience of tourism and its development, the entire country is divided into various regions. Here under we are providing you the information about the Eastern Switzerland, valuable for you during your Switzerland Tour and Switzerland vacation.

Graubünden: Grisons is a rugged mountainous area in Eastern Switzerland with more than 150 valleys present in the area. Grisons is home to some world famous health resorts such as St Moritz, Davos, Klosters and Arosa. Winter sports facilities over here are some of the best in the world. The most distinguishing feature characterizing the cities of St Moritz, Pontresina and Zuoz are their typical Engadine stone houses. Situated on the border of Italy and Austria, the Bernina (4049m/13,284ft) is the highest peak in Eastern Switzerland. Chur, the oldest Swiss city, is the hub for the countless ski resorts. St Lucius Church, the Cathedral built in the 12th-13th century and the Rhaetic Museum are some interesting tourist attractions that must not be missed. Another attraction popular among tourist is the bus ride from Chur to Bellinzona which passes through the San Bernardino Pass. The Swiss National Park and small villages beyond Zernez in the Engadine valley are popular among adventure buffs for their cross-country skiing and summer walking areas. The Engadine valley is also famous for its castles, fortresses, countless churches and chapels which reflects its long and rich history.

West & South of Lake Constance: Rising gradually over the mountains of the Churfirsten near St Gallen to the Glarner Alps, this region has a very rugged landscape. Appenzell, in the northeastern part of Switzerland, with its highest peak Säntis (2504m/8215ft), is ideal for hiking tours. The Rhine, one of the longest rivers in Europe springs from Lake Toma in the St Gotthard and runs through Lake Constance and cascades into a wonderful waterfall at Schaffhausen. Relish the medieval atmosphere of Stein am Rhein , a picturesque small town in the region. St Gallen's old city centre is dominated by burgher houses from the 17th and 18th century. The Baroque Cathedral, the famous Abbey Library in the courtyard of the old Benedictine monastery (incunabula and illuminated manuscripts) and the city library, Vadiana (1551) are some of the must visits. The lake boat trips on Lake Constance to Friedrichshafen in Germany, and excursions to the Berner Oberland, the Valais and the Duchy of Liechtenstein can easily be arranged from this region.

Bern, Switzerland

The ancient capital of Switzerland, its also known as 'Berne' by Switzerland's French-speaking citizens. The whole city was renovated after it was ruined by fire in 1405. It has many fine examples of early-15th-century architecture - so U.N. declared it a 'World Heritage Site'. The Old town is identified by its thick-walled stone houses brightened by the boxes of geraniums on the balconies overlooking the Aare River.

Bern's 11th-century arcaded streets provides wonderful opportunities for tourists for sightseeing and shopping. Mountains around Bern provides a beautiful backdrop - the northwest is dominated by the Jura and the Alps and their foothills provides a wonderful backdrop to the south. The city centre with its beautiful medieval architecture is located on the Aare River between the the striking copper spire of the Nydegg church (Nydeggkirche) and the 13th-century clocktower (Zeitglockenturm). Vegetable and flower markets are held everyday during the summers. A celebrated onion market is also held here on the fourth Monday of November.

Interlaken Switzerland

Located on lakeside, with a dominance of German-speaking populace in Switzerland, Interlaken offers the winter sport buffs, access to some of the most spectacular skiing in the Alps. Traditionally a 'Summer' resort, Interlaken attracts the winter sports enthusiasts on account of its prime location. Interlaken is known for its healthy climate, as well as the spectacular views. Its excellent hotels and other facilities at reasonable rates during the winter make it an ideal haven for the tourists. Its status became 'official' with the launch of the The Jungfrau Top Ski Region, containing more than 160 Km (100 miles) of trails in ski centers above Grindelwald, all linked to Interlaken by a mountain railway included in a ski pass. The average length of runs in the area is a remarkable six - 12 KM (four - nine miles). With the pass, it has become possible to ski a different ski area every day for a week.

The name 'Interlaken' implies "between the lakes" - as it lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz , with water omnipresent throughout the area with idyllic clear mountain streams and waterfalls running off the hills and into the lakes. The resort therefore offers a number of water sports too, throughout the year. If you ever got bored of sliding and skiing, you can always enjoy anything from a cruise on a lake steamer to just feeding the ducks or even watching the frogs! Tourists first started arriving at Interlaken long before the downhill skiing was conceived here. The first hotel was opened in 1806, complementing the existing monastery hospice (now the four star hotel Interlaken) with the boom years beginning in the 1860's. These hotels in Interlaken are a blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities.

Zurich Switzerland

Zurich is famed for being the cleanest, most icily calm and efficient city in Europe. One of the biggest towns of Europe and Switzerland; visiting Zürich gives you a feel at home element where you can finally walk on crowded, multi-ethnic streets, buy a kebab, get a drink after midnight, feel a lived-in urban buzz. In the last two years the art and culture in the city has progressed by leaps and bounds; expressing itself in the most tangible form in a host of clubs and a thriving underground dance scene. Once a stereotype, Zurich no longer conveys the traditional essence. The city has now attained a dynamic hue characterized by an exciting city.

A tourist is likely to find that one of the most beautiful Swiss cities, astride a river and turned towards a crystal-clear lake and distant snowy peaks, has plenty of recreation options to keep you busy. The medieval Old Town, characterized by steep, cobbled alleys and attractive, small-scale architecture, comprises a substantial part of the city centre and is perfect for wanderings then and there. With a handful of medieval churches, a spectacular art gallery, the most engaging café culture in Switzerland and a wealth of nightlife, you can spend a whole lot of time here. To do so, however, you'll have to marry up the appeal of the place with its expense - prohibitive even by Swiss standards. To avoid unnecessary expenses and a handsome saving better if you base yourself in either of the two towns near Zürich - Winterthur or Baden - both of which have museums and galleries of roam about, and much more affordable accommodation than you'll find in Zürich town itself.

Lucerne Switzerland

An hours distance from the south of Basle and Zürich, and spectacular mountain views, lake cruises and a picturesque old quarter, LUZERN (Lucerne in French and English, Lucerna in Italian) has been one of the Europe's most heavily visited tourist places. Its popularity dates back to the year 1868 when Queen Victoria came for a long holiday in August 1868. A century old steady growth has resulted in the tourist trafiic of five millions visiting Lucerne every year. Tourism is the leading source of income, yet the city has been able to retain its charm at all costs.

The River Reuss splits the town, flowing rapidly out of the northwestern end of the lake. Both sides of the banks of River are clustered with medieval squares, frescoed houses, ancient guildhalls, churches and chapels, and filled with a liveliness that belies the city's age. Apart from being the base of initiating a Switzerland Tour, Lucerne is an exotic place to spend at least a couple of days to roam about in its quality museums - a Picasso gallery, the impressive Verkehrshaus (Transport Museum) - along with the medieval battlements, cobbled alleys and hidden garden courtyards.

Lucerne has also pioneered the café culture within the country, treasured by the youth of the city. At midnight on a weekend night, the main Pilatusstrasse boulevard has the feel of any European capital, with people bar-hopping, waiting for the last bus, or hanging out deciding where to go. Whether it is the history and tradition, the misty lake at its doorstep, the snow-capped peak of Pilatus, or its nightlife, Lucerne hypnotizes the tourists by its magic for long.

Geneva, Switzerland A Nice Place

Geneva is an anomaly, proving the idiom 'small is beautiful'. An international fame city yet nothing pompous within it. Geneva is little more than town-sized and exceptionally simple like its residents. About 38 percent of the population in Geneva is that of foreigners, basically US or French people. Located on a picturesque location, it is centred around the point where the River Rhône flows out of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman in French, Genfersee in German) flanked on one side by the Jura ridges and on the other by the first peaks of the Savoy Alps.

The Godfather of the city is the Reformer Jean (or John) Calvin, the inspiration behind Puritanism and Presbyterianism, who turned Geneva into a "Protestant Rome" in the 16th century. His parsimonious spirit made Geneva one of the richest cities in Europe. "The Republic and Canton of Geneva" is only nominally (4 kms) within Switzerland's borders, sharing a large territory (108km) with France all around. Most of the French residents get benefited from both a high Swiss salary and relatively low French living expenses, whereas the Genevois save money by doing their shopping in France.

Instead, Geneva has nowadays become the businessperson's city par excellence, unrufflable, efficient and tightly packed with hotels. The cobbled Old Town, standing high on its central hill, is atmospheric but strangely austere. At the heart of the city is the huge Cathédrale St-Pierre, and an array of museums, including the giant Musée d'Art et d'Histoire and an impressive gallery of East Asian art, the Collections Baur increasingly visited by the tourists. The residential lanes on both the banks of the Rhône, such as Les Pâquis and Plainpalais, offer more appealing wandering. A short way south of the centre is Carouge, an attractive 18th century suburb built in Sardinian style to be a place of decadence and freedom beyond Geneva's control; its reputation lives on in its high population of artists and designers. Last but not least, Geneva is the headquarter of many of the international organizations. Two of them - the United Nations' European headquarters and the International Committee of the Red Cross, the latter with an award-winning museum - allow visitors a glimpse of the veiled charisma of the city, the diplomatic and administrative confidence that has made Geneva the world capital of bureaucracy.

Bhavani Temple at Tuljapur

Worship of the primeval energy Shakti in the form of the mother Goddess is seen in the four Shakti Peethas of Maharashtra - Tuljapur enshrining Bhavani, Kolhapur enshrining Mahalakshmi, Mahur enshrining Mahamaya Renukaand Saptshringi enshrining Jagadamba. Other Shakti temples in the state are those at Ambe Jogai and Aundh. (also see Daksha Yagna).

Bhavani was the tutelary deity of Maharaja Shivaji the valiant Maratha ruler and is held in great reverence throughout the state of Maharashtra. Bhavani is considered to be an embodiment of the ugra or ferocity, as well as a Karunaswaroopini - filled with mercy.

The Bhavani temple in Tuljapur is located on a hill known as Yamunachala, on the slopes of the Sahayadri range in Maharashtra near Sholapur. The temple entrance is at an elevation and visitors need to transcend a flight of steps to reach the shrine. Historic records speak of the existence of this temple from as early as the 12th century CE.

Bhavani is worshipped in the form of a three foot high granite image, with eigh arms holding weapons, bearing the head of the slain demon Mahishasura. Bhavani is also known as Tulaja, Turaja, Tvarita and Amba.

Legend has it that a demon by name Matanga wreaked havoc upon the devas and the humans who approached Bhrahma for help and upon his advice turned to the Mother Goddess Shakti, who took up the form of the destroyer, and powered by the other (Sapta) Maataas Varaahi, Bhrahmi, Vaishnavi, Kaumaari, Indraani and Saambhavi and vanquished him to enable to peace to reign again. Legend also has it that Bhavani vanquished another demon who had taken the form of a wild buffalo (Mahisha), and took abode on the Yamunachala hill, which is now home to the temple.

Four worship services are offered each day here. The festivals of significance here are Gudi Padva in the month of Chaitra, Shriral Sashti, Lalita Panchami, Makara Sankranti and Rathasaptami. The deity is taken out in procession on Tuesdays. Navaratri is also celebrated with great fanfare, and it culminates in Vijaya Dasami.

Mahalakshmi Temple at Kolhapur

The four Shakti Peethas of Maharashtra are Tuljapur enshrining Bhavani, Kolhapur enshrining Mahalakshmi, Mahur enshrining Mahamaya Renukaand Saptshringi enshrining Jagadamba. Other Shakti temples in the state are those at Ambe Jogai and Aundh. Kolhapur is located in Kolhapur district and is well connected with Pune, 240 km north. It is on the national highway between Bangalore and Pune. It is situated on the banks of the Panchganga river and is full of ancient temples and shrines.

Legends: The Karavira Mahatmya states that Vishnu resides in the form of Mahalakshmi at Kolhapur. Legend has it that Kolhasura, a demon that tormented the Gods and other beings, was destroyed by Mahalakshmi here at Karavira, and that the spot of his death became a thirtha and that she took abode here in a shrine which constitutes the temple today. (Legend also has it that Parvati - Kolhambika destroyed the demon Kolhasura at Tryambakeshwar).

History: Although several parts of the temple are of the second half of the second millennium CE, epigraphic references place the deity in the 7th century CE, and the temple in the 10th century CE. For a period in the interim, this temple had fallen out of worship and the image of the Goddess was housed elsewhere. Worship was restored in the year 1715 after the Marathas rose to power.

The Temple: The main entrance Mahadwara of the temple is the western entrance. Upon entering the Mahadwara one is confronted with several deepamaalas on either side, and enters the Garuda mandap with square pillars and foliated arches of wood, characteristic of Maratha temples. This mandap dates back to the 18th century. An image of garuda faces the sanctum. Another stone mandap, on a raised platform enshrining Ganesh, also faces the sanctum. Following this is the mandap with three shrines facing west. The central one is that of Mahalakshmi and the two on either side are those of Mahakali and Mahasaraswathi.

The temple complex exhibits mortarless construction echoing the style of the early Deccan temples. Also to be noted here are the horizontal mouldings and the vertical offsets which create a rich light and shade pattern. Also seen in this temple is a rich display of sculpture of figurines in dancing poses, musicians, gods and goddesses. The three sancta have rather simple shikharas of brick and mortar dating back to the 19th century.

The image of Mahalakshmi carved in black stone is 3 feet in height. The Shri yantra is carved on one of the walls in the temple. The sanctum is designed such that once a year, the setting rays of the sun fall on the face of the image of Mahalakshmi for a period of 3 days in the months of Pisces and Leo.

Above the Mahalakshmi sanctum is a shrine with a Shivalingam and a nandi. The devakoshtas house Venkatesha, Katyayani and Gowri Shankar - facing the north, east and the south. There are a number of subsidiary shrines in the courtyard to the Navagrahas, Surya, Mahishasuramardini, Vitthal-Rakhmai, Shiva, Vishnu, Tulja Bhavani and others. Some of these images date back to the 11th century, while some are of recent origin. Also located in the courtyard is the temple tank Manikarnika Kund, on whose bank is a shrine to Visweshwar Mahadev.

Worship: Five worship services are offered each day here. The first one is at 5 am, and it involves the waking of the deity with a Kakada - torch, to the accompaniment of hymns. The second worship service at 8 am involves the offeirng of the Shodashopachara pooja consisting of 16 elements. The afternoon and evening services and the Shejaarati pooja constitute the three other services.

A festival image of the deity is taken out in procession around the temple courtyard each Friday, and on full moon days.

Siddhi Vinayak Temple

The Siddhi Vinayak temple at Prabhadevi in Mumbai is a well visited one attracting thousands all through the year.

The known history of the temple dates back to early nineteenth century. This temple has been renovated thoroughly in the late 1900s in order to accomodate the needs of the surging crowds of devotees that throng the temple during festive occasions. The sanctum here houses a small mandapam enshrining Siddhi Vinayak. The inner roof of the sanctum is plated with gold, and the wooden doors to the sanctum are carved with images of Ashta Vinayak.

Most icons of Ganapati depict the elephant faced God with his trunk curled towards his left. Siddhi Vinayak in Mumbai, Siddhi Vinayak at Siddhatek in Maharashtra as well as Karpaka Vinayakar at Pillayarpatti in Tamilnadu are depicted with a trunk pointing to the right (Valampuri). Ganapati here is depicted with four arms bearing a lotus, an axe, modakas and a garland of beads, flanked by his consorts Siddhi and Riddhi.

Festivals: Hundreds of thousands of devotees throng the temple, especially during Angaraki and Sankashti Chaturti days, when there is a continuous stream of visitors for as long as a 24 hour period.

Grishneshwar

Grishneshwar is an ancient pilgrimage site revered as the abode of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. It is located at a distance of 11 km from Daulatabad near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. Daulatabad was once known as Devagiri. Located nearby are the popular tourist attractions Ellora - featuring ancient rock cut monuments from the 1st millennnium CE, and Ajanta known for its exquisite cave paintings again from the 1st millennium CE.

The Grishneswar temple was constructed by Ahilyabhai Holkar who also re-constructed the Kasi Viswanatha temple at Benares and the Vishnu Paada temple at Gaya. Grishneshwar is also known as Ghushmeshwar.

Legend has it that a devout woman Kusuma offered worship to Shiva regularly by immersing a Shivalingam in a tank, as a part of her daily ritual worship. Her husband's first wife, envious of her piety and standing in society murdered Kusuma's son in cold blood. An aggrieved Ksuma continued her ritual worship, and when she immersed the Shivalingam again in the tank, her son was miraculously restored to life. Shiva is said to have appeared in front of her and the villagers, and then on is believed to have been worshipped in the form of a Jyotirlinga Ghusmeshwar.

The Temples

There are three groups of temples at Khajuraho. The Western group has temples to Shiva and Vishnu. The northern group has Vaishnava temples for the most part and the south eastern group consists of Jain temples.
The oldest of these temples, dating back to 900 CE is the Chaunsat Yogini temple in the western group, located southwest of the Shibsagar lake.

To the north of this is the Kandariya Mahadeo temple, the largest in Khajuraho. It is considered to be the best representation of the Khajuraho style of Indo Aryan temples - consisting of a sanctum - Garbhagriha, a circumambulatory path - Pradakshinapatha, an Antarala, Ardhamandapa, Mandapa and a Mahamandapa. The sanctum enshrines a marble Shivalingam.

To the north of this temple is the Devi Jagadambi temple. Further north is the Sun temple, enshrining an image of the Sun God, on a chariot pulled by seven horses. To the extreme north of this, is the Vishwanath temple, built along the lines of the Kandariya Mahadeo temple. Inscriptinos reveal that it was built by King Dhanga and that an emerald image of Shiva - Marakateswara was enshrined here. South west of this temple is the Parvati temple.

Emperor Lakshavarma is credited with building the Lakshmana-Chaturbhuja temple at Khajuraho. The image enshrined here said originally to be from Tibet was gifted to Lakshavarma by the Pratihara ruler Devapala. This is a three headed image of Vishnu, bearing a human, varaha and a simha head. The Matangeswara temple enshrines Shiva, in the form of a highly polished Shivalingam. There is also a small Varaha temple in the vicinity.

The eatern group has temples to Bhrama (Shiva), Vaamana, and Javari. The Jain temples in the south eastern group are very similar in construction to the others. The Parsvanatha temple is the largest of these. There are also temples to Ghantai and Adinatha.