PEOPLE & PLACES AND NEW FACES !

I stopped and as I looked around me ,at the places and the faces that I see, face reality , there's lot of excitement and happiness for me , in all that I perceive , so good lord , give me the happiness to look at all the places and the faces , and be happy !!

For all you travel bugs , put on your dancing shoes , and take the world in your stride , by embarking on a journey around the world , to stop at every place , to see the new places and the faces !

Hallelujah ! Praise be to the Lord for having created all those wonderful places and faces of people around the world !

Let me embark on my journey filled with happiness and excitement to see all those wondrous places created by God Almighty !

OH THAT HEAVENLY FEELING IN PARIS !

PARIS

What can you dream more then going to Paris? The city of lights. It is the capital of France and is said to be the most romantic place of the world. And why not? What do you think it lacks? It has the greatest wonder of the world EiffelTower; it has the famous cathedrals including the famous Cathedral of Notre de Paris, opera houses like Garnier opera house’s largest opera as well as more modern Bastille Opera.

THE BEATLES , ROCK STARS !

The Beatles were a British pop and rock group from Liverpool. They are widely regarded as the most successful group of the rock and roll era, having achieved broad popular success, critical acclaim and cultural influence. The group broke many sales records and charted more than 50 top 40 hit singles, including 20 #1's in USA alone. The band is estimated to have sold over a billion records worldwide (a figure, most likely, that in the forseeable future no other artist will ever come close to breaking).

Dubbed "The Fab Four" by some of their fans, the Beatles were John Lennon (1940–1980), Paul McCartney (born 1942), George Harrison (1943–2001), and Ringo Starr (born 1940). Lennon and McCartney were the principal songwriters, with Harrison making a significant contribution as the band matured. George Martin produced most of the Beatles' recordings.

The Beatles created a sensation in late 1963 in the UK (the phenomenon was dubbed "Beatlemania" by the British press), notable for the hordes of screaming and swooning young women the group inspired. Beatlemania came to North America in early 1964, and the band's popularity extended across much of the world. Within the space of five years, their music moved from the awakening of their early hits (such as "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand") to artistically ambitious suites of songs (such as the albums Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road). By writing their own songs, exploring the possibilities of the recording studio and working on unprecedented quality in every recording they released, the Beatles had far-reaching effects on popular music and made two feature films. They were subjected to unprecedented press scrutiny which included criticism of their later role as symbols of 1960s youth counterculture. The group disbanded in 1970.

ALBERT EINSTEIN , GENIUS OF A KIND !

Albert Einstein (March 14, 1879 – April 18, 1955) was a German-born Jewish theoretical physicist of profound genius, who is widely regarded as the greatest scientist of the 20th century and one of the greatest scientists of all time. The undisputed "father of modern physics," he proposed the theory of relativity and also made major contributions to the development of quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, and cosmology. He was awarded the 1921 Nobel Prize for Physics for his explanation of the photoelectric effect in 1905 (his "miracle year") and "for his services to Theoretical Physics."

After his general theory of relativity was formulated in November 1915, Einstein became world famous, an unusual achievement for a scientist. In his later years, his fame exceeded that of any other scientist in history. In popular culture, his name has become synonymous with great intelligence and even genius.

Einstein himself was deeply concerned with the social impact of scientific discovery. His reverence for all creation, his belief in the grandeur, beauty, and sublimity of the universe (the primary source of inspiration in science), his awe for the scheme that is manifested in the material universe—all of these show through in his work and philosophy.

ADOLF HITLER - WORLD WAR II SAGA !

Adolf Hitler (April 20, 1889 – April 30, 1945) was Chancellor of Germany from 1933 and Führer und Reichskanzler (Leader and Chancellor) of Germany from 1934 to his death. He was leader of the National Socialist German Workers Party (NSDAP), better known as the Nazi Party.

Under Hitler's charismatic leadership Germany emerged from the depths of post World War I defeat to rebuild its economy and decimated military. At the height of their power during World War II, the armies of Nazi Germany and its Axis Powers dominated much of Europe. The racial policies that Hitler directed culminated in a massive number of deaths, commonly cited as at least 11 million people – including 6 million Jews – in a genocide now known as the Holocaust.

Ultimately, Germany was defeated by the Allied powers in 1945 and during the final days of the war Hitler committed suicide in his underground bunker in Berlin together with his newly wed wife, Eva Braun. The Third Reich, which he had said would last a thousand years, collapsed shortly thereafter.

BEAUTIFUL KUFRI , SHIMLA, INDIA

Snow at Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Kufri, a tiny hill resort in the southern part of Himachal, is situated quiet close to Shimla. Perhaps, it is for this reason that the history of Kufri is inextricably linked with that of Shimla. In earlier times, Shimla and its surrounding areas, including Kufri formed part of the Kingdom of Nepal. During this time, not much of attention was given to this area. However, things changed when the British discovered this region in 1819. They were mighty impressed by the fresh air and beauty around. Shimla gained the status of summer capital in 1864 and retained its enviable position till 1939. With Shimla gaining prominence, Kufri couldn't probably remain behind. Gradually, it made its position as 'an important place to visit near Shimla' secure.

As of today, all those visiting Shimla make it a point to visit Kufri. However, there are many who want to visit Kufri specially. This is primarily because of the umpteen adventure option available in and around Kufri. Moreover, the natural beauty of Kufri is heartening. So even if one doesn't want to indulge in adventurous activities, just roaming around and savouring the beauty is also quiet a delightful option.

Ideally Kufri can be visited anytime between April to June when it is pleasant. However, December to February is also a good time to visit and enjoy snowfall.

THAR DESERTS , RAJASTHAN , INDIA

Thar Desert

Thar Desert, Rajasthan

Also known as the Great Indian Desert, the Thar Desert extends into two states of north west India (Rajasthan and Gujarat) and in the eastern region of the neighbouring country, Pakistan. The arid region extends in an area which is 800 km long and 400 km wide. The desert is bordered by Indus and Sutlej river in the west and the Aravalli ranges in the east. The alluvial plains of Haryana and Punjab occupy the northern region. Nearly three fifth of the total Thar area is under farming while more than one fourth has been developed into pasture land.

The annual average rainfall is less than 25 cm and there is only one river, Luni, that flows from between the region. This river flows out to merge with the Arabian Sea. Farming in this region, as evident from the amount of rainfall, is not at all easy. Infact four out of ten years suffer a situation of severe drought. And then, there is strong winds that blow for nearly half the year in this region.

As many as 700 species of plants exist in this area of which 107 are grass alone. These plants have the capacity to survive in the driest of conditions and are usually edible, especially the grass variety. The animal species of the desert region is also noteworthy. Actually, The Thar Desert houses some of the best breed of livestock in the country and thereby contributes to production of wool in Rajasthan which is half the total wool production in the country.

The land of shifting sand dunes, broken rocks and scrub vegetation has the visitors in a state of great excitement because it is completely different from what they have been used to. Though the region is arid, there is no dearth of attractions. Three of the most attractive cities of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner are a part of the Great Indian Desert.

CASTLE MANDAWA, SHEKHAWATI, INDIA

Castle Mandawa

Castle Mandawa Shekhawati, Rajasthan

In the colourful region of Shekhawati, Rajasthan, lies a small remote town, Mandawa. It was a halting place for ancient traders who came down all the way from China and Middle East. The town itself came into existence after Thakur Nawal Singh built a fortress here. The fortress initially attracted numerous common people and later traders to settle down in the surrounding areas. Mandawa soon flourished though later with the dwindling in the caravan traffic business lost its earlier zeal. The merchants were forced to look into other options elsewhere in the country. Yet their love for the place encouraged them to build numerous havelis.

Today, the fort that gave life to Mandawa as a town has been converted into a heritage hotel while the other havelis form a major source of attraction.

Castle Mandawa, which became a hotel in 1980, is every bit royal! From the moment guests step into the premises of the hotel, regality makes itself visible at every step forward. The hotel building is imposing and the entry of guests grand. On the back of a camel or horse, the guests make a dream entry with blowing trumpets and rhythmic beats of drum adding a regal sound effect. Traditional Indian welcome with tilak and garland add more charm to the colourful entry of the guests.

During their stay, the friendly staff ensures that the guests feel at home even while away from it.

BUNDI FORT , KOTA , INDIA

Bundi-Fort

Bundi is not hounded by tourists in the same manner as some of the more famous Rajasthan cities. This is the reason why many people in search of a peaceful yet exciting vacation opt for Bundi. Situated in the southern part of the colourful state Rajasthan, Bundi is 39 km north west of Kota. It is easy for tourists to explore this typical Rajasthani city and its history within a very short span of time on either a taxi or auto rickshaw or simply a cycle.

In the year 1193 when Prithviraj Chauhan lost out to Mohammad Ghori, numerous Chauhan nobles fled to Mewar to seek a safe refuge. However, there were still others who were not intimidated and hence moved towards newer destination in the Chambal valley. There they subdued the Meena and Bheel tribes and established their own supremacy in the kingdom of Hadoti. Later during the Jehangir rule, Bundi was forcibly separated into two parts, Kota and Bundi. The state lost its earlier prestige with the rise of Kota, though it continued as an independent state within the British rule. Later, when India gained independence, Bundi was incorporated into the state of Rajasthan.

The name Bundi is derived from the name of a former ruler.

PUSHKAR CITY , INDIA

Pushkar City

Myths and legends float throughout India and Pushkar is no exception. The holy lake here is believed to have appeared miraculously when a lotus flower fell off from the hands of Brahma. The name itself draws from the flower that fell off - Puspa meaning flower and kar meaning hand. But legends do not end here. The story also has inputs from Goddess Savitri, wife of Brahma. After all, it was she who made Pushkar the land of Brahma, the only place where he was to be worshipped by future generations.

Pushkar today is an esteemed religious destination for Hindus and Brahma highly venerated god here. Around 400 temples and 52 bathing ghats make other attractions of the city appear dwarfish. The nights do not have just stars to sparkle up the atmosphere, rather there are deep rooted faith in the hearts of devotees that makes this place radiate with unparalled charm.

The Pushkar fair is a riot of colours, especially red and yellow. Turbans, lehangas and dupattas seem to fill the entire atmosphere with bright enthusiasm. The atmosphere is charged up as if the accumulated enthusiasm of the people throughout the year has finally found expression. It is a time when tribals, general tourists and filmakers from all over the world make a beeline for Pushkar. Giving them company are thousands of camels, horses, goats and sheep. And behold! they come completely decked up and walk with a panache that eludes even the most confident person around. No wonder, they are the celebrities of this fair.

Explore Pushkar, a small place on foot or on a bicycle. Some really good experience lay hidden in this mystical town.

UDAI VILAS PALACE , UDAIPUR, INDIA

Udai Vilas Palace

Udai Vilas Palace- Udaipur

The Udai Vilas Palace is situated on the Brahmapuri island on the western side of Lake Pichola and spreads in an area of 30 acres of beautiful gardens lined up with decorative fountains and pavilions. The palace is a classic example of the architectural skills of the Mewar dyansty. The palace took nearly ten years to complete and served as a hunting resort for the royal family. Today, the palace has been converted into a heritage hotel.

Udai Vilas Heritage Hotel functions under the patronage of the famous Oberoi Group of Hotels. With the the Aravalli Hills in the backdrop and the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola in the front, the Udai Vilas Hotel enjoys a perfect setting amidst natural beauty. Moreover, the spectacular views of the Jagmandir and Jagniwas palaces, specially during sun rise and sun set adds to the feeling of being in a completely different world. Inside the palace hotel, the beauty of hand-painted mural, carved stone columns, landscaped terraces, lotus flowers carved in marble, brilliantly shinning gold-leaf cover of domes are a feast for eyes and joy for heart.

The luxury treatment accorded in the Udai Vilas Palace Hotel is comparable to the best in the country, Rajvilas, Jaipur and Amarvilas, Agra. Rambling around in the lush greenery of lawns, guests can feel the exhaustion of their body slipping out very fast and a renewed vigour replacing it with a remarkable ease. Guests have always found the true meaning of luxury after even a brief stay in this hotel. A stay in Udai Vilas Palace is truly an amazing experience that leaves guests asking for more. The love for the royal treatment offered here is pretty much apparent in the number of guests who decide to come back here for another round of stay.

LAKE PALACE, UDAIPUR, INDIA

Lake Palace

Lake Palace- Udaipur

This white marble structure rising out of the Lake Pichola has an irresistible charm that draws tourists from far and wide. The beauty of the Lake Palace is in a way responsible to bring Udaipur in the list of important tourists destinations of the world. Infact, the Lake Palace, along with two other palaces of Udaipur has also featured in the highly popular James Bond film, Octopussy.

The foundation of the Lake Palace was laid by Maharana Jagat Singh II in 1754. The palace covers the entire 1.5 hectares of the Lake Palace Island, earlier known as the Jag Niwas Island. Maharana Jagat Singh was pretty friendly with the Mughal contemporary, Shah Jahan, hence, his beautiful creation in Udaipur reflects some of the Mughal architectural influence. The palace served as summer residence for the Rajput rulers of Udaipur who loved to retreat to this magnificent palace in midst of a lake.

The rooms and apartments within the Lake Palace are all a classic example of sophisticated royalty. The beauty of the palace interiors is enhanced multifolds because of the presence of cusped arches, inland stones of pink, green lotus leaves and painted mirrors. The Bada Mahal, the Khush Mahal, Ajjan Niwas, Phool Mahal and Dhola Mahal are highly attractive. The upper rooms of the palace is perfectly round in shape. The courtyards have columns, pillared terraces, fountains and gardens which adds to the beauty of the palace.

The Lake Palace appears at its best during the dawn and dusk when the sun spreads its multihued shades in the water of the lake. Shimmering with every gust of wind, the reflection of the Lake Palace in the water is simply magical! A boat ride in the water of the Lake Pichola to or from the Lake Palace is an unforgettable experience for the tourists.

KHIMSAR FORT , NAGAUR , INDIA

Khimsar Fort

Khimsar Fort- Nagaur

Located in the Nagaur district of the Rajasthan, the Khimsar Fort was constructed by Rao Karamsiji (8th son of Rao Jodha, founder of Jodhpur) in the 16th century. Settled comfortably at the edge of Thar desert, between Jodhpur and Bikaner, Khimsar has a quintessential Rajasthani history of war and romance. Stories are rife as to how in earlier days, Khimsar endeavoured, though in vain, to free itself from the fiefdom of the Marwar empire and stabilize itself distinctly. Another story that captivates the imagination of the people is that the last great Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, himself paid a visit to this small village on request of a Thakur. However, the authenticity of this claim is highly a matter of debate.

The fort, that has been converted into a heritage hotel, is still inhabited by the direct descendants of its founder, and that also the 20th one! A ladies wing and a regal wing were added in the 18th and the 20th century respectively. Khimsar Fort has also been awarded the topmost recognition for a heritage property by Tourism Department of India in the form of 'Grand Heritage Award for Excellence'.

The heritage hotel that is managed by the Welcome Group of Hotels offers a spectacular welcome to its guests with enthusiastic display of fireworks, as they enter its heavily studded gates. Right from here, guests get an inkling of the kind of lavish stay they will enjoy during their vacations.

The best part about the hotel is that it is located far away from the noise of big cities which means that guests have plenty of time to spend with themselves and family in solitude. Also, since the hotel is run by the direct descendants of the royal family and the staff too trace their links to the erstwhile courtiers, the hospitality is at its best. These people know how to treat their guests in a true regal manner and as such extend a warm welcome to everyone.

DILWARA JAIN TEMPLES, MOUNT ABU , INDIA

Dilwara Jain Temples in Mount Abu- Rajasthan

Mount Abu, literally ‘Hill of Wisdom’, is Rajasthan’s only hill station. Sprawling along a 2km long plateau, it is at an altitude of 1220 metres, and is the highest point on the Aravalli ranges. Abu was the summer resort for the Maharajas and the princes to escape the sweltering desert. The gigantic blocks of rock, towering along the crest of the hill, the lush green trees and the colourful birds and animals make Abu one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Mount Abu is also a major Rajput and Jain pilgrimage centre.

At a distance of around two and half kilometre from the sole hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu, is a group of temples famously known as the Dilwara temples or still better, dream in marble. The temples trace their origin during the 11-13th century period. Nestled in the serene surroundings of mango trees and wooded hills, the Dilwara Temples are amongst the sacred pilgrimage site for the followers of Jain community.

The architecture of the temples is reflective of the Jain faith that encouraged simplicity. Though, ornamental details dot every nook and corner of the temple, yet its overall appearance exude a remarkable simplicity. The architectural style can be categorized as the Nagara.

MEHERANGARH FORT , JODHPUR, INDIA

Meherangarh Fort - Jodhpur

World famous for the baggy horse-riding trousers of the same name, Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. Situated in the fringe of the Thar desert the city was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, a chief of Rajput clan known as Rathores. The old city is still surrounded by a 10 km long wall, built about a century after Jodhpur was founded.

Located atop 150 m high hill, the impressive Mehrangarh Fort overshadows the other attraction of Jodhpur. The name Mehrangarh itself means 'majestic fort' and as such tourists visiting this fort are mighty delighted with its grandeur. The fort was initially built in the year 1459 by the founder of the city, Rao Jodha after he shifted his capital here from Mandore. However, much of what stands today date back to the 17th century, a time when Jaswant Singh held the reins of Jodhpur.

As with many other forts and palaces of Rajasthan, Mehrangarh too, encloses within its heart a legend that took birth during its construction. It is believed that to build a fort, a sage had to be forced out from the hill. Enraged, this sage cursed that the construction of the fort will see severe problems relating to water availability. To ward off the ramifications of this curse, a man offered to bury himself alive in the foundation of the fort.

Today, this story has little credibility amongst tourists, though what is quiet obvious is that Mehrangarh Fort reminds them of the royal past of the Rajput. It is a legacy of the courageous denizens who once inhabited the fort.

DESERT NATIONAL PARK, JAISALMER, INDIA

Desert National Park

Ardeotis nigriceps in Desert National Park

The Desert National Park is located around 40 km from the city of Jaisalmer and the best time to visit the park is between the period of November to March.

Rajasthan is an abode of many wildlife sanctuaries and National Park, however none of them is similar to the Desert National Park. The park is widely different from a usual park and actually for a novice, the park has little importance. Nonetheless, the Desert National Park has an important role to play in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

It is the largest park in the state of Rajasthan spreading over an area of 3162 sq km. Around one fifth of the park is covered with sand dunes. The rest of the landmass comprises craggy rocks, compact salt lakes bottoms, inter medial areas and fixed dunes.

JAISALMER FORT, JAISALMER, INDIA

Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer has been dubbed the `Golden City` because of the honey colour imparted to its stone ramparts by the setting sun. No one who makes the effort to get to this remote sandy outpost leaves disappointed. Centuries ago, Jaisalmer`s strategic position on the camel train routes between India and central Asia brought it great wealth. However the rise of shipping trade and the port of Bombay saw the decline of Jaisalmer.

RAMBAGH PALACE , JAIPUR, INDIA

Rambagh Palace

Rambagh Palace - Jaipur

The Rambagh Palace was originally constructed in the year 1835 as a school for a young Ram Singh after his father, Sawai Jai Singh III died under mysterious circumstances. Initially, according to Rajput customs, Ram Singh, who was then just 15 months old, stayed inside in the Zenana, away from the influence of British. However, later, the experienced elders of Rajput clan felt that the young prince needed to move out of the Zenana in order to gain proper education. This laid the foundation of the Rambagh Palace. The garden in which the palace was built belonged to Kesar Badaran, the governess of Sawai Ram Singh and was also named after her. When, she died leaving behind no heir, her property was taken over by the state. Ram Singh had a soft corner for this garden and hence made it his hunting lodge, rest house and an official guesthouse. Ram Singh's son, Madho Singh added more rooms to this palace.

Later, history repeated itself, when Man Singh died in 1922 leaving behind an adopted son, Sawai Man Singh II. As before, Man Singh's guardian Sir James Roberts decided that the young prince had to be trained properly away from the Zenana. Hence, Rambagh Palace again became a school, and very much like his predecessor, Man Singh too developed a liking for this palace. His fondness for this palace led him to declare it a royal palace. He spent quiet a lot of money to renovate and ornate and give it a befitting appearance of a royal palace. The palace gardens were once rated amongst the best in the world and the palace itself became the only one of its type having a polo ground attached to it.

JANTAR MANTAR , JAIPUR, INDIA

Jantar Mantar

Jantar Mantar- Jaipur

Jantar Mantar is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Raja Jai Singh. Located in the city of Jaipur, Jantar Mantar draws its name from Sanskrit terms 'yantra' and 'mantra'. The former term means instrument while the latter means formulae. Built between the period of 1728-34, the Jantar Mantar is based on the astronomical studies conducted by Sawai Jai Singh and his men around the world. One of his men brought a manual which was a copy of La Hire's "Tables". Accordingly, Jai Singh ordered the construction of the observatories based on the information provided in this manual.

Jai Singh had to make choice regarding the material used for the construction of the observatory. He had the option of using either metal or masonry instruments and he preferred the latter to the former. Infact, he himself designed the stone and masonry instruments of the observatory.

Jantar Mantar is hugely attractive destination for scholars, however, common people are little aware about its importance. A visit to Jantar Mantar makes tourists realize that the Rajput rulers were not just ardent patriots and admirer of royalty but also highly intellectual and observant. As such, though the place is more related to science, yet it has a historical importance attached to it.

JAIGARH FORT , JAIPUR , INDIA

Jaigarh Fort

Jaigarh Fort Jaipur

Situated at a distance of 15 km from the city of Jaipur, the Jaigarh fort is a classic example of a pure citadel built by the Rajput rulers. The fort, like the numerous other forts of Rajasthan is not ornamented with carvings. It is infact very simple and clearly indicates the purpose for which it was built, to bolster the defense of Amer. The fort is surrounded by moats and has all the features that are required to dissuade the invading army from marching ahead.

The Jaigarh Fort that literally translates into Victory Fort was constructed by Sawai Raja Jai Singh between the 15th and the eighteenth century. The fort can be explored completely within two hours without the help of any guide.

The entry to the fort is through the Dungar Darwaza. The inside walkways are the means by which the military officials, in earlier era, could keep a watchful eyes on the surrounding areas.

The Museum inside the fort is a storehouse of a wide range of armoury used by the earlier Rajput rulers. The commendable collection include swords, shields, guns, muskets and cannon balls. There are some old photographs of Jaipur kings and military heads in the museum as well.