Andhra Pradesh

Capital :	Hyderabad
Population:	7,61,11,243
Language:	Telugu and Urdu.
Climate :	The climate of Andhra Pradesh is hot and humid.

Kondavid Fort

Kondavid Fort
  
This fort is located in the Narasaraopet taluka of Guntur District which is in the Andhra Pradesh state. The history of this fort is that the fort was constructed by Reddi dynasty in 12th century. The fort was remains under the control of Reddi dynasty still 1482. The fort is located 1700 feet above the MSL. This was once the capital of the Kondavidu. This Kondavidu was extended from Krishna River to the Gundlakamma River.

Kondapalli Fort

Kondapalli Fort
 
The Kondapalli fort is located in Kondapalli village in Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh. The fort has glorious history. The fort gives the proof of many families. The fort was built in 14th century. The fort was constructed by Prolaya Vema Reddy of kodaveedu. After that the fort came under the control of Qutub Shahis and they repaired it. Actually this fort was constructed in Kondapalli village which is at 16 km in the west of the city of Vijayawada. Relaxation and the entertaining are the main purpose of the fort.

Golkonda Fort

Golkonda Fort
 
The Golkonda fort is located in the Golkonda village in Andhra Pradesh. This fort is one of the wonderful forts in India. The fort lies on the outer edge around 11 km from Hyderabad. The fort was built by Kakatiya dynasty in 1143. The village and the whole fort are located on one hill and it is about 400 feet high. The fort and whole village is surrounded by huge ramparts. After the Kakatiya the fort was ruled by Bahmani Sultanat. The fort fell in to ruins that are in the period of Aurangazeb.
Points of Attraction:

Khammam Fort

Khammam Fort

The Khammam Fort�s construction was started at around 950 years ago. The fort was built when the Andhra Pradesh was ruled by Kakatiya family that is in tenth to thirteen century. The fort is famous for the architecture which represent the both Hindu and Muslim architectural cultures.
The fort is located on the top of hill. The name of this hill is Stambhadri. There are two to three temples are on the top of the fort. Due to its beautiful design this fort becomes a major tourist place. The village at the base of the fort is well connected by rail, road. The Khammam has a railway station so, there is no problem to reach at fort.

Gandikota Fort

Gandikota Fort
The fort Gandikota is located in the Kapada District in Andhra Pradesh state. The Gandikota was originated in 1123 by Kakaraja. This Kakaraja was the subordinate of Ahavamalla Someswara first, a Western Chalukyan king of Kalyana. The main role played by town in the period of Kakatiya, Vijayanagar, and Qutub Shahi. The fort is near to the Pennar River.
The fort is 15 km away form Jammalamadugu and which is in Kadapa District. The name the fort is due to the 'gorge'. In Telugu, this 'gorge' means 'gandi'. This fort lies in the Erramala range of the hills and Pennar River is at the base of this fort. The fort surrounded by deep valley and impenetrable hills.

Devarakonda Fort

Devarakonda Fort

Devarakinda is town in the Nalgonda District in Andhra Pradesh State. The fort was under the control of one of the successfully king. The name of that king was Padma Nayaka Veluma Rajas. The fort was constructed by the Padma Nayaka Veluma Rajas. The king ruled this fort from 1287 to 1482. The 2nd Maada Naidu is also form the family of Padma Nayaka family. This fort is about 107 km away from the Hyderabad city.

Points of Attraction:

This fort is famous for its architectural brilliance. This fort is located near to the Hyderabad which is one of the best in Andhra Pradesh and also in India. This fort is the best place for the architectural lovers. The structural design of this fort is famous.

Way to reach there:

This place is well connected by Nalgonda, Nagarjuna Sagar, Mahbubnagar, and Hyderabad. And this fort is surrounded by seven hills. As Hyderabad is one of the big cities in the Andhra Pradesh there is no problem to reach there. The distance between Hyderabad and fort is around 107 km. Hyderabad is well connected by train, rail, and also by buses.

Some beautiful pictures of Devarakondafort are :

Tourist Places in Araku Valley

Araku Valley is a nice natural and relaxing place for tourism in the Andhra state. It is 112 kilometers away from Vizag and it is at an altitude of 3100 feet with green and pleasant Eastern Ghats. One can enjoy a train trip, as it has 46 tunnels and bridges while travelling to this place.

The visitors get attracts by its scenic beauty and most wooded forests. Trekking facilities are available for trek lovers and Borra caves a nice spot for trekking from this place. This place is having a different attraction due to tribal village and their different traditional folk dances.

How to reach

By Air - Nearest is Visakhapatnam airport at a distance of 112 kilometers.

• By Rail - It is a railhead.
• By Bus - Bus service is available from Visakhapatnam.

Where to stay

• A.P. Tourism - Mayuri complex and cottages
• R & B guest house
• Mayuri Guest House

Forts in Andhra Pradesh, India

Forts in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is one of the important states from the India. Andhra Pradesh is the fifth largest state in India. Andhra Pradesh is in the south of India. It has some attractive and historical important structures which attracts visitors not only from India but also from the outside of the India.

Fort is one of the attraction points from Andhra Pradesh. The number of the forts in Andhra Pradesh is not too much. There are 8 to 9 forts are in Andhra Pradesh. These forts are the witness of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Most of these forts are famous due to its architecture and designs.

The list of the forts is as below:

Chandragiri	Devarakonda	Gandikota
Khammam	Golkonda	Kondapalli
Kondavid

Tourist Places in Anantapur

Anantapur is a district place and here is a historical tree with name 'Thimmamma Marrimanu' is saved by people since 500 years. Thimmamma Marrimanu tree is with unique feature as it is the only sacred tree grove in the whole world.

This tree is the example of worshipping natural values. It is a tree of Ficus bengalensis and it is located in a village named Gootibylu of Anantapura District in AP. It is nearly 26 kilometers on the east of Kadiri to Rayachoti Road.

At the foot of hills in Eswaramala Reserve Forest this tree is located and it come in Kadiri Forest Range. It has a little animal house and aviary existing at Thimmamma Marrimanu. There is a nursery developed by the Forest Department of Thimmamma Marrimanu.

Tourist Places in Ahobilam

Ahobilam is just 74 kilometers from Nandyal and 360 kilometers from Hyderabad. This is one of the main Hindu pilgrimage centres in AP and it is well known as 'Singavel Kundram Ahibilam'. Here one can see the temples and all are dedicated to God Narasimha.

But as per the local legend, the story behind man-lion incarnation of Vishnu is different. It took actually to defeat the demon named Hiranyakashipu. Also there are some other places as well worshiping the Narasinhavatara of Vishnu.

Ahobilam is the only place where one can see all of the nine forms of Lord Narasimha that is total Nava Narsimha and all are worshipped here. At the foot of hill, there is a temple of Prahaladavarada Narasimha, means a form of Lord Narasimha while blessing Prahalada.

There are main two other temple sites in town located in upper Ahobilam. In the center of the limestone region, one can see natural caves and some of the caves are used as temples. Narasimha temple in natural cave is found in Upper Ahobilam.

There is Vaishnav Math in this town and temple lie in the heart of 3 Prakaras, all are built in style of Vijayanagara. Shrine in Lower Ahobilam built by Vijaynagar kings is from 14th century. There is a drinking water lake at a short distance from this temple and it is named as 'Alwar Koneru'.

Start from the foot of a hill and towards upper Ahobilam one can enjoy a nice journey. Total path ion this hill is nearly 9 kilometers and it is cut across forests and virgin hills.

How to go

• By Air - For Ahobilam the nearest airports are Tirupathi at a distance of 232 kilometers and Hyderabad 363 kilometers away from this place.
• By Rail - On Guntur-Hubli railway path is Nandyal town and it is the nearer railhead just 74 kilometers and on Chennai-Mumbai railway path is Cuddapah just 118 kilometers form Ahobilam.
• By Bus - Ahobilam is just 34 kilometers away from Allagadda. State buses always available from Chittoor, Cuddapah, Hyderabad, Tirupati, Nellore, Chennai and Kurnool for Allagadda.

Chandragiri Fort

Chandragiri Fort

The Chandragiri fort is located in village of Tirupati. The history of this fort is that the fort was built in 11th century. There is one beautiful Raja Mahal within the fort. The fort was built by Immadi Narasimha Yadavraya. First this fort was controlled by Yadavrayas. The fort remains under the control of Yadavrayas for three century. After that the fort came under the control of Vijaynagar rulers in 1367.

Points of Attraction:

Due to the high thickness of the wall the fort was well protected by any type attack. For the more protection of the fort there is channel which surrounds the fort and it act as the obstruction for attracters. There are two Mahal lies at the ground floor. Also there are some stones with beautiful carvings on it. This art is one of the famous arts in the India. Due to this beautiful art and architecture this fort comes under the category of one of the best fort in India. Out of these two Mahals, one is King�s Mahal and another is Queen�s Mahal. And this is main and attractive place for its art and architecture within this fort.

How to reach there:

The village near to this fort is Chanderi and it lies 12 km away from the Tirupati airport. Tirupati railway station as well as Airport is near to the fort. So, there is no problem to reach at the Chanderi village. There is no problem of accommodation and food. One can stay in the one of the two Mahals also. Tirupati is also one of famous place for visit. So, one can visit Tirupati also.

Some beautiful pictures of Chandragiri fort are :

Tourist Places in Alampur

This interesting and pleasing town is well known for the temples from Chankyan era and also the temples are separated in to two sets namely Brahmeswara and other is Papanatha.

Alampur is 214 kilometers on the way to Hyderabad and 27 kilometers on the way to Kurnool.

There are the presiding deities which stand at the banks of Tungabhadra river with this place Alampur in between them.

Tourist Places in Mantralayam

Mantralayam is ona a journey of just two hours by road from Kurnool and it is located on the bank of Tungabhadra River. It is believed that nearly 300 years ago, Madhwa Saint Sri Raghavendra took Samadhi here near Kurnool. Huge number of devotees and followers of this saint may be of any religion or cast visit this small town the whole year.

How to go

• By Air - From Mantralayam nearest airport is Hyderabad and it is at a distance 350 kilometers.
• By Rail - Nearest railway station from Mantralayam is on Chennai-Raichur route and it is 15 kilometers away from this place.
• By Bus - Andhra Pradesh Tourism has offered package tour ad it will include Hyderabad Buses for travelling to Mantralayam from places like Kurnool and Hyderabad.

Where to stay

For some visitors there is a best temple accommodation and the other is Andhra Pradesh Tourism guest house.

Tourist Places in Mahanandi

Mahanandi is at a distance of 320 kilometers from Hyderabad city and just 16 kilometers from Nandyal. Mahanandi lies in the thickly wooded Nallamalai hills in Nandyal taluka and in Kurnool District. There is a temple of Sri Mahanandiswara Swamy in the shape of a Linga.

The Mahanandi is one of the nine Nandis in India. It has an outstanding feature of the crystalline water in the temple and that water flows throughout the whole year from the five perennial springs. This water source is so abundant, that on this alone source 100 acres of banana plantation are irrigated.

How to reach

• By Air - The accessible airports are Hyderabad and Tirupati and are 320 and 290 kilometers away from Mahanandi respectively.
• By Rail - Nandyal is the nearest railway staion and located 16 kilometers away from Mahanandi.
• By Bus - Buses from Nandyal and Srisailam are available on regular basis to reach this place.

Where to stay

Shambhu Priya - Tourist Guest House, Mahanandi.

Srisailam Sanctuary

Srisailam Sanctuary nestles in the Nallamalai Hill ranges, in the Eastern Ghats, with cliffs, gorges, ridges and plateaus, endowed with a variety of flora and fauna. The NSTR protects a large portion of the once flourishing ecological system that existed here. The forest in this area was always open to human visitation. It was in 1973 that the area was declared a sanctuary and was incorporated under Project Tiger a decade later.

Location : 29-km From Macherla, Andhra Pradesh.
Coverage Area : 3568-Sq-Kms.
Main Attraction :
Best Time To Visit : October to June.
Accommodation : Three guesthouses with 248 beds available in the forest area.
Transport Information :

• Nearest railway : Connected through Hyderabad as well as via Markapur (85 km away).
• Nearest airport : Hyderabad, 316 km away from Srisailam.
• By Road : Srisailam is 190 km from Kurnool, 220 km from Guntur, 470 km from Chennai, and 85 km from Mannanur.

Nearby Cities : Macherla ( 29 km), Mannanur (85 km ).
Wild Life :

• Spotted Deers
• Mouse Deers
• Black Bucks
• Sambhars
• Chousingha Nilgai
• Wild Boars
• Indian Giant Squirrels
• Tree Shrews
• Rayels
• Mugger Crocodiles
• Wild Dogs
• Jackals
• Wolves
• Foxes
• Sloth Bear
• Panthers
• Tigers

Basar

Basar is located on the banks of Godavari River. At Basar there is a Temple of Sri Gyana Saraswati, which is the only South Indian temple dedicated to the Goddess of knowledge and the second is located in the Kashmir. This temple has some reference in the 'Markendeya and Brahmanda Puranas'.

It was believed that after daily holy bath from Godavari river, Sage Vyasa bring three handfuls sand and kept it at a place, whenever he stay here. It then transformed into the Saraswati, Lakshmi and Kali images. It was also believed that here Valmiki established Saraswati and wrote Ramayana.

There is samadhi and marble image of Valmiki located near this temple. One can find image of Lakshmi besides Goddess Saraswati and the presence of all three Saraswati, Lakshmi and Kali, Basar is considered as divine trinity.

How to reach

• By Air - Hyderabad is the nearest airport from Basar.
• By Rail - It is 190 kilometers away from Hyderabad and well connected by railways. Sri Gyana Sarawati temple is at a distance of 2.5 kilometers from Basar.
• By Road - All State buses from Hyderabad are easily available to reach this place anytime, it is at a distance of 210 kilometers by bus from Hyderabad via Nizamabad.

Tourist Places in Kolanupaka

Kolanupaka is 80 kilometers away from Hyderabad city and it is situated in-between Hyderabad and Warangal. Kolanupaka is Kalyani Chalukyas's second capital in the 11th Century AD. At that time this village was one of the main religious centers of Jains and counted as one of the important Jain centers in the South India.

Kolanupaka is the birth place of Renukacharya, the great 'Vira Saiva' saint was revealed by literal evidences. It was believed that he born from the Svayambaghu Linga, at this place and absorbed into another preaching Vira Saivism. It also has many historic monuments, sculptures, paintings and temples from 10th and 11th centuries.

How to reach

It can be reached easily by local buses and taxis till Aler, which is 6 kilometers away from this place.

Warangal

Population : 512,000 Languages : Telugu. Telephone area code : 08712 Best time to visit : October to March Warangal was once the capital of Kakatiya kingdom which spanned the greater part of present day Andhra Pradesh from the latter half of the 12th century until it was conquered by Tughlaqs of Delhi in the 14th century. The Kakatiyas were Hindu rulers and were great patrons of art, and it was during their reign that the Chalukyan style of temple architecture and decoration reached the pinnacle of its development. The enormous mud brick fort is Warangal's major attraction. Carved stone from wrecked Chalukyan temples are set indiscriminately in the massive stone walls which form a distint fortification almost a km inside outer mud walls. Chalukyan temples The most notable of the remaining Chalukyan temples are the 1000 pillared temple, the Bhadrakali temple and the Swayambhu temple. How To Reach Nearest airport is Hyderabad (152 kms). By Train Trains from Hyderabad .

Annavaram

Annavaram is at a distance of 72 kilometers from Rajahmundry and 124 kilometers from Visakhapatnam. It is one of the sacred pilgrim and located on top of a hill called Ratnagiri. Deity of Veeravenkata Satyanarayana Swamy is worshiped at Annavaram.

Vrata in the name of Satyanarayana Swamy is performed by the devotees and believed that wishes will be fulfilled by doing this. There are Bhishma Ekadasi in the month of January or February, Kalyanotsavam, Vysakha Ekadasi in the month of April or May are the main festive days.

How to reach

• By Air : Visakhapatnam 124 kilometers away is the nearest air port.
• By Rail : It is a railway station on Vishakapatnam-Raja hmandry railway line.
• By Bus: State buses from Rajahmudry, Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Yeleswaram are available easily.

Arasavalli

Arasavalli is on the north coastal of Andhra and this is a single place with the Sun temple in this state. Arasavalli is 3 kilometers away from Srikakulam and 733 kilometers from Hyderabad city. It is one of the main pilgrims, as the huge crowd on every Sunday visits the Sun-God temple.

Shri Suryanarayana Swamy temple, a sun temple is the main attraction of visitors from all over the country. This temple is built in such a way that the rays of the sun fall at the feet of the deity directly two times in a year. These two days are the main days to visit this holy place.

How to reach

• By Air - Vizag is the nearest airport and at a distance of 108 kilometers.
• By Rail - Srikakulam is the nearest railhead and at a distance of 3 kilometers.
• By Bus - Well connected by buses from Srikakulam.

Borra Caves

Borra Caves

Borra caves are located at a distance of above 90-95 km from Vishakhapatnam. Situated at 1400 metres above sea-level, they spread over the Eastern Ghats and occupy an area of 2 sq km. William King George of the Geological Survey of India discovered these caves in the year 1807. Tribals, for whom the caves are religiously significant, inhabit the whole surrounding area.

Deep in the caves, there is a "Shivalingam", over which there is an idol of a cow "Kamdhenu", and the river Gosthani takes its origin from the udder of this cow. The mercury and halogen lamps lit inside, make the interior of the caves colourful and spectacular. There are mica mines in and around the village and it is believed that mining of precious stones like rubies is possible. The natural formations of the caves is unique and breathtakingly beautiful. Due to the pressure of the flow of the Gosthani river, the limestones in the area dissolved and gradually caves were formed. The dissolved stone trickled down drop by drop on the floor of the cave and solidified to form irregularly shaped stalagmites and stalactites. There are several interesting structures like a mushroom formation, a temple, a mosque, a church and others inside the caves.

Tourist Places in Simhachalam

It is 16 kilometers from the port city and Simhachalam is a Hill of Lord Narasimha Swamy. It is also known for the 13th century Varaha Narasimha temple which is set in the Kailasha Hills and hot springs. The deity at this place is covered with sandalwood paste at all time.

In the Chandanayatra Festival held in the month of March or April each year, one can see the real shape of the deity. It is one of the temples from 11th century, dedicated to Lord Narasimha, who is combination of the Varaha and the Narasimha, one of the incarnations of God Vishnu.

This temple is located at a distance of 16 kilometers on northeast of Visakhapatnam city. At Simhlachalam Hill at a distance of 16 kilometers on northeast is the Vishnu temple in Orissan style from 11th century.

How to reach

• By Air - Visakhapatnam is at a distance of 16 kilometers and it is the nearest airport to Simhachalam.
• By Rail - Visakhapatnam with same distance 16 kilometers is the nearest railway station from this city.
• By Bus - It is accessible from Visakhapatnam by bus very easily.

Andhra Pradesh Beaches

Bheemunipatnam Beach is at a distance of 24km. from Visakhapatnam, this beach is located where river Gosthani vanishes in the sea.

Once a Dutch settlement, the ruins of a fort and cemetery are still intact. Considered to be one of the safest beach sites in Andhra Pradesh state, this beach site has got one of the finest sea resorts of India, known as Bheemli.

How to Reach ?

• By Air : Visakhapatnam is well connected by air with all major metros like Hyderabad, Chennai, Calcutta and Mumbai.
• By Rail : Daily train services from all major towns � Mumbai, Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Bhubaneshwar, Calcutta etc.
• By Road: Bheemunipatnam is well connected by city buses from Visakhapatnam.

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Mypad Beach :

Mypad Beach is located at 25 km.away from Nellore, this is a fine sandy beach. The brilliant coastline provdes one of the most luring sites for beach lovers. The entire coastline of Andhra Pradesh is stunningly appealing with lush green environment and sun kissed sands providing an enchanting back drop.

How to Reach ?

• By Air : The nearest airports are at Tirupati (130 km.) and Chennai (200 km.)
• By Rail : Mypad beach can be reached from Nellore (25 km.)
• By Road: There are local buses that reach Mypad from Nellore (25 km.)

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Ramakrishna Beach :

The combination of both Ramakrishna Beach And Lawson's Bay present a very picturesque site. It presents quite a contrast with its long and calm water stretches from the busy city life of Vishakhaptnam

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Rishikonda Beach :

Rishikonda is a golden, unspoilt beach, washed by the sun-warmed sea, 8 km from Vizag and an ideal for water sports lovers, especially swimmers, water skiers, and wind surfers.

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Vodarevu Beach :

Vodarevu Beach is located at about 6-km from Chirala, in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh.Vodarevu makes quite a nice weekend hideout and has got quite a good share of tourist inflow, mainly because of its tranquil setting. It is a beautiful beach with a constant inflow of tourists spending their weekends in serene setting. This is a nice gateway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

How to Reach ?

• By Air : Nearest airport is Hyderabad .
• By Rail : Chirala and Guntur (35-km) are the nearest railway stations.
• By Road: There are buses from Vijaywada, Guntur, Chirala etc. Taxis are also available.

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Manginapudi Beach :

Manginapudi Beach is located at a distance of11 km. from Machilipatnam in Krishna District. Manginapudi is a must visit place because of its mesmerizing scenic sites and also because of its historic significance as a port city. Machilipatnam flourished as a commercially important trading centre and served as a gateway to India.

The beach possesses tremendous potential with a natural bay and comparatively shallow and safe waters. A beautifully laid park with a fountain and well lit surroundings further enhance its reputation as a place for relaxation.It's also a popular health resort as well as an ideal picnic spot in Andhra Pradesh.

How to Reach ?

• By Air : The nearest airport is at Vijayawada about 85 km.away.
• By Rail : The nearest railway station is at Machilipatnam about 15 km. away.
• By Road: Manginapudi can be reached from Vijayawada that is at a distance of85 km.and Machilipatnam that is at a distance of 15 km.

Popular Beaches Of India :
Andhra Pradesh	Andaman & Nicobar
Goa	Gujarat
Kerala	Karnataka
Lakshadweep	Maharashtra
Orissa	Tamil Nadu

Tourist Places in Vishakapatnam

It has a population of approximately 12 lakhs and languages spoken here includes English, Hindi and Telugu. Vishakapatnam is set in a bay and rocky promontories, now it became one of most rapidly growing cities in India, as it is the fourth largest port in India.

Andhra Pradesh is one of the states to have nearly 1000 kilometers of coastline and it has eight of its districts having access to the sea directly. This state has the breathtaking views of sea water with the golden sands at along the different points on the coast.

It is really a very thrilling and the most fun-loving holiday place. Right from Bheemunipatnam near Vishakapatnam up to Mypad in Nellore district, the entire coastline offers lots of fun to the sun worshippers as well as sea bath lovers. Vishakapatnam was a small fishing village previously and it has history of the Ashoka, the Pallavas, Cholas and Gangas etc.

It is now a port town and this coastal city is now days a commercial and industrial heart of AP state as well as a home to largest shipbuilding yard in India. Ramakrishna Beach with 8 kilometers of Lawson's Bay is really good one to visit.

How to reach

• By Air - From Hyderabad, Bhubaneshwar and Kolkata flights are available.
• By Rail - Vishakapatnam is very well connected with important cities in India by railway through the Vishakapatnam, Waltair is the railway junction.
• By Bus - Vishakapatnam is also connected by bus with all major cities in India.

Tourist Places in Lepakshi

Lepakshi is the nice paradise so sculptors and it is beautiful place to visit in Andhra Pradesh. It is located 124 kilometers away from Bangalore. This place has population of 7148. It can be reach easily by road from B.T. Road. The languages spoken here are Telugu, English, Tamil and Kannada. It is one of the religious centres in AP.

It has huge collection of temple architecture and mural paintings. It is situated on a distance of 480 kilometers from Hyderabad in Anantapur district. The place is easily reached from Tirupati.

It is a place connected with the legend of 'Lord Rama' as it is believed that 'Jatayu', the vulture, who confronted Ravana and after a prolonged resistance, Jatayu fell down on earth at this place. The bird then passed on the message of Ravana passed from there to Rama and Rama said Lepakshi means 'Get up Bird!', and then onwards this place is named as Lepakshi.

This small village has the famous Veerabhadra Temple, which is built in 1538 in the Vijayanagar style. It also has sculptures preserved, but all the the mural paintings found here are striking and depicting legends from Puranas. The Kalyana Mandapa is having 38 carved monolithic pillars of grey stone.

How to reach

• By Air - The Bangalore airport is 100 kilometers away from this place and Puttaparthi Airport is 65 kilometers away.
• By Rail - The nearest railway station is Hindupur on a distance of 16 kilometers.
• By Road - It is well connected to Hindupur and Ananthapur by regular buses.

Tourist Places in Horsley Hills

Horsley Hills

Horsley Hills is one of the famous hill resorts in Andhra Pradesh state and it is about 144 kilometers away from Tirupati. This resort is named after W.D. Horsely, who was the erstwhite collector of Cuddapah District and he had chosen the place for summer residence.

It is located at an altitude of 1265 meters and the place Horsely Hills is very delightful and with a cool environment every where. It also has teak, red sanders, eucalyptus, mangoes and gulmohar trees to increase the natural beauty.

How to reach here

• By Air - The nearest airport are Tirupati and Bangalore and are respectively 160 and 165 kilometers away from this place.
• By Rail - The nearest railhead is Madanapalle Road and it is 13 kilometers away.
• Accommodation -
  1. A.P. Tourism's Governors Bungalow
  2. Forest Bungalow
  3. P.W.D. Inspection Bungalow
  4. Chittor Coop. Society guest house

Tirupathi Balaji Temple

Tirupathi Balaji

Tirupati is situated at 67-km from Chittoor in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Tirupati is one of the important pilgrim centres in India. The ancient and sacred temple of Sri Venkateswara is located on the seventh peak, Venkatachala (Venkata Hill) of the Tirupati Hill. This historic shrine of Sri Venkateswara is famous all over the country and attracts pilgrims from all over the country who stand in line for hours together to obtain a glimpse of the presiding deity for a few fleeting seconds.

The shrine is located on a hill at Tirumala, a cluster of seven hills known as Seshachalam or Venkatachalam with an elevation of 853m (2, 800ft.) above the sea level. It is said to be the richest temple in the world. This temple is a vibrant cultural and philanthropic institution with a grand history spanning several centuries.

All the great dynasties of rulers of the southern peninsula paid homage to Lord Sri Venkateswara in this ancient shrine. The Pallavas of Kancheepuram (9th century AD), the Cholas of Thanjavur (a century later), the Pandyas of Madurai, and the kings and chieftains of Vijayanagar (14th - 15th century AD) were devotees of the Lord.

Tirupathi is a fine example of dravidian temple architecture. The 'gopuram' or tower of the Tirupati Temple shows a characteristic feature of Dravidian architecture. The 'Vimana' or Cupola over the sanctum sanctorum is covered entirely with gold plate and is known as "the Ananda Nilayam". The Shrine consists of three 'Prakarams' or enclosures. The outermost enclosure contains the 'Dhvajastambha' or the banner post and, among others, the statues of Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya and his consorts, and of Todarmal, the minister of Akbar.

The idol of the deity, the full figure of Lord Venkateswara or 'Venkataramana' or 'Srinivasa' or 'Balaji' has the attributes of both Vishnu and Shiva, preserving and destroying aspects of the Hindu Trinity.

Tirupathi Balaji Temple
Padi Kavali Maha Dwara :

The Padi Kavali Maha Dwara or Outer Gopuram stands on a quadrangular base. Its architecture is that of the later Chola period. The inscriptions on the gopuram belong to 13th century. There are a number of stucco figures of Vaishnava gods like Hanuman, Kevale Narasimha and Lakshmi Narasimha on the gopuram.

Sampangi Pradakshinam :

The path for circumnavigating the temple is called a pradakshinam. The main temple has three prakarams. Between the outermost and middle prakarams is the second pathway for circumambulation known as the Sampangi Pradakshinam. Currently, this pathway is closed to pilgrims. The Sampangi Pradakshinam contains several interesting mandapams like the Pratima Mandapam, Ranga Mandapam, Tirumala Raya Mandapam, Saluva Narasimha Mandapam, Aina Mahal and Dhvajasthambha Mandapam.

Ranga Mandapam :

Ranga Mandapam, also called the Ranganayakula Mandapam, is located in the south-eastern corner of the Sampangi Pradakshinam. The shrine within it is believed to be the place where the utsava murti of Lord Ranganadha of Srirangam was kept during the 14th century, when Srirangam was occupied by Muslim rulers. It is said to have been constructed between 1320 and 1360 AD by the Yadava ruler Sri Ranganadha Yadava Raya. It is constructed according to the Vijayanagara style of architecture.

Tirumala Raya Mandapam :

Adjoining the Ranga Mandapam on the western side, and facing the Dhvajasthambha Mandapam is a spacious complex of pavilions known as the Tirumala Raya Mandapam or Anna Unjal Mandapam.

It consists of two different levels, the front at a lower level and the rear at a higher. The southern or inner portion of this Mandapam was constructed by Saluva Narasimha in 1473 AD to celebrate a festival for Sri Venkateswara called Anna Unjal Tirunal. This structure was extended to its present size by Araviti Bukkaraya Ramaraja, Sriranga Raja and Tirumala Raja.

It is in this Mandapam, that the utsava murthi Malayappan, holds His annual darbar or Asthanam during the hoisting of the Garudadhwaja on Dhwajastambham to mark the commencement of Brahmotsavam. Incidentally, the prasadam distributed on this occasion is still called Tirumalarayan Pongal.

Tirumala Raya Mandapam :

The Mandapam has a typical complex of pillars in the Vijayanagara style, with a central pillar surrounded by smaller pillars, some of which emit musical notes when struck with a stone. The main pillars have rearing horses with warriors mounted on them. Some of the best sculptures of the temple are found in bold relief in the Mandapam. The bronze statues of Todermallu, his mother Matha Mohana Devi and wife Pitha Bibi, are kept in a corner of the Mandapam.

The Aina Mahal :

The Aina Mahal is on the northern side of the Tirumala Raya Mandapam. It consists of two parts - an open mandapam in the front consisting of six rows comprising six pillars each, and a shrine behind it consisting of an Antarala and Garbhagriha. It has large mirrors which reflect images in an infinite series. There is an unjal in the middle of the room in which the Lord is seated and festivals conducted.

Saint Ramanujacharya prescribed all the elaborate rituals and mode of worship in the temple that are still followed by the priests and devotees. Anointing the idol with camphor, and the offering by pilgrims of the hair on their heads by getting themselves shaved by licensed barbers are the important customs in vogue at Tirupati Temple.

The most famous is the annual festival called 'Brahmotsavam', which is celebrated on grand scale for nine days in September, attracting pilgrims and tourists from all parts of the country. The fifth and ninth days of the festival are especially significant in as much as Garudostavam and Rathotavam takes place on those days.

Tourist Places in Amaravathi

There are a number of tourist places in Amaravathi. Amaravathi is a place one of the important Buddhist site located near the ancient Satavahana capital, Dhanyakataka. This place was once the ancient capital of Satavahanas. Also it was one of the four renowned Buddhist centres of learning in the whole India.

This main site of Buddhism is 65 kilometers on the south-west of Vijayawada. It gave an impetus to art, architecture and trade as well as facilitated the spread of Buddhism on the east coast. It is very significant ancient Buddhist centre as well as the former capital of Andhras.

Previously this shrine was dedicated to Hinayana sect, but later under Nagarjuna was changed into a Mahayana sanctuary, where Buddha was well-regarded as Amareswara. A representative of Emperor Asoka, who went to spread Buddhism in this region, laid the foundation of the great stupa at Amaravati.

Dome of the foundation is now missing, but it is supposed that it had been built with large sized bricks. Its present height is 1.55 meter sand witha diameter of 49.30 meters. There is a stupa, which have the largest marble-surfaced dome in the whole world. It is decorated with rich carvings and depicts the different incidences from Buddha's life.

Generally the Mahastupa is well-known as 'Deepaladinne' or 'Mound of Lamps'. There are pieces of 2000 years old stupa, which include grass hump and a few stones. The Archaeological Museum here have a colection of panels, broken, railings and sculptures of the Bodhi Tree, charkas, pottery, coins, bangles and terracotta.

Chandavaram

Chandavaram is a Buddhist site and it is 150 kilometers from Vijayawada city. Its speciality is unique double terraced stupa on top of a hillock called Singarakonda, means a beautiful hillock. It is only place of its type in South India with more than 30 carved limestone panels adding beauty to the dome of the stupa.

Guntapalli

Guntapalli is also a beautiful Buddhist site and it is located 85 kilometsr away from Vijayawada city. It lies in valley, which has a horseshoe shape and it have rock-cut chaityas, votive stupas and viharas. Dignaga, who was the great Buddhist logician, supposed to have lived in this ashram.

Sankaram

Sankaram is located 41 kilometrs from Visakhapatnam city. Here one can easily visit to many monolithic votive stupas, brick-built structural edifices and early historic pottery. Satavahana coins since 1st century are also available here.

Salihundam

Salihundam is located on the right bank of the river Vamsadhara, about 116 kilometers from Visakhapatnam city. There are many Buddhist stupas as well as a huge monastic complex on a hillock with a beautiful surroundings. Here the statue of Tara and Marichi were discovered. Buddhism spread to Sumatra and other Far-Eastern countries from this place only.

Nagarjunakonda

There are a number of tourist places in Nagarjunakonda. Nagarjunakonda is located on 150 kilometrs from the southeast side of Hyderabad city. It is one of India's very famous and rich Buddhist sites. It now days lies entirely under the lake created by the Nagarjunasagar Dam, completed in 1960s.

Nagarjuna Sagar

Vijayapuri was served as a capital of the Ikshvaku kingdom and was best centre of Buddhist learning seventeen hundred years ago. Now there is a place flourishes named Nagarjunasagar, it is a famous township and get its name after Acharya Nagarjuna, who was the founder and father of Mahayana Buddhism.

Nagarjunakonda may be named after Nagarjuna, it is the revered Buddhist monk, who governed the sangha that is Buddhist monastery. Here many relics of the Buddhist civilization found since the 3rd century AD. The very old relics at the site were discovered by archaeologist A. R. Saraswathi.

In the year 1950 the region was selected as the site for a huge tank, called as the Nagarjuna Sagar, for the purpose of irrigation and the generation of electricity. The excavated relics were rebuild and have been carefully conserved at Nagarjunakonda, a unique island-museum in the midst of the man-made Nagarjunasagar Lake.

The museum has been created in the figure of a Buddhist Vihara and accommodates a stupendous collection of relics of Buddha, Buddhist art and culture. The main stupa named the Mahachaitya includes the holy relics of Buddha.

The centre of attraction is a partially broken monolithic statue of Buddha in an exceptional image of peace and poise. During the building of the Nagarjunasagar Dam, the remains of an prehistoric Buddhist university were unearthed in it.

It has been rebuild at Anupu, 4 kilometers away from the right bank of the reservoir. A third century vihara and amphitheatre with fine acoustics takes one back into history. The Nagarjunasagar Dam project, completed in 1966, is one of the largest in India and its two of the irrigation tunnels are said to be among the longest in the world.

How to reach here:

• By Air - The nearest airport is, Hyderabad at a distance of 149 kilometrs.
• By Rail - The nearest railhead is Macherla which is 29 from Nagarjuna Sagar.
• By Bus - It is well connected by state buses from Macherla, Hyderabad, Warangal, Vijayawada.

Draksharaman

There are a number of tourist places in Draksharaman. Draksharaman is Shaivaite shrine and located 185 kilometers from Vijayawada city. It is supposed that Sage Vyasa performed penance here and named it as Dakshina Kasi (Southern Benaras). Legend says that the Saptamaharishis means seven sages, at the end of their penance divided the akhanda Godavari named river into seven separate streams.

The Sapta Godavari Kundam means a seven river pond situated near a temple is the main attraction of the number of devotees visiting this place. There are many rock edicts means sasanas, carved on the walls of the temple.

The temple art proves the power of a merging of sculptural traditions of two typws namely Chalukya and Chola styles. Famous A Telugu poet Srinath in the 14th century said to have written a 'Prabhanda Kavya 'Bhimakhanda' about this sacred place.

How to reach Draksharaman:

• By Air - The nearest airport is, Vijayawada at a distance of 185 kilometrs.
• By Rail - The nearest railhead is Kakinada at a distance of 17 kilometers, Hyderabad, about 100 kilometrs.
• By Bus - It is well connected by state buses and anyone can easily arrive at Draksharaman by bus from Kakinada and Rajahmundry.

Where to stay in Draksharaman:

• Choultries are available at Draksharaman.
• Budget hotels in Kakinada and Rajahmundry.
  

Tourist Places in Rajahmundry

There are a number of tourist places in Rajahmundry. Rajahmundry was the capital of the eastern Chalukyas and it was then captured by the Muslims from the Vengi kings in the year of 1471. It again returned into the Orissan Kingdom in the year 1512. This is the site of phenomenal historic plus religious consequence. The Deccan Muslims recaptured it in the year 1571 and it was frequently the view of harsh fighting until being settled to the French in the year 1753. It is memorized for the poet Nannaya, who wrote the first Telugu classic andhra Mahabharathamu. Pushkaram - the Kumbh Mela of the south is celebrated once in 12 years where devotees have a sacred bathe in Godavari, and clean their sins. The long rail bridge of 56 spans is an remarkable view. The D. Rama Rao art gallery - It hosts some of the most outstanding paintings of him. The Markandaya and Kotilingeswara Temples on the river bank draw pilgrims. Rajahmundry is well-known for its carpets and sandalwood goods and also as a suitable base from which to visit the coastal districts. Places to Visit in Rajahmundry Samalkot It is a small 10th century Chalukyan temple of Samalkot and located 15 kilometers on the east of Rajahmundry. Kadiam It has flourished since the earlier 1980s when the social forestry program helped out to set up nurseries. Today there are total 250 nurseries. Sri Rallabandi Subbarao Government I - Museum It is located in Godavari Bund Road. There are a enormous collection of coins, sculpture, pottery, palm leaf manuscripts and inscriptions.

Vijayawada

There are a number of tourist places in Vijayawada. Mogalarajapuram temple, Jain temple, Victoria Jubilee Museum and Hazrathbal Mosque within the city and Kondapalli, Amravati, nearby are some of the numerous places of tourist interest that one must not miss while on a trip to Vijayawada. Vijayawada also houses one of the famous dams of the country. The Krishna Delta Irrigation Scheme irrigates almost one million hectares of land making the entire region one of the richest grain producing areas of the country. The Prakasham Barrage is over 1000 metre long and has a railway route and a road running across it.

Tourist Places in Medak Church

There are a number of tourist places in Medak Church. Medak is gifted with archaeological treasures and it was a crowded metropolis of Buddhist culture in ancient times. The main landmark of Medak is a church and the church was standing firm, tall amidst sylvan surroundings. This church is built on a large scale in solid white granite. This gothic structure is well famous for the large pointed stained glass windows.

Mr. Charles Walker Posnett, who is dedicated English missionary from England, was posted as the priest of Medak and continued for three years. Plenty of families approach the Reverend for food and blessings. Their pathetic condition of these people inspired him to build a church. The suggestion was right away accepted and as a result the church rose.

The church construction was started in the year 1914 and lasts for 10 years and completed on Christmas in the year 1924. The church is having capacity for accommodaton of 5000 people. It has a spired bell tower of 175 feet height. This church has stylish vaulting and large painted stained glass windows, which is the most fascinating feature of Church.

There is a picture book of the Bible for those who cannot read and it was created by the British artist, Sir O. Salisbury, which took 40 years to complete this book. The pictures glow actively and seems live. Each window here is a collection of many bits of painted glass which glued in a single piece and delicately set into the stone windows.

How to reach here:

• By Air - The nearest airport is, Hyderabad, about 100 kilometrs.
• By Rail - The nearest railhead is Kamareddy, about 60 kilometers, Hyderabad, about 100 kilometrs.
• By Bus - It is well connected by state buses from Hyderabad, Sangareddy, Nizamabad, Karimnagar, Warangal and Siddipet.

Hyderabad

Introduction

A charming blend of the ancient and the modern,Hyderabad,also known as the Istanbul of India,is a vital centre of Islamic culture,and central India's answer to the Mughal grandeur of the northern cities of Delhi,Agra and Fatehpur Sikri. Consisting of the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad,it is the capital of the state of Andhra Pradesh. It boasts of some fine examples of Qutab Shahi architecture - the Jami Masjid,the Mecca Masjid,Toli Masjid,and of course,the impressive symbol of Hyderabad,the Charminar.

Hyderabad is the creation of the Qutab Shahi rulers. In 1589,Mohammed Quli Qutab Shah decided to shift his capital from Golconda to the banks of river Musi. Consequently,a city adorned with magnificent palaces and mosques,embodying a style of architecture that was unique to the place - the domes and minarets dressed with splendid stucco ornamentation - was born. Hyderabad retains the old-world atmosphere,unlike other cities in South India. A unique feature of the city,is that it is the only city in the south,where the major language spoken is Urdu.

Hyderabad offers a glimpse into the amazing spectrum of performing arts unique to Andhra Pradesh. Kuchipudi,the classical dance form of the state presents vignettes from the great Hindu epics and mythological tales through fascinating dance-dramas. Shadow puppetry is another famous folk art. Perforated leather puppets depicting mythological characters from the epics,are handled with bamboo sticks against a brilliant lamp-lit background. This is performed to the accompaniment of percussion instruments and lyrical narration. Around 19 tribes people the Araku Valley,115 km from Visakhapatnam. Their cultural repertoire is a profusion of dances,folk songs and religious celebrations.

Hyderabad is a centre for handicrafts peculiar to the city and from around the state. There are fabulous bargains to be had at Charkaman,Mitti-ka-Sher and Laad Bazaar. They include: bidriware,hookahs,boxes,jewellery made of black gun-metal inlaid with fine silver wire in exquisite floral and geometric patterns; appliqued patchwork skirts,bags and belts with mirrors and beads,embroidered by the Banjara and Lambadi gypsy tribes; Nirmal lacquerware,brass from Pembarthi,Kondapalli carved toys,leather toys and Warangal carpets. The traders in the cluster of by-lanes surrounding the Charminar,and Laad Bazaar stock fine jewellery - antique kundan and enamel ornaments,temple sarees,old bidriware and exquisite pearls.

Interesting Places

At the heart of the hustle-bustle of the old walled city,amidst all the congestion,is the Charminar - the massive arch built by Mohammed Quli Qutab Shah,in 1591 to propitiate the evil forces from destroying his new city with the plague. The symbol of the city,the Charminar,looming at a height of 56 m,is an impressive square gateway with four minarets. The arch is illuminated daily in the evening,an unforgettable sight indeed.

Near the Charminar is the Mecca Masjid,one of the largest in the world,said to accomodate upto 10,000 worshippers. The foundation of the mosque was laid during the reign of Mohammed Quli Qutab Shah,in 1614,but it was completed only in 1687,when the Golconda Kingdom was annexed by Emperor Aurangzeb.

One of Hyderabad's prime attractions is the Salar Jung Museum,the world's largest one man collection,the 35 rooms of which house around 35,000 exhibits. These include unusual collections of jade,marble statues,rare manuscripts,Persian miniature paintings,Chinese porcelain and other objets d'art. The credit for this invaluable collection goes to Mir Yusaf Ali Khan Salar Jung the 3rd,the Prime Minister of Nizam,a great connoisseur of art.

A short distance away from the city,looms one of the most magnificent fortresses in India,the Golconda Fort. The fort dates back to the time of the Qutab Shahi kings,though its origin has been traced to earlier periods,during the reign of theYadavas,and later the Kakatiyas. The fortress is built on a granite hill 120 metres high,and is surrounded by massive crenellated ramparts, its gates studded with menacing iron spikes,intended to discourage elephants from battering them down. What is unique to this fort is its system of accoustics,whereby the sound of hands clapped at the entry gate,can be heard quite clearly at the top of the hill,at a height of 61 m.

The stately tombs of the Qutab Shahi rulers lie just outside the outer wall of the Golconda fort. They lie amidst beautifully - kept gardens,and a number of them have intricately carved stonework. Hyderabad also boasts of one of the largest zoos in India,the Nehru Zoological Park,with adjuncts like a prehistoric animal section,a toy train,and a lion safari. The Birla Mandir (Naubat Prahad),a splendid temple built entirely out of white marble,stands on a hill,which overlooks the south end of Hussain Sagar. The Birla Planetarium is,also,quite a crowd-puller.

Places Around Hyderabad

23 km from Hyderabad is Himayat Sagar,a 85 sq. km lake,a popular picnic - spot. Nagarjunasagar - Nagarjunakonda,situated 149 km from the city,is the site of the excavated remains of an ancient Buddhist settlement,and the world's largest masonry dam,built across the Krishna. Located 157 km northeast of the city are the towns of Warangal - Kazipet - Hanamkonda, which boast of outstanding examples of Kakatiya architecture.

More Places To Visit :

• Buddha Statue
• Charminar
• Deccan Prehistoric Rocks
• Golconda Fort
• Hussain Sagar
• Hyderabad Laad Bazaar
• Nehru Zoological Park
• Osmansagar
• Public Gardens
• Qutab shahi Tombs
• Salarjung Museum
• Shamirpet
• Shilparamam
• Shri Venkateswara Temple
• The Mecca Masjid

Beaches

Main article: List of beaches in India

This section requires expansion.

Elephants and camels rides are common on Indian beaches. Shown here is Havelock Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

India offers a wide range of tropical beaches with silver/golden sand to coral beaches of Lakshadweep. States like Kerala and Goa have exploited the potential of beaches to the fullest. However, there are a lot many unexploited beaches in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharastra, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. These states have very high potential to be develop them as future destinations for prospective tourists. Some of the famous tourist beaches are:

• Beaches of Vizag, Andhra Pradesh
• Beaches of Puri, Orissa
• Beaches of Digha, West Bengal
• Beaches of Goa
• Kovalam Beach, Kerala
• Marina Beach, Chennai
• Beaches of Mahabalipuram
• Beaches in Mumbai
• Beaches of Diu
• Beaches of Midnapore, West Bengal
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Lakshadweep Islands

Hill stations

A summer view of Khajjiar, a hill station in Himachal Pradesh.

Main article: List of Indian hill stations

Several hill stations served as summer capitals of Indian provinces, princely states, or, in the case of Shimla, of British India itself. Since Indian Independence, the role of these hill stations as summer capitals has largely ended, but many hill stations remain popular summer resorts. Most famous hill stations are:

• Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh - It is also known as The Queen of Satpura.
• Araku, Andhra Pradesh
• Gulmarg, Srinagar and Laddakh in Jammu and Kashmir
• Darjeeling in West Bengal
• Munnar in Kerala
• Ooty and Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu
• Shillong in Meghalaya
• Shimla, Kullu in Himachal Pradesh
• Nainital in Uttarakhand
• Gangtok in Sikkim
• Mussoorie in Uttarakhand

In addition to the bustling hill stations and summer capitals of yore, there are several serene and peaceful nature retreats and places of interest to visit for a nature lover. These range from the stunning moonscapes of Leh and Ladhak, to small, exclusive nature retreats such as Dunagiri, Binsar, Mukteshwar in the Himalayas, to rolling vistas of Western Ghats to numerous private retreats in the rolling hills of Kerala.

Wildlife in India

Main article: Fauna of India

Royal Bengal Tiger in Sundarbans. The world's largest mangrove forest as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

India is home to several well known large mammals including the Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Leopard and Indian Rhinoceros, often engrained culturally and religiously often being associated with deities. Other well known large Indian mammals include ungulates such as the domestic Asian Water buffalo, wild Asian Water buffalo, Nilgai, Gaur and several species of deer and antelope. Some members of the dog family such as the Indian Wolf, Bengal Fox, Golden Jackal and the Dhole or Wild Dogs are also widely distributed. It is also home to the Striped Hyaena, Macaques, Langurs and Mongoose species. India also has a large variety of protected wildlife. The country's protected wilderness consists of 75 National parks of India and 421 Sanctuaries, of which 19 fall under the purview of Project Tiger. Its climatic and geographic diversity makes it the home of over 350 mammals and 1200 bird species, many of which are unique to the subcontinent.

Some well known national wildlife sanctuaries include Bharatpur, Corbett, Kanha, Kaziranga, Periyar, Ranthambore and Sariska. The world's largest mangrove forest Sundarbans is located in southern West Bengal. The Sundarbans is UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historic monuments

The Taj Mahal is one of India's best-known sites and one of the best architectural achievements in India. Located in Agra, it was built between 1631 and 1653 by Emperor Shah Jahan in honor of his wife, Arjumand Banu, more popularly known as Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal serves as her tomb.

The Golden Temple is one of the most respected temples in India and the most sacred place for Sikhs. The Golden Temple is located in Amritsar, Punjab, India.

The Bahá'í temple in Delhi, was completed in 1986 and serves as the Mother Temple of the Indian Subcontinent. It has won numerous architectural awards and been featured in hundreds of newspaper and magazine articles. (It is also known as the Lotus Temple.)

The Victoria Terminus in Mumbai was built by the British and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Taj Mahal Palace is an icon of Mumbai.

West Bengal

Victoria Memorial in Kolkata

Kolkata, one of the many cities in the state of West Bengal has been nicknamed the City of Palaces. This comes from the numerous palatial mansions built all over the city. Unlike many north Indian cities, whose construction stresses minimalism, the layout of much of the architectural variety in Kolkata owes its origins to European styles and tastes imported by the British and, to a much lesser extent, the Portuguese and French. The buildings were designed and inspired by the tastes of the English gentleman around and the aspiring Bengali Babu (literally, a nouveau riche Bengali who aspired to cultivation of English etiquette, manners and custom, as such practices were favourable to monetary gains from the British). Today, many of these structures are in various stages of decay. Some of the major buildings of this period are well maintained and several buildings have been declared as heritage structures.

From historical point of view, the story of West Bengal begins from Gour and Pandua situated close to the present district town of Malda. The twin medieval cities had been sacked at least once by changing powers in the 15th century. However, ruins from the period still remain, and several architectural specimens still retain the glory and shin of those times. The Hindu architecture of Bishnupur in terracotta and laterite sandstone are renowned world over. Towards the British colonial period came the architecture of Murshidabad and Coochbehar.

Notable site of West Bengal Cooch Behar · Cooch Behar · Darjeeling · Kalimpong · Kurseong · Dooars · Digha · Bishnupur · Malda · Mukutmanipur · Ayodhya Hills · Murshidabad · Kolkata.

Places of Worship Dakshineswar Kali Temple · Kalighat Temple · Birla temple · Belur Math · Bhoothnath · Tipu Sultan Mosque · Nakhoda Mosque · St. Paul’s Cathedral · St. John's Church · Parsi Fire Temples · Japanese Buddhist Temple · Pareshnath Jain Temple

Uttar Pradesh

Main article: Tourism in Uttar Pradesh

Diwan-i-Khas – Hall of Private Audience at Fatehpur Sikri

Situated in the northern part of India, Uttar Pradesh is important with its wealth of monuments and religious fervour. Geographically, Uttar Pradesh is very diverse, with Himalayan foothills in the extreme north, the Gangetic Plain in the centre, and the Vindhya Mountain Range towards the South. It is also home of India's most visited site, the Taj Mahal, and Hinduism's holiest city, Varanasi. The most populous state of the Indian Union also has a rich cultural heritage, and at the heart of North India, Uttar Pradesh has much to offer. Places of interest include Varanasi, Agra, Mathura, Jhansi, Prayag, Sarnath, Ayodhya, Dudhwa National Park and Fatehpur Sikri.