Uttar Pradesh Tourism (India) Official Blog

Dudhwa National Park, Uttar Pradesh

2012-02-08T04:07:00.000-08:00

Uttar Pradesh Tourism ~ Preaching Greenism

At Dudhwa the stubborn jungles refuse to be tamed.
The spooky swamps stagger the bravest of the brave
The vast carpets of grass spread beyond the horizon.

Here myriads of creatures nestle in the apparent stillness and quiet.
Yet, soundlessly, as though effortlessly, the forests are spinning with activity

Before Independence, Dudhwa in Uttar Pradesh was an untamed land of marshes, grasslands and dense forests. Menacing malarial mosquitoes, recurrent plague and oppressive famines were associated with the region, making it rather inhospitable to humans, but just perfect for wildlife. By the 1950s, the marshes and grasslands were largely replaced by sugarcane and paddy. Under the guise of crop protection, the tiger and the gond, which is the local name for the barasingha, suffered terribly at the hands of poachers.

In 1968, Billy Arjan Singh, operating out of his farm in Kheri, which he christened 'Tiger Haven', began his battle to protect Dudhwa. His efforts resulted in an area of 212 sq. km. being declared as 'Dudhwa Sanctuary' in the same year. With protection, the habitat improved and soon people began to talk of the magic spell woven by nature in this pristine green abode. It was only a matter of time before Dudhwa's fame led it to be declared a National Park in 1977. Thereafter no disturbance or non-wildlife oriented land management of any kind was legally permitted.

Dudhwa's terai belt abuts the Nepal border. The habitat is nurtured by the Sharada river and its tributaries. The Mohana river flanks the Park northern side and from there one can see the Himalayas, a mere 30 km. away! The Suheli river forms the Southern boundary and both eventually flow into the Ganges.

Dudhwa National Park located in the Terai of Uttar Pradesh covers an area of 498.29 km, and the topography is rather flat, with a mere 32-metre drop differentiating the extreme northern and southeastern corners. The soil structure is typified by an unusual absence of surface stones and rocks. The forest soaks in 1,600 mm. of rain annually and because it is well vegetated, ground water levels are high as they are along most of the forested terai.

THE BIG FIVE OF DUDHWA

1. The Tiger

2. The Barasingha

3. The Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros

4. The Elephants

5. The Mugger Crocodile

Dudhwa is tiger country blessed with a rich tiger density. Following the Tiger Trails and spotting the majestic feline are the major attractions of Dudhwa National Park.

A Deputy Prime Minister from Finland, on a visit to Dudhwa, caught a glimpse of the Tiger. He choked with emotion. He became philosophical and said:
' This experience is the fulfillment of his Life.I have overcome the fear of Death'.

The Royal Bengal Tiger is undoubtedly the smartest and handsomest of all the creatures. No wonder they call him the King. It is one of India’s most valuable possession. And like his Homeland, India, he too possesses that Mystical Aura; an aura that enchants the Body; captivates the Mind and transcends the Soul.

Dudhwa National Park is a stronghold of the barasingha, which can be spotted in herds of hundreds. It is interesting to note that around half of the world's barasinghas are present in Dudhwa National Park .Dudhwa is one of the few places in India where as many as five species of deer coexist, including the chital, sambar, muntjac, hog deer and the swamp deer.

The Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros once lived in the Grasslands of the Terai. The last rhino was slaughtered in 1878. With the success of project Rhino, a veritable Jurassic Park has been raised at Dudhwa where a long extinct species has been revived

In the mid 1980s, Indian Rhinoceros was reintroduced into Dudhwa from Assam and Nepal.

Wild elephants, which were previously only seasonal visitors, were forced to seek refuge in Dudhwa following massive habitat destruction in Nepal in the 1960s and 70s.They have returned to their original habitat since, but occasional visits are not uncommon. With luck, visitors can still see the magnificent herd bull estimated to stand over 3.5 metres tall.

In winter, mugger crocodiles can be seen basking lazily on the sandy riverbanks of the Soheli-Neora. Otters, pythons and monitor lizards, in search of crocodile eggs to feast upon, are some of the other creatures that can be seen in the well-watered areas

Apart from the swamp deer, there are at least 37 species of mammals and 16 species of reptiles. Dudhwa Wildlife Sanctuary is said to have 101 tigers and four leopards. Recently, the hispid hare has also been spotted in the area.

Dudhwa's birds, in particular, are a delight for any avid bird watcher. The marshlands are especially inviting for about 400 species of resident and migratory birds including the Swamp Partridge, Great Slaty Woodpecker, Bengal Florican, plenty of painted storks, sarus cranes, owls, barbets, woodpeckers, minivets and many more. Much of the park’s avian fauna is aquatic in nature, and is found around Dudhwa’s lakes- especially Banke Tal.

The major vegetation types in this region are tropical semi-evergreen forest, tropical moist deciduous forest, riparian and swamp forest and dry deciduous forest. The dominant tree species are Shorea robusta, Terminalis tomentosa, Adina cordifolia, Terminalia belerica, Eugenia jambolana, Dalbergia sissoo, and Bombax malabaricum. The various types of forests throughout the park are interrupted by wide stretches of mesophyllous grasslands locally called the phantas.

Tigers have most often been spotted by vehicles on the road, or from a machan. Navalkhand is a good place to chance your luck with both the tiger and the Bengal Florican as Dudhwa has virtually no buffer area at all.

In Dudhwa, the spotlight is understandably on the swamp deer. The largest numbers of grazing barasingha occur in the wet grasslands, especially in the Sathiana and Kakraha regions. Sathiana is the wetter area. Each season offers sights of deer in different aspects.

They spend the monsoons in the adjoining crop fields and swamps, possibly to escape biting flies that swarm over the grasslands. In the swampy areas of Ghola and Gajrola, the annual rut begins at the end of October. Wallowing is an intrinsic part of the breeding ritual and stags with mud-caked bodies will almost invariably be found near jheels and swamps. During the rut, the deer tend to roam less so as to establish breeding herds. At such times, the congregation of buck parties is most impressive.

By the end of January, the swamp deer return to the park and gather to feed on the new shoots emerging on recently burnt grasslands (part of the annual management practice). Adult stags now sport massive branched antlers and does move about with ever-hungry fawns at their heels, butting their mothers for access to milk. This is the ideal time for a tourist to catch a glimpse of the large herds.

When summer returns, the stags begin shedding their antlers and their long dark winter pelage begins to reveal lightly spotted chestnut coats. In these months, isolated deer are the order of the day as the great herds have long dispersed. Barasingha will visit waterholes at least twice a day in the hot season, usually at dawn and in the late afternoon. In no other season is the drinking as regular and frequent. Waterholes in the southern grasslands offer visitors guaranteed deer sightings.

Banke Tal is another popular haunt. Egrets, cormorants, herons and several species of waterfowl, including mallards, geese and teal can be spotted here. The drive from Dudhwa to Sathiana is a splendid excursion: the avenue lined with stunning sal and huge, intricate termite mounds.

The unique Frog temple, constructed by the former Maharajas of the Oyal State, must be visited. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, has a unique architecture, having been built in the shape of a large frog at the base! It lies in Oyal village, 10 km. from Hargaon, en route to Lakhimpur-Kheri and Dudhwa.

On the Lakhimpur-Nighasan-Dudhwa route lies the Surat Bhawan Palace, which is located in a nine-acre green expanse. It was built in the exquisite Indo-Saracenic architectural style by the Singhai rulers. It is one of the most famous palaces in this region teeming with lavish lawns, fountains, and a swimming pool. The Palace can only be visited with permission from the Manager.

Best season

The best time to be there is between November and May, with January being the peak season. The Park is open for tourists from November 15 to June 15. The climate is equable. Temperatures range from 20° C to 30° C between November and February. In summer, they rise to about 35° C between March and May. Nights are pleasant at 10° C to 15° C. There are heavy rains between June and September, hence the park remains closed. The grasslands are in their prime just after the monsoons when most animals come out of hiding to feast on young sprouts.

Accommodation

The forest department has rest houses at several locations. The Bankati Forest Rest House has 4 suites equipped with electricity. Dudhwa Forest Rest House with 4 suites and 25 beds in a dormitory has electricity as well as bedding facilities. The canteen at Dudhwa provides meals and snacks. Ideally, the Park Officer or caterer must be apprised of meal requirements immediately on arrival, so that adequate time is provided for arrangements to be made.

For reservations at any of these rest houses, contact: Field Director, Project Tiger, Dudhwa National Park, Lakhimpur-Kheri. Uttar Pradesh-262701. Tel.: 05872-2106.

Sathiana Forest Rest House (Bedding and electric generators for limited hours are available on payment). For reservations, contact: 17, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226001. Tel.: 0522-246140

Tharu Hut, Dudhwa (12 suites and 24 beds are available). For reservations, contact: Dy. Director, Project Tiger, Dudhwa National Park, Palia, Dist. Kheri. Tel.: 05871-385.

Transport

Rail

Dudhwa, on North-Eastern Railway’s metre guage section is connected via Mailani to Lucknow & Nainital.

Nearest Railway Station: Dudwa (4 km.), Palia (10 km.), Mailani (37 km.) Nearest Airport: Lucknow, Dhangarhi (

Nepal

, 35 km.)

Road

Dudhwa is connected by metalled road to other parts of the state. Important road distance are;

Lucknow 238 km; Bareilly 260 km; Delhi 430 kms; Palia 10 kms.

Drive from Delhi (8–9 hours) or take the train to Shahjehanpur and drive to Dudhwa (3 hours). Alternatively fly to Lucknow and drive to Dudhwa (245 km, 6 hours).

Bus

UPSRTC and private bus services link Palia to Lakhimpur Kheri, Shahjahanpur, Bareilly, Delhi etc. Buses ply frequently between Palia and Dudhwa

Within the reserve: Coaches and jeeps can be hired from the National Park office at Dudhwa for travel inside the park. Elephants are also available for wildlife viewing. Virtually impenetrable on foot, the grasslands must be seen on elephant back to capture its splendid glory.

The park usually opens in November, after the departure of monsoons (rainy season).

· Package Tour

Lucknow-Dudhwa National Park-Kishanpur Sanctuary-Lucknow

· For reservations and further information contact:

Additional Principle Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Uttar Pradesh, 17, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow - 226001, Phone: 0522-2206584,2206168.
Dy. Director, Project Tiger, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Palia, Distt. Kheri, Phone: 05871-233485.
Field Director, Project Tiger, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Lakhimpur-Kheri - 262001, Phone: 05872-252106.

The Great Imambara Of Lucknow !

2012-01-31T00:51:00.000-08:00

The Bara Imamabara is one of the most grandiose and magnificent buildings in Lucknow the capital city of Uttar Pradesh. It was built by Asaf-ud-daulah, the Nawab of Lucknow, in 1784 and was also called the Asafi Imambara. Its designer was Kifayat-ullah who is said to be a relative of the architect of the Taj Mahal. It is world famous for its immaculate architecture and still perplexes the modern day architects with its design. The edifices in the Bara Imambara Complex are a testimony of the engineering and architectural pedigree of that time. Breaking down the word Bara Imambara, Bara means Big and Imambara means a shrine built by Shia Muslims for the purpose of Azadari. The Great Imambara is part of the Asaf-ud-daula Imabara complex that contains a mosque, courtyards, gateways, a labyrinth (The Bhool Bhulaiya which was constructed to confuse any enemy intruder. The narrow lanes of the labyrinth could make anyone feel lost. The king and other few only knew the way out) and a 'bawali' or step-well used as a summer palace.

This majestic complex was a euphemistic manna from heaven for the people of that time, as it provided work at a time of a devastating famine.

One of Asaf-ud-Daula's objectives in embarking on this grandiose project was to provide employment for people in the region. According to reports, the famine continued for over a decade and the construction of the building continued for this time. It is said that ordinary people used to work in the day building up the edifice, while noblemen and other elite were called at night to break down all the structure raised, as they were incapable of doing anything else, according to a chronicle of the period. This see-saw effort continued till the famine period was over. It was a project that preceded a Keynesian like intervention for employment generation.

The architecture of the complex reflects the maturation of ornamented Mughal design, namely the Badshahi Mosque - it is one of the last major projects not incorporating any European elements or the use of iron. The main imambara consists of a large vaulted central chamber containing the tomb of Asaf-ud-Daula. At 50 by 16 meters and over 15 meters tall, it has no beams supporting the ceiling, and is one of the largest such arched constructions in the world. There are eight surrounding chambers built to different roof heights, permitting the space above these to be reconstructed as a three-dimensional labyrinth with passages interconnecting with each other through 489 identical doorways. This part of the building, known as a popular attraction, and often the whole complex may be referred to as the bhulbhulayah. It is possibly the only existing maze in India and came about unintenionally to support the weight of the building, constructed on marshy land. Asaf-ud-Daula also erected the 18-m (59-f high Rumi Darwaza, just outside. This portal, embellished with lavish decorations, was the Imambara's west facing entrance. The Bada ImamBara is said to be the world's largest arched room without any pillars.

There is also a blocked passageway which, according to legends, leads through a mile-long underground passage to a location near the river Gomti. Other passages are rumored to lead to Faizabad (the former seat of power of the Nawabs), Allahabad and even to Delhi. They exist but have been sealed after a period of long disuse as well as fears over the disappearance of people who had purportedly gone missing, while exploring.

Our earnest advice if you are planning to visit this historic monument challenge yourself to find your way out of the great Labyrinth. It has hundreds of narrow stairway passages, some of which have dead-ends, some end at precipitous drops while others lead to entrance or exit points. Every year thousands of tourists land here and gaze with awe at the grandeur of the building and attempt to crack the bhulbhullaiyya without the guide’s help.

Uttar Pradesh ~ The Grandeur Of Incred!ble India

Uttar Pradesh: Unravel The Mahabharata saga!

2012-01-09T10:55:00.000-08:00

Mahabharata Circuit : Hastinapur, Baghpat, Bijnor.

"This insightful blog would tersely and vividly explain the premise of this great Indian epic and would also highlight the myriad places where this epic is said to have unfolded (all in Uttar Pradesh)"

"You have lost your kingdom, Yuddhistir. Now what will you stake?" Thus shouted Shakuni after winning Indraprastha, in the game of dice. Little did he or Duryodhana or Karna know that Indraprastha was not the last one that would be staked.

Duryodhana had returned to Hastinapur, full of envy with Pandava's success and angry with Draupadi's insult. Shakuni devised another plan to get back at the Pandavas. As per the plan, Duryodhana convinced his father King Dhritharashtra to send Vidura to invite Yuddhistira for a game of dice. Shakuni knew that there was only one weakness in Yuddhistira and he wanted to take full advantage of it. Vidura tried to convince the king that this should not be allowed but the king was adamant due to his paternal love. Vidura visitied Indraprastha and invited Yuddhistira. He also warned Yuddhistira that this might be a treacherous plan. But Yuddhistira cited the Kshatriya code which would not allow him to refuse any challenge in a game or war.

Yuddhistira visited Hastinapur along with his brothers and Draupadi.

In the recreational hall, just before the start of the game, Duryodhana disclosed that he will call the number and Shakuni will roll the dice. While discussing on this, Arjuna insults Karna as a chariooteer's son. Yuddhistira agrees to this rule and the game begins.

Gambling, as they say, blinds an intelligent man. It is, perhaps, the only game in which both the loser as well as the winner does not feel like quitting. It is this nature of a man, which might have driven the future events. Yuddhistira looses every game and stake. Arjuna and Bhima tries to stop Yuddhistira but he refuses (in the heat of the game). He stakes and loses his own kingdom. Should he as a king have done that? Is the king the owner of the kingdom or vice versa?

When instigated further by Shakuni, Yuddhistira stakes and looses all the divine weapons of his brothers. Then he stakes and looses all his brother. Then he even stakes and looses himself. Did the passion of the game make Yuddhistira insane? The very embodiment of righteousness was swaying with the flow of general human tendencies. It in a way shows that Yuddhistira's journey towards truth is still not complete. He is still to understand his own frailties and nature. He is still has to understand the path of righteousness better.

Vyasa has left this chapter as well as the next with many unanswered questions. Is it for us to choose the perspective?

Hastinapur, Hastin (elephant) and Pura (city), Named after the elephant. The history of Hastinapur begins from the period of Mahabharata.

Ancient Hastinapur was the capital of kingdom of the Kauravas, belonging to the Kuru dynasty. The first reference to Hastinapur in Hindu mythology comes as the capital of Emperor Bharata and it is to believe the city Hastinapur was established by Bharata’s son Hastin.

Visit Uttar Pradesh the religious hub of India and get mesmerized by its rich cultural legacies, the places mentioned in Mahabharata the greatest epic of all time is still soaked with the mystical aura of antiquity.

Varanasi ~”paradisiacal burgh”

2012-01-07T00:14:00.000-08:00

Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together"

~Mark Twain

Varanasi or the erstwhile Benaras is an ancient city in Uttar Pradesh regarded as the oldest living city in India. It is situated on the Banks of the river Ganges and is regarded as a “Holy” city by the Hindus, Jain’s and the Buddhists. Ghats, temples, magnum opus religious traditions and divine tranquility are ubiquitous in Varanasi. The cities culture is closely related to the river Ganges and its religious avidity.

The Kashi Naresh (Maharaja of Kashi) is the chief cultural patron of Varanasi and an essential part of all religious celebrations. The Kingdom of Kashi was an independent Bhumihar Brahmin state until 1194, became a British territory in 1775, and became a state in 1911. It is the site of Ramnagar Fort and its museum, which are the repository of the history of the kings of Benaras and since the 18th century has been the home of Kashi Naresh. Even today the Kashi Naresh is deeply revered by the people of Benares.He is the religious head and the people of Benares consider him the incarnation of Lord Shiva.

The city has been a cultural and religious centre in North India for several thousand years. The Benares Gharana form of the Indian classical music was developed in Varanasi, and many prominent Indian philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians resided or reside in Varanasi. Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon at Sarnath located near Varanasi (Kashi). People often refer to Varanasi as "the city of temples", "the holy city of India", "the religious capital of

India

", "the city of lights", and "the city of learning."

Varanasi is a holy city in Hinduism, being one of the most sacred pilgrimage places for Hindus of all denominations and is one of seven most holy places for Hindus in

India

. Varanasi has nearly 100 ghats. Many of the ghats were built when the city was under Maratha control. Most of the ghats are bathing ghats, while others are used as cremation sites. Many ghats are associated with legends or mythologies while many ghats are privately owned.

Varanasi is a mystical place where divinity reaches a crescendo and people come here to seek holy salvation.

Kotwara!

2011-12-09T10:18:00.000-08:00

The legend goes that after leaving Anhalwara Patan the capital of Raja Sopi, he was guided by a light which took him towards north and one day when he took rest under a semal tree he felt asleep and and the same light reappeared and Lord Vishnu emerged out of it and told him that he had reached his final destination, the kingdom of his ancestors, Raja Murat Dhwaj. Lord Vishnu made Raja Sopi undergo the severest of test which he passed with courageously. This pleased Lord Vishnu. He was then told that as he would wake up, he will find a brown bison and he was to strike the bison with his sword in the name of Lord Vishnu and the place where the head of the bison would fall will be the royal seat of his forefather Raja Murat Dhwaj. The light then vanished and Raja Sopi woke up and found a herd of wild buffaloes around him and between the heard a brown bison and Raja Sopi did what he was told to do.

This is Kotwara and this is the symbolism of its insignia, the crown, the bison, the semal leaves and the swords.

Kotwara is 160 kms. from Lucknow in the Tarai region of Uttar Pradesh bordering Nepal from Dudhwa National Park. The nearest railhead is Gola Gokarannath, which has one of the oldest temples of Lord Shiva built by the Rajas of Kotwara. It is also mandatory to have the darshan of the Raja before the darshan of the Shiva Temple is Complete.

Kotwara is set amidst an undulating landscape of ancient mounds overlooking an oxbow lake dating back to the Mahabharat times. A road through a 500 acres forest leads to the Anhalwara Palace.

As the name implies, the Tarai is well irrigated fertile region adjoining the foothills of Kumaon where once forest belt were cleared for cultivation after the influx of migrants from Punjab. Still large forest tracts remain which includes the Dudhwa National Park. There are several old temples and palaces in the area and interesting day excursions could be designed for visitors. Coming from the hills of Kumaon the swift and wide Sharda river flows through the enormous sparsely populated district.

The forest provides potential for wildlife tourism with camping in the region along with fishing, boating and horse riding in the pictureque undulating countryside.

Kotwara has either been a location, or a production base for Muzaffar Ali's film Umrao Jaan, Gamman, Aagaman, Anjuman and even Zooni along with serials Husne Jaana and several telefilms.

The Anwalhare Palace, originally a mud fort rebuilt in bricks in 1892, is set amidst a garden of fragrant red roses.

The palace has been slowly undergoing continuous restoration with a regular stream of visitors coming in from different parts of the world. It also houses an archive of film costumes and craft designed in the region.

The palace has four independent havelis named Mustafa Manzil, sajjad Manzil and Sartaj Mahal. The rooms are decorated with film themes Umrao Jaan and Anjuman and called by these names. Currently there are 7 double bedrooms with a capacity of creating 8 more rooms in Sartaj Mahal.

Interest in Kotwara is therefore on several levels which fall under the broad areas of humanity and aesthetics.

Uttar Pradesh Bedrock of Buddhism!

2011-12-09T00:54:00.000-08:00

Once Buddha was in a dejected mood as he did not succeed in his Yogic practices. He did not know where to go and what to do. A village girl noticed his sorrowful face. She approached him and said to him in a polite manner: "Venerated sir, may I bring some food for you? It seems you are very hungry". Gautama looked at her and said, "What is your name, my dear sister?”. The maiden answered, "Esteemed sir, my name is Sujata". Gautama said, "Sujata, I am very hungry. Can you really appease my hunger?".

The innocent Sujata did not understand Gautama. Gautama was spiritually hungry. He was thirsting to attain supreme peace and Self-realization. He wanted spiritual food. Sujata placed some food before Gautama and entreated him to take it. Gautama smiled and said, "Beloved Sujata, I am highly pleased to see your kind and benevolent nature. Can this food appease my hunger?". Sujata replied, "Yes sir, it will appease your hunger. Kindly take it". Gautama began to eat the food underneath the shadow of a large tree, thence forth to be called as the great 'Bo-tree' or the tree of wisdom. Gautama sat in a meditative mood underneath the tree from early morning to sunset, with a fiery determination and an iron resolve, "Let me die. Let my body perish. Let my flesh dry up. I will not get up from this seat till I get full illumination". He plunged himself into deep meditation. At night he entered into deep Samadhi (super conscious state) underneath that sacred Bo-tree (Pipal tree). He was tempted by Maya in a variety of ways, but he stood adamant. He did not yield to Maya's allurements and temptations. He came out victorious with full illumination. He attained Nirvana (liberation). His face shone with divine splendor and effulgence. He got up from his seat and danced in divine ecstasy for seven consecutive days and nights around the sacred Bo-tree. Then he came to the normal plane of consciousness. His heart was filled with profound mercy and compassion. He wanted to share what he had with humanity. He traveled all over India and preached his doctrine and gospel. He became a savior, deliverer and redeemer.

Buddha gave out the experiences of his Samadhi: "I thus behold my mind released from the defilement of earthly existence, released from the defilement of sensual pleasures, released from the defilement of heresy, released from the defilement of ignorance."

In the liberated state arose the knowledge: "I am emancipated, rebirth is extinct, the religious walk is accomplished, what had to be done is done, and there is no need for the present existence. I have overcome all foes; I am all-wise; I am free from stains in every way; I have left everything and have obtained emancipation by the destruction of desire. Myself having gained knowledge, whom should I call my Master? I have no teacher; no one is equal to me. I am the holy one in this world; I am the highest teacher. I alone am the absolute omniscient one (Sambuddho). I have gained coolness by the extinction of all passion and have obtained Nirvana. To found the kingdom of law (Dharmo) I go to the city of Varnasi. I will beat the drum of immortality in the darkness of this world".

Lord Buddha then walked on to Varnasi. He entered the 'deer-park' one evening. He gave his discourse there and preached his doctrine. He preached to all without exception, men and women, the high and the low, the ignorant and the learned - all alike. All his first disciples were laymen and two of the very first were women. The first convert was a rich young man named Yasa. The next were Yasa's father, mother and wife. Those were his lay disciples.

Buddha argued and debated with his old disciples who had deserted him when he was in the Uruvila forest. He brought them round by his powerful arguments and persuasive powers. Kondanno, an aged hermit, was converted first. The others also soon accepted the doctrine of Lord Buddha. Buddha made sixty disciples and sent them in different directions to preach his doctrine.

Bestowed with a unique heritage and cultural traditions gathered through the ages, the land of Uttar Pradesh has also been graced by many a luminous personalities. Prominent among those who traversed the land was Lord Buddha. Known as the first missionary of spirituality, Buddha lived and preached in Uttar Pradesh and thus made the land as the 'Cradle of Buddhism'. He went beyond rituals, encouraging kings and the masses to look at their immortal identity, and to rise above the shackles of desire, longing, suffering and death. It is worth mentioning that He taught and traveled extensively in Uttar Pradesh-- Kapilvastu (where Lord Buddha spent his early years), Sarnath (where Lord Buddha, having attained enlightenment delivered his first sermon), Shravasti (where Lord Buddha spent 24 monsoons), Kaushambhi (where Lord Buddha visited in the 6th and 9th year after attaining the enlightenment), Sankisa (where Lord Buddha descended after giving sermon to his mother in heaven) and Kushinagar (where Lord Buddha left his corporeal self and attained Mahaparinirvana) are witness to this great spiritual Lord who soothes the world with a message of peace-'Be our own light'.

SHILPOTSAV ~”Paradise found for shoppers”

2011-11-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

For ages Rollicking Extravaganza’s and magnum opus jamborees of art, culture, cuisine and entertainment have bestowed paroxysm of happiness and jubilations to the human race. Traditionally the essence and the bedrock of such large scale marquee events was amalgamation of cultures, so that people from diverse backgrounds and sensibilities can flock together as a group which would lead to blurring of difference on these frivolous lines.

As times changed another imperative and contemporary raison deter behind such grandiose events is that it provides the perfect pedestal for artisans, craftsmen and businesses to conspicuously showcase their ingenious creations, products and innovations.

Over the years Dubai and Malaysia have cemented their position as epicurean shopping destinations by their sundry shopping festivals and lucrative bonanza offers. To this, India a potpourri of rich culture, traditions and art forms has given the clarion call to organize perennial shopping ‘Mahotsavs’ or shopping festivals to give an auriferous opportunities for shoppers and tourists to marvel and appreciates the artistic kaleidoscope called India.

Taking a cue from this ‘The ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India’ in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has organized the ‘SHILPOTSAV’ in Noida, Uttar Pradesh which is touted as a paradise for shoppers and entertainment seekers. It is a ten day long extravaganza which will display art, culture, dance forms, cuisines, traditions etc. Also planned in the meticulous itinerary are program and concerts by eminent Indian personalities & celebrities.

It is an event you would cherish for a long time. It’s a place where you can unwind, shop, indulge into frolic with families and friends to attain sumptuous pleasure. It is also a stupendous opportunity for you to get ‘spoiled for choices’ for the thing you want to posses as you would have a plethora of things to pick and choose from. So, don’t miss the fun and be a part of this opulent and sparkling celebration known as ‘SHILPOTSAV’, Noida (Uttar Pradesh) 2011.

This SHILPOTSAV would also put the spotlight on Noida in Uttar Pradesh as a holistic international destination as a city brimming with opportunities, as a city which epitomizes the present day India which is young, vibrant and confident.

Uttar Pradesh Tourism~ Quintessential India

Lucknow 'The Food Capital of India' or Hindustan ki Zaika Rajdhani Humara Lucknow

2011-10-29T05:51:00.000-07:00

The city of Lucknow has always been a popular tourist destination, mostly due to its history, heritage, chikan(suits) ,chicken(read non-veg food) and tehzeeb(etiquettes). The local, indigenous food has always been the perfect host in welcoming tourists from India and abroad.

The Avadhi cuisine has always been savored and cherished by folks of all walks and classes. The people of this semi-urban city believe in preservation-from culture to it’s food. This very genetic trait of preservation infused in the people here has helped Lucknow in preserving its cuisine, as the formulators of this exceptional, unique savory passed on the traditional delights from generations into our present system, unlike cuisines from other regions where some traditional recipes became extinct over time.

Lucknow is perhaps the only city which gives you a myriad of savouries for anytime of the day. The mornings are made resplendent by Nihaari kulcha at Mubeen or at Rahim,Chowk and by Chai-samosa at Sharma,Lalbagh. An afternoon thirst quencher would be Lassi at Sri Lassi,Chowk. An evening snacky treat with a cheeseburgerat Exer,near Cantt followed by sumptuous aloo tikki or Gol-gappas at Jain Chaat,Lalbagh are just perfect fillers .As light fades,take a stroll around Gomtinagar and wonder the sprawling well-lit lawns, gardens and stone structures. Head off straight to the Mecca of Food-Chowk in old Lucknow to set your stomachs ringing by getting a taste of Dum Biryani at Idriys or at Lallan. Walk a mile to Tundey Kebabs near Akbari gate and experience a taste of its trademark Galavati kebabs. It’s perhaps the only place on the planet where inspite of the stomach getting explodingly full ,the heart yearns for even more for the soft,crisp, succulent kebabs. And how can the evening be complete without having a sweet paan at State bank,Hazratganj.

All of this, only to retire for the day and begin the next day’s food-pedition to feast on Chicken burgers at Marksmen, Curry recipes at Alamgir in Aminabad, Bandd ghosht(mutton) at Lalbagh,kakori kebabs at Naushijaan followed by Kulfi at Prakash ,Aminabad.

As one walks through the older bits of this historical city, one will find that the ambience and the manner in which the food is served is equally historic. All this takes us back to the golden era when specialty food was served with utmost love and humble etiquettes.

The recipes of the traditional Avadhi cuisine along with the other local food not only tease and please your taste buds but also are responsible for an audio,visual and exclamatory delight. Experience the food culture once, and you’ll be left craving among the many other desires you will develop after tasting this inimitable,unique cuisine.This city surely is the ‘Food Capital of India’ or in the local language- Zaika-e-Rajdhani.

Stroll Through Lucknow

2011-10-09T09:07:00.000-07:00

The city of Lucknow is known as the city of the Nawabs, named after a Persian nobleman who ruled the city in mid 1700s. The Nawabs left behind a legacy of affluent buildings which is right next to the Taj Mahal in terms of architecture. It is amazing that the complex decorated domed ceiling of the 50-metre main hall of the Bara Imambara has no supporting columns. The expansive interior of the nearby Chota Imambara includes numerous chandeliers and a solid-silver throne.

Life is lived on the roadside here and you witness activities like vegetable vendors pulling a hand-drawn cart and someone jostling trough the crowd to reach through, a mundane sight when it comes to the city. The delicacies on the other hand is no close to ordinary. A variety vegetarian to non-vegetarian recipes has originated from the cities itself.
Net Ram has been operating here in the city since 1920 and is one of the best places to watch jalebies being made. It is a two-man job, the first swirls batter into hot oil from a pot with a hole in the bottom, making a intricate shaped sweets the second scoops the sweets into pool of sugar syrup. They're delicious eaten fresh and still warm.

People gather at Idris Biryaniwala in Chowk at around midday. Rice with golden yellow stains of saffron piled up, while pots on hot charcoal are attended by vigilant cooks. Everyone is waits for the biryani to be ready. When it finally arrives it's a simple but delicious recipe containing tender chunks of gently spiced mutton with moist grains of the finest quality basmati rice. A dish worth waiting, and travelling, for.

Several other spots like, Mubeen's restaurant at Akbari Gate Road for nahari kulcha (bread with mutton gravy) kashmiri chai stop, the Paan shop near KD Singh Babu Stadium for betel leaves stuffed with sweet minty filling, and many many others stops, Lucknow never lets you down when it comes to varied orals treats.

Uttar Pradesh Tourism ~~ The Grandeur of Incred!ble India

2011-10-06T11:08:00.000-07:00

Uttar Pradesh a land of pristine wonders and rich legacy is geographically located in northern part of the Indian Subcontinent. With its diverse cultures, edifies and festivities it is a perfect potpourri of the idea of India. It has some of the worlds most renowned and exotic tourist destinations attracting millions of national and international tourists seeking travel salvation. It’s most conspicuous attraction being Agra a city which has the world’s most pulchritudinous and resplendent wonder ‘The Taj Mahal’. For many it is more than an elegant mausoleum built with meticulous architectural precision by a King, it is a marbled semblance of love and devotion built by a Husband for his beloved wife. The Taj is an enchanting and alluring monument a crowning jewel of Uttar Pradesh and also of India mesmerizing travelers for centuries. Then there are myriad other tourist attractions in this historic city of Agra. A few kilometers from Agra is Vridavan, an ancient forest famous for the birth of Lord Krishna. It is also an eminent destination on the world tourism Map. It is a mystical place where divinity is in the air. The historic temples, the rich Hindu culture, the spirituality, the legends cumulatively have a reverential impact on the visitors. The feeling of oneness with God and ‘tryst with oneself’ is ubiquitous in this divine place.
Uttar Pradesh also has the distinction of having one of the most anachronistic living cities in the world ‘Varanasi’. Its picturesque Ghats, colorful celebrations and rituals are the charm of this ancient city.
Then Lucknow the capital city of Uttar Pradesh is also a perfect apotheosis of a modern city with a historic backdrop. It is know for its historic monuments, cultures and traditions. It is an apt place for all the foodies in the quest to find culinary nirvana. Their search would surely end with this city of Nawabs (Mughal Kings).
Uttar Pradesh is also know as the Bedrock of Buddhism and have the worlds most famous Buddhism pilgrimage sites like Sravasti ,Sarnath, Khusinagar etc. Uttar Pradesh has a rich and serene cover of forest area which has abundant and diverse flora and fauna hence plethora of eco tourism opportunities for enthusiasts, Dhudwa national park is one such destination famous for eco/tiger tourism.
Uttar Pradesh is rightly called the Mystique of the orient as it offers captivating Epiphanies to travelers. Visit Uttar Pradesh and witness Quintessential India. Do look out for this space in the future for more intriguing and educative blogs on this land of pristine wonders ‘Uttar Pradesh’ India.