Earthquakes occur due to movements along faults that have evolved through geological and tectonic processes.  Often they occur without any prior warning and are, therefore, unpredictable. The large area of India is prone to earthquake. The construction of earthquake resistant building is the only solution for safeguarding our urban centres from the menace of earthquakes.

The natural disasters like earthquake can not be prevented, but measures are required to be taken to reduce the extent of damage, especially in a vast country like India which is the 2nd largest populated country of the world supported by low level infrastructure and inadequate resources.  High levels of risk combined with low levels of coping mechanisms result in major disruptions or loss of lives and livelihood. 

The developed countries of the world are adopting new technique of construction of seismic proof buildings whereas under developed countries do not give much attention for the construction of seismic proof buildings due to shortage of resources. With the result world’s worst disasters always take place in underdeveloped and poor countries.  Disasters cause enormous destruction and human sufferings.  The losses due to occurrence of earthquakes reduce the pace of economic development and often lead to depletion of available resources.

Recommendations:
The earthquake disasters can be averted with the construction of seismic proof buildings. Each building can be designed in such a way that it may withstand during severest  quakes depending on the seismic zone it falls in. “The National Disaster Management Authority” (NDMA) has made it compulsory for all new constructions to be earthquake-resistant, especially in cities located in seismic zones.  The guidelines have also recommended selective seismic strengthening and retrofitting of existing priority structures located in high-risk areas.

It has also been proven that well maintained buildings have faired better than those in poor condition during and after an earthquake. Thus, maintenance and seismic retrofit are two critical components for the protection of historic buildings in areas of seismic activity. It makes no sense to retrofit a building without improvements.  The subcontinent is sitting on the highly seismic Indian plate, with some major faults lines. In fact there is no seismically safe zone in India. Disasters have left the 800-year-old Qutub Minar with a slight tilt but it has survived several quakes in its lifetime.

• Implementation of Disaster Management Plan
The Disaster Management Bill, likely to be presented in the winter session of Parliament, will make it necessary for all states to have a disaster management authority and implement the national disaster plan. "Eventually disaster management is a state’s concern and the action plan has ultimately depend upon the state’s own concerns and ability to set up institutional and financial

• Creation of Special Force At National Level
At the national level, other measures are being planned. Eight battalions of 10,000 soldiers are being trained for being posted to eight different locations and money has also been sanctioned for buying aircraft for their use in cases of emergency.

• Creation of Emergency Operation Centre
It is being equipped with state-of-the-art communication links and micro-zonation of 38 cities above 10-lakh population is being attempted in different phases. The micro-zonation of Delhi has just been completed.

In words of Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal, the micro-zonation process is the government’s effort to take effective measures with proper research to minimise risk to existing buildings in the event of an earthquake. Micro-zonation, he says, will help bring area-wise changes in building bylaws to ensure quake resistant measures in the structural designs of high rises to minimise the risk of heavy damage and loss of life in event of an earthquake.

While the government is attempting a paradigm shift in the disaster management from relief and rehabilitation to mitigation and prevention, to make it successful will eventually depend upon the civil society.

For more details on Seismic Zones of India visit http://www.townplanning.in

The name "Assam" is derived from the term "Asom" which, in Sanskrit, refers to unequal or unrivalled. The uneven topography of the land, full of hills, plains and rivers might, therefore, have contributed to her name. A land of about 25 million people the principal language of Assam is Assamese although a large number of other languages are spoken.

Assam, the land of hills and valleys, the land of the mighty river Brahmaputra, the land of Mother Goddess Kamakhya, lies in the northeastern corner of India. It is a land where you find flowers that are exquisitely beautiful, animals that are rare, and a beleagured people that are proud and hospitable.

Places to see in Assam:

• Kamakhya Temple
The major attraction of Guwahati is the Kamakhya Temple, on the Nilachal hill, where Goddess Kamakhya is worshiped. The temple offers a fabulous view of the city and the mighty Brahmaputra. The ponds here are the home of some giant turtles.

• Assam State Museum
The museum came into existence in 1940 as a non-government body but was taken over by the state government in 1953. It is the biggest museum of the north east region and one of the biggest multipurpose museums in the country.

• Kaziranga National Park
Home to fabled one horned Rhinoceros. This is also a world heritage site. Besides the above, Umananda Temple, Navagraha Temple, Basistha Ashram, Hajo, Cherrapunjee (where it rains most in the world!), Nmaeri National Park are other major tourist attractions in Assam.

• Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden
The botanical garden was established in 1982, has an area of 82 hectares. It has an orchid house packed with 44 varieties of rare orchids of the North East region. The garden has various types of palm, shrubs, herbs, conifers and broad leaved plants.

• Umananda Temple
It is a temple of Lord Shiva, in the midst of river Brahmaputra, on the island of Umananda. The temple can be reached by crossing the river via country boats plying from Kachari Ghat. The place resembles a beehive during Shiva Ratri when pilgrims from all over flock to the island packed in boats.

• Hajo
Hajo is a sacred place for Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. This place is to the (25km) west of Guwahati and is the site of the Pua-Mecca mosque, established by an Iraqi prince-turned-preacher, who traveled all the way to Assam in the 12th century to spread the Prophet's teachings.

Festivals in Assam:

Bihu
The most important festivals of Assam are the Bihus, celebrated with joy and abundance by all Assamese people irrespective of caste, creed, religion, faith and belief. This also initiates the agricultural season. The merriments include dances accompanied on the wild and lusty beats of Dhol and Pepa (buffalo hornpipe). Songs sung in this Bihu are woven around themes of love and often carry erotic overtones. People adorn traditional attires like Dhoti, Gamoc-ha and Chadar, Mekhala.

Majuli Festival
There will be a lot of scopes to fit yourself as a part of this festival. Special events are being organized during the festivals days round the clock. Cultural programmes will continue with the participation of various traditional and classical cultural troupes of Assam and troupes from rest of the country, in addition to rich cultural heritage of Majuli.

Tea Festival
The Tea festival organised by Assam Tourism in the month of November is a unique experience. One cannot miss this festival which offers holidays combining visits to Tea Gardens, Golf and River Cruises. A visit to the "Guwahati Tea Auction Center" (GTAC) in Guwahati, the largest in India is a must.

Rongali Utsav
Come April, and for the numerous communities, tribes and sub-tribes inhabiting the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra it's time to welcome the onset of the agricultural season, a celebration of the vibrant springtime fertility cult.

How to get there:

By Air
Indian airlines/Alliance Air, Jet Airways and Air Sahara connect Guwahati with Kolkata, Delhi, Agartala and Imphal. Taxi services including prepaid services are available at the airport for transfer to the city. For travelling to Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya Helicopter Service and Arunachal Pradesh Helicopter Service at Guwahati Airport is available.

By Rail
Express trains link all parts of the country with Guwahati. Rajdhani Express from Delhi (28 hrs), Saraighat Express from Kolkata (18 hrs), Dadar Express from Mumbai (54 hrs) and Bangalore Express (60 hrs) are some of the important trains to Guwahati. Taxis and auto-rickshaws with negotiable rates are available at the station for transfer to different parts of the city.

By Road
Many private travel companies and the Assam State Transport Corporation operate a large network of buses from anywhere around. There are routes connecting Guwahati with Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Tinsukhia, Silchar, Dimapur, Kohima, Imphal, Aizawl and Itanagar.

For more details on Assam Travel visit www.times2travel.com

A state, whose name is synonymous with exuberance, prosperity and an intense passion for life, Punjab or 'Panj Aab' literally meaning five rivers, is, as it were, the very heart of the country.

Blessed with extremely fertile soil, Punjab is watered by the rivers Beas, Sutlej, Ravi and Ghaggar. Punjab witnessed heavy destruction and damage during Partition, yet, it is one of the most affluent states in the country, today. The per - capita income of the state is nearly twice the all - India average. The mainstay of Punjab's economy, and the source of its affluence is agriculture. Nearly 84 percent of the total geographical area of the state is under cultivation.

Places to see in Punjab:

• Amritsar
Amritsar, the holy city of Sikhs, has grown from a sacred village pond into a spiritual temporal centre of Sikh culture. The city gets its name from the pool-Amritsar (Pool of Nectar), which was constructed by the fourth religious preceptor of the Sikh faith. It also lies on the Asian Highway. It is also the city where Jaliyan-wala-bagh, the garden where scores of innocent Indian men, women, children were massacred by the British. Events of such magnitude catalysed the struggle for Indian independence.

• Patiala
Patiala is famous for its healthy food, loving people, wonderful parandaas, exciting Patiala peg and jootis. Easily accessible and well maintained, Patiala is a place that would give one the much-needed tranquility far from urban chaos. The Sports School and the Moti Bagh Palace are some of the places that one must visit to get a clear picture of the past of the state.

• Chandigarh
Serenity and a city are two diametrically opposite concepts, which however, get belied in the 'City Beautiful'. Chandigarh is a rare epitome of modernization co-existing with nature's preservation. It is here that the trees and plants are as much a part of the construction plans as the buildings and the roads. Thanks to the creative genius of Le Corbusier, the city retains its inherent character even today, as conceived by him in his Master Plan. Corbusier's architectural ingenuity endowed with uniform and standardized structure designs. Wide roads, sector wise divisions, tree-lined avenues, land scaping and a wide piazza, lends the city a special character and a unique orderliness.

• Ludhiana
Ludhiana is famous for its hosiery and woolen goods and products from Ludhiana are exported all over the world. For its production of hosiery, Ludhiana is also known as the Manchester of India. It also boasts of the world famous Punjab Agricultural University, which organizes the Kisan Mela every Year. Nearby is Killa Raipur, which is famous for its Rural Olympics.

Dances of Punjab:

Bhangra
Bhangra celebrates the harvest and is associated with the festival of Baisakhi (April 13) when the sight of tall heaps of golden wheat fill the farmer’s heart with joy. To the accompaniment of large drums called dhols, he and his fellow villagers circle round and round in a leaping, laughing caper. It’s a dance that cuts across all divisions of class and education. At marriages, parties, or celebrations of any sort, it is quite common for men to break out in Bhangra. There are few sights more cheering than that of a dignified elder in three-piece suit getting up to join the young fellows for a moment of bhangra revelry.

Gidda
Women have a different but no less exuberant dance called gidda. The dancers enact verses called bolis, which represent folk poetry at its best. The subject matter of these bolis is wide ranging indeed – everything from arguments with the sister-in-law to political affairs figure in these lively songs. Aside from the drums, the rhythm of this dance is set by the distinctive hand-claps of the dancers.

Jhumar
This dance has originally come from Sandalbar (now in Pakistan), but is now very much a part of Punjab folk heritage. It is a dance of graceful gait, based on specific Jhumar rhythm. Dancers circle around the drummer, and keep up a soft, sibilant chorus as they dance.

How to get there:

By Air
Chandigarh and Amritsar both have airports are connected to other cities in India by regular flights. Indian airlines do have regular flights from Chandigarh to Delhi, Lucknow, Leh, and Amritsar. Jet air also has regular flights to Chandigarh.

By Rail
Punjab is extensively linked to the other parts of the country by rail. Chandigarh, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Pathankot, and Jalandhar are the major railway hubs in the state from where one can take trains for most parts of the country.

By Road
The entire state is connected through an extensive network of medalled roads. State Highways connect major cities to the state capital. NH 1 or the Grand Trunk Road connects the state with most of the north as well as east India.

For more details on Punjab Travel visit http://www.times2travel.com

Ludhiana is situated on the Amritsar-Delhi Grand Trunk Road. New Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh and other major cities in Punjab are well linked with Ludhiana through road. The city lies about 305 km northwest of Delhi and is 100 km away from Chandigarh.

Ludhiana is on the banks of River Sutlej. in 1481, Ludhiana used to be an insignificant village that was under Yodha, Gupta and Rajput rule for centuries. It was much later during the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singhji that Ludhiana began developing. In the later years British captured and developed it as it stands today. It has 500-year old Lodhi Fort that was constructed by the Sikander Lodhi when he ruled the plains near River Sutlej.
 
Places to see in Ludhiyana:

• Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum
The foundation of Maharaja Ranjit Singh War museum was laid in 1990. The museum was planned to create general awareness about the defence services, not only for its role in defending the country but also in strengthening the bonds of national integration and unity. The museum, though not yet complete, has regular shows in a light and sound hall. These presentations showcase the stories of bravery of Indian especially Punjabi soldiers in upholding the pride of the motherland.

• Gurudwara Charan Kamal
This Gurudwara situated in village Machhiwara, 35 km from Ludhiana, commemorates the place where Sri Guru Gobind Singh had rested while fighting a guerrilla war against a massive Mughal force.

• Punjab Agricultural University
On the outskirts of the city is the world famous Punjab Agricultural University, which is modelled on the Land Grant of America. The University has a Rural Museum, which houses local arts and crafts and objects belonging to the ancient times. The University also organizes a Kisan Mela every year.

• Shrine of Pir-i-Dastgir
The fort to the north-west of Ludhiana includes the shrine of Pir-I-Dastgir, also known as Abdul Kadir Galani which draws both Hindu and Muslim pilgrims.

Excursions of Ludhiana:

• Macchiwara
In the village Machhiwara about 35 km from Ludhiana is the Gurudwara Charan Kanwal named after the Guru's feet that are compared to the lotus flower. When Aurangzeb's army attacked the fortress of Chamkaur Sahib, Guru Gobind Singh successfully resisted their onslaught and slipped away into the forests of Machhiwara. The Mughal forces got wind of his whereabouts and Guru Gobind was saved by two of his Muslim devotees who disguised him as their Muslim prophet.

• Alamgir
Ten kilometers away from Ludhiana is Alamgir, where the Gurudwara Manji Sahib is situated. It is believed that the two Muslim devotees placed a cot here, in which the Guru was being carried. There is a ten feet deep tank near the Gurudwara where, according to a legend, Guru Gobind Singh shot an arrow into the parched land, which miraculously yielded water.

• Killa Raipur
Twenty kilometres away from Ludhiana is Killa Raipur, which is famous for the  Rural Olympics held there. Here, the local population comes to watch the village youth display their sporting skills. The event is held in mid-February.

• Jallandhar
Thirty-four kilometres away from Ludhiana is Jallandhar, the 'Sports City of India'. Jallandhar boasts of many historic monuments. Prominent among them are the mausoleum of Imran Nasir, the fort at Phillaur which once served as Maharaja Ranjit Singh's line of defence against the British, a Shiv Mandir which dates back to the Lodhi era and the Gurdwara at Kartarpur nearby. The Gurdwara was built by the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjun Dev in 1656.  

How to reach Ludhiyana:

By Air
The nearest operational airport from Ludhiana is in the state capital Chandigarh, 100 km away.

By Rail
There are regular trains for New Delhi and Amritsar from Ludhiana Railway Station.

By Road
Ludhiana is situated on the Amritsar-Delhi Grand Trunk Road. New Delhi, Amritsar, Chandigarh and other major cities in Punjab are well linked with Ludhiana through road. The city lies about 305 km northwest of Delhi and is 100 km away from Chandigarh.

For more details on Ludhiana Travel visit www.times2travel.com

The name Kottayam is derived from the word "Kotta" which means "Fortress" in Malayalam. The old town of Kottayam was originally founded on the hilltop now known as Kunnumpuram. The small hamlet developed within the walls of the fort and thus was derived the present name from the words "Kottackk Akam" which literally means “Inside the Fortress".  It is commonly believed that down the ages this gradually assumed its present form, Kottayam.

Kottayam has the distinction of being the first fully literate town in the whole of India. The first English school was started here by the missionaries of the Church Mission Society of the erstwhile Anglican Church. Kottayam has been a centre of learning  and in recognition of this fact the Government  established the Mahatma Gandhi University here.

Places to see in Kottayam:

• Bharananganam
An important Christian pilgrimage centre, the town of Bharananganam is known as the site of the internment of Sister Alphonsa (1916 - '46) in a chapel next to the St. Mary's Church. This millenium-old church features an attractive grotto of Virgin Mary.

• Valiyapalli Church
Dedicated to St. Mary, the Valia Palli is a church built in 1550 for the Knanaya Orthodox Syrians situated in Thazhathangadi, 2 km from the centre of the town. It is famous for its 8th century Persian cross and the Pahalavi inscription on the cross.

• Cheryapalli
Located near the Valia Palli, the smaller church of Cheria Palli, also dedicated to St. Mary, built in 1579, has some Murals and paintings of Biblical and other themes.

• Mannanam
Housing the famous St. Joseph's Monastery, Mannanam is an important Syrian Christian centre. The town is associated with the name of Father Kuriakose Elias of Chavara (1805 - 1871), one of the saintly figures of the Syrian Catholic Church of Kerala. Established in 1844, St. Joseph's Press is one of the oldest printing presses in India, where one of the oldest of Kerala's newspapers was printed.

• Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple
The temple built in the indigenous style is situated in the heart of the town of Kottayam. It features several murals and is thronged by a large number of devotees during the annual festival held in the third week of March.
 
Excursion of Kottayam:

• Vembanad Lake
16 kms from Kottayam town is a vast network of rivers and canals, which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vemanad Lake, which is situated in Kumarakom village. The lake is an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourist destination. It provides boating, fishing and sight seeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom tourist village also offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages.

• Ettumanoor Temple
A famous Hindu pilgrimage, Ettumanoor Temple is known for its unique and original architecture, wooden carvings and murals. The one that truly deserves a special mention is a statue of Shiva as Nataraja in a stunning pose. The temple is also famous for its 10 day long annual festival held during February-March.

• Grampi Hill
A great place to relax and unwind, the Grampi hill station is a beautiful place to visit and rest in nature's lap.

• Champakara (Ayurvedic Centre)
18 kms from Kottayam is Champakara, which is an important Ayurvedic Centre for 'Thirummuchikilsa'. Sreerangam CVN Kalari Chikilsa Kendram attracts people from all over India and abroad.

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Located at a distance of 12 kilometers from Kottayam town, this bird sanctuary is known to be home to local as well as migratory birds.

• Peerumedu
A small hill station located at a height of 914 meters above sea level, Peerumedu derives its name from the famous Sufi saint, Peer Mohammad.

How to get There:

By Air
Nearest Airport is at Cochin, 76 kms away. The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is 152 kms.

By Rail
Kottayam Railway Station 2 kms. away from the Central Bus Station and is connected with major cities and tourist centres.

By Road
Kottayam is connected to major cities of South India by good motorable roads. There are two bus stations, the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation bus station on TB Road and a private bus stand near the railway station. Buses to major centers operate from the KSRTC bus station.

For more details on Kottayam Travel visit http://www.times2travel.com

Thiruvananthapuram, the city of the snake god , is the capital of Kerala State and is situated at south India. The city is a blend of modern and traditional architecture. Named after the fabled Serpent God 'Anantha' on whom Sri Anantha Padmanabhan (Lord Vishnu) reclines, the city is built on seven hills. Caressed by the Arabian Sea at the west, Thiruvananthapuram is a popular transit destination for Indians and foreigners alike who like to visit south India.

Places to see in Thiruvananthapuram:

• Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple
The imposing seven storied tower makes it the most impressive landmark in the city. The temple is an excellent example of the dravidian style of architecture. There are innumerable pillars, intricate carvings, and mural paintings.

• Kovalam
Kovalam is 12kms to the south of Thiruvananthapuram and is one of the finest beaches in India. It has been developed into an integrated seaside resort. The beach complex has many hotels, cottages, yoga centres etc.

• Sree Chithra Art Gallary
Has a rich collection of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich It also has copies of paintings of the Ajanta, Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore Schools besides some works from China, Japa, Tibet and bali.

• Ponmudi
A pleasant resort at an elevation of 912m above sea level. It is 61 kms from Thiruvananthapuram and connected by road. There are many tree and rubber estates around the hills.

• Kowdiar Palace
The home of the late maharaja Sree Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama varma and his family is off limits to visitors but you can have a glimpse from the main gate. If a friendly guard is on duty, he will let you walk a bit inside the grounds where you can get a view of the grand old building at the end of its long drive.

• The Kanakakunnu Palace
This palace in the heart of Trivandrum city is one of the most beautiful buildings. The palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venue for many cultural meets. The Museum The museum building is an architectural splendour. The napier museum, the natural history museum, the reptile house and the Shri Chitra Art Gallery are in the same complex amidst a well laid out garden and park.

• Kuthira Malika
Puthen Malika is also known as Kuthira Malika. This palace was built during the time of H.H Maharaja Swathi Thirunal the king of Travncore who was also a great poet and musician. This palace has wood carvings in the traditional Travancore style. The museum presently displays various painting collections of the royal family. 

• Varkala
A pilgrim centre for the devotees of Sree Narayana Guru, one of the patron saints of Kerala, whose motto was "One God, One Religion, One Caste". It is only 51kms from Trivandrum by road and also boasts of one of the best beaches in the State.

Fairs and Festivals in Thiruvananthapuram:

The Great Elephant Race
Though strictly not a local festival, the conclusion of it is in Thiruvananthapuram. It is a four daylong extravaganza arranged by the tourism department of Kerala. 101 caparisoned elephants march from Thrissur on the 17th of every January reaching Thiruvananthapuram on the fourth day with stop overs at Kochi and Alappuzha. Boat races and folk art performances are arranged during this period where tourists can have glimpses of Kerala culture. The festival is concluded on the fourth day at Kovalam Beach with cultural programs and seaside barbecue.

Nishagandhi Dance Festival
The Tourism Development Corporation organises the dance festival. Leading artists of Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak, Odissi, Modern ballet and other folk form will perform at the open-air theatre of Nishagandhi in the Kanakakunnu Palace compound. Admission is free and the festival usually is accompanied with music.

Vetta and Arattu
This festival is celebrated twice in a year, once in Oct.-Nov and other in March-April. Vetta represents Lord Vishnu hunting down the demon of evil in the forest. The next day afternoon the Arattu procession begins. Images of Lord Padmanabha, Lord Krishna and Lord Narasimha are carried to the Arabian Sea at Sangumugham beach escorted by the members of the Royal Family. At sunset the images are ritually bathed in the sea. Returning the images in a procession back to the Padmanabhaswamy temple concludes the event. Several cultural programs including all-night Kathakali are performed during the festival.

How to get there:
 
By Air
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (6 kms. from the city) has air links with convenient connections to Maldives, Sri Lanka and many countries to the West of Arabian Sea and other important ports. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate domestic flights to different parts of the country.
 
By Rail
Thiruvananthapuram is an important railway terminus on the southwestern coast with train services from all parts of the country, including the southernmost tip of the subcontinent, Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin).

By Road
Motorable roads link Thiruvananthapuram to several important tourist and business centers in India. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation operates bus services of various classes.

Find more details on Thiruvananthapuram Travel visit http://www.times2travel.com

The abode of the great saint of the 20th century, Sai Baba, who lived in Shirdi for more than 50 years of his life, has made this small village in the Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra a big pilgrimage site for the devotees of the saint from all around the world.

The story of Sai Baba entering this small village is unique enough, the way his miracles were. He came to Shirdi along with a marriage party and then stayed back. He was denied entry into a temple by a priest taking him to be a Muslim from his dress. So throughout his life the saint stayed in the Mosque of Shirdi.

The small place which is barely a 100 km from Nashik today is a bustling pilgrimage centre of India. Nearly every nook and corner of the small village has some affiliation with the great saint. Even today the last few surviving elders of the village vividly recall the miraculous wonders of the sage. Sai Baba left for the heavenly abode in 1918 and his Samadhi is visited by thousands daily.

Places to see in Shirdi:

• Samadhi Mandir
Samadhi Mandir of Shri Sai Baba was actually owned by a millionaire from Nagpur and a famous Sai devotee Shreemant Gopalrao. He wanted to keep an idol of Murlidhar here. However, according to the legends, Baba himself became Murlidhar and the temple became the Samadhi Mandir of Baba. The Samadhi of Baba is built with white marble stones. The railings around it are full of ornamental decorations. The idol of Baba is a marvelous statue made up of Italian marble built by Late Balaji Vasant in 1954.

• Shri Khandoba Mandir
This place is near Shri Sainath Hospital. Baba stepped here in Shirdi at the foot of banyan  tree near Khandoba Temple along with Chand Patil's wife's Nephew's Marriage party. The then Pujari Mhalsapati welcomed Him by calling "Aao Sai."

• Dwarkamai 
Situated on the right side of the entrance of the Samadhi Mandir is Dwarkamai, a mosque. This was the place where the sage stayed until the end of his life. Main attraction of the site is the oil paintings of the sage.

• Shri Gurusthan Mandir
This is the place where Baba first appeared to the world as boy of 16 years and this place is supposed to be Baba's Gurusthan. The famous Margosa (Neem) tree is here which has a reference in "Sai Sat-Charitra". It is an experience of devotees that there aliments are cured by burning incense hear.

• Lendi Baug / Datta Mandir
This is the place where Shri Sai Baba used to go for stroll. Nandadeep is kept constantly burning near the Pimple tree planted by Shri Sai Baba himself. There is also Datta Mandir in this garden and Shri Sai Baba's beloved horse 'Shamkarna' (Sham Sundar) is taking Eternal rest here. There is also a well here called as 'Baba's Shivdi'.

• Maruti Mandir
There is a Maruti Mandir located at some distance from the cottage of Abdul Baba. This mandir was visited by Baba for the sat-sang with Devidas, a Bal yogi, who lived at the Mandir ten to twelve years before Baba arrived. There are also temples of village deities named Shani, Ganapati, and Shankar that are worth visiting.

Festivals in Shirdi:

Ramnavami
Ramnavami is one of the most important festivals celebrated with great excitement and fanfare. In the year 1897 Goplarao Gund proposed holding in Urus in name of Saibaba in gratitude of a child which he was granted after so many childless years. Saibaba conceded to celebrate his urus on the condition that it is celebrated on Ramnavami. This was indeed an ingenious touch of Saibaba bringing together the Hindus and Muslims together. People may know Urus is a Muslim festival that is celebrated to honor a saint.

Gurupurnima
Gurupurnima or Full Moon is also a wonderful time to visit Shirdi. It is the time to honor the Guru and seek his special blessing. Quite a significant festival in Shirdi Guru Purnima was the only festival which Saibaba has asked his devotees to celebrate. This is the time devotees all across the world converge in Shirdi to seek Saibaba's blessings.

Shirdi Vijayadashmi
Vijayadashmi is a big festival in Shirdi, venerated as a holy day when Shri Saibaba left his mortal body for heavenly abode. The festival is also celebrated as Shri Sai Punyathithi in Shirdi attracting great number of devotees from all over the world. Various religious activities are arranged Great number of people flock to Shirdi during this Festival.

How to Get There:

Air
The nearest airports are Mumbai (260 kms), Pune (185 kms) and Aurangabad (125 kms).

Train
The nearest railway station is Manmad (60 kms) on the Central Railway, which is connected to many parts of the country with Express trains.

Road
Shirdi is very well connected by a network of roads and road transport to all major towns of Maharashtra and surrounding areas.

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Aurangabad is one of the oldest cities in Maharashtra with a cultural heritage that includes, the Ajanta - Ellora caves and Daulatabad Fort. The town is named after Aurangzeb, the last Mughal emperor, and has many places to see, admire and know about. The most famous trip that should be taken from Aurangabad is that of the Ajanta and Ellora caves. Several fine Mughal monuments surround Aurangabad, including Aurangazeb's mausoleum for his wife, the 'Bibi-ka-Maqbara' resembling Taj Mahal.

Aurangabad has been a place of great importance due to it’s location on the famous "Silk Route" that traversed across the breadth of Asia to reach Europe. Textiles, embroidered finery and various kinds of beads made in nearby Paithan were exported to the markets of Greece, Rome and Egypt.

Places to see in Aurangabad:

• Bibi-Ka-Maqbara
Bibi-ka-Maqbara was built by Aurangzeb in the memory of his wife Rabia-ud-Daurani Begum. This tomb bears some resemblance with the Taj Mahal, which is a major attraction for tourists coming to this place. The architecture of this tomb is magnificent which is surrounded by a garden. You will have to buy an entry ticket of a negligible amount to enter the Maqbara.

• Aurangabad Caves
The Aurangabad Caves were built during the 6th and 7th centuries. The walls of the caves have interesting illustrations from the Jataka stories. Lying amidst the hills are 12 Buddhist caves possibly dating back to the 1st century AD. The Tantric influences evident in the iconography and architectural designs of the caves are of particular interest. Some of the chaityas are constructed on a mandala plan for the circumambulation of the Buddha who is depicted here seated on an intricately carved throne.

• Panchakki
Panchakki, meaning water mill is another major attraction of Aurangabad. The mill gets its share of water that travels through an underground channel from a source which is 6 km away in the mountains. The water is released on to the wheel creating an enthralling waterfall.

• Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid at Aurangabad was built by Aurangzeb. It situated in the center of a grove of trees in Killa Arrack. The Masjid has a low building with minarets and a broad band. This broad band is carved with Koranic inscriptions written through the length of the facade.

• Himroo Factory
The Himroo Factory is another major tourist attraction of Aurangabad. The traditional Himroo fabric which is an amazing blend of cotton and silk is known for its quality. You can also find here Paithani saris, traditional handloom shawls and other textiles material of Himroo fabric and silver threads.

Excursion of Aurangabad:

Ajanta Caves
The world heritage Ajanta caves are one of the few historical and architectural marvels of India. It was discovered accidentally during the 19th century by a group of British officers who were on a tiger hunt. These caves are located deep within the Sahyadri hills above the Waghora.

Ellora Caves
The Ellora cave temples are regarded as the World heritage sites of India. They are situated just 30 kilometers northwest of Aurangabad. It can be easily reached from the nearby major towns. There are almost 34 monasteries and temples that date back from 600 to 1000 AD. The temples of Ellora are dedicated to Brahmanism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The cave temples here have some superior carvings on the stone depicting the legends related to Lord Shiva.

Daulatabad Fort
The exquisite Daulatabad fort is located just 13 kilometers from Aurangabad on the way to Ellora, makes an excellent travel excursion from Aurangabad. The fort was built during the 12th century by king Bhillama of Yadav dynasty. It is situated on a pyramid shaped hill making it a major attraction here.

Fair and Festivals in Aurangabad:

Buddha Jayanti
Buddha Jayanti is celebrated with great zeal here. Mass prayers are offered in community halls and public places and procession with floates are taken around the city.

Khultabad Urs
Rabi-Ul-Awal. For five days each year, during the month of Rabi-Ul-Awal, Muslims gather at the tomb of Khawaja. Muntajabuddin at Khultabad to pay homage to the hallowed saint.

How to get there:

By Air
Aurangabad airport is situated 10 km east of the city. Both Indian Airlines and Jet Airways have a daily flight to Mumbai (Bombay).

By Rail
Aurangabad can be easily approached by rail from Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi. There are regular trains available on South Central Railway to reach Aurangabad.

By Road
Aurangabad is well connected with major cities of the state by a good network of roadways. The distances for some of the major cities from Aurangabad are Pune (214 km), Nasik (218 km), Indore (402 km) and Mumbai (403 km).

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Mangalore, a beautiful scenic city with lush green surroundings add to the peaceful nature of the City. In the coastal region of the western part of the land of India is situated the harbour town of Mangalapuram, or the city of Mangalore. The eternally blessed is the land of enchantment of Sahyadri mountains, where the great sages Kanva, Vysa, Vashista, Vishwamitra and other in the Loral past spent their days of meditation. Bountiful rivers meandering down the mountains and the nature is clothed in all her lush-full greenery.

Narrow winding streets, lofty coconut trees, quaint gable-roofed houses, beautiful beaches, temples and churches, the heady fragrance of the Mangalore Mallige, the aroma of spicy coconut curries, all this and more makes Mangalore a city of vivid contrasts.

Places to see in Mangalore:

Sultan Battery

It is situated in Boloor 6 Km. away from Mangalore City Bus Stand.  It was built in Black Stones by Tippu Sulthan to prevent warships to enter Gurpur river.  Now the remaining part of the fort is called as Tippu's Well.  It is today a deserted spot but its construction is bafflingly exquisite. Although it is a watchtower, it gives the impression of a miniature fortress with its arrangements for mounting cannons all-round.

Kadri Manjunath Temple:

Kadri is another ancient historic spot in Mangalore. The Kadri Temple dating back to about 1068 A.D. with its nine tanks, its square temple, nestling at thefoot of the highest hill, draws to Mangalore hundreds of visitors annually. The Lokeshwara bronze statue of the Kadri Manjunatha Temple is tipped to be the best bronze statue in India. On top of the hill King Kundavarma Bupendra built a mutt which came to be called 'Jogimutt'. There are some stone caves on top of the hill which are known as the caves of the Pandavas 

It is situated 4 Km. away from Nehru Maidan Bus Stand.  The idol of Lord Manjunathaswamy of the temple is called as oldest of the South Indian Temples.  The seven sacred ponds, Jogi Mutt and caves of Pandavas are the pilgrim attractions here.

St. Aloysius Church 

It is situated 1 Km. away from Nehru Maidan Bus stand.  The walls of the church are covered with the paintings of the artist Antony Moshaini of Italy.  The Church was built in the year 1899-1900. 

St. Aloysius College Chapel, an architectural gem, comparable with the Sistine chapel in Rome, is situated on lighthouse hill. The special beauty of the chapel is the wonderful series of paintings that virtually cover every inch of the interior roof and walls executed by Bro. Moscheni trained in Italy.

Light House Hill-Garden: 

It is situated 1 Km. away from Bus Stand.  One can see the beautiful sea view, sunset view and also the sailing ships and boats on the sea.  Now the renovated garden looks more beautiful.

Mangaladevi Temple

The temple is situated 3 Km. away from main City Bus stand. This city is called as Mangalore just because of this temple. This temple was built by the Ballal family of Attavar in memory of a Princess of Kerala

Ullal Darga:

Known for the "Uroos Fair". This is one the main mosques in the region. Built in 1958, thousands of people from various states visit the mosque to participate in the Uroos festival which is celebrated once in every five years.

How to get there

By Air

The Air port at Bajpe, just 16 kms from Mangalore city could connect the district with other major cities and other countries. Major airways services have been flying here. There is new Mangalore Port Trust that has been helping the people here for the transport of goods to and from Mangalore.

By Train

The Konkan Railways, Kerala -Mangalore Railways and Hassan Mangalore Railways are the major railway services here. Though Hassan Mangalore service has been detained due to up gradation work, Konkan Railway and Kerala Mangalore Railway is providing good service to the both public and for transportation of goods.

By Road 

The district is well connected to other places by road, railways, air and even through water. The district has developed very good transport system as both Government and Private bus services have been flourishing here. All nooks and corners of the district could be reached by bus. The district is passed through NH 48 and NH 17 and this connects the district to other major towns in the country. Other state routes and special bus services make the public life lively here.

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A jewel glittering atop India, Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most beautiful destinations in India. Often referred to as the 'Switzerland of India', it is the northern extreme of the country. Home to mighty mountains and lovely glades and forests, the region is bestowed with abundant of natural beauty overflowing from everywhere. Ruled by a Maharaja Hari Singh in the past, Jammu & Kashmir is made up of many regions but is called Jammu & Kashmir because the two most populous regions in the state are called Jammu and Kashmir.

Tourist Attraction in Kashmir:

• Amar Mahal Museum
Set in a picturesque setting of Himalayas, Amar Mahal Museum and Library, is an epitome of royal grandeur and magnificence. It is a repository of books and paintings and attracts art lovers and historians from all over the world. The museum building forms the major part of the majestic Amar Palace, which has a French touch in its architectural style.

• Gulmarg
The meadow of Flowers is a world famous tourist spot in the Baramulla Distt of Kashmir. The altitude of Gulmarg is 2730 meters. surrounded by dense forests of tall conifers, Gulmarg is known for unparalled beauty nad is rated as one of the matchless tourist spots of the world. It is famous for Golf hikes and boasts of a beautiful highland golf course. It is premier resort for winter sports in the country.

• Hari Parbat Fort
The Mughal fort situated on the banks of the Dal Lake of Srinagar, it is positioned on top of the Sharika Hill. Originally, it was built during the reign of Akbar but its present structure owes itself to the Afghan governor of Kashmir in the 18th century. It has a Parvati temple on the western slope and the Muslim shrines of Khwaja Makhdoom Sahib and Akhund Mullah Shah on the southern one.

• Srinagar
Srinagar is located in the western part of the State of Jammu and Kashmir and is famous for its lakes and the charming rows of houseboats floating on them. It is also known for traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. The Mughal Gardens are an important tourist attraction. The best time when tourists can seize an opportunity to travel to Srinagar is from June to early November to enjoy the extended summer and from December to February in winter.

• Hazratbal Shrine
The Hazratbal Shrine, which is situated on the left bank of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. This unmatched reverence is anchored in the love and respect for the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him), whose Moi-e-Muqqadas, (the sacred hair) is preserved here.

• Pahalgam
The Pahalgam valley is situated at the confluence of the Seshnag Lake and the Lidder River. Pahalgam is associated with the annual Amaranth yatra. The region is extremely popular among tourists for its outdoor activities like fishing, horse riding, golf and trekking. Tours and travel to Pahalgam usually offer opportunities for outdoor activities.

Excursion of Kashmir:

Achabal
Achabal is situated at a distance of 58 km from the district of Srinagar. Reached via Anantnag, Achabal served as the pleasure retreat of the Mughal Empress Nur Jehan. Situated at a height of 1,677 m, Achabal is a visual treat for the eyes. Achabal is adorned with one of the best Mughal Gardens in India. The beautifully laid out garden in the Mughal (Persian) style sparkles with a charm and character, which is quite unique to it.

Kokernag
Situated at a height of 2,020 m, Kokernag is approximately 70 km from the district of Srinagar. Blooming gardens surround this spring, which bubbles at seven places at the foot of the forested mountain. The water of Kokernag in Kashmir is believed to have medicinal and digestive properties.

Wullar Lake
Wullar Lake is approximately 60 km from the city of Srinagar, between the towns of Bandipore and Sopore. Spreading over an area of 125 km, Wular Lake is said to be one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. The Wular Lake of Kashmir changes character after every few miles of its course. The lake serves as a natural flood reservoir for Jhelum River, draining off the excess water.

Yusmarg
Yusmarg is approximately 47 km from the Srinagar and lies in the Badgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. The two-hour drive to the place is an enjoyment in itself. Grassy pastures stretching to acres of land, the dense forests full of pine trees, with the backdrop of splendid snow capped mountains leave you almost speechless.

How to get there:

By Air
Srinagar airport is approximately 14 km from the city. There are daily flights to Srinagar, operated by Indian Airlines (from Delhi, Mumbai and Jammu) and Jet Airways (from Delhi and Jammu).

By Rail
Jammu Tawi, approximately 305 km far, is the nearest railhead for Srinagar. Trains from Delhi, Calcutta, Pune, Mumbai and other cities arrive at this station only. During holiday season, when there is a heavy rush for Kashmir, additional trains operate for and from this station.

By Road
National Highway 1-A is the main highway connecting Srinagar with Jammu. J&K State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) as well as a number of private Super deluxe, A-class and B-class busses operate to and from the state. Private taxis are also available for traveling to Kashmir.

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