Christmas

 Punjab

Uttarakhand 

Introduction 

A state known as Devbhoomi (THE LANDE OF GOD) situated in North, and it is connected to Tibet in the north and Nepal in the east.  Uttarakhand was know as Uttaranchal which was established on 9 November 2000 and in 2008 its name was changed to Uttarakhand. Uttarakhand has two capitals, Gairsain in summer and Dehradun in winters. The state language of Uttarakhand is Hindi and Sanskrit and the local languages are Garhwali, Kumauni and Jaunsari.  There are 2 divisions in Uttarakhand in which there are 13 districts, the main one being Garhwali region (Uttarkashi, Haridwar, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Tehri, Dehradun, Chamoli) which has 6 districts which comes in our west region and the other division is Kumaon in the east region which includes 7 districts (Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, Nainital, Champawat, Almora, Udham Singh Nagar). Here 86% area is covered by mountains, 14% is plains and 71% area is covered with forests. Uttarakhand is known for its ancient temples and culture.  Out of the four Dhams one Badrinath Dham is also present in Uttarakhand and out of the 12 Holy Jyotirlinga of Shiva one is in Kedarnath where thousands of tourists come every year for darshan. The Yoga capital of the world and adventure capital of India is present in Rishikesh of Uttarakhand. There are many lakes in Uttarakhand out of which Nainital is called the City of  lakes. 

NATIONAL PARKS OF UTTRAKHAND

Nanda Devi National Park

Valley Of Flower

Raja ji National Park

Gangotri National Park

Govinda National Park

Mountain passes in Uttarakhand

Lippulekh pass ( Route to kailash Man Sarowar )

Trallis Pass ( Nanda Devi to Nandkoth )

Mana Pass ( first village of India )

Niti pass 

Mulingle ( North of aghnotri )

TRIBES OF UTTRAKHAND ( 94.5% Rular areas )

Tharu tribe ( Largest tribe of Uttarakhand )

Jaunsari tribe ( 2nd largest tribe )

Bhotia tribe 

Raji tribe ( Animal lovers )

Bhuksa tribe (agricultural dependent)

Spiritual places in Uttarakhand

Rishikesh – Rishikesh is also known as Yoga capital of the world. Rishikesh is famous for  Lakshman jhula, Ram jhula, River Rafting, Bunjing jumping Chotiwala, the Beatles ashram, Ganga Arti, Neelkanth Mahadev temple and Many more. 

 Kedarnath 

Badrinath 

Yamunotri and Gangotri 

Tungnath 

Rudranath 

Hill station of Uttarakhand

 Masoorie 

Nainital

Ranikhet

Auli

Chopta 

Culture of Uttarakhand

 Uttarakhand cuisines – Uttarakhand’s cuisines are made of locally grown ingredients. Some of famous dishes of Uttarakhand are Urrad ke pakode Aloo ke gutke Jhangora ki kheer Bal mithai  Kafal Kafuli Kumaoni Raita Arsa Phannu and chainsoo .

Folk Dance -  Pandav nritya: Pandav nritya is ritual of reattachment of stories from Mahabharat through singing dancing and recitation, that is practiced in the ‘Garhwal region’ of Uttarakhand, India. 

Barada Nati – It is a traditional Kumaoni traditional dance. The dance narrates stories from ancient scriptures. 

Dhorang and Dhuring- It is performed by Bhotiya tribals. 

Folk Music -  jagar, Mangal, Basanti, Bajuband, chhura. 

 HIMACHAL PRADESH 

Introduction

Reign of Himalayas where many major ranges meet and dividing two of the largest basins in South Asia the beautiful land has amazing diversity weather it is the spoiling thoon valleys this South mein Himalayan ranges to the north Orion for the northlands and the middle land between India and Tibet. The capital of Himachal Pradesh is Shimla. Himachal Pradesh shares it border with the union territories of and Ladakh to the north and these states of Punjab to the west Haryana to the Southwest Uttarakhand to the south east and very narrow border with up to the South HP was form on 25th January 1950 HP declared as one of the union that is of India. Himachal Pradesh literally means no in Sanskrit RK Diwakar Datt Sharma and Eminem college from HP name the state. With a lofty Himalayas draped with snow deep valleys, vast woods, chilled rivers, green surroundings, scenic lakes and deep gorges tourist attractions. Various adventure sports such as trekking skiing ice skating river rafting paragliding etc. That gives many reasons to tourists to get drawn to HP. HP is famous for its stunning scenery, vibrant culture and adventure activities and offers beautiful hill stations and exciting activities like trekking and skiing. 

Art and craft 

Himachal Pradesh is famous for its handicraft, metal works, shawls, pullovers, local tweeds, wooden articles, toys within carpet and handicraft pickle jams and squash. 

Himachali dress

Traditional dress - The Traditional dress of Himachal Pradesh is known as the Kulluvi or Pahari dress, is made from warm woolen fabric, which is ideal for cold climates. It includes a long shirt called ‘Kameez’ and loose pants called ‘salwar’ Reflecting the practical and cultural aspects of Himachal Pradesh. They also wear a symbolic Himachali Topi or hat with flowers fixed on the topmost part of it .

Traditional Dance of Himachal 

The very famous folk dance of Himachal Pradesh is Nati. Nati is performed by a group of people. This comprises both men and women. The dress of the dance group represents the gaddi or the Himachali nomads. Musicians are known as Tunis and instruments used during the performance are flute, dhol, Nagara, Narsingha, Karnal and shehnai. Yagya is performed by the dancers at the end of a Nati is traditionally performed as a homage to the Gods and Goddesses . Nati is traditionally performed in Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, Sirmur, Chamba, Kinnaur, Uttarkashi, Dehradun.

Hill station in Himachal Pradesh 

shimla

Manali

Dharamshala and Mcleodganj 

Kasauli 

Dalhousie 

Spiti Valley 

Chamba

Karnataka

Hampi

Mysore

Bengaluru

Bengaluru is also known as the silicon valley of India. Bangalore is the capital of Karnataka it is 5th largest city in India. Bangalore is a metropolitan city it is a third most populous city Bangalore promotes the IT sector in India Bangalore provides career opportunity and a place a lifestyle for individuals Bangalore is famous for its moderate climate the cities famous for its while recognized industries.

Mahabaleshwar

Coorg

 Maharashtra  

Introduction  

Maharashtra is located in the western part of India. Mumbai and Nagpur are the capital of Maharashtra. Mumbai is also known as the financial capital of India. Maharashtra has the Arabian sea flowing on its Western coast. The total area of Maharashtra is 307713 square kilometers.  The current estimated population is approximately 13.16 crores. There are a total 36 districts in Maharashtra state. Maharashtra is bounded by Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Karnataka and Goa. The main rivers of Maharashtra are Godavari and Krishna. Maharashtra is a very populated state. Maharashtra is the second largest biggest State in India based on population. Maharashtra is also home to the largest film industry in World. This  state has a rich in diverse Heritage and culture.  

Maharashtra Sindhudurg is named as Biodiversity Heritage site.  A rare freshwater fish was discovered in this area . 

Cultural of Maharashtra  

Maharashtra is a vibrant state with many traditions and customs exclusive to the people that live there. festivals are celebrated with great pomp and shows.  

Ganesh chaturthi  

The largest festival of Maharashtra is Ganesh chaturthi. It's an 11 day festival. People install integrative carved idols of Ganesha in their homes and visit each other to pay their respects. People thrown huge pandals to catch glimpses of their favourite Gods and organised many cultural events together. On the 11th day,  the idols are taken in the procession, with music and dance to be immersed in the sea. 

Krishna Janmashtami 

Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated at midnight with bhajans. The next day is celebrated as the gokulashtami to celebrate the lord's love for butter rituals is performed on this day called Dahi Handi.  

Maharashtra is the most famous destination for tourism Because of its natural beauty, beaches, tropical island resort, National park, Mountains, forest and desert.  

The Gateway of India  

The Gateway of India is an arch monument. It was situated in Mumbai. It was built in the early 20th century. It was built in memory of king George V and Queen Mary. This building has been constructed by basalt. The Gateway of India is about 85 feet tall. It was designed by architect George Willet. The Gateway of India is one of the most visited place in Mumbai. 

Bibi Ka Makbara  

Bibi ka Makbara - This monument is situated in the city Aurangabad. This Makbara is similar to Taj Mahal. It was built by Aurengzebs to honour the memory of his wife Dilras abnu begum. This monument was designed by Ataullah. It is a representation of Aurengzeb's love for his wife. Bibi ka Makbara is the chief attraction of Aurangabad. 

Ajanta caves  

The Ajanta caves are 29 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments. They are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Ajanta caves are famous for their Rock and architecture and frescoes. The cave also depicts Jataka Tale stories and the Buddha's  past lives. They were built over many centuries by different groups of people. The caves were rediscovered by Britishers in 1819.   

Sindhudurg Fort 

were used in the casting and foundation stones were firmly laid down. 

Raigad Fort 

It is the Hill fort situated in the Raigad District Of Maharashtra in India. The fort was built by Shivaji Maharaj in 1656 and served as capital of the Maratha Empire during his reign. 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus  

It is also known as CST is a historical railway station in Mumbai , India. The architecture of CST is a blend of Victorian Gothic and the traditional Indian style. It was built in late 19th century. This iconic landmark serves as a major transportation hub connecting various parts of Mumbai through its extensive railway network.  Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj terminus remains as essential part of Mumbai's identity.  

 Rajasthan

Introduction 

Rajasthan, is known as The land of Kings . Rajasthan is largest state having 342,2399 km per square. Rajasthan is situated near north west region of India between 23° to 30°12' N (latitude) and 69°30' to 78°17' E ( longitude)and having 36 minutes time gap . Tropic of cancer passes through Two districts of Rajasthan Dungarpur and Banswara. Rajasthan resembles shape of Rhombus- quadrilateral. IN Rajasthan sunrise occur first in Bholpur (E) , and foremost sunrise in Jaisalmer (W). Latitudinal position of Rajasthan is Subtropical region but max. influences of Tropical - Sowana Type / half rainfall. Rajasthan is a land locked area . It is bounded with  Punjab ,Haryana, Uttara Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh,  

On the basis of different climate and surface topography Rajasthan can be broadly divided into 4 regions –

North - west Desert region - occupies 61.11% of total area of Rajasthan. This region Falls innorth - west and west part of Aravalli Range. 40% of population inhibites in this region The Eastern part – Marwar Western part - thar desert The Maximum temperature is about 49° C and min -3° C. The average Rainfall is about - 20 to 50 cm .The Major crops are- Bajra, Moong ,Till, Mustard, Wheat, Citrus etc. Rivers and Channel’s - luni river and its tributaries

Aravalli region/ Hill region -  It is the centre region of Rajasthan. It contributes 9% of total land area of Rajasthan and holds 10-11% of total population of Rajasthan It is the part of Gondwanaland land , the oldest Mountain range of the world .According to geological history, Aravalli range is related end of Dharwad range.

Eastern plains – It spreads in N- E, E, S-E of Aravalli. It contributes 23% land of Rajasthan and hold 40% of population. It is the highly denser area. Average annual rainfall is about 60 to 100 cm( July – September ). Mains crops like wheat , barely, gram, sugarcane, cotton, oilseeds. 50cm rainfall lines divided it from Aravalli range and 75cm from southern plateau. Climate is hot and humid. Temperature – 47° C in summer and 25° C .This region is also known as Eastern Door of Rajasthan.

Southern – East plateau – This region contributes 6.89% area of Rajasthan and holds 10% population. Rainfall is about 80-130cm ( highest in rainfall). Slop – North-west direction. Agriculture like cotton, sugarcane, tobacco, soybean, afeen , groundnut, pulses, and oilseed. Climate is Subtropical. Temperature is about 18°C to 6°C. 

Rajasthan has very rich history. In 1400 BC Matsya tribe has ruled Rajasthan and in the Mediaeval Period it was ruled by Rajput kingdom. 

Chauhans of Ajmer, Sisodiya of mewar and Rathore of mewar ruled the state and everyone left a rich history for us to cherish. Rajput’s ruled the state from 8th to 12th century. They divided the states in 36 Royal clans and 21 dynasties. Rajasthan was ruled by the Great warrior Prithviraj Chauhan in 12th century he saved Rajasthan many times from the attack of Mohamed Ghori. After 12th century Mughals came in power and ruled this state then later it was ruled by the Britishers after becoming a free state in India.

    You will find beautiful cities like Udaipur which is city of lake . Jaisalmer is home to Desert safari and camel safari. Therefore it has a different "best time to visit". The Real fun of exploring Rajasthan resides in the cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur etc. 

All cities have a special color attached to them. Rajasthan is called color coded city

  There are many other places which have made it popular place.  Rajasthan is visited by the tourist throughout the year but the best time to explore Rajasthan is during Winters. some of the cities are hard to explore during the summer. These cities have peak Temp. from 11 am to 4 pm. therefore it is the best of visit from October - march.

Top places to visit in Rajasthan . There are various attraction in the largest states of India – 

City palace - It was built in 1727 . It was built by Raja Sawai Jai Singh II. This palace is so big that it can take you about 1 hour to visit. It is made up of red, pink sandstone and marbles.  The architectural style are largely base on a fusion of Rajputs, Mughal and European style. City palace is most popular tourist destination in Jaipur. 

 Amer fort – Amer fort is jewel of Jaipur with its majestic and beautiful by its architecture and rich history . Amer fort was declared a world heritage site as part of group hill forts of Rajasthan . It is  famous for its labyrinth architecture and valuable history.

Nahargarh Fort - It is located in Aravalli Mountain ranges. Nahargarh for was earlier known as Sudarshaganjh fort. This fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It is believed that this fort is named after prince Nahar Singh Bhomai. 

Hawa mahal - was built in 1799 and there are about 953 windows which are made in shape of a beehive. In this you can see Islamic , Mughals, and Rajputana architecture. It is made of red and pink sandstone. Hawa Mahal is a pride of Jaipur. 

Jal Mahal - It is situated on Mansagar lake in Jaipur. The best time to visit Jal Mahal in the evening. Red and brown sandstone were used to construct jal Mahal. This palace were built by the King to spend special time with his queen. Jal Mahal is a. attractive tourist a destination. It is situated on Mansagar lake in Jaipur. The best time to visit Jal Mahal in the evening. Red and brown sandstone were used to construct jal Mahal. This palace were built by the King to spend special time with his queen. Jal Mahal is a. attractive tourist a destination 

Jantar Mantra - The entire Jantar Mantra is spread over an area of 18700 square meters. It was created to note the time. There are 5 such Jantar Mantra in India and the Best one is in Jaipur.

Albert hall museum - It is known as central museum. One of the 6 Egyptian Mummies in India kept in this museum. In this museum you will see special handicrafts, painting and architecture of royal families.

Ajmer Dargah- this was built by Moinuddin chistni. He was born in 1143 in Iran . He came in India with Mouhamad Ghori and  built this Dargah. 

Annasagar lake – The gorgeous Annasagar lake is a magnificent artificial lake is located in the city of Ajmer. This lake is best visited during the sunset when the view is extraordinarily marvelous to look at. 

The Annasagar lake is surrounded by Daulat bagh gardens, which is splendid garden full of vast open space and lush greenery and the Khobra Behroon Temple. Two popular attractions of Ajmer that tourists prefer to visit along with a day trip to the beautiful lake. 

Nareli Jain temple – Nareli Jain Temple temple is 9km away from Ajmer and situated near Aravalli mountains. Here you will find idols of 24 jinalaya and 24 Tirthankara which belongs to Jain. 

 Ajmer fort – Ajmer fort  was built in 1570 and was considered to be home of Akbar's son Salim. Later this place was a meeting point. Here you will find a collection of Hindi idols from 6th to 7th century and also you will find artifacts of Rajputs as well as Mughals The idol of mahakali , the goddess is very popular in this museum.

Jaisalmer fort - Fort it is the one of the largest fort in the world. It was built in 1156. Jaisalmer fort in Rajasthan is a golden hued wonder. This Ancient fortress rises dramatically from the thar desert. Jaisalmer for is renowned for its yellow sandstone structure . Inside you’ll find intricate Havelis  Jain temple and royal palaces . The fort has stood for sentinel in the heart of desert for the centuries.

Karni Mata – Karni Mata   temple this temple of Bikaner is the temple of Mata Karni .Karni Mata was a 14th century Hindu warrior. it is only 30 km away from Bikaner. Karni Mata temple is considered to be the unique temple of Karni Mata because this temple is of about 25000 of rats. 

Culture of Rajasthan

Rajasthan has a rich heritage of its peculiar Art. Culture & architecture. Many of these art forms have survived through ages and are even part of present culture of Rajasthan. The architectural beauty of Rajasthan is world renowned, forts, palaces, Havelis, tombs, cenotaph and sculptures present across the geography of state, reveal the blend of multiple dynasties, that ruled the ancient lands. The glittering jewellery and attractive handicrafts of Rajasthan have caught the fantasy of the people around the world. Rajasthan has a tradition of highly cultivated music & dance forms. The music is uncomplicated, raw and songs depict daily chores. 

The Kalbeliya dance of Jaisalmer and Ghoomar dance from Udaipur have gained recognition internationally. Rajasthan is also famous for textiles, semi-precious stone work and its traditional & colorful handicrafts. Rajasthan is also one of the cultural center for miniature painting art with its unique Rajasthani or Rajputana school of painting. The painting form is well diverse with multiple schools like Mewar, Marwar, Hadoti, Dundhaar and even more styles of painting.