Thursday, October 23, 2008

Khajuraho temples

Khajuraho is synonymous with 9th to 11th century temples which are a treatise on Kamasutra. The temples have been carved out of igneous rocks and are an architectural marvel thanks to Chandela dynasty which built them. Khajuraho was the capital of Chandela Kingdom.

The temples center around sex and males, females and animals are intricately involved in sexual postures and acts in the temple wall carvings. Nobody has an exact idea of the concept behind the temples but it is thought to depict tantric mysticism. The temples escaped the marauding Muslim invaders from destruction as they where located in forested areas. They where discovered by British Explorer T.S. Burt during the British Raj.

The main temples a must visit on Khajuraho tours are as follows:

1) Kandariya Mahadeva

2) Chaunsat Yogini

3) Chitragupta Temple

4) Vishwanath Temple

5) Lakshamana Temple

6) Matangeshwara Temple

7) Parsavanatha Temple

8) Ghantai Temple

9) Adinatha Temple

10) Duladeo Temple:

11) Chaturbhuj Temple

In ancient times there where eighty five temples built but about twenty two now remain at Khajuraho. There are many package tours available for Khajuraho and nearby destinations. Panna National Park is close to Khajuraho about 45 km drive.

Sikkim

Sikkim a Royal independent Kingdom amalgamated into Indian Union in the year 1974. It's earlier name was Suk-Heem or peaceful home. Gangtok the capital of Sikkim state is approx 190 kms from New Jalpaiguri which is a rail head. It is the smallest state in India after Goa.

Known for its magical beauty and pristine wilderness the Himalayan Kingdom is a favorite tourist destination. The nearest airport is Bagdogra. Sikkim is a land of mystic culture and colorful traditions. It is densely forested with abundant floral wealth hence popular among trekkers and lovers of adventure sports in India.

Sikkim has abundant ecological wealth and bio diversity hot spot. The State is rich in wildlife and birds with many endemic species making it their home. On a tour one can experience the grand mountain peaks, tropical green valleys, numerous waterfall and turbid rivers. Visit Buddhist monasteries and terraced hills of agrarian villages.The culturally rich populace is a mix of Bhutia, Nepali, Lepcha and other communities. Hinduism and Buddhism are the major religions.    

The Himalayan Kingdom now an Indian State is an ideal trekking venue. There  are many pristine forest trails that lead to monasteries, villages and hilly regions. The mountainous terrain offers rugged treks to the adventure seekers. The remote locations offer ideal camping experience to the trekkers. 

The Sikkim tours is a wonderful adventure trek with a visit to sanctuaries to see unique wildlife. Tourism plays and important role in the little state's economy and there are many treks organized by tour operators in India. The treks are usually of fourteen days and the packages are all inclusive. There are many high altitude treks in this Himalayan Kingdom.