DEHRADUN

About DEHRADUN

Dehradun (Hindi: देहरादून) pronounciation (help·info), also sometimes spelled Dehra Doon, is the capital city of the Uttarakhand state (earlier called Uttaranchal) in India, and the headquarters of Dehradun District.
It is located in the Doon valley, 230 kilometers north of India's capital New Delhi and the Delhi metropolitan area. The district is surrounded by the Himalayas in the north, Sivalik Hills in the south, the river Ganga in the east, and the river Yamuna in the west. The water divide of Ganga and Yamuna passes through the city.

Dehradun - Best Time to Visit
The hill resort of Dehradun is ideally located amongst the hills and experiences moderately pleasant climate throughout the year. The temperature hovers between 44.5°C and 16.7°C in the summers. While in the Winters Dehradun grows colder with the temperature varying between 23.6°C and 5.4°C. Dehradun is flocked by tourists all through the year. In summers it is the retreat from the plains and in winters it is the snow-time! You can enjoy the snow in the Garhwal Himalayas during November/December. April to July is the ideal time for a trip to the Doon valley and skip the heat and the dust of the Indian summer in the hill resort of Dehradun.
It is also located on the northwestern side of the fertile Gangetic plains of India. Before the creation of Uttarakhand on November 9 2000, Dehradun was a part of Uttar Pradesh. Neighbouring cities and towns include Haridwar, Rishikesh, Roorkee, Mussoorie and Saharanpur.
Dehradun is also home to ONGC Headquarters. Apart from headquarters Dehradun also houses important research institutes of ONGC like KDMIPE (Institute of Petroleum Exploration);GEOPIC (Geodata Processing and Interpretation Center);IDT (Institute of Drilling Technology) The ICFAI University etc.

Some facts

Founded by Guru Dronacharya, according to the epic of Mahabharata, Dehradu is today one of the most developed cities of India. Situated on the threshold of a world full of adventure, spiritualism and tranquility, amidst the Shivalik ranges, the foothills of Himalayas, Dehra Dun is an entry point for all the trekkers and mountaineers onto their journey into the Garhwal Himalayas. A gateway to the popular hill station of Mussoorie and the pilgrimage centres of Haridwar and Rishikesh, Dehra Dun boasts of the famous Forest Research Institute and the Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy. Doon Valley finds its place between the two most important rivers of India Ganga and Yamuna, and is a picturesque town with moderate climate and a number of places of tourist interest.

Location:
258 km from Delhi, Dehradun is set amidst a valley in the Shivaliks, the foothills of the Himalayas at an altitude of 2,200 feet above sea level.
Significance:
Capital of the state of Uttaranchal.
Climate:
Summers are hot and temperature ranges between 27° C to 41° C while winters are pleasanter and may get cold as the temperature ranges from 9° C to 27° C.

Dehradun (Where to Stay)
There is ample accommodation option available in Dehradun. There are several hotels, government guesthouses and dharmshalas that cater to the needs of the tourists to Dehradun. You may pick up your accommodation option are as per your budget. In case you are planning a trip to Dehradun in the summers, getting advance reservations made for the stay will be better. Since, Dehradun is one of the most popular hill resorts in India, among the locals as well as foreigners.

Fairs & festivals
The hill resort of Dehradun hosts several fairs and festivals. Dehradun celebrates the Jhanda Fair on the fifth day after Holi every year in March/April. The fair honors Guru Ram Rai who arrived in dehradun in 1699 on the same day. He built a gurudwara called Guru Ram Rai Durbar and hoisted his flag on it. The followers come together and the flag is ceremoniously unfurled at the Jhanda Chowk of Dehradun. The Tapkeshwar temple of Dehradun celebrates the Shivratri fair with much fervor. Devotees of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati throng the Tapkeshwar Temple during the annual Shivratri fair. Then there is the Lakhawar Fair that is celebrated in the Lakhawar village during the months of September-October every year. Dance, music, and sports competitions mark the celebrations of the fairs in Dehradun.

Weather forecast

Jaipur photos

Jaipur-Pink city

Jaipur is the first planned city of India, located in the desert lands of Rajasthan. The city that once had been the capital of the royalty, now serves as the capital city of Rajasthan. The very structure of Jaipur resembles the taste of the Rajputs and the Royal family. In the present date, Jaipur is the major business centre for the natives of Rajasthan with all requisites of a metropolitan city. The city of Jaipur, painted in pink, grasp the appreciation of every visitor. One can see that hoary charm still alive in the avenues of Jaipur. The active streets of Jaipur get plenty of visitors, every year at their footsteps. The Ancient Testimonials in the form of mind-blowing monuments remind one of the past ages. The city comprises the famous structures like Hawa Mahal, City Palace and Amber Fort, the best architectural examples of India. Artistic temples and gardens of Jaipur, marks the atmosphere of serenity and aestheticism to the lands of Rajasthan. The lively city observes its ethnicity by celebrating various festivals like Kite festival, Elephant festival and many others, of Indian origin. All theses features make Jaipur, one of the most sought after tourist destinations of Rajasthan, India. The glorious city boasts of its cultural heritage from every nook and corner. Jaipur is the reservoir of Indian customs, traditions, civilization and legacy. Jaipur lies at a distance of 260 kms from Delhi, the capital of India and the city is well-connected with other major cities of India. Every year, People across the globe come to experience this royal capital city of Rajasthan.

Location & weather

Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan, a state in the Northern part of India. The pink city would have been a part of Thar Desert, if the Aravalli Hills have not separated them. As a result, Jaipur is located under the kind protection of Aravalli Hills. Under the terms of geography, Jaipur extends from latitude 26.92 degrees in the north to longitude 75.82 degrees in the east. The city covers an area of 200.4 sq kms and lies at an altitude of 431 m above sea level. Talking about the geographical location of Jaipur, India, the city is situated in the northern part of India. Jaipur is located in a very dry and sandy area. The pink city of Jaipur is located at a comfortable distance of about 258 kilometres from Delhi, 232 kilometres from Agra, 350 kilometres from Gwalior and 405 kilometres from Udaipur. Jaipur is well-connected with all major cities of the country by air, rail and road.

Ramgarh lake in jaipur

Ramgarh is located at a distance of 25kms from the city of Jaipur. In the present day, this primeval spot is eminent for its huge artificial lake. This lake has been shaped by raising a high bund amidst the hills covered with trees. In the rainy season, when the lake gets inundated with water, people come in large numbers for a picnic. Ramgarh Lake is around 4 kms in length and 2 kms in width, big enough to please the crowds. Ramgarh is a place of royal past that boasts of a majestic hunting lodge. However, the lodge has been converted into a gateway hotel with the changing times. The wrecks of the ancient fort still remind one of its old days when the Kachhawah's first settled here before moving on to Amer. Even today, the temple of Jamwa Mata attracts the tourists for its magnificent architecture. Every year, people from far and near come to visit the place. Another attraction at Ramgarh is the Polo grounds, located between the Aravalli Hills and Ramgarh Lake. This Ground is considered as India's best Polo ground. Finely groomed, this ground has the best trained horses unlike anywhere. At present, though the original structures are in ruins, still the beautiful scenery of Ramgarh, makes it a relaxing picnic spot and worth a visit.

History

Jaipur, the pink city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a Kachwaha Rajput, who ruled from 1699-1744. Initially his capital was Amber (city), which lies at a distance of 11 km from Jaipur. He felt the need of shifting his capital city with the increase in population and growing scarcity of water. Jaipur is the first planned city of India and the King took great interest while designing this city of victory. He consulted several books on architecture and architects before making the lay out of Jaipur.
After several battles with Marathas, Jai Singh was keen on the security aspect of the city. Due to this reason, he focused on his scientific and cultural interests to make a brilliant city. Being, a lover of mathematics and science, Jai Singh sought advice from Vidyadhar Bhattacharya, a Brahmin scholar of Bengal, to aid him design the city architecture. Vidyadhar referred the ancient Indian literature on astronomy, books of Ptolemy and Euclid, and discussed the plan with the King.
With a strategic plan, the construction of the city started in 1727. It took around 4 years to complete the major palaces, roads and square. The city was built following the principles of Shilpa Shastra, the Indian Architecture. The city was divided into nine blocks, out of which two consist the state buildings and palaces, whereas the remaining seven blocks were allotted to the public. In order to ensure the security, huge fortification walls were made along with seven strong gates.
According to that time, architecture of the town was very advanced and certainly the best in Indian subcontinent. In 1853, when the Prince of Wales visited Jaipur, the whole city was painted pink to welcome him. Today, the neat and broadly laid-out avenues, painted in pink provide a magical charm to the city[neutrality disputed]. Jaipur is rich in its cultural and architectural beauty, which can be traced in the various historical and aesthetic places that reside in the city. This city of victory really wins the hearts of the people with its splendid charisma.[neutrality disputed]
In the 19th century the city grew rapidly and became prosperous; by 1900 it had a population of 160,000. The city's wide boulevards were paved and lit with gas. The city had several hospitals. Its chief industries were in metals and marble, fostered by a school of art founded in 1868. The city also had three colleges, including a Sanskrit college (1865) and a girls' school (1867) initiated under the reign of the enigmatic Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II. There was also a wealthy and enterprising community of native bankers, particularly the Jains and the Marwaris.


Lakshmi-Narayan Temple
Jaipur is considered by many urbanisms to be one of the best planned cities. It has been claimed to be the first planned city in India.It was at that time one of the best planned cities in Asia. Jaipur's kings are not considered to be good rajputs but were certainly good rulers. In an era when most of the rajputs were busy fighting with each other, Jaipur's kings diplomatically broadened their control sphere maintaining good relations with the Mughals.
The city was planned according to Indian Vastu Shastra (Vedic or Pouranic Planning for the comfort and prosperity of the citizens). The directions of each street and market are east to West and North to South. The Eastern gate is called Suraj (Sun) Pol, while the Western gate is called Chand (Moon) Pol. There are only three gates facing East, west, and North including the Northern gate (known as Zorawar Singh gate) which faces toward the ancestral capital of Amber, while many gates face South.
Although the present city has expanded from outside of its walls, the original planning was within the walls. The gates used to be closed at sunset and opened at sunrise. Almost all Northern Indian towns of that period presented a chaotic picture of narrow twisting lanes, a confusion of run-down forts, temples, palaces, and temporary shacks that bore no resemblance at all to the principles set out in Hindu architectural manuals which call for strict geometric planning. Thus, for Sawai Jai Singh II and the Bengali Guru Vidyadhar (who was a 'Shaspati' - Hindu Priest Architect), the founding of Jaipur was also a ritual and a bronze opportunity to plan a whole town according to the principles of Hindu architectural theory.
The town of Jaipur is built in the form of a eight-part Mandala known as the 'Pithapada'. Nine signifies the nine planets of the ancient astrological zodiac. It is also known that Sawai Jai Singh II was a great astronomer and a town planner, and hence the 'Pithapada'. Also, the commercial shops are designed in multiples of nine (27), having one cross street for a planet.

Infrastructure

In a recent international survey Jaipur was ranked the 7th best place to visit in Asia and in another poll it was ranked third among twelve major Indian cities.
Modern infrastructural facilities are developing fast, and in many cases surpass those of larger cities like Delhi and Calcutta[citation needed]. The city is expanding very quickly and has become a hot spot for development in Rajasthan. Jaipur International Airport is located at a satellite location of Sanganer and offer's flights to Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Kolkata and Guwahati along with sproadic services to International locations such as Dubai.
Since 2000 Jaipur has become a centre for education. The city is very peaceful and many north Indian families prefer to send their offspring to Jaipur for higher and technical education. Jaipur has more than 40 engineering colleges, 40 business management institutes, 15 pharmacy institutes, 4 hotel management institutes, 3 medical colleges and 6 dental colleges. It also has 8 universities including Rajasthan University. Malaviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur is one of the best technical institutes in India.
Jaipur has a well maintained road network with multi-story flyovers and traffic lights with closed circuit cameras. Police control room (PCR) vans are being equipped with GPS to monitor locations and help maintain law and order.
Jaipur boasts of International Living standards with well planned colonies of grid like patterns (sectors and blocks) and parks well maintained by JDA. Mansarovar housing colony is the largest housing colony in Asia. Two new colonies Anupam vihar and Abhinav vihar have been recently added to Jaipur by JDA. There are so many shopping malls and Multiplex which offer a urban lifestyle to Jaipurites.
SMS Criket stadium is also located here, which is a popular venue for many international matches and for Indian Premier League matches. Events like Jaipur Jewelry Show and Jaipur Literature Festival are offering a common platform for people not only from India but from other countries also, giving Jaipur a cosmopolitan image. .

Athirappilly - Vazhachaal

Athirappilly is a first grade Grama Panchayath with 489.00 km² area in Mukundapuram Taluk, Thrissur district in Kerala, south India. It is located 70 km from Kochi city, 55 km from Cochin International Airport, 60 km from Thrissur city and 30 km from Chalakudy town.
Athirappally Waterfalls is located 78 kms from Kochi (Cochin), located at the entrance to Sholayar ranges, this waterfall is a popular picnic spot. Affording to the onlookers, one of the most bewitching sights, Athirappally Falls is about 80 feet high and located in the forest area. Combined with the greenery, it infuses freshness into any tired soul. The Athirapally Falls join the Chalakkudy River after plummeting a drop of 80 feet.

A tranquil and much needed escape from the troubles and stress of life. Let the soothing sounds take you to some of natures most relaxing places - the beautiful waterfalls of Athirampally and Vazhachal (Pronounced as vaazhachaal).

The charm of the Athirampally and Vazhachal nature cannot be described by words, Starting calmly from the high ranges, and crashing through gorges overhung with trees, these waterfall is one of the best places in India to re-capture a real sense of the classical idea of the 'Picturesque' - not just calm and sweet, but something wild and natural.

These falls are very popular with tourists. It is a bewitching site, about 80 ft high. Combining with greenery, it infuses energy and peace into any tired soul. The cool misty waters cascading down in the backdrop of the thick green forests and rocky terrain, are a scintillating experience to any visitor or tourist.

Environment & tourism

Athirappilly is popular among tourists. Athirappilly Falls is one of the best places to visit in Kerala. Another popular waterfall to visit is the Vazhachal Falls. Athirappilly Falls is a part of Chalakudy river and it is approximately 80 feet in height. Athirappilly is easily reachable from Chalakudy by taking a vehicle for rent or by bus from the Chalakudy private bus terminal.
Proper precautions are taken on site to prevent mishaps while swimming and a police camp is always positioned there. Since Athirappilly is situated on the highway connecting Tamil Nadu and Kerala, night riding is not advised.

The athirapilly waterfalls are situated in the chalakudy river,originates from upper reaches of westernghats.many endangered and endemic species of flora and founa are found in the forests of athirapilly-vazhachal area(this area is the only place in western ghats where all the four endangered hornbill species are seen).the western ghats is one of the most important biodiversity hot spot in the world.this valuable natural world is already degraded by mining and hydro electric projects.

Perched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala's famed rain forests, the waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. wild and beautiful, unspoilt by the passing of time.Both this waterfalls are a part of the Chalakudy river and 5 km apart on the road to hill station (valparai) which has excellent tea estate and is one of India's highest elephant density habitats and is a crucial corridor between Parambikulam and MalayatturPerched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala's famed rain forests, the Athirapalli waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. The water plunges and joins to the Chalakudi River. The scenic attraction of Vazhachal, the other picnic spot is just a drive from Athirampally. These scintillating waterfalls in thick green forest are a part of the Chalakudy river stream.
The riparian forests of the Chalakudy River have revealed the existence of a thick riparian vegetation of more than 10 metres width for a distance of 10.5 km downstream from Peringalkuth, covering an area of 58.5 hectares. Out of this, 26.4 hectares lie within the Vazachal area, including three large islands densely covered by riparian forests.

The riparian forests of the area have been found to be characterised by the presence of typical riparian species of plants, in addition to evergreen and semi-evergreen species.Out of the 319 species of flowering plants identified from the study area, 24 are endemic species of the Western Ghats and 10 are rare and endangered.

Moreover, the Chalakudy River is known for its diversity, as it contains 85 species of fresh water fishes out of the 152 species known from Kerala. Among these, 35 are endemic species of the Western Ghats and nine are considered to be endangered.

Kolkata

Kolkata : the human cityThe Ganges (called the Hooghly in Kolkata) is still the inspiration, as it was to Job Charnok, East India Company agent, who reached the shores in August 1690 finally, to settle here.The City was founded 300 years ago out of 3 villages namely Sutanati, Gobindapur and Kolikata. Once the capital of British India, the capital of undevided Bengal and now the capital of West Bengal since Independence. Kolkata, on the east bank of river Hooghly, retains the aura of days long gone, weaving the past and the present, the intense and the funloving into a charming fabric.

Buildings in Central Kolkata

Home to five Nobel laureates – Ronald Ross, Sir C.V. Raman, Rabindranath Tagore, Mother Teresa and Amartya Sen, Kolkata is the nerve centre of intellect and human values, where many modern movements began in art, cinema and theatre, science and industry. India’s quest for freedom began here.
Kolkata is the gateway to Eastern India. A city with a rich heritage, bustling streets and bewildering variety of facets. From October to March, Kolkata wears a radiant look. Sunshine, mild winter, lights, colours, fairs, festivals, galas and excursions, the mood is infectious and spirit sweeping.

Sports

Kolkata is a city of sports lovers. West Bengal and specially Kolkata have famous Football & Hockey Clubs, Cricket Clubs and centres of Table Tennis, Lawn Tennis, Polo and Golf. Eden Gardens is often used for holding world-class cricket matches. There is Yuba Bharati Krirangan, the biggest sports stadium in Asia. Apart from the Netaji Indoor Stadium in Kolkata, there are good stadiums at Durgapur, Kharagpur and Siliguri as well. Water Sports have acquired a remarkable position besides cricket and football. Swimming and Boating facilities have been made readily available by many prestigious hotels and resorts in Kolkata.
Efforts are being made to develop Golf Villages of international standard in the Dooars and in the outskirts of Kolkata to make Kolkata city the gateway to South-East Asia, a centre of big business and the headquarters of big industries and a paradise for golfers and to give a boost to the hotel industry in the city.
Tourism Department with the State Sports and Youth Services Department and various non-Government sports organisations is planning and organising national and international sports meets at regular intervals not only in Kolkata but also at Durgapur, Kharagpur and Siliguri in such a manner to ensure flow of both domestic and foreign tourist to West Bengal round the year.

Art & culture

Yes, it is a world beyond the boundaries. Where there’s a sea of knowledge, culture and arts. And it would take us a lifetime to take you on that journey.
But in the spirit of a true Bengali, we offer you a helping hand into this amazing world.
The state is well-known for its superb arts ad crafts made of silk, ivory, shola, conchshell, dhokra and beautiful clay models. Also worth-mentioning are Baluchari saris and the famous woollen carpets, blankets as well as knitted garments.
Vishnupur is famous for conchshell products as well as for Baluchari saris. Malda and Murshidabad take pride in silk materials while the latter can also boast of producing exquisite ivory items.
For clay model items, Krishnanagar is the place. The hilly areas of the State specialise in blankets and woollen knitted garments and ‘tanka’ paintings (scrolls), decorative kukris and copper plates studded with stones with engravings of replicas of deities.

Festivals

There’s a popular Bengali saying: ‘Baro Mase Tero Parban’: it literally means thirteen festivals in twelve months but signifies the umpteen number of fairs and festivals that take place.
The calendar is often likened to a splendid pageantry of fairs and festivals. A veritable feast for the senses and the mind.
Come autumn, the air is rent with the sound of drums, the season of festivals. The Durga Puja, followed by Id and then, Dewali, the Festival of Lights.
In November-December Rasajatra is celebrated. Navanna, the harvest festival is celebrated in this month.
Come winter, it is time to celebrate Christmas. And the Ganga Sagar Mela drawing lakhs of devotees from all parts of India. Winter is also the season of cultural events like the Poush Mela in Santiniketan and Joydev Mela, the festival of wandering minstrels at Kenduli.
In January-February Saraswati Puja (Goddess of Learning) is celebrated in almost all Bengalee home.
With the advent of spring, comes Holi, the festival of colours. So does Shivaratri; to celebrate the occasion, fairs at Jalpesh in Jalpaiguri and Tarakeswar in Hooghly takes place. In April the most important festival is Charak; the fair at Tarakeswar attracts large number of devotees.
Poila Baishakh the Bengali New Year is celebrated in April. Another important event in the month of May is Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s Birthday.
In June-July, there is Rathajatra, the most famous in the State being the one held at Mahesh, a suburb of Kolkata.
For the city of Kolkata, winter is one continuous stream of fairs – industrial, art, textiles, leather. Then, there are Book Fairs, Classical music, dance and drama festivals, Film festivals. The list goes on.
In short, there’s never a dull moment for the tourist.
A moveable feast for the senses and the mind.Gangasagar Mela : The largest fair of the State, Gangasagar Mela is a three-day event held in mid-January, on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, at Sagar Dwip. Lakhs of pilgrims come for a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganga and the Bay of Bengal. Kenduli Mela : on the occasion of Makar Sankranti (mid-January) another fair is held at Kenduli in the district of Birbhum. The Mela draws the largest number of Bauls, the wandering minstrels of Bengal.Jalpesh Mela : On the occasion of Sivaratri (February - March), a month-long fair is held at Jalpesh near Mainaguri in the district of Jalpaiguri. The fair centres round the age-old Siva temple dedicated to Lord Jalpeswara. Vasanta Utsav : With the onset of spring, Holi is celebrated all throughout India. At Santiniketan in the district of Birbhum, it is Vasanta Utsav (March). Students of the Visva Bharati University welcome the season of colours through songs and dances, throwing abir and spraying liquid dyes at each other. Naba Barsho : The Bengali year starts from the first Baisakh (mid-April). It is an occasion for celebration to the Bengalees in general and tradesmen in particular. New clothes, fresh flowers, offerings at temples, people visiting decorated shops mark the day.Rathayatra : Rathayatra (June-July) at Mahesh near Serampore is a week-long festival. People throng to have a share in pulling the long ropes attached to the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra on the journey from the temple and back. Jhapan : All over the Western part of the state, a festival is held in the honour of the serpent-deity Manasa on the last day of the Bengali month Sravana (mid-August). But the most spectacular is the one held at Vishnupur in the district of Bankura, with its shows of live snakes on open platforms. Bera Utsav : Every year on the last Thursday of the Bengali month of Bhadra mid-September), Bera Utsav is held at Lalbagh on the river Bhagirathi near the palace of the Nawabs. Fireworks of various size and colour add to the gaiety of the festival. Durga Puja & Deepavali : The largest Bengali festival is Durga Puja, held in the Bengali month of Aswin (October). Images of the ten-armed goddess are worshipped in ancient houses and at pandals, erected specially for the Puja. After the four-day ceremony, the images are immersed in the river. Durgapuja is the most important festival in the city of Calcutta. The festival that follows is Deepavali, the festival of lights,. The worship of goddess Kali is marked by display of fireworks and crackers. Rash Mela : On the occasion of Rashyatra (November), a fair is held at Cooch Behar in North Bengal. The month-long fair is one of the most important fairs in the area. Jagaddhatri Puja : Goddess Jagaddhatri is worshipped in the Bengali month of Kartick (November). At Chandannagar near Calcutta images of the goddess are tall, pandals spectacular and the illumination unique. In fact, the illumination part is the most attractive feature here. Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival : Held in a series at Darjeeling, the Dooars and in Sikkim, the Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival is celebrated with a view to promote tourism in this region as a composite tourist destination, with its bounties in tea, timber and tourism. The festival is held every year in November - December. Poush Mela : Between the 7th and 9th of Poush (end-December). Poush Mela is held at Santiniketan in the district of Birbhum. Of the many seasonal festivals celebrated at Santiniketan, this is perhaps the most important, with cultural programmes consisting of folk music & dance, folk theatre and Baul songs.Vishnupur Festival : In the temple town of Vishnupur a festival is organised every year between 27 and 31 December. Characterised by exhibition and sale of local handicrafts and performance of the rich musical tradition that Vishnupur boasts, this is an immensely popular festival

Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial was built in Kolkata during the years of the British Raj

calcutta High court

DUBAI

It has spectacular beaches but is not Australia; it is one of the world’s most secure destinations but is not Singapore; it has opulent city hotels and superb beachside resorts but is neither Jakarta nor Bali. It has world class shopping but is not Hong Kong.

WELCOME TO THE DESERT’S MOST EXCITING CITY Welcome to Dubai, city of merchants, cultural crossroads, second largest of the seven United Arab Emirates. A country where the dust of the desert is clearing to reveal the potential for one of the most significant international cities of the 21st century.

Wedged between Europe and Asia, buttressed by Africa, Dubai’s encouraging tax regimes, state-of-the-art telecommunications and sympathetic business environment have produced a country that is building energetically on the advantages which location, centuries-old trading savvy and oil wealth have given it.

Dubai is not just a city of excitement. It’s also a city of surprises. Try the ice skating rink in the Galleria shopping mall at the Hyatt Regency, where young men wearing traditional dish dash dress pirouette around the ice while their friends consume French pastries and coffee at Frosty’s cafe.

Overview

Since a very long time, Dubai has occupied an outstanding position on the trade map of this region. It has always been a flourishing business centre, and its Creek has played a major role in the economic development achieved by this city. The Creek has constantly been an important and a safe harbor for small and medium size ships which sail to the ports of the Arabian Gulf region, the countries of the Indian subcontinent and East Africa, loaded with different goods which are re-exported to these various regions. Business Activities in Dubai Dubai is distinguished as one of the trade centers in the Arabian Gulf region. It has acquired this position for several reasons which can be summarized as follows: Firstly: It occupies a strategic competitive location in the middle of the U.A.E. coast stretching along 400 miles. Its distinct location in the south - western part of the Arabian Gulf enabled it to play an active trading role in linking the maritime lines on one hand, and facilitating transportation of goods between the East and the West on the other hand. Secondly: Dubai has strengthened its distinguished strategic location by pursuing a free and balanced economic policy that has given it a good reputation in the international, commercial and economic communities, which encouraged national and foreign capitals to enter into successful investment ventures in different commercial, industrial and services fields. Thirdly: Dubai has boosted the importance of its strategic location and emphasized its free economic policy by setting up complete infrastructural projects along with other services and utilities. Dubai has put in operation these facilities with high efficiency which had an immediate and positive impact on growth rates in the economic sectors, social development and improving living standards of the individual. In general, the economy of the Emirate of Dubai is based on two main activities which are non-oil trade and oil producing and exporting. Dubai has witnessed, during the last three decades, rapid growth of its trade and industrial activities taking advantage of its several characteristics including its strategic location over-looking the Arabian Gulf, the completion of its infrastructural projects and the running of these facilities according to the latest standards. This has enabled Dubai to become one of the most important centers for imports, exports, and re-exports in the region. During the last two decades Dubai has worked to strengthen its industrial base with the aim of diversifying the sources of income. Therefore, it has established heavy industrial projects in the Jebel Ali Free Zone, and the active private sector has contributed to setting up medium and small manufacturing industries achieving a kind of self sufficiency in some commodities, and even in certain commodities local needs are exceeded and the surplus is exported to overseas markets. Dubai Foreign Trade During previous years, foreign trade in Dubai was very active and achieved a considerable rise in the rates of trade exchange growth locally, regionally and internationally. This active movement was a reflection of the requirements of the local and regional markets covered by trading channels which are the free import of most consumable, intermediate and capital goods. A. Nature of Commodity Exports (Non-Oil) and their Geographical Location Dubai takes the lead among the other Emirates in the volume of exports as Dubai’s exports constitute around 82.2% of the country’s total exports. The non-oil exports consist of two main groups namely: export of traditional commodities which include dates, hides, frozen and dried fish, iron scrap and other metals. This group represents a minor percentage of the total exports value, the most of which is directed to the Gulf States and the countries of the Indian subcontinent. The second group is the export of manufacturing industries which are imported by the Arabian Gulf countries and other international markets. Dubai exports aluminum ingots, liquefied gas and readymade garments to Japan, the People’s Republic of China, India, Taiwan, the United States, and some industrial countries in Western Europe . The AGCC markets consume most of the remaining of the U.A.E. exports from manufactured commodities such as foodstuff, chemicals, plastic products, building materials and metallic products. It is noticeable that Dubai’s exports of traditional agricultural commodities or modern manufactured goods are minimal. Nevertheless, it is hoped that Dubai’s exports of manufactured goods such as aluminum ingots, liquefied gas, cement, electric cables and others will increase in the near future due to the expansion of the industrial activity in the country. As to the geographical distribution of Dubai’s commodity exports, Japan occupied the first rank in 1998 with a share of 10% of Dubai’s total exports, while the share of the AGCC countries in the same year was 9%. B. Nature of Commodity Imports (Non-Oil) and their Geographical Distribution The volume and value of Dubai’s annual imports is an important indicator of the whole commercial activities in the U.A.E. since Dubai imports more than two thirds of the U.A.E. requirements of all kinds of consumable, intermediate and capital goods in addition to a part of the requirements of the AGCC countries. The (non-oil) commodity imports of Dubai registered an increasing growth in recent years. Dubai occupies the first place among other Emirates in terms of its share of imports which equaled 73.8% of the value of the U.A.E. total imports in 1999. During 1999, Dubai imported from 171 countries all over the world. Most of Dubai imports originated from the United States of America, Japan, China, United Kingdom, Germany, South Korea, India, Italy, France and Taiwan. The total share of these countries represented 71% of Dubai’s imports. C. Nature of Re-exported Commodities and their Geographical Distribution Over its long commercial history, Dubai has been well known as an active centre for re-export trade to the neighboring Gulf countries. Dubai’s re-exports have gone beyond that to reach the Indian subcontinent and the Eastern coasts of Africa. Dubai has recently been able to invest its own abilities and take advantage of its several diversified facilities to expand its re-export activities to cover all the Gulf and Arab countries and countries of Asia, Europe, America and some African states, re-exporting about 30% of its annual total imports. The re-export trade in Dubai plays an important role in its foreign trade as its share amounted to 70% of the U.A.E. total re-exports in 1999, excluding the goods re-exported from the Jebel Ali Free Zone which were worth Dhs. 15,031 million. Destinations of Dubai re-exports totaled 167countries, most important of them are Iran, India, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Turkey, Algeria and Turkmenistan. The total value of goods re-exported to these countries amounted to Dhs. 6,830 million or 44% of the value of re-exported goods. The value of re-exports to the AGCC countries amounted to about Dhs. 2,500 million or 15% of the re-exports value. The Infrastructure The Government of Dubai has given top priority to complete infrastructural utilities on the basis of which the drive of economic and social development in the Emirate depends. Here are brief notes on the most important facilities in Dubai: A. Airports Dubai International Airport Duty Free Complex Cargo Village B. Seaports Port Rashid Jebel Ali Port Jebel Ali Port is the world’s largest man-made harbour and the biggest port in the Middle East in terms of size. Construction of the port commenced in August 1976 and was officially inaugurated in July 1979 with a total construction period of three years. Dubai Creek Historically Dubai Creek had tremendous commercial importance locally and regionally. It has always been a safe harbour to the sailing ships and dhows visiting the Creek from the Arabian Gulf, Indian sub-continent and East African Ports. Those ships used to be loaded with various cargo either for local distribution or re-export. The importance of Dubai Creek as an efficient means for upgrading the commercial activity in Dubai was a justification to introduce some necessary improvements. Hamriyah Port Dubai Government considers the possibility of setting up another port in order to handle small fishing ships and to accommodate part of the wooden commercial ships. Hamriyah Port provides many facilities, for example, the wooden ships visiting the port are exempted from all fees as an encouragement to this type of ships which is closely linked with the active commercial history of Dubai. Container Repair Container repair workshops are located adjacent to Port Rashid’s Container Terminal. These workshops provide integrated repair facilities to the shipping companies and chatterers while the containers are in the free storage area which minimizes any additional costs. D. Internal Roads & Highways Dubai Government constructed a network of modern internal roads to link the various parts of the city with each other. The Government also constructed a number of bridges and tunnels on cross roads. Meanwhile, highways were paved to link the Emirate with the rest of the U.A.E., and with the neighboring Gulf countries. The length of these roads totaled 657.4 kms. The construction cost of these roads, bridges and tunnels exceeded Dhs. 4.5b. E. Telecommunications (Etisalat) F. Electricity Water (DEWA) Dubai Electricity Water Authority G. International Trade Fairs Exhibitions Dubai is considered an ideal venue to hold any seminar, conference or trade exhibition, whatever its size, since large halls and spacious showrooms are available in all major hotels and some public bodies such as Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Dubai Municipality, Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai International Airport. These halls are equipped with all facilities such as interpretation, telex, secretarial and audio visual services.

DELHI

New Delhi, the capital and the third largest city of India is a fusion of the ancient and the modern. Standing along the West End of Gangetic Plain, the capital city, Delhi, unwinds a picture rich with culture, architecture and human diversity, deep in history, monuments, museums, galleries, gardens and exotic shows. Comprising of two contrasting yet harmonious parts, the Old Delhi and New Delhi, the city is a travel hub of Northern India. Narrating the city's Mughal past, Old Delhi, takes you through the labyrinthine streets passing through formidable mosques, monuments and forts. You will also discover lively and colorful bazaars that boast to cater all sorts of good and items at mind-blowing prices amidst a barely controlled chaotic ambience. The imperial city of New Delhi displays the finely curved architecture of British Raj. It generates a mesmerizing charm reflecting well-composed and spacious streets under the shade of beautifully lined avenues of trees and tall and imposing government buildings. New Delhi has expanded and now encompasses residential and commercial development to the west and south, plus the satellite towns of Noida, Gurgaon and Faridabad. Delhi has overtaken Mumbai & Kolkata in recent years to become the most vibrant creative art center in India. The city has more than twenty five galleries. Conducted tours, seminars, film shows and study classes on art appreciation, history and conservation are frequently organized. Most of the performing art centers are around Mandi House and Bhagwan Das Road. There is an amazing range of activity from cultural walks, talks, theatre productions and art exhibitions to films by Indian and foreign directors. One can find an option at the Habitat World at Lodhi Road as well as Siri Fort at Khel Gaon.

Area : 1483 sq. Kms.

Altitude : 239 m above sea level

Population : 1,3782976 (2001 census)

Males : 51.21 million Females : 42.49 million

Literacy rate : 81.82%

Density : 9294 persons per sq. Km.

Languages : Hindi, English, Urdu and Punjabi

Climate : Extreme Hot in Summer and Cold in Winter
Maximum Temperature : 46 Degree Celcius
Minimum Temperature : 04 Degree Celcius

Winter : December - February
Spring : March to mid April

Summer : April end to August
Autumn : September to November
Best time to Visit : October to March
River : Yamuna



Akshardham temple


Swaminarayan Akshardham reflects the essence and magnitude of India's ancient architecture, traditions and timeless spirituality.

The main monument, depicting ancient Indian "vastu shastra" and architecture, is a marvel in pink sandstone and white marble that is 141 feet high, 316 feet wide and 370 feet long with 234 ornate pillars, over 20,000 sculptures and statues of deities, eleven 72-foot-high huge domes (mandapams) and decorative arches. And like a necklace, a double-storied parikrama of red sandstone encircles the monuments with over 155 small domes and 1,160 pillars. The whole monument rises on the shoulders of 148 huge elephants with 11-feet tall panchdhatu statue of Swaminarayan presiding over the structure.

Rashtrapati Bhavan





















Rashtrapati Bhavan is the presidential palace.

Laxminarayanan Temple

Laxminarayan Temple is one of the most famous Vaishnavite temple in India.

Yantra Mandir

Yantra Mandir consists of 13 architectural astronomy instruments, built by Maharaja Jai Singh II between 1727 to 1734.
Humayun's Tomb












Humayun's Tomb is one of Delhi's most famous landmarks. The monument has an architectural design similar to the Taj Mahal.
India Gate

The India Gate is one of the most famous monuments in Delhi. Built in the memory of more than 90,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives during the Afghan Wars and World War I.

Jama Masjid












The Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in Asia-Pacific.

New Delhi Lotus

Lotus Temple is a Bahá'í House of Worship and the Mother Temple of the Indian Subcontinent.

Red Fort

The Red Fort is the site from which the Prime Minister of India addresses the nation on Independence Day.

Qutub Minar

At 72.5 meters, the 13th century Qutub Minar is the world's tallest brick minaret.

Gulf of Mexico

Mass Migration of Stingrays
Looking like giant leaves floating in the sea, thousands of Golden Rays are seen
here gathering off the coast of Mexico The spectacular scene was captured as
the magnificent creatures made one of their biannual mass migrations to more
agreeable waters.
Gliding silently beneath the waves , they turned vast areas of blue water to gold
off the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula Sandra Critelli, an amateur
photographer, stumbled across the phenomenon while looking for whale sharks.
She said: 'It was an unreal image, very difficult to describe.
The surface of the water was covered by warm and different shades of
gold and looked like a bed of autumn leaves gently moved by the wind.

It's hard to say exactly how many there were,
but in the range of a few thousand'

We were surrounded by them without seeing the edge of the school
and we could see many under the water surface too. I feel very fortunate
I was there in the right place at the right time to experience nature at its best'Measuring up to 7ft (2.1 meters) from wing-tip to wing-tip,
Golden rays are also more prosaically known as cow nose rays

They have long, pointed pectoral fins that separate into two lobes in front
of their high-domed heads and give them a cow-like appearance.
Despite having poisonous stingers, they are known to be shy and non-threatening
when in large schools.
The population in the Gulf of Mexico migrates, in schools of as many as
10,000, clockwise from western Florida to the Yucatan

Brisbane ,Queensland is one of the most populated city in Australia.

The Barossa Valley wine-producing region of South Australia. Fewer than 15% of Australians live in rural areas

This was a port in Tasmania in Australia

These are the photos of places near kanangra-national park