Pilgrimage Tours of India

 

Hindu Pilgrimage Tour

Vaishnoo Devi Tour

Amarnath Yatra

Sikh Pilgrimage Tour

Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour

Jain Pilgrimage Tour

Muslim Pilgrimage Tour

 

 

 

 

Hindu Pilgrimage Tour

 
Duration : 15 Days / 14 Nights
Destinations Covered : Delhi - Haridwar - Yamunotri - Uttarkashi - Gangotri - Rudraprayag - Kedarnath - Badrinath - Delhi

Day - 01 - Arrive Delhi
On arrival our representative shall meet you at the airport to welcome you and transfer to hotel. Overnight hotel. Guide Map of Delhi

Day - 02 - Delhi
Today full day city tour covering – Qutab Minar, Laxmi Narayan Temple – The Place of Gods, India Gate - The memorial of martyrs, Parliament House – The Government Headquarters. In the afternoon take a city tour of Old Delhi covering Jama Masjid - The largest mosque in Asia, Red Fort - The red stone magic, Humayun Tomb, Gandhi memorial – The memoir of father of the nation. Overnight hotel. Guide Map of Uttaranchal

Day - 03 - Delhi – Haridwar
Today we shall drive you to Haridwar. On arrival check in into hotel. Later we shall take you for a visit to the Har – Ki – Pauri, enjoy the “AARTI” in the evening. Later back to hotel for overnight stay at the hotel.

Day - 04 - Haridwar – Syana Chatti
Today we shall drive you to Syana Chatti – a scenic spot on the banks of River Yamuna. Overnight hotel.

Day - 05 - Syana Chatti – Yamnotri – Syana Chatti
5kms By Road & 13 Kms trek one side. Drive to Hanuman Chatti, trek start to Yamunotri & Back. Overnight stay at Syana Chatti. Hanuman Chatti: The confluence of Hanuman Ganga & Yamuna River. Yamunotri Temple: Maharani Gularia of Jaipur built the temple in the 19th Century. It was destroyed twice in the present century and rebuilt again. Surya Kund: There are a Number of thermal springs in the vicinity of the temple, which flows into numerous pools. The most important of these is Surya Kund. Divya Shila: A rock pillar, worshipped before entering the Yamunotri Temple.

Day - 06 - Syana Chatti – Uttarkashi
Drive to Uttarkashi via Badkot. Uttarkashi: Situated at the bank of river Bhagirathi. The temple of Lord Vishwanath is located here where a massive iron trident is erected. The other important temples situated here are Ekadash Rudra, Bhairav, Gyaneshwar and Goddess Kuteti Devi. Overnight hotel.

Day - 07 - Uttarkashi – Gangotri – Uttarkashi
Drive to Gangotri. Gangotri Temple: The temple, constructed by the Gorkha General Amar Singh Thapa in the 18th Century, is situated on the right bank of Bhagirathi. Submerged Shivling: Submerged in the river, this natural rock Shivling is the place where, according to mythology Lord Shiva sat when he received the Ganga in his matted lock. It is visible in winter months when water level decreases. Kedar Ganga Sangam: Around 100 Yards from the Ganga Temple flows the river Kedar Ganga. Starting from the Kedar Valle, this river meets the Bhagirathi on its left bank. Gaumukh: The Gaumukh Glacier is the source of Bhagirathi & is held in the high esteem by the devouts who do not miss the opportunity to have a holy dip in the BONE CHILLING icy water. It is 18 km from Gangotri by trek. Either check in Hotel at Gangotri or back to Uttarkashi.

Day - 08 - Uttarkashi – Rudraprayag
After early breakfast, drive to Rudraprayag. Overnight Stay at Skylark’s Resort at Rudraprayag. Rudraprayag: It is the confluence of river Mandakini and river Alaknanda. Temples: Rudranath and Chamunda Devi, Koteshwar Temple (3 Kms). Overnight hotel.

Day - 09 - Rudraprayag – Gaurikund – Kedarnath
Drive to Gaurikund, Trek start from Gaurikund to Kedarnath. Gaurikund: At a distance of 5kms from Sonprayag and at an altitude of 1982 meters., one can take bath in the hot water pond here and visit the Gauri Temple. This is the place where Goddess Parvathi meditated to attain Lord Shiva. It is the base for a trek to Kedarnath.

Day - 10 - Kedarnath – Gaurikund – Rudraprayag
14kms Trek (Back) & 78 kms/3hr later back to Gaurikund from Kedarnath. Drive to Rudraprayag from Gaurikund. Check in into resort at Rudraprayag. Overnight hotel.

Day - 11 - Rudraprayag – Joshimath
Joshimath is situated on the slopes above the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. Of the four 'Maths' established by Adi Shankaracharya, Joshimath is in the Badrinath to Joshimath and installed in the temple for people to worship. Overnight hotel.

Day - 12 - Joshimath – Badrinath
Joshimath is situated on the slopes above the confluence of Alaknanda and Dhauliganga. Of the four 'Maths' established by Adi Shankaracharya, Joshimath is in the Badrinath to Joshimath and installed in the temple for people to worship. Overnight hotel.

Day - 13 - Badrinath - Govindghat
Today we shall drive you to Govindghat. On arrival check in into hotel. Overnight hotel.

Day - 14 - Govindghat - Haridwar - Delhi
Today we shall drive you back to Haridwar in time enough to catch the Shatabdi Express to Delhi. On arrival check in into hotel. Overnight hotel.

Day - 15 - Delhi Departure
Today transfer to Airport for flight back home.

 

 


 

Jain Temple Tours

» Take this tour. Contact us.
Duration : 4 Nights / 5 Days
Destinations Covered : Varanasi - Kushinagar (Kakandi and Pawanagar) - Shravasti - Ayodhya - Allahabad (Kaushambi) - Varanasi

 

Day 1  
0800 Hrs. Departure from Tourist Bungalow, Varanasi to local sight seeing
1230 Hrs. Departure for Sarnath
1300 Hrs. Arrival at Sarnath and Lunch
1400 Hrs. Departure for local sight seeing at Sarnath
1615 Hrs. Evening Tea at Hotel Mrigadava, Sarnath
1700 Hrs. Departure for Kushinagar and packed dinner in Coach
2300 Hrs. Arrival at Pathik Niwas, Kushinagar and Night Halt

 

Day 2  
0700 Hrs. Morning Tea at Pathik Niwas, Kushinagar
0800 Hrs. Breakfast at Pathik Niwas, Kushinagar
0900 Hrs. Departure for Kakandi
1200 Hrs. Arrival at Kakandi and local sight seeing & packed lunch
1400 Hrs. Departure for Kushinagar
1700 Hrs. Arrival at Kushinagar and Tea
1800 Hrs. Local sight seeing at Kushinagar
2100 Hrs. Arrival at Pathik Niwas, Dinner & Night halt

 

Day 3  
0700 Hrs. Morning Tea at Pathik Niwas, Kushinagar
0800 Hrs. Breakfast at Pathik Niwas , Kushinagar
0900 Hrs. Departure for Pawanagar
0930 Hrs. Arrival at Pawanagar and local sight seeing
1230 Hrs. Departure for Kushinagar
1300 Hrs. Arrival at Kushinagar
1315 Hrs. Lunch at Pathik Niwas, Kushinagar
1500 Hrs. Departure for Balrampur and packed dinner in Coach
2200 Hrs. Arrival at Tourist Bungalow, Balrampur and night halt

 

Day 4  
0700 Hrs. Morning Tea at Tourist Bungalow, Balrampur
0800 Hrs. Breakfast at Tourist Bungalow, Balrampur
0900 Hrs. Departure for Shravasti
0915 Hrs. Arrival at Shravasti
0920 Hrs. Local sight seeing at Shravasti
1130 Hrs. Departure for Ayodhya
1400 Hrs. Arrival at Ayodhya
1415 Hrs. Lunch at Hotel Saket, Ayodhya
1500 Hrs. Local sight seeing at Ayodhya
1900 Hrs. Departure for Allahabad and packed dinner in Coach
2230 Hrs. Arrival at Allahabad and night halt

 

Day 5  
0630 Hrs. Morning Tea at Hotel Ilawart, Allahabad
0730 Hrs. Breakfast at Hotel Ilawart, Allahabad
0830 Hrs. Departure for Kaushambi
1000 Hrs. Arrival at Kaushambi
1000 Hrs. Local sight seeing at Kaushambi and Prabhash Giri (Pabhosa)
1200 Hrs. Departure for Allahabad
1330 Hrs. Arrival at Allahabad
1330 Hrs. Lunch at Hotel Ilawart, Allahabad
1500 Hrs. Local sight seeing at Allahabad
1700 Hrs. Evening tea at Hotel Illawart, Allahabad
1800 Hrs. Departure for Varanasi
2100 Hrs. Arrival at Varanasi - Tour concludes

 

 


 
Upcoming Festivals

 

 

 


 

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

Amarnath Yatra with Helicopter (Rs. 11111/- onl

Duration : 02 Nights / 03 Days
Destinations Covered : Srinagar – Sonmarg - Baltal - Amarnath - Baltal - Srinagar

 
Day 01: Srinagar – Sonmarg 99 Kms
On arrival at Srinagar airport you will be met by our representative and three hours drive will take you to Sonmarg. Dinner and Overnight at Hotel

Day 02: Sonmarg – Baltal 15 Kms drive and Amarnath 24 Kms return
Leave very early in the morning round about 4AM and short drive to Baltal from here it will take 10 minutes Helicopter side to Amarnath Cave within two hours time you will reach back to Baltal. From here three hours drive will take you to Srinagar. Dinner and overnight at Hotel/ Houseboat.

Day 03: Srinagar
After breakfast day free for leisure and later transfer in time to the airport to connect onwards destination flight.

Tour Cost includes:
 
  • Transfers and transportation as per the program vehicle at disposal
  • Helicopter ticket from Baltal/Amarnath/Baltal
  • 01 Night at Super Deluxe Houseboat on MAP basis
  • 01 Night at Hotel Sonmarg Glacier view on MAP basis
  • Service of our representative during the tour
  • Rates are net and valid for the season of 2007

 

Muslim Pilgrimage Tour

 
Duration : 7 Days / 6 Nights
Destinations Covered : Delhi - Agra - Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur - Ajmer - Delhi

Day 1 : Delhi
On arrival at the international Airport the visitors are given a warm welcome.

Day 2 : Delhi
First and foremost, pay a holy visit to the famous Jama Masjid as well as to the Dargah of Sufi saint Nizamuddin Aulia. Thereafter, spend the whole afternoon visiting the second great architectural wonder also known as the Delhi Taj, the Humayun tomb and Qutub Minar.

Day 3 : Agra
Leave for the city of Taj, enroute Akbar's Tomb at Sikandra. Afterwards continue the exploration of the magnificent architecture and wonder of the world, Taj Mahal.

Day 4 : Fatehpur Sikri - Jaipur
Proceed towards Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri.Transferred to hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 5 : Ajmer
Visit Ajmer and pay a visit to the Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti. In the evening return back to Jaipur for an over night stay.

Day 6 : Jaipur
Journey of Jaipur begins from Amber Fort situated on the Aravali Hills. Later on, touring of the pink city firstly by visiting Maharaja's City palace and the observatory, the Hawa Mahal and the Palace on Wheels. Drive past the pink rose and residential and business areas of Jaipur. Later on, in the afternoon leave for Delhi by coach.

Day 7 : Delhi
Catch your flight for the next destination.

Char Dham Yatra

 
Duration : 12 Days / 11 Nights
Destinations Covered : Haridwar - Syana Chatti - Yamunotri - Uttarkashi - Gangotri - Rudraprayag - Badrinath

Day 01 : Delhi - Haridwar (210 kms)
Morning leave for Haridwar. Stop for lunch enroute at Cheetal Grand. On arrival check in hotel The Haveli Hari Ganga. Evening free at Har Ki Pauri to attend Aarti. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02 : Haridwar - Barkot - 230 kms (7 - 8 hrs)
Depart from Haridwar early morning and take lunch on the way in Mussoorie. Restart your journey and reach Barkot in the evening after visiting Kempty Falls on the way. On arrival check in The Chardham Camp Yamunotri, just 1 km out of Barkot town on the Yamunotri Road. Overnight at The Chardham Camp.

Day 03 : Barkot - Yamnotri - Barkot (Drive 32 kms, trek 10 kms round)
Again after an early breakfast leave for Hanuman Chatti ( Drive 32 kms ) to start your journey. Take a local jeep to reach Phool Chatti to shorten your trek by 5 kms. Arrive at Yamnotri and pray at temple and also take a holy Achman to start your most sacred pilgrimage to Char Dhams. Come back to Phool Chatti in the evening to return back to Camp resort for dinner and relaxation with Ayurvedic Massage at the resort. Overnight at The Chardham Camp.

Day 04 : Barkot - Uttarkashi (Drive 62 kms, 2 - 3 hrs)
After a relaxed breakfast leave for Uttarkashi. Reach Uttarkashi for lunch. On arrival check in Camp Hammock. Evening visit famous Vishwanath temple. Overnight at camp.

Day 05 : Uttarkashi - Gangotri - Uttarkashi (Drive 105 Kms one side)
After breakfast leave for Gangotri and on arrival take a holy dip in the River sacred The Ganges, also called Bhagirathi at its origin. Perform Pooja after that and relax for sometime in the lovely surroundings. Come back to Camp resort in the afternoon to relax in the bright sunshine and some of breathtaking views of the valley beautiful. In the evening perform the Ganga Aarti at resorts own riverbank. Dinner and overnight at Camp Hammock.

Day 06 : Uttarkashi - New Tehri (90 Kms)- Guptakashi (155 kms) (Drive 7 - 8 hrs)
After a very early breakfast leave for Guptkashi. Enroute stop at New Tehri for lunch at Camp Hammock. On the way see the heritage city of Tehri going down in to the mighty waters of Holy River Ganges, because of the construction of Tehri Dam. After lunch restart your journey and today for the first time see the river beautiful MANDAKINI. Travel along this to reach Guptakashi late in the evening. On arrival check in The Chardham Camp (Guptakashi) located 2 kms out of town towards Gaurikund. Dinner and overnight at The Chardham Camp.

Day 07 : Guptakashi - Kedarnath. ( Drive 32 kms trek 14 kms )
After breakfast pick up your packed Lunch and leave for Gaurikund ( a 32 kms drive one way ) on arrival start your journey on the tough trek ahead. Stop for the lunch en route and restart after that to arrive by late afternoon. On arrival check in Punjab Sind Awas. After freshening up perform Pooja and also Darshan at the Shri Kedarnath ji. In the evening also visit Adi Shankaracharya samadhi at the back of the temple. Dinner and overnight at Punjab Sind Awas.

Day 08 : Kedarnath - Guptakashi. (Trek 14 kms, drive 32 kms)
After breakfast start you journey back to Gaurikund and on arrival leave for Guptakashi by road to reach the Chardham Camp by evening. Relax with Ayurvedic Massage. Dinner and overnight at The Chardham Camp.

Day 09 : Guptakashi - Joshimath Via Chopta. 175 kms. ( 6 - 7 hrs )
After breakfast leave for Joshimath via Chopta, one of the most beautiful sites on the whole trip. Enjoy the beautiful drive through the thick medicinal forest. Arrive at The Chardham Camp Joshimath by late afternoon. Evening free in Joshimath. Dinner and overnight at The Chardham Camp.

Day 10 : Joshimath - Badrinath - Joshimath. 45 kms one way (1 - 2 hrs)
After breakfast leave for Badrinath, on arrival take the holy Darshan and spend time visiting Mana village the last village before the Tibet border. Come back in the evening. One can also go to Auli, the ski resort by ropeway. Overnight at camp.

Day 11 : Joshimath - Haridwar. 280 kms (8 - 9 hrs)
Early morning we leave with packed breakfast from Joshimath for Haridwar. On the way visit Devprayag and Rishikesh. Enroute stop for lunch in Srinagar. On arrival check in hotel The Haveli Hari Ganga.

Day 12 : Haridwar - Delhi. 210 kms (6 - 7 hrs)
After breakfast visit Chandi Devi by Cable car. After lunch proceed for Delhi.

 

Pilgrimage Travel India


Valley of Flowers, Hemkund Sahib & Badrinath
 
Duration : 7 Nights / 8 Days
Destinations Covered : Delhi - Haridwar - Joshimath - Govindghat - Ghangaria - Valley Of Flowers - Ghangaria - Hemkundsahib - Ghangaria - Govindghat - Badrinath - Haridwar - Delhi

Day 01: Delhi - Haridwar (210 kms)
Morning leave for Haridwar. Enroute stop for lunch in Cheetal Grand restaurant. On arrival check in hotel. Evening attend Aarti at Har Ki Pauri. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Haridwar - Joshimath (280 kms)
On arrival transfer to midway for freshening up and then leave for Joshimath by car. On the way stop at Rudraprayag where Mandakini and Alaknanda rivers meet. On arrival check in hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Joshimath - Govindghat - Ghangaria
Early morning at 0600 hrs we leave from Joshimath for Govindghat, which is the starting point for the trek. From Govindghat there is a gradual ascent along a well - maintained pilgrim trail to the camp at Ghangaria - the base from where day walks can be made into the valley of flowers. Arrange porters and prepare for the trek. After a light breakfast, 14 km trek up to Ghangaria. On arrival check in hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04: Ghangaria - Valley Of Flowers - Ghangaria
After breakfast 4 km trek to Valley Of Flowers (3858 m ) from Ghangaria. The valley is an enchanting sight with an impressive array of rare wildflowers like brahma kamal, fane Kamal with range of small multicolored flowers make it a delight for travelers. The snowclad peaks including Nilgiri Parbat (6474 m) stand in bold relief against the skyline. The valley is 10 kms long, 2 kms wide, and is divided by the Pushpawati stream, into which several tiny streams and waterfalls merge. After enjoying the beauty of valley we come back to Ghangaria.Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Ghangaria - Hemkundsahib - Ghangaria
After breakfast 6 km trek to Hemkundsahib (4329 m) from Ghangaria. This is quite a steep climb. In the Sikh holy book, the Granth Sahib, the Sikh Guru Gobind Singh recounts that in a previous life, he meditated on the shores of a lake surrounded by seven snowcapped mountains now recognized by Hemkund. We visit Lake & Gurudwara. Again 6 km trek back to Ghangaria. Overnight at hotel.

Day 06: Ghangaria - Govindghat - Badrinath
After breakfast leave for Govindghat on the trek of 14 kms to reach Govindghat be afternoon and then leave for Badrinath. On arrival check in hotel. Evening visit the main temple. Overnight at hotel.

Day 07: Badrinath - Haridwar (330 kms)
Early morning leave for Haridwar. Enroute stop for lunch in Srinagar. On arrival check in hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 08: Haridwar - Delhi
After breakfast leave for Delhi. Enroute stop for lunch in Cheetal Grand restaurant.
 

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Mount Kailash - The abode of Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati
Mt. Kailash is claimed to be the apex of the Hindu religious axis, is also one of the highest mountains in Tibet at 22,022 feet. Lord Shiva resides over here among the peaceful Himalayas. A mythological story says that Lord Shiva once built a house for himself but gave it away to a devotee who asked for it. Thus without changing his residence he settled in the mountain of Kailash. This is his abode where he stays with his whole family including his wife Goddess Parvati and children Lord Ganesha and Lord Kartikiya and the other Shiv Ganas (group of Shiva Devotees) like Nandi and others. According to ancient religious texts, the abode of Lord Vishnu is called Vaikuntha, the abode of Lord Bhrama is called Bhramaloka and the abode of Lord Shiva is called Kailash. Of the three, one can only go bodily and return in this life from Kailash having experienced divinity. The Hindus, Bons and Jains all alike travel to this place as pilgrims. A journey to Kailash is considered as once in a lifetime achievement.

Legends, Myths & Beliefs
It is because of Kailash - Mansarovar, which is 865-kms from Delhi, that Kumaon is sometimes called "Manaskhand". Many myths are associated with this unusual mountain and lake. The Buddhists, the Jains and the Bonpas of Tibet too, all revere this spot with great fervour and devotion. Therefore, it is not surprising for a devotee to come across the worlds "Om Mani Padme Hum" ("Hail to the jewel (of Creation) in the Lotus) written on stones and taken from Buddhist scriptures. The Bonpas make an anti-clockwise pilgrimage around Mt. Kailash whereas the believers of the jain faith specially visit astpaad near the southern face of Kailash in the Kailash --mansarovar region.

Among the thousands of deities of Hinduism, Lord Shiva is the most beloved and the most sort after lord. Lord Shiva finds a great place in the heart of all devotees be it the Human beings, the Devataas or the Rakshasaas. He is even called Bhola Baba because of his uniqueness of being simple and he grants whatever the devotee asks for. This is the reason why he is having a large following in all the 3 worlds of Akash, Bhumi, & Patal. Bhola Baba filled with Vairagya (dispassion) is a joy of all spiritual seekers.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Divinity is initiated in "Kailash Manasarovar Yatra" with arrival in Katmandu - the capital city of Nepal, where deities mingle with the mankind. A visit to the most dominant temple 'Pashupatinath' with many others equally significant temples are of great merit. This primordial temple enshrines faith of millions of Hindus throughout the world as Lord Shiva's sacred residence. A spiritual atmosphere is maintained throughout the trip.

A briefing with experts on the second day, will prepare you for the ultimate journey to the most sacred of all pilgrimages, the Kailash - Manasarovar. Rest of the evening is for the preparation and inspection of the equipments that are needed for the journey. The next day is the departure from the hotel, you cross the Nepal- border and arrive in the Tibetan town called "Nyalam" (3750m). Yatries overcome their exhaustion from 7 hrs drive and abrupt altitude gain with the hospitality of our experienced staffs - which will take care of your needs. Next day will be pretty normal - no movement, so that you can rest and acclimatize with the altitude and extreme weather conditions. For emergency, our crew will carry oxygen, PAC (Portable Altitude Chamber) and other alternative as a measure to ensure your safety.

After attending at the altitude, you will start to feel better and enjoy more of journey towards the Holy Kailash. The day from Paryang makes everyone impatient, as this is a long awaited day of first 'Darshan' of Sacred Kailash and Manasarovar. Next two days are for Parikrama of Manasarovar. Then you are ready for the Kailash Parikarama. Yaks and helpers could be provided for the Parikrama. The yatris face glow with happiness that they have now covered the journey they only dreamt about. You can carry back sacred memories in form of stones, pebbles and water from the Manasarovar lake to your less fortune friends and relatives.

Significence of the Yatra
For Hindus, Mount Kailash is the earthly manifestation of Mt. Meru, the spiritual centre of the universe around which all else revolves. With its roots in the lowest hell and its summit kissing the heavens, where on top live Lord Shiva and Parvati.

Jains call the mountain Astapada and believe it to be the site where Rishaba, their first Tirthankara (spiritual leader) achieved enlightenment. For Tibetans, Mt. Kailash is known as Kang Rimpoche (Precious Jewel of Snow) and is seen as the navel of the world and the abode of Chakrasamvara. Followers of the older, more ancient religion of Bon believe the mountain is the where their founder Shenrab is said to have descended from heaven.

 

Churches of South India

 
Duration : 13 Nights / 14 Days
Destinations Covered : Chennai (Madras) - Thanjavur - Velanganni - Madurai - Trivandrum - Kollam (Quilon) - Kottayam - Cochin - Kozhikode (Calicut) - Mumbai (Bombay) - Goa

Day 1 Arrive Chennai
On arrival you are transferred to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2 Chennai - Thanjavur
Morning embark on a full day tour of Chennai City and its various Churches. Evening you are transferred to the railway station to board overnight train to Thanjavur. Overnight on board.

Day 3 Thanjavur - Velanganni
On arrival at the railway station you are transferred to your hotel. Later excursion to Velanganni. Overnight at hotel.

Day 4 Velanganni - Madurai
Morning drive to Madurai en route visiting Trichy. Drive on and check into your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5 Madurai - Trivandrum
Morning drive to Trivandrum and check into your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 6 Trivandrum - Kollam - Kottayam
Morning drive to Kollam and tour the area. Later you are transferred to Kottayam by boat. On arrival you are transferred to your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 7 Kottayam - Cochin
Morning a half-day tour of Kottayam and its Churches. Later drive to Cochin and check into your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8 Cochin
Morning a full day tour of Cochin City and its Churches. Evening enjoy a Kathakali Dance show. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9 Cochin - Kozhikode
Morning drive to Kozhikode and check into your hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10 Kozhikode
Morning a half-day tour of Kozhikode City and its Churches. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11 Kozhikode - Mumbai
Morning you are transferred to the airport to board flight to Mumbai. On arrival you are transferred to your hotel. Afternoon a half-day tour of Mumbai City and its Churches. Overnight at hotel.

Day 12 Mumbai - Goa
Morning is at leisure. Afternoon you are transferred to the airport to board flight to Goa. On arrival you are transferred to your hotel/resort. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel/resort.

Day 13 Goa
Morning a half-day tour of Old Goa and its churches. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 14 Goa - Mumbai
Morning is at leisure. Afternoon you are transferred to the airport to board flight back to Mumbai. On arrival in Mumbai connect to your onward journey.
 

Jain Temples


The innumerable Jain Shrines that dot in India speak of a myriad intimate association with the lives and activities of the Jain Tirthankars (Jain religious preachers), who spread the message of peace, non violence, love and enlightenment.

It is this that has attracted and moulded the sentiments of millions of people across the nation as well as the world. Today, around 3.2 million Jain devotees live in India. India holds immense attraction for all those who desire to see the great Jain architectural splendour, and to know and understand the teachings of the great Tirthankars- the liberated souls who, through hard penance, freed themselves from the cycle of birth and rebirth. And, offered to humanity the recourse to salvation, freedom from the ocean of Phenomenal Existence and liberation from the Cycle of rebirth through Jainism.
The essence of this great religion and its preaching is palpable in the cave temples, in the elaborately decorated carved stones and in the numerous illustrated manuscripts. Spread across Uttar Pradesh, these religious places are some of the best destination options for tourists and pilgrims. To explore history, religion, art and culture of the Jains in a state of pure bliss.

The most important Jain shrines of India are
  • Dilwara Temples, Rajasthan
    The Jain Dilwara temples of India are located about 2½ kilometers from Mount Abu, Rajasthan's only hill station. These temples dating back from the 11th to the 13th century AD are world famous for their stunning use of marble. The five legendary marble temples of Dilwara are the sacred pilgrimage of the Jains. They are an overwhelming blend of simple beauty and exquisite elegance. The marble temples have an opulent entranceway. The simplicity in architecture verily reminds one that Jainism as a religion "encouraged honesty and frugality". The temples reside amidst mesmerizing surroundings of mango trees and wooded hills. A high wall, shimmering luminous in the sunlight, shrouds the temple complex.

    Although the Jains built some beautiful temples at other places in Rajasthan but none come close to these in terms of architectural perfection. The ornamental detail spread over the minutely carved ceilings, doorways, pillars and panels is simply marvellous and has to be seen to be believed.
  • Palitana Temples, Rajasthan
    Amongst all the Jain temples, Palitana temples are considered to be the most sacred. Located on Shetrunjaya hills there are 863 temples, exquisitely carved in marble. No one is allowed to sleep overnight including the priest, because the temple city has been built as an abode for the Gods. The town is considered by many Jains to be more important than the temple covered hills of Bihar, Gwalior, Mt Abu and Girnar. Palitana was the capital of a princely state of the Gohil Rajput clan. It is also one of the greatest tourist attractions in Gujarat for foreign tourists.
  • Ranakpur
    Ranakpur in the state of Rajasthan is one of the five most important pilgrimage sites of Jainism. It is home to an exceptionally beautiful temple complex in the Aravali ranges and a must visit for the tourists coming to this region.
  • Sravanabelagola
    Sravanabelagola, a great centre for Jain culture is situated at a distance of about 100 kms from Mysore and is famous for its colossal statue of Gomateshwara who is also referred to as Lord Bahubali. Carved out of monolithic stone, the imposing 17 metre high statue of Gomata towers stands in majestic splendour and is visible even from a distance of 20 kms. Starkly simple, the beautifully chiselled features of the statue embody serenity. His perfect lips are turned out at the corners with a hint of a smile, viewing the world with detachment.
  • Falna Ranakpur
    The Jain Golden Temple in Falna, a small town in Rajasthan has a unique attraction worldwide. It is the first temple that has been constructed by the people of the Jain community. The specialty of the temple is that, from the Falna town itself about 90 Kg. of gold was donated by the ladies of the Jain community for the idolization of temple dome and Lords idol.
The Other Jain Temples in India

North India Temples


The temples in North India which can be described as the typical Nagara style. These temples escaped the destruction due to invasion. The temples as well as the literature laying down the rules and mode of construction have been well preserved in Orissa. In this style, the structure consists 0f two buildings, the main shrine taller and an adjoining shorter mandapa. The main difference between the two is the shape of the Sikhara. In the main shrine, a bell shaped structure adds to the height. As is usual in all Hindu temples, there is the kalasa at the top and the ayudha or emblem of the presiding deity.

North India Temple Architecture
The basic structure of temples in India is a room or Garbhagriha (sanctum sanatorium) where the idol of the main deity is kept. The temple is approached by a flight of steps and is often built on a platform. A porch covers the entrance to the temples, which is supported by carved pillars. A prominent roof called the shikhara surmounts the top of the Garbhagriha, and dominates the surroundings. As time went, by small temples grew into temple complexes. Some temples have a hall or mandap from where one can reach the sanctum sanctorum.

Temple architecture in India is broadly divided into northern and southern styles, classified by the form and shape of the shikhara and the distinctiveness of its decoration. The shikhara of the temples in South India tend to be made up of distinct horizontal levels that diminish to form a rough pyramid. Each level is decorated with miniature temple rooftops. The shikhara of the temples in North and Central India, in contrast, resembles an upturned cone that is decorated with miniature conical shikharas. Some temples developed their own local flavor apart from adhering to their basic native style.

 
Famous Temples in North India

Other Temples in North India

Famous Pilgrimage Destinations of North India

 

South India Temples

 
Southern India is dotted with places of religious interest. There are several towns that are referred to as the temple towns owing to the grandeur of the temples they are home to. Southern India is dotted with places of religious interest. There are several towns that are referred to as the temple towns owing to the grandeur of the temples they are home to. Rameshwaram is an island- of Lord Rama's temple at Tamil Nadu is a terrific destination. Along with being a major pilgrimage for the Hindus, Rameshwaram is a happening holiday spot too. Rameshwaram is significant for the Hindus as a pilgrimage to Benaras is incomplete without a Pilgrimage to Rameshwaram.

Architecture of South Indian Temples
This is the style that developed in the Dravida Desam. The Vimana and the Gopurams are the distinctive characteristics of the Southern style. The Vimana is a tall pyramidal tower consisting of several progressively smaller storeys. This stands on a square base. The Gopuram has two storeys seperated by a horizontal moulding. The Prakara or the outer wall, envelops the main shrine as well as the other smaller shrines, the tank.The Pallavas, the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Vijayanagar rulers, the Nayaks all contributed to the Southern style of temples.

 
Major Temples in South India

Other Temples in South India

Famous Pilgrimage Destinations of South India


 

 

Buddhist Temples

 

Since ancient past India has had an unbroken tradition of being the fountainhead of spiritual knowledge in the world. Great seers, masters and incarnations have been born here to spread the true knowledge from time to time. The Sanskrit word "Bodh" literally means knowledge. Buddha thus means "The one who has attained all knowledge". The cessation of conflicts at both the internal the external levels is possible only when one is armed with the right knowledge. Once the conflicts recede, peace blooms and one attains bliss.

There are four principal Buddhist pilgrimage sites where most of the buddhist temples and shrines are located. The most important of these are located primarily in the Ganges Valley of India.

Major Sites of Buddhist Temples
  • Bodh Gaya, Bihar
    This is where Prince Gautama attained enlightenment under the sacred Asvatta tree (Bodhi tree) and became known as Lord Budha. This is one of the four most sacred pilgrimage places for the Buddhists. The other three important places are his place of birth at Lumbini, Nepal; the site of his first lecture at Sarnath, near Varanasi; and the place where he left his body at Kushinagar, near Gorakhpur. Buddhists from all over the world have built temples here in Bodh Gaya. The Dalai Lama often spends time here. Tibetan pilgrims come here for the winter from Dharamshala. Bodh Gaya is located about 13 km from Gaya, 450 km west of Calcutta, and 90 km south of Patna.
  • Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh
    Kaushambi, in Uttar Pradesh, was visited by Buddha in the 6th and 9th years after his enlightenment. He delivered several sermons here, elevating it to a center of learning for Buddhists. Today one can see the ruins of an Ashokan Pillar, an old fort and the Ghositaram Monastery. The archaeological excavations here have yielded a large number of sculptures and figurines, coins, punch-marked and cast coins and terra-cotta sculptures which show the reverence the city was held in by the devout, in times gone by. All these religious finds of historical and archaeological importance can be viewed at the Allahabad Museum.
  • Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh
    Situated in the North Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, 51 km off Gorakhpur. Is one of the principal centers of Buddhist pilgrimage is the place of Mahaparinrvana. The monument of Kushinagar are situated in three distinct comprising in the main site of the Nirvana Temple houses over 6meter long statue of the reclining Buddha The image was unearthed during the excavations in 1876.
  • Lumbini, Nepal - India Border
    Located in the flat plains of South-Western Nepal and the foothills of Churia range is kind of holy sentiment to the millions of Buddhists all over the world-as do the Jerusalem to Christians and Mecca to Muslims. Lumbini is the place Lord Buddha -the apostle of peace and the light of Asia was born in 623 B. C.
  • Nalanda, Bihar
    This contains the ruins of the world's oldest university. This was also a place where the Buddha and Mahavira stayed and preached. The remains of 11 monasteries and several Chaityas, built over a period of time, in red brick stone have been excavated, as well as a large stairway, a library, lecture halls, dormitories, cells, ovens and wells. Buildings were multi-storied and multi-tiered, built on massive terraces of solid brick, decorated with Buddhist and Hindu divinities and warriors, dancers, musicians, animals and birds.
  • Rajgir, Bihar
    A sacred place for both the Buddhists and Jains. There is Gridhakuta, where the Buddha, converted a Magadhan King. Also worth visiting is Saptaparni Cave, where the first Buddhist council was held. The Pippala Stone House or Machan is a huge structure, with cells around it. At Maniyar Math is an old Jain Shrine. Then there is Venuvara, the bamboo grove, where the Buddha meditated. The Jivakamanana Monastery is of interest, since it was one of the Buddha's favourite retreat.
  • Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh
    Situated 10 km from Varanasi is the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples, preaching the middle path for attaining 'Nirvana'. Realising the sanctity of the site, emperor Ashoka, in the 3rd century B.C. built some of the finest monuments and legacies.
  • Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh
    Another of the most commonly visited places of Buddhist pilgrimage is Shravasti. It is here that the Buddha is said to have performed great miracles. One story tells of how on throwing down the seed of a mango, a great mango tree instantly arose. Another story tells of how the Buddha stood in the air, the lower part of his body engulfed in flames, with five hundred jets of water streaming from the top of his body.
  • Vaishali, Bihar
    Vaishali was one of the Buddha's favourite resorts and he visited it on several occasions It was here that he had his famous encounter with the prostitute Ambapali, the incident is recounted in the Mahaparinibbana Sutta in The Long Discourses. Another discourse he delivered here is the long but interesting Mahasihanada Sutta from The Middle Length Discourses. According to the Mahayana tradition the famous Vimalakirtinedesa Sutra was preached here too.
Main Buddhist Temples & Monasteries
  • Dhankar Monastery, Himachal Pradesh
    The 'DHANKAR GOMPA' casts its subtle spell upon a person. Anyone, who visits it, finds himself unable to forget this place. It is about 25-km east of Kaza and serving eastern part of central Spiti. Dhankar is a big village and erstwhile capital of Spiti King. Dhankar means " a place in the mountains unreachable for strangers" and which is home to another monastery associated with the Great Translator, Rinchen Zanggpo.
  • Tabo Monastery, Himachal Pradesh
    The rugged hills around Tabo house a tiny hamlet that is home to some 350 people. The Tabo monastery, also referred to as Tabo Chos-Khor- 'doctrinal circle' or 'doctrinal enclave' is a complex that holds nine temples, 23 chortens, a monks' chamber and an extension that houses the nuns' chamber
  • Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim
    A 24-km drive from Gangtok, through the beautiful, bewitching countryside leads one to Rumtek. Rumtek, is the seat of the Karmapa Lama who heads the Kagyupa Sect of Buddhism. Tankhas (also spelt as Thangkas) and frescoes decorate the walls of this ancient monastery, now renovated. His holiness Gyalwa Karmapa was the 16th reincarnate. The style of the monastery, strictly traditional has been patterned on the lines of the Lamas series of Tibet.
  • Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
    Located on the foot of a hill-- Sanchi is just 46 kms Bhopal. It is more of a village than a town. Sanchi is a religious place with historical and Archaeological significance. Sanchi is a site for the numerous stupas which were built on a hill top. The place is related to Buddhism but not directly to the life of Buddha. It is more related to Ashoka than to Buddha. Ashoka built the first stupa and put up many pillars here. The crown of famous Ashoka pillars, with four lions standing back to back, has been adopted as the national emblem of India.
  • Ajanta & Ellora Caves, Maharashtra
    These are the caves that the followers of Lord Buddha, embellished with architectural details with a skilful command of the hammer over the chisel, with sculpture of highest craftsmanship and above all, with the paintings of infinite charm. The entire course of the evolution of Buddhist architecture can be traced in Ajanta & Ellora Caves.
Other Buddhist Temples & Monasteries

 
  • Sikkim
    • Tashiding monastery
    • Pemayangtse monastery
  • Jammu and Kashmir
    • Hemis Monastery
    • Chemrey Gompa
    • Rhidzong
    • Diskit & Hundur
    • Lamayuru
    • Shey
    • Likkir
    • Spitok
    • Stongdey / Stongde Monastery
    • Phyang
    • The Shanti Stupa
    • Pugthal / Phugtal
    • Tikse
  • Orissa
    • Hirapur
    • Langudi
    • Buddhist Relics Of Orissa
    • Dhauli