The largest of the “Cat Family” and presently the most endangered species amongst the big cat, the Tiger is what we are going to explore about.

There were originally eight subspecies of tiger, the Javan, the Bali, the Caspian, the Indochinese, the Sumatran, the Bengal, the Siberian, and the South China tiger, The South China tiger being the antecedent of all tigers. And can you imagine that three of the eight subspecies are now extinct. The Bali tiger met its demise in the 1940′s, the Caspian in the 1970′s and the Javan in the 1980′s. Yes, its sad reality. Of theremaining tiger subspecies the South China tiger is the most critically endangered with only around sixty living in Chinese zoos and approximately twenty in the wild (although none have been spotted for over twenty years). This puts this subspecies at the very top of the endangered species list. >> Read more…

This article is contributed by Korak Basu, holidayhomeindia expresses its sincere gratitude to Mr. Basu

East Sikkim is a place of virgin beauty. Most of us are unaware of the rich flora and fauna and wildlife of this region. So there we were- a group of enthusiastic travel-men ready to trace the forgotten silk route of east Sikkim. Before the Chinese aggression, Jelep La used to be the main trade route between India and Tibet.

We took an evening train from Kolkata and landed up in New Jalpaiguri Station the next morning. It was a Friday- Good Friday to be more specific. We had already hired a van (courtesy- Sebastian Pradhan of Rishi Eco Tourism Resort) and in no time were on our way to Rishikhola. We reached there around 1 pm after witnessing a Good Friday mass in Pedang. >> Read more…

The Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to famous one horned Rhino and many other varied and endangered willife species has bagged the status of a “national park” as issued in a notification by the Union Forest and Environment Ministry.

The State Wildlife advisory board had sent the proposal to the central Wildlife advisory board for promoting Jaldapara into a National Park which got the nod of the Union Forest and Environment Ministry Central Board.

Jaldapara received the “wildlife sanctuary” status in the British Era in 1941 when its area was 141 sq. km. Situated beside Hollong River, Jaldapara is now spread over in an area of 216.51 sq. km and with a Rhino population of more than 160.  Other important species includes Bisons, Deers, Leopards and numerous birds including the famous Great Hornbill.

The previous recommendation with the same plea was rejected on ground that there were too many forest villages in the buffer zone of the forest. Congratulations Jaldapara.

The ruins of a Bouddha Bihar and many a relics of the late Gupta era have been excavated out in Dantan of West Midnapore district of West Bengal recently. The relics include a two metre long 10th century Buddha idol, a map of the Bouddha Bihar and a dozen other figurines. Experts of Calcutta University have opined that this discovery could lead to other significant find outs.

According the experts – There were 10 Bouddha Bihars in the country, out of which three happen to be in present day Bengal. This particular Bouddha Bihar at Mogolmari seems to have been built between the seventh and the tenth centuries – the late Gupta period.

In continuance to yesterday’s news of the rare find of Melanistic Leopard Cat, TOI today reported its find and published the image captured by camera traps in the Sunderbans. Bengal Forest Officials had sent the two picturs taken by camera traps to the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) three days ago and got a reply on Monday morning.

WII senior scientist Y V Jhala said that “Such a cat has never been photo captured anywhere in the world.

24 ghanta channel reported today that cameras at Sunderbans National Park has recorded images of very rare Melanistic Leopard Cat which is heard for the first time in India. A very good news for wild life enthusiasts indeed.

Vijayawada is the third largest city in Andhra Pradesh and is located on the banks of the famous Krishna River. It is an important transport hub and a major transit point. It is also one of the busiest railway junctions in India. The Praksam Barrage, built accross the river Krishna, at Vijayawada, has created a panoramic lake. Its three canals that run through the city give it a Venetian look. The Kanaka Durga temple placed on Indrakeeladri hill overlooking Vijayawada, is a famous pilgrim destination. Numerous devotees from and around the city visit here during the Dussehra festival, to offer prayers and seek the blessings of the Goddess Durga.

Vijayawada is also a centre of Andhra craft and culture. Kondapalli village, situated 16 km from Vijayawada has gained National and International recognition for its beautiful hand-made toys. Other places of tourist interest in and around Vijayawada are the famous St. Mary’s Church, Gunadala, Gandhi Hill, Victoria Museum, Moghalrajpuram and Undavalli rock-cut caves etc. A short drive from Vijayawada, are Mangalapuri temple, Manginapudi Beach, Kuchipudi Village, and several ancient Buddhist sites, of which Amaravati and Ghatasala are the most prominent.

The Princely State of  Tripura acceded to the Indian Union in 1949. This ancient land of mysterious past, located in the North Eastern Region of Indian is bounded on the North , West, South and South East by the international boundary of Bangladesh. In the east it has a common boundary with  Assam and Mizoram.

A matchless combination of age – old culture and tradition is reflected in the beautiful handloom and handicraft products of the State which attract the visitors for its classic quality, exquisite colour, excellent design and craftsmanship. The entire State is pollution- free and eco – friendly atmosphere.

GENERAL  INFORMATION

Area                                 : 10,491.69 sq .km.
Population                       :  31.91,186 (2001 census )
Location    -
North Latitude                : D22°65′ x 24°32′
East Longitude               : D90°09′ & 92°20′
Extreme Length              : 183.5 km.
Extreme Width               : 112.7 km
Altitude (Agartala)         : 12.80 mtr.
Climate                           : Climate in Tripura is always favourable for tourist.
Temperature                   : Summer –36.8°C (max), 21.4°C (min),
Winter – 27°C (max),  4°C (min)
Best Season                    : September to March.
Clothing                         :  Cotton in Summer.Woollen in Winter.
Entry Formalities           : Restricted Area Permit System has been lifted in 1995. No entry fee is required for visiting Tripura. >> Read more…

Bhopal, capital of  Madhya Pradesh is the ideal base for discovering  the rich historical and cultural legacy of the state . Close to the city and easily accessible by road  and rail  are ancient sites of great dynasties, forts, monuments and cave sculptures, some of the finest example of  Indian art and architecture, chronicled in stone , of the state’s unique heritage of fine antiques .

What  To  See -

Vidisha : Vidisha or Besnagar as it is called in the Pali sculptures, once the prosperous capital of the western dominions of the Sungas, contains some remarkable antiquities that throw light on the considerable architectural development of the period .

Situated in the fork of the Betwa and Bes rivers, Vidisha, 10 km from Sanchi, occupies an important place amongst the ancient cities in India . In the 6th and 5th centuries BC, it rose to become an important trade centre and a bustling city under the Sungas, Nagas, Satvahanas and Guptas. The Emperor Ashoka was governor of Vidisha and it finds mention in Kalidasa’s immortal Meghdoot . Deserted after the 6th centuary AD it came into prominence again as Bhilsa during the medieval period ( 9th to 12th centuries AD.). It later passed on to the Malwa Sultans, the Mughals, and the Scindias.

The ruins of the Brahmanical shrine at Vidisha dedicated to Vishnu reveal that the foundation bricks were cemented together with lime mortar, the first known example of the use of cement in India. The ruins are what remains of possibly the oldest known Brahmanical stone structure, dated not later than 2 BC.

Vidisha museum has a superb collection of Besnagar’s earliest antiquities, dating from the Sunga period; 9th century sculptures, and terracotta objects, representing the art that flourished under Parmara patronage, are also well represented here. Highlights of the collection from Besnagar are the Surya and Chamundi figures, the Yakshi and the Ramagupta inscriptions.

The Lohangi Rock, Gumbaz-ka-Maqbara and Bijamandal Mosque, standing on the foundations of a temple, are also worth a visit. >> Read more…

Thick and evergreen forests, extensive grassy land and meadows, cloud kissing peaks, precipitous and sparkling waterfalls, meandering rivers, roaring tigers and trumpeting tuskers, fleeing deer and flying squirrels, talking myna and dancing peacocks et al makes Similipal  a dreamland of nature in the wilderness and an irresistible destination.

Covering a vast area of 2750 sq. km out of which 303 sq.km form the core area, this biosphere reserve is a sanctuary and one of the Tiger  Project and National parks of India. With wide range of rain falls and edaphic variations, ranging from dry deciduous to moist green  forests  it is suitable to  different species of flora and fauna.

About 1076 species of plants, 87 varieties of orchids, 42 species of mammals, 29 types of reptiles and 231 species of birds are the proud possession of this plateau.  Average mean elevation of Similipal is 900 metres. Tall and luxuriant Sal Trees in large numbers stand like sentries. The handsome peaks of Khairiburu (1178 meters), Meghasani   (1158 meters) and others welcome like smiling receptionists from the emerald heights. Sweet scented  Champak flowers freshen the air. The richly hued orchids on the green foliage are soothing  to the eyes. In the midst of the dense forests, the summer stands humbled and the sun gets lost.
Several rivers like Budhabalanga, Khairi, Salandi, Palpala, etc. originate from the hills and meander through the forest like veins and arteries in the body. Many of them have formed cascading rapids and foaming falls before leaving for the plains. The panoramic view of the waterfalls at Barehipani  (400 metres) and Joranda (150 metres) are  simply enchanting , Mahaseer, a typical variety of fish, is found in abundance in most of the rivers.

The silence of Similipal is occasionally broken by the chirping of the birds to an avian delight.

The dense forest and riverine system serve as an excellent home to some of the  most beautiful creatures of the World. To stay with them, even for a while, is a thrilling experience. Herds of elephants majestically walking across the roads and rivulets could be a regular sight. While you are moving on the hilly tracts, predators like Tiger and Leopards might be obliviously lulling under the shade with their own thoughts. If lucky, you could spot them there, or else see them around the saltlicks at places like Chahala. Forget the apprehensive fear and devour the sylvan beauty. The nature at Similipal is at its natural best.

The crocodile rearing centre at Ramtirtha  near Jashipur is an additional  attraction.

An epitome of fascinating beauties, Similipal beckons you for a sojourn of its mind boggling interiors. It  will fill your lungs with cool and clean air, your nose with fresh and free fragrance, your  eyes with soothing  sights, your ears with sonorous sounds and your heart with a hypnotic  throb. After a trip, your body is  sure to feel rejuvenated.

Similipal also provides succour to thousands of  tribal people  living  on the fringe. A glimpse of the tribal  culture will therefore be a bonus at no extra cost. >> Read more…

The picturesque setting where Rabindranath Tagore built his world university Visva Bharati was discovered by his father, Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, when he broke his jouney there on his way to the prosperous village of Raipur. He liked it so much, he set up an Ashrama there and named it Shantiniketan, the Abode of Peace ( from shanti = peace and niketan = abode ).

Starting with an experimental experimental open – air school with just five students in 1901, Rabindranath built up an international university, Visva Bharati, in twenty years. Visva Bharati sought to develop a base on which the cultures of the East and West could meet in common fellow-ship and strengthen the conditions for world peace .

Visva Bharati become a centre for cultural studies for students and scholars from all over the world . The  university is probably most renowned for its facultires of Art and Indian Music and Dance. But its facilities cover a wide range of courses and disciplines in Humanities and Science.

The University’s Department of Rural Reconstruction at Sriniketan has also gained wide acclaim for its work on social and economic issues. >> Read more…

Hardly 16 km from Berhampur, the hub of Southern Orissa, is the tiny town of Gopalpur on the Bay of Bengal. Enjoying the reputation of being a popular Beache Resort of Orissa, the deep and clear blue waters instantly provoke those who are good swimmers. The temptation of bathing here is irresistible. Not- so-good swimmers take the hands of the Nolias (local fishermen who help bathers ) and enjoy a pleasant bath. White surf splashing on the golden sands makes Gopalpur –on-Sea as one of the finest beaches on the eastern coast. A fascinating hunt for avid beaches combers and sea worshippers, it is a splendid retreat.

Watching the life on the beach is also exciting. The fisherman pulling their catch or mending their nets add local colour. Beautiful objects made of seashells available in abundance are worth buying souvenirs for decorating a Drawing Room or giving some one a Present. Sand sculptures here and there made by some local artists are a feast to the eyes. Mouth watering sea food, especially fish from the deep Sea, satisfy the hungry stomach. Green – coconuts quench the thirst.

Intense heat of the summer is temperated by the sea breeze in the fantastic quietness og the beach amidst palm, coconut and casurina trees. >> Read more…

The vast endless stretch of clear blue water, stunningly silent at times and rising and falling with loud roars the next moment, the setting sun filling the evening sky with a lovely crimson colour , the golden sands along the sea watching the playful children and relaxing couples…….the beauty of the sea beaches of Orissa is simple awesome. With over 480 km long coastline, the State is home to some of the most pristine and exotic sea beaches of the world, which have an enticing appeal.

Chandipur, 20km from Balasore has one such splendid sea-beach but with a unique distinction. Interestingly enough, the sea at Chandipur recedes almost 5 km away from the shore during the ebb and flow of tides. It is often referred to as ‘The Vanishing Sea’. The visitors here can take the pleasure of chasing the sea on feet or vehicle when it recedes back.

The cool breeze blowing over the saline sea caresses the casuarinas which sway rhythmically making a rustling noise, the sea plays hide and seek with the visitors and nature rejoices every moment. Adding to this beauty is the scenic spot at the mouth of river Budhabalanga where it joins the sea. One can sail up to this place in a fisherman’s boat to experience the magnificent beauty. A trip to Chandipur promises to give you lots of treasurable memories. >> Read more…

Bishnupur is a town in the Bankura District of West Bengal about 132 km, from Kolkata. It is famous for its terracotta temples and baluchari saris. The town has a glorious past that is reflected in its rich architecture, music and handicrafts such as pottery and weaving . It prospered in the 17^th and early 18^th centuries. Ruled by a line of Hindu Rajas of the Malla dynasty, Bishnupur developed a unique form of architecture and has perhaps the most brilliant and detailed terracotta work in Eastern India that has withstood the ravages of time .

The history of Bishnupur can be traced back to 694 A.D, when King Raghunath I founded the Malla dynasty. However, it was much later in 994 A.D that the place was named Bishnupur. The name is derived from the name of the Hindu God ‘Vishnu’. The majority of the people belong to the ‘Varishnava’ sect .The most powerful king of the dynasty was King Raghunath Singh Dev II, who ruled from 1626 AD. At that time the administration of Bengal was in the hands of Shahjahan’s son Suja . He development a close friendship with the king and there followed a period of peace when art and music, already flourishing, reached great heights. It was during this period that the Jorebangla Temple was erected .

Temples and other places of interest   
The ancient capital of Mallabhum, Bishnupur, is a repository of some excellent terracotta temples. The oldest brick temple is a curiously shaped Rasmancha with an elongated pyramidal tower surrounded by hut-shaped turrets. It was built in the late 16^th century. Terracotta gained further momentum under King Raghunath Singh, who built the Pancha Ratna Temple of Shyam Rai  and the Jorebangla Temple of Keshta Rai. The temple of Shyam Rai with its superior figurines and floral patterns was the first of its kind in Bengal.

The temple of Madanmohan, the best known in Bishnupur, in the Sankharipara area was built outside the fort compound by King Durjana Singh Dev, in 1694 A.D. Its rich decorations and designs surpass the Shyam Rai and Keshta Rai temples. There are impressive scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata  and the Puranas carved on the temple walls. Apart from temples, Bishnupur has some very attractive large tanks that offer good sightseeing. The Lalbandh, Krishnabandh, and Pokabandh were built by the Malla kings around 17^th and 18^th centuries. These were made to provide water to the villagers and to protect the town from enemy attack by draining out the water towards them .

Near by places of tourist interest : Mukutmanipur, Simlapal & Joypur.

 ART & CRAFT
The most famous art form of Bishnupur is terracotta work. Apart from the temples, terracotta pottery, artifacts and even jewellery are popular. One of the most exquisite saries in India called the Baluchari saris are created by craftsmen of this place. The silk strands are dyed separately and then put into a loom. One sari have an entire episode from the Mahabharata woven into its border and pallu. Bishnupur is also famous for the metal craft, popularly known as ‘Dokra’.

 Fairs & Festivals
The Bishnupur Mela is held every year around the last week of December, near the Madanmohan Temple. This fair stretches over four days and people from all the nearby villages come together to celebrate the end of the agriculture season. A recent addition is the Bishnupur Utsav, held immediately after the Mela. It is a classical music and dance festival in recognition of the ‘Bishnupur Gharana’ in music .

Getting There
Bishnupur can be reached both by train and by bus. It is only a 5-hour drive ( about 150km ) from Kolkata and regular buses, taxis and trains  from Howrah are available.

Exploring Andhra Pradesh is an exhilarating experience with each new destination offering something unque to the traveller. Pattiseema, a small town on the banks of the River Godavari , located 30 kms from Rajahmundry closer to Kovuru , surprises you as “Dakshina Kashi” considered to be one of the Pancha Kshetras, the other four being Kedarnath, Varanasi , Kalahasti and Srisailam . Aplace of immense religious significance, visiting this holy place, it is said, will absolve you of your sins and purify your soul.

The ancient temple of Lord Veerabhadra here has a legendary history. The temple picturesquely located on a hillock known as Devakuta Parvatha , is situated in the middle of the river Godavari , seeming almost to rise from the river itself . Langend goes that Lord Veerabhadra was born out of a lock of Lord Shiva’s hair during the cosmic dance of the almighty, on witnessing his wife Sati Devi immolating herself, unable to bear rejection by her father Daksha .

This temple is accessible only by boat. The scenic canvas of hillocks in the background, the silvery sands, gently flowing waters, the rushes of tall grass and the bracing cool ancient temple. The temple with its beautiful Nandi and carved images of dancing deites on the walls does not disappoint the pilgrims. An awe – inspiring life – size sculptures of Devi  Bhadrakali bedecked with ornaments and brandishing a sword, is a stunning sight . One can also visit the temple dedicated to Sri Bhavanarayana Swam at this holy destination.

Festival: The main festival of Loard Shiva is Mahashivrathi which is celebrated with religious fever, pomp amd gaiety . On this day nearly one lakh pilgrims visit this temple n. The other important festival are the Kalyanam of the Lord on Bheeshma Ekadashi and Karteeka Masam . >> Read more…