Warangal, Andhra Pradesh

Warangal is a city in the Telangana of Andhra Pradesh. Warangal is located about 120 km to the north-east of Hyderabad. Warangal is believed to have been discovered in the 12th century, by Prola Raja of the Kakatiya dynasty of India. Once, the capital of Kakatiya dynasty, the city is today serving as the headquarters of the Warangal district. This city has been mentioned by a number of names in various legends and epics.

Earlier it was known as Orugallu, where 'Oru' suggests one and 'Kallu' suggests stone. The idea behind such name was that in the vicinity of the city, there was a huge rock. Perhaps the word 'tourism' is not often used for Warangal, yet the remnants of the erstwhile kingdom are getting recognized. People travel to this city to have a glimpse of the heritage structures erected by the Kakatiyas. The capital city of the Kakatiyas has also been referred in the travel journals of Marco Polo for its cultural richness. 

Warangal has preserved the art and architecture of the medieval period in the form of imposing forts, massive stone-gateways, picturesque lakes, striking temples and exotic wildlife. The city has adapted modern conveniences but not on the cost of its legacy. The lakes and greenery add to the splendor of the historical sites. In concise, Warangal has got each and every feature to compliment it as the perfect tourist destination.

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Places to See:

Warangal Fort

Warangal Fort is one of the architectural wonders of the bygone era. Sited in south-east of Warangal city, the massive structure was built in the 13th century by rulers of the Kakatiya dynasty. Though presently in ruins, Warangal Fort still boasts of the dexterity of artists of earlier times. 

Bhadra Kali Temple

Perched on a hill, Bhadra Kali Temple is a prominent religious place situated near Warangal. The presiding deity of Bhadra Kali is portrayed with eight arms, embracing a weapon in each hand. Built during the Kakatiya period, the temple structure boasts of Chalukyan style of architecture. Devotees throng this temple during the festive season of 'Navratri' and Kali Puja. 

Someshwara Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Someshwara Temple was constructed by the Kalyani Chalukya Emperor - Someswara III. This primeval shrine embraces atypical variety of the Chalukyan architecture. The sculptures found here represent the dexterity of sculptors, who made such beautiful figurines. 

Jain Mandir

No less than 2,000 years old, Jain Mandir boasts of intricate carvings and splendid architecture. It is dedicated to Lord Mahavira and the striking idol of 5 ft is entirely crafted out of Jade. Puffed up with beautiful images of Thirthankaras, the temple is a very popular amongst the Jains. This shrine receives plenty of people at festivals.

Thousand Pillar Temple

Thousand Pillar Temple, as the name suggests, has no less than thousand pillars. To be found near the Warangal-Hanumakonda Highway, this temple was built by the Kakatiya ruler, Rudradeva, in 1163 AD. Raised on a platform, this temple is about 10 km from the Warangal city of Andhra Pradesh. 

Kolanupaka

During the 11th century, Kolanupaka had been the second capital town of Kalyani Chalukyas. In those times, it was a great centre of Jainism and Shaivism.

Ramappa Temple

Located in Palampet village, about 70 km from Warangal, Ramappa Temple is also known as Ramalingeswara Temple. This colossal temple presents a remarkable sight with its superb architecture.

Pakhal Lake

In the early 13th century, Pakhal Lake was assembled by using a small tributary of Krishna River. The initiative to construct this man made lake was taken by Ganapathidev, the Kakatiya king. Sprawled over an area of 30 sq km, the picturesque lake is located at a distance of 50 km from Warangal. 

Sri Veeranarayana Temple

Built around 1104 AD, Sri Veeranarayana Temple is a typical specimen of Chalukyan style of architecture. It is sited at Hanumankonda, a town near Warangal city. From its structure, it appears that initially it must be a Jain temple and later converted to a Vaishnava place of worship. 

Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary

Next to Pakhal Lake, the sanctuary is sprawled over an area of 90 acres. Its vegetation comprises of tropical dry deciduous forests and teak forests. Many exotic species of plants and animals can be seen here. Located about 50 km from Warangal, the wildlife asylum has got captivating landscape. 

Eturnagaram Sanctuary

Eturnagaram Sanctuary is sited at a distance of 90 km from Warangal. Known for embracing rare bird species, the haven has rich vegetation of teak trees. The setting appears enchanting amidst hills and springs. Tiger, Sloth Bear, Chinkara, Black Buck etc are some of the endangered animals found here............
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Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

Hyderabad, the 'City of Nizams' was christened after the queen - Hyder Mahal. With its glorious past that is more than 500 years old, Hyderabad is continuing its race with the times without compromising on its ethnicity. IT sector has penetrated into the city to such an extent that Hyderabad is often recognized as 'Cyberabad'. One can see traditional monuments along with high-tech and modern buildings in Hyderabad. 

Situated on the southern banks of Musi River, Hyderabad has a twin city known as 'Secunderabad'. Hussain Sagar Lake divides and beautifies the milieu of these two cities. Hyderabad has numerous places to see, making it an apt tourist destination. This hi-tech city has many ethnic charms to boast of, which can set any person on a shopping-spree. It would not be an exaggeration to state that Hyderabad is a priceless gemstone in the Indian crown of glory.

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Places to See:

Birla Temple

Birla Mandir is a structural wonder that dominates the skyline of Hyderabad. It is a fine specimen of man-made marvel, dedicated to the spiritual powers of Lord Venkateshwara. Perched on the Kala Pahad (Black Hill), the temple offers a panoramic view of the twin cities of Andhra Pradesh. 

Charminar

Perhaps Charminar is the pictogram of Hyderabad. Rising to the astounding height of 180 feet, the monument lies centrally in the old city. This marvelous monument is a true picture of elegance, a great tribute to the fighting spirit of human race. Charminar was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah. 

Laad Bazaar

Laad Bazaar is a renowned market of Hyderabad, budding next to the magnificent Charminar. A tour to Andhra Pradesh would be incomplete lest you visit this glittering market of Hyderabad. This market is a prominent treasure-house of lacquer bangles, pearls, semi-precious stones, etc. 

Mecca Mosque

Mecca Masjid is one of the oldest and biggest mosques of not only Anhdra Pradesh, but the whole of India. In the year 1617, Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah started the construction of the mosque, whereas it was completed by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1694. 

Salar Jung Museum

Artifacts have always been admired by most of the people and when it is about antique pieces, the curiosity gets doubled. Salar Jung Museum is such a place, where an amazing collection of traditional curios is awaiting for you to behold and admire. 

Lumbini Park

Named after the birth-place of Lord Buddha, Lumbini Park is a popular picnic spot with the city dwellers. Laserium is the main attraction of this park. Another attraction is made by the boat-ride, which takes across the lake providing a closer view of the colossal statue of Buddha. 

Falaknuma Palace

This Palace used to be the resort of the Nizams of Hyderabad. At present, it houses the invaluable art objects, tapestries, carpets over and above the largest single-man assortment of diamonds. This was the only Palace that made the venue for the late King George V and King Edward VIII of England. 

HITEC City

Hyderabad Information Technology Engineering Consultancy City (HITEC) is the first and foremost technology township that has been developed in Hyderabad. The wonderfully designed buildings of this area provide a sharp contrast to the heritage buildings of Hyderabad. 

Botanical Gardens

Spread over an area of 120 acres, Botanical gardens are the first of its own kind in Andhra Pradesh. These gardens embrace numerous varieties of herbs, plants and trees. The serenity and quietude appear charismatic with presence of water bodies, meadows and rich grasslands. 

Paigah Tombs

Erected in the late 18th century, Paigah Tombs are gracefully carved out of stones. The Paigah nobles were so close to Nizams that they got the daughters of Nizams in marriage. Asman Jah, Viqar-ul-Umara and Shams-ul-Umara are some of the nobles, who were buried here.

Golconda Fort

Golconda Fort is a standing testimony to the 500 years of the glorious past of Hyderabad. This imposing structure was constructed in the 16th century by various Qutub Shahi kings. Located at a distance of 11 km to the west of the city, the fort stands perched on a 120 meter high granite hill. 

Nehru Zoological Park

Nehru Zoological Park is credited with being the largest zoo in India. It is located at a distance of 16 km from Hyderabad and comes under the Bahadupur region. The park was named after Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. For wildlife lovers, Nehru Zoological Park is the best place to explore the rich flora. 

Ramoji Film City

Ramoji Film City (RFC) is a wonderful place that you would like to visit again and again. This city of perpetual charms has every kind of color to suit your mood and temperament. Sprawled in an area of 1,666 acres, Ramoji Film City was established by the Ramoji Group in the year 1996. 

Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park

In Andhra Pradesh, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is a popular destination amongst the lovers of wildlife. Situated in Vanasthalipuram, at a distance of 15 kmsfrom Hyderabad, the park was established in 1975 and named after 'Lord Mahavira'. 

Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary

Manjira Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary is a renowned haven that domiciles large number of local as well as migratory birds in Andhra Pradesh. Lying near Sangareddy in Medak district, this wildlife refuge is located alongside Manjira River. 

Mir Alam Tank

Located adjacent to Nehru Zoological Park, Mir Alam Tank is a small lake that boasts of serene locales. This lake was named after Mir Alam, who was the Prime Minister of the erstwhile Hyderabad state from 1804 to 1808. An amazing fact about this tank is that it comprises 21 in-built small masonry dams. 

Qutub Shahi Tomb

Located near Golconda Fort, Qutub Shahi Tomb represents a perfect fusion of Indian and Persian architectures. Thee tomb is made of granite and stands erect on square platforms. Initially, blue and green tiles were used to adorn these tombs, but very few of them are left today. 

Shilparamam

Sprawled over an area of 50 acres, Shilparamam has been provided an authentic village image. It was established by Andhra Pradesh Government to promote the rural settings of the state. Here, one can see a perfect blend of the modern landscape architecture with the rustic aesthetics of brick structures, thatched roof, walls decorated with rangoli motifs, etc. 

Dhola Ri Dhani

Built on the lines of Rajasthani village setting, Dhola Ri Dhani is a village resort having a typical rustic setting. It is located in Kompally, on the Medchal Road. Here, one can enjoy camel rides, puppet shows, folk dances and scrumptious cuisine of Rajasthan. Other attractions of the resort are a swimming pool, lake for boating, amphitheatre for plays and entertainment programmes. 

Raymond Tomb

Raymond Tomb is an ancient structure that was built to memorialize the brave French General Michel Joachim Marie Raymond (1755 - 1798 AD), who joined the army of the ruling Nizam as an ordinary soldier. After 12 years of his service, he left this world, while working for the Nizams............
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Vadodara/Baroda, Gujarat

Vadodara formerly known as Baroda is the third most populated city in the Indian State of Gujarat . It is one of the four cities with the population of over 1 million. Historical and archaeological findings date this place back to the 9th century when it was a small town called Ankottaka (present Akota) located on the right bank of the river Vishvamitri (whose name is derived from the great saint Rishi Vishwamitra). Ankottaka was a famous centre of Jainism in the 5th and 6th century AD. Some of the Akota bronze images can be seen in the Vadodara Museum . The city was once called Chandanavati after its ruler Raja Chandan of Dor tribe of Rajputs, who wrested it from the Jains. The capital had also another name "Virakshetra" or "Virawati" (a land of warriors). Later on it was known as Vadpatraka or Wadodará, which according to tradition is a corrupt form of the Sanskrit word Vatodar means 'in the heart of the banyan tree'. It is now almost impossible to ascertain when the various changes in the name were made; but early English travellers and merchants mention the town as Brodera, and it is from this that the name Baroda is derived. Again in 1974 the name changed to Vadodara.

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Places to See:

Laxmi Vilas Palace

Laxmi Vilas Palace is an architectural marvel, designed in Indo-Saracenic style and built by Maharaja Sayajirao III in 1890. It still serves as the residence of the Royal family. The palace contains several splendid chambers, which are examples of skilled craftsmanship. The Darbar Hall is embellished with Italian mosaic floor and walls with mosaic decorations. The palace even houses a remarkable collection of old armory and sculptures in bronze, marble & terracotta. 

Kirti Mandir

Kirti Mandir is another must visit place in Vadodara. It literally means the, 'Hall of Fame' and is a memorial for the Gaekwad rulers. It is a stone building, designed in Hindu style, with domes, terraces, balconies and a central shikhara. The building is decorated with murals, done by the famous Indian artist, Nandlal Bose. 

Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad University

Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad University was built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad, the ruler of Baroda. The university is also known as MSU and is over a hundred years old. It is known for its Faculty of Fine Arts and the Faculty of Performing Arts. 

Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Bharuch district of Gujarat. It stretches over an area of 608 sq km and boasts of a rich flora and fauna. The sanctuary houses Leopards, Sloth Bears, Sambar, Wild Dogs, Hyena, Barking Deer and a variety of birds. 

Nazarbagh Palace

Nazarbagh Palace is an example of Victorian classical style of architecture. It now houses the royal family heirlooms. 

Makarpura Palace

Makarpura Palace is another magnificent palace in the city. It is also built in Italianate style and is now used as an Indian Air Force training school. 

Pratap Vilas Palace

Pratap Vilas Palace once served as the residence of the royal family. It is a flamboyant building, designed in Indo-Sarcenic style. It now houses the Railway Staff College. 

Hajira

The only existing Mughal monument in Vadodara, Hajira was built in the memory of Qutub-ud-din, the general of Akbar's army. One can also see a step well in the vicinity. 

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum

Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum houses the royal collection of the art of masters like Raphael, Titian and Murillo. It also displays Western and Indian paintings, Greco-Roman exhibits, Chinese and Japanese art and a large collection of contemporary Indian art............
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Siddhapur, Gujarat

Siddhapur is a sacred town, situated on the banks of River Saraswati. It is located in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. The city even finds a reference in the Skanda Puran as Sristhala. It derives its name from the great ruler of Gujarat, Siddhraj Jaisinh. He constructed a magnificent Shiva Temple, Rudra Mahalay, in this town in 12th century AD. Siddhapur is a revered destination, flanked by temples, kunds, ashrams and other sacred structures. People travel to Siddhapur especially to perform the Matru Shraddh, (the ritual ceremony for maternal spirits).

These ceremonies are presided over by the Brahmins, who are treated with high regard. They are performed at Kapilamuni Ashram, where 3 sacred water kunds, Gyan Vapika, Alpa Sarovar and Bindu Sarovar, are present. This has made Siddhapur an important city for Hindus. Even from tourism point of view, Siddhapur is quite famous. An interesting building, known as the Thali Building, is situated on the opposite bank of the river. It was built by Ahalyabai Holkar, the Queen of Indore. Rudra Mahalaya is one of the religiously significant temples situated here. 

It is adorned with excellent architectural elements and has a three-story Shikhara, 1600 pillars, 12 entrance doors, central mandapa and porches on east, north and south and sanctum in west to enhance its glory. One can also see 11 shrines of Rudra around the temple. In the late 13th or early 14th century, Ulugh Khan and Ahmed Shah of Ahmedabad ruthlessly destroyed this Shiva shrine. Apart from this, the town also holds importance for the Bohra Muslims, an affluent Muslim community spread all over the world. They have contributed significantly to the development of Siddhapur. 

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Mehsana, Gujarat

Situated near Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, Mehsana is one of the largest cities in North Gujarat; followed by Patan and Palanpur. Mehsana is a municipal city situated in the Mehsana district of Gujarat. It is located at a distance of 74 km from Ahmedabad. Mehsana is one of the largest cities in Gujarat and houses one of the biggest iron and steel markets in India. In addition to this, it also has a Dudhsagar Co-operative milk dairy, which boasts of being the largest milk dairy in entire Asia. The Oil Natural Gas Corporation of India has set up a big establishment in the city. Thus, the city is quite important from Industrial perspective. However, the city also offers some attracions, which make it significant from travel and tourism point of view.

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Places to See:

Gambhu – Gabhira Pashvnath Bhagwan Temple in gambhu Nearest just 24 k.m in Maheshana city.

Dhinoj – has a population of 8000. It is 14 km far from Maheshana.

Tavadia – has a population of 2,500.

Ucharpi – Ucharpi is 5 km from Mehsana city. Ucharpi is situated on the bank of the Khari river.

Meghaaliyasana - 6 km away from mehsana city where a big temple of goddess Kodal mataji.

Kukarvada – Kukarwada is situated 15 km. from Visnagar Taluka. The Shivling Mehsana have royal palace which was built by Mahraja sayaji Rao now this buildings is used as Judicial Court. There was famous Simanddhar Swami temple at highway there is few Muslim tombs also like Shaheed Kadar R.A. and others.

Vihar-The famous guru of Swaminarayanpanth Tejendra Prasad stay and god Swaminarayan came 7 times in village vihar.

Kasalpur – Kasalpur is situated 25 km from Mehsana.

Vijapur- Vijapur is one of the oldest Town of Mehsana Dist. It is Located around 45 to 50 km from Mehsana. Vijapur is known for its Famous Jain Temple. Another World Famous Jain Temple of Ghantakarna Veer Bhagawan is Located at Mahudi which is around 10 km from Vijapur. Gerita is a Small Village of Vijapaur Taluka.

Gorad – Gorad is situated 14 km from Mahesana City Center and located on Radhanpur road near by Dhinoj Village. The Navaratri Festival Of Gorad is held here............
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Saputara, Gujarat

Saputara is a city and a Hill Station in the Dang District of Gujarat state in India. This picturesque hill station is perched on a plateau in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadri Range. At an altitude of about 1000 m. It has a cool bracing climate, the highest temperature even in the summer do not exceed 28 °C.

Saputara means the 'Abode of Serpents' and a snake image on the banks of the river Sarpagana is worshiped by the Adivasis on festivals like Holi.

Saputara has been developed as a planned hill resort with all the necessary amenities like hotels, parks, swimming pools, boat club, theaters, ropeways and a museum to ensure an enjoyable holiday in the cool of the hill. Saputara is only 172 km. from Surat.

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Places to See:

Saputara Lake

Tourists can enjoy boating in the Saputara Lake. The lake is located in the heart of the town and both row and paddleboats are available here for hire. 

Valley View Point

Valley View Point is an ideal spot for the adventure seekers, providing a trek climb of about 15 km. The picturesque bird's eye view of the valley from this point is awe inspiring. 

Sunset Point

To see the beauty of the nature at its best, you should visit the sunset point. It provides a panoramic view of the entire valley. There is a ropeway available to reach the point. The serene sunset views from the place will definitely leave you spellbound. 

Artist Village

Artist Village is an interesting place to be. One can view the traditional art pieces and craftsmen at work here. You can pick some fine pieces of pottery, jewelry, vases, paintings, pen stands, key chains, made from bamboo chips and other locally found material. There is even a workshop organized here, where children can learn simple items from the craftsmen themselves. 

Museum

For the inquisitive ones, there is a small museum in Saputara. It displays the lifestyle, ornaments and musical instruments of the tribes of Dangs. The museum is the perfect place to view the tribal culture from close. 

Gardens

There are a number of gardens in Saputara, providing an opportunity to relax to the visitors. The Lake Garden, Step Garden and the Rose Garden, offering scenic view of the hill station, are perfect place for a picnic............
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Surat, Gujarat

Surat is the second largest city in Gujarat, quite famous from tourism point of view. It is located on the bank of River Tapti and was a major port in the 17th and 18th century. According to the popular belief, the city was founded by Gopi, a Nagar Brahmin, who rose to be the Prime Minister in the Sultanate of Gujarat, under Mahmud I and Muzaffar II. Apart from this, Surat also has the distinction of being the first European settlement in India. It was also host to the Dutch and the Portuguese. In the starting of the 17th century, the East India Company established its warehousing facility. 

They destroyed the supremacy of the Portuguese over the port. Sir Thomas Roe went to the court of Emperor Jahangir to show his credentials as the ambassador of England. After this, the city was made the seat of presidency, under the East India Company. During the ancient era, Surat was used as the main port for the Muslim pilgrims to travel to Mecca for Haj. Today, the city is one of the prosperous cities in India. It has a flourishing Diamond industry and a major chunk of the world's diamonds are cut and polished here.

Transport

Places to See:

Dutch Garden

Dutch Garden and the Dutch Cemetery are some of the famous tourist spots in the city. The architecture of the place serves as one of the major draws for the visitors. 

Old Fort

Old Fort in Surat was constructed by Muhammed Tughlak in the 14th century. It was built as a defense against the Bhils and is now being used as the office of the Municipal Corporation. 

Sardar Patel Museum

Sardar Patel Museum is yet another fascinating place in the city. This museum is around 100 years old and it boasts of a collection of over 10,000 specimens of arts and crafts of the state. 

Rang-upavan

Rang-upavan is the biggest open air theater in the country. It has a stage of 18 meters by 10.5 meters dimensions. The theater has an astounding capacity of around 4000 spectators at a time. 

Dumas & Hajira

Dumas and Hajira are the famous health resorts near Surat. Dumas is just 16 km from the city, while Hajira lies at a distance of 28 km. They are situated on a brook of Arabian Sea blessed with natural beauty. Hajira houses two wells, containing water rich in iron and sulphur. Besides, Hajira beach, being dotted by the feathery Casuarina trees, serves as the perfect retreat from the city's hectic life. 

Gaurav Path

Gaurav Path is the liveliest place in Surat and is ideal place for a drive. It was constructed by the Surat Municipal Corporation. 

Chowpati

Chowpati is the favorite hangout of the people in the city. It is a lively picnic spot where people can relax in the big gardens. One can also enjoy mouth watering snacks like Paav Bhajee and Paani Puri here. 

Makiapul

Makiapul is the original ancient port of Gujarat, from where the ships sailed to different parts of the country.

Dandi

Dandi is situated on the coastline near the Surat city of Gujarat. The place is associated with the famous Dandi March organized by the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Owing to the fact that the place was the venue for an important campaign in the National Freedom Struggle of India, it has become a major excursion from Surat. 

Bardoli

Bardoli is located at a distance of 34 km from Surat and it is considered one of the major travel destinations near the city. The reason for this is that the place acquires an important place in the history of India. It is visited by followers of Gandhiji and Sardar Patel and also holds significance for the historians............
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