malaysia tourism

Thailand
(7 Nights/8 Days)

Cultural tour package is a journey into the rich past and culture of Thailand. The tour takes you to the historical towns of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai as well as capital Bangkok, all three the lands of exquisitely carved and elegant temples, palaces and other monuments. Cultural tour package is specially designed for those desiring to look at the cultural face of Thailand.

Information in Brief

Best Time to Visit	November to March
Duration	9 Nights / 8 Days
Destinations Covered	Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Sukhothai

Itinerary
Day 1 : Bangkok
Arrive in Bangkok and check in your hotel. After taking rest and lunch, pass the day as you wish. Stay in hotel and enjoy Thai hospitality. Or get yourself involved in any outside activity.

Day 2 : Bangkok
Tour historic temples and monuments of Bangkok, including Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple. After hectic sightseeing in the city, return to hotel in evening.

Day 3 : Bangkok
Visit Ban Thai Cultural Theme Park. Save your evening for Chinatown. Savour local culture and food.

Day 4 : Bangkok
Visit a well-known Buddhist meditation center. Enjoy cultural performances specially designed for you. Give your evening to amusement parks or shopping, as you wish.

Day 5 : Ayutthaya
Leave your hotel early for Ayutthaya (2 hrs.), the city of magnificent ruins. After having breakfast, get busy in touring historic sites, including Old Palace, Bang Pa-in Summer Palace, Diamond Fort, St. Joseph's Church and some famous temples. On evening, return to your hotel in Ayutthaya.

Day 6 : Ayutthaya
Do rest of the sites in the historical city. Then board your bus and return Bangkok. Same day, take the flight for Amphur Sawankhalok. Board a bus for Sukhothai, 30 km from here.

Day 7 : Sukhothai
Go for watching Sukhothai and Sri Satchanalai Historical Parks. For night stay, return to your hotel in New Sukhothai town.

Day 8 : Bangkok
Leave for Bangkok. Get involved in any indoor/outdoor activity. Pack and leave for airport for your return journey.

Note: The above tour can be customized as per individual requirement & budget.

Monday, August 29, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Bangkok Pattaya Tour

12:50 PM

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Destinations: Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple, National Museum, Dream World, Safari World, Siam Park, Siam Ocean World, Pattaya Beach, Tiffany Show, Elephant Village, Million Year Stone Park, Sanctuary of Truth, Bottle Museum
(6Days/7Nights)

Bangkok and Pattaya have slew of tourist attractions to serve the tourists. Begin your day with sightseeing in Bangkok, the Thai capital. The destinations include Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple and National Museum. Next in your itinerary are fun places of the likes of Dreamworld, Dusit Zoo, Safari World and Siam Park. Also visit world's largest crocodile farm and Siam Ocean World. When in Pattaya, visit the beach as well as Tiffany Show, Elephant Village, Million Year Stone Park, Sanctuary of Truth and the Bottle Museum.

Information in Brief

Duration	6Days/7Nights
Destinations Covered	Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple, National Museum, Dream World, Safari World, Siam Park, Siam Ocean World, Pattaya Beach, Tiffany Show, Elephant Village, Million Year Stone Park, Sanctuary of Truth, Bottle Museum

Itinerary
Day 01 :
Arrive in Bangkok and check in your hotel. You would be escorted by our guide to your residing place.

Bangkok

Day 02 :
Devote your day to sightseeing in Bangkok. Attractions include Royal Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple and National Museum. Indulge in popular tourist activity like shopping in evening. Explore glittering shopping malls in the streets of the Thai capital.

Day 03 :
Enjoy fun places in Bangkok. These include Dreamworld, Dusit Zoo, Mall Bangkapi, Safari World and Siam Park. Also visit world's largest crocodile farm in the outskirts of the city. Also visit Siam Ocean World which is a huge aquarium complex. You can enjoy your evening in famous spa centres of the city or have drinks in bars.

Day 04 :
Leave for Pattaya early morning. Reaching there, take lunch in your hotel and have some rest. You would visit world famous Pattaya beach in the evening and indulge in all kinds of beach related activities there.

Day 05 :
Embark on sightseeing tour of Pattaya which includes attractions like Tiffany Show, Elephant Village, Million Year Stone Park, Sanctuary of Truth and the Bottle Museum. Spend your evening in the beach or indulge in activity like shopping. The choice is yours.

Day 06 :
Return to Bangkok. Enjoy some more activities like shopping and spa. At evening, leave for your home after a tour you would remember for all your life.

Note: The above tour can be customized as per individual requirement & budget.

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Saturday, August 27, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Thailand Beach Tour

12:13 PM

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Thailand

Thailand is the country of beaches and blue sea. It is the land which boasts an array of powdery white beaches fringed by coral reefs and lush vegetation. One can bask in the sun in the open space of the beach and, at the same time, find refuge under the shade of a tree. We offer Thailand beach tour packages of the highest quality with the best local services as well as unlimited support and facilities.

Information in Brief

Best Time to Visit	November to March
Duration	11 Nights / 10 Days
Destinations Covered	Hua Hin, Rayong, Phuket, Krabi

Itinerary
Day 1 : Hua Hin
Reach Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Then move on to Hua Hin, known for idyllic beaches. Reaching Hua Hin, have a nice lunch and take rest. Late evening, enjoy Hua Hin nightlife.

Day 2 : Hua Hin
Pass your day on Hua Hin Beach, strolling and resting on beach loungers. Do some sightseeing in Klai Kang Won Palace and Khao Takiab. You can also enjoy various activities and water sports.

Day 3 : Rayong / Koh Samet
After a night's rest, leave for Rayong, another destination famous for beaches. Reach Koh Samet, most famous tourist destination in Rayong. After reaching hotel, take lunch and reach the beach. Pass rest of the day there and in evening, return to the hotel.

Day 4 : Koh Samet
Enjoy to the fullest your day on the beach. Beach picnic, strolling, playing, sun-bathing; there are variety of activities. Various points in Koh Samet are known for diving. One can also take fun in sports like sea canoeing, jet-skiing, snorkelling, water skiing and knee boarding. Return to your hotel late evening.

Day 5 : Koh Samet
Visit destinations like Pala and Payoon beaches as well as Mun Islands. After a lot of merry-making, return to your hotel and leave for Bangkok. Take the flight from Bangkok for Phuket.

Day 6 : Phuket
You are in the most famous beach destinations of Thailand. Visit Patong beach and enjoy to the hilt. The beach has enough ingredients to keep you busy for all day. Return to hotel in evening. Late evening should be given to world-famous Patong nightlife.

Day 7 : Phuket
Invest one more day in Phuket. Enjoy water sports and fabulous food. Evening would be reserved for shopping. Return to your hotel.

Day 8 : Krabi
Take the bus for Krabi next morning. Put your baggage in the hotel. Reach the beaches and enjoy them to the fullest. Return to the hotel in the evening and have a hearty sleep.

Day 9 : Krabi
One day is definitely insufficient to explore Krabi. Give one more day to Krabi beaches. Enjoy the watersports and seafood. Cave exploring in Krabi is definitely an exhilarating experience. Take rejuvenating spa late evening and have a hearty sleep in the night.

Day 10 : Krabi
Leave by bus for Phuket and take flight back to Bangkok. Pass your day in baggage packing or any other activity. Reach airport and take the flight to your next destination.

Note: The above tour can be customized as per individual requirement & budget.

Thursday, August 25, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Thailand Adventure Tour

12:08 PM

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Thailand
(4 Nights/5 Days)

Exciting adventure tour amidst the misty hills and national parks of Thailand is an experience one would relish. Intriguing stay with the hill tribes provides a further dimension to the travel. A trip to the Golden Triangle is ideally combined with the trip.

Information in Brief

Best Time to Visit	November to March
Duration	6 Nights / 5 Days
Destinations Covered	Chiang Saen, Hilltribe Villages, Mae Salong, Doi Tung, Dai Luang National Park

Itinerary
Day 1 : Chiang Saen
Leave Bangkok for Chiang Saen, former capital of the first Thai kingdom. Visit ancient temples like Wat Phra Dhat Jom Kitti and Wat Jedi Luang. Journey by boat to the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Burma and Laos share their borders. Return to your hotel.

Day 2 : Hilltribe Villages
Leave Chiang Saen for Yao and Akha hilltribe villages. Watch the culture and lifestyle of these villages from close quarters. Take lunch prepared in traditional Thai style. Pass night in Akha village.

Day 3 : Mae Salong
After breakfast, move for Doi Mae Salong, journeying through picturesque mountains. After taking lunch, proceed to Mae Sai, a town on Burmese border. Enjoy bargain shopping in the local market. Leave for Chiang Rai. Pass your night in the hotel.

Day 4 : Doi Tung
Leave for Doi Tung, a lovely mountainous hotspot. Visit Mae Fah Luang Royal Gardens and Wat Phrathat Doi Tung temple. Soak in the scenic beauty. Return to the hotel.

Day 5 : Dai Luang National Park
Journey to Dai Luang National Park, covering an area of 1,170 square kilometers. Apart from animal and bird watching, visit impressive places like Poo Kaeng Waterfall and Wang Kaew Waterfall.

Note: The above tour can be customized as per individual requirement & budget.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Singapore Fun Tour Package

12:00 PM

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Singapore
(4 Nights / 5 Days)

Singapore fun tour package providing utmost pleasure begins with a trip to unearthly Sentosa Island, famous for its unmatched attractions. Next on your list is the St. John's Island, loved for its peaceful environment. The third is East Coast Park. The tour also takes you to intriguing spots like Chinatown and Little India, both of which are known for colorful atmosphere. And, of course, no fun tour ends without the Botanical Gardens.

Information in Brief

Best Time to Visit	Round the year
Duration	4 Nights / 5 Days
Destinations Covered	Sentosa Island, St. John's Island, East Coast Park, Chinatown, Little India, Botanical Gardens

Itinerary
Day 1: Singapore
Arrival in Singapore. You would be escorted by our representative to your hotel. Relax in the day as you wish. You can go for shopping or for evening saunter. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Singapore
Take breakfast. Then leave for Sentosa Island by ferry. Have full day of adventure on the recreational hub. Enjoy all Sentosa attractions like butterfly park, insect kingdom, underwater world, dolphin lagoon and musical fountain. Return to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 3: Singapore
After breakfast, go on a trip for St. John's Island and East Coast Park. Enjoy peaceful time in St John's Island. Then have an amble at the St. John's Island. Late evening, return to hotel.

Day 4: Singapore
The day would be spent in studying the culture and history of Singapore. After trips to Chinatown and Little India, rest of day would include tours to Asian Civilisation Museum and Singapore Arts Museum. The trips would give an insight into the history of Singapore.

Day 5: Singapore
After breakfast, tour of the world-famous Botanical Gardens, having astounding variety in fauna. After the trip, have lunch. Then, shopping and leisure activities at your will. Late evening, return to hotel. After dinner, depart for the airport.

Note: The above tour can be customized as per individual requirement & budget.

Sunday, August 21, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Singapore Entertainment Tour Package

11:54 AM

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Singapore
(3 Nights / 4 Days)

Singapore Entertainment tour package commences with a trip to Night Safari, a memorable saunter among wild animals at night. Next is the tour of the incomparable Sentosa Island. Third in the list is intriguing Jurong Bird Park, always loved by lovers of bird life. Singapore entertainment tour package also takes you to other interesting spots in the island like Chinatown and Little India.

Information in Brief

Best Time to Visit	Round the year
Duration	3 Nights / 4 Days
Destinations Covered	Night Safari, Sentosa Island, Jurong Bird Park, Chinatown, Little India

Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Singapore
You arrive in Singapore and check in hotel. Late evening Night Safari Tour. You would see animals busy in their normal life, prowling and hunting. Night safari hosts more than 900 animals, many of them rare. Overnight stay in hotel.

Day 2: Singapore
After breakfast, leave by cruise for Sentosa Island. Have exciting tour of Underwater World, Dolphin Lagoon, Musical Fountain and the Merlion. Spots like underwater world and dolphin lagoon are incomparable. Return to Singapore city after the tour. Night stay in hotel.

Day 3: Singapore
After breakfast, tour of Jurong bird Park., one of Asia-Pacific's largest and most impressive bird parks. Its 20-hectare area provides residence to more than 8000 birds. Coming back to hotel at afternoon. Evening free for leisure activities on your own. Overnight stay in hotel.

Day 4: Singapore
Trip to Chinatown and Little India., pockets of ethnic population in Singapore. Some more sightseeing in the city including historical Raffles Hotel and monuments like Armenian Church, Siong Lim Temple and Hong San See Temple. Return to hotel. You would be escorted to airport on hotel taxi for onward journey.

Note: The above tour can be customized as per individual requirement & budget.

Friday, August 19, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Singapore Experience Tour Package

11:44 AM

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Singapore
(6 Nights / 7 Days )

Singapore Experience tour package begins with a drive to Jurong Bird Park, an extraordinary residence of birds. Next is the stop at the Botanical Gardens, always hit among the nature lovers. Few places in the world are as engrossing as the Sentosa Island. Singapore Experience tour package also takes you to other interesting spots of the city. You also board a cruise which provides fun of lifetime.

Information in Brief

Best Time to Visit	Round the year
Duration	6 Nights / 7 Days
Destinations Covered	Jurong Bird Park, Botanical Gardens, Sentosa Island, City Tour, Cruise on Star Virgo

Itinerary
Day 01: Singapore
Arrival in Singapore. You would be escorted to hotel by our representative. Some sightseeing late afternoon. Sightseeing would include some famous monuments. Pass your evening in one of the parks of Singapore. Night stay at hotel.

Day 02: Singapore
After taking breakfast, leave for Jurong Bird Park followed by Botanical Gardens. Both the places have been very popular, particularly among the admirers of natural and avian life. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Singapore
After breakfast depart for Sentosa Island. Sentosa hosts prime Singapore attractions such as butterfly kingdom, insect world, musical fountain and underwater world. Enjoy all these to the hilt and at night, return to hotel.

Day 04: Singapore
City experience tour. Your itinerary includes all major monuments and prominent museums. The tour would help you see what Singapore witnessed in past. While touring Chinatown and Little India, you have catch a glimpse of multi-ethnic culture of Singapore. On evening depart on a two days tour on Star cruise Virgo.

Day 05: Cruise
Full day on cruise which can be termed as a sailing entertainment park. The cruise has wide range of suites to suit all tastes and budgets. World-class entertainment has been provided on the ship. More than ten restaurants serve delicious cuisine to the guests.

Day 06: Cruise
Another day of total enjoyment on cruise. Choose any of the luxurious entertainment options on the huge elegant ship. On evening, return to hotel. You would be escorted to the airport for onward journey.

Note: The above tour can be customized as per individual requirement & budget.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Taj Mahal - The bond of love

11:38 AM

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southeast asia tour packages, Taj Mahal - The bond of love, The symbol of passion. The beauty of white marble. This is Taj Mahal. It is the Crown Palace of Mughal architecture. Located on the bank of a picturesque river, the structure is a sheer magic. Have a virtual tour before you pack your bags.

Descriptionless Magical Romance in Stones
Taj Mahal

Taj Maas Crown Palace, it is the monument of unsurpassable architectural beauty, a structure of sheer magic and the ethereal symbol of an emperor's passion for the queen of his heart. A legendary monument, must to be seen in a lifetimhal, the epitome of love, is one of the most visited and most photographed places in the world. Also known e.

Synopsis

Country	India
State	Uttar Pradesh
Location	Agra
Known For	Finest monument of Mughal architecture in white marble
Best Time To Visit	November to February
Best Moment To Visit	Moonlit Night
Visiting Hours	0600hrs-0700hrs (Except Fridays)
Architectural Style	Indo-Persian

Why to Visit

One of the top seven tourist travel wonders as compiled by Hillman Wonders.
Was added to Unesco's World Heritage List in 1983.
Above 15,000 tourists visit this most famous mausoleum of the planet every day.
Most majestic monument of white marble narrating the tale of everlasting love.

Fine Points of The Taj

Known for changing colors: shimmers silver in the moonlight, becomes pinkish at dawn and assumes fiery hue at dusk. On foggy morning, it seems suspended when viewed from the river side.
Incredible level of artistic sophistication- 'A 3cm decorative element contains more than 50 inlaid gemstones'
An aesthetically perfect marble tomb with River Yamuna as a backdrop. Reflection of the moon and Taj on the river is idyllic!
Marble strewn with stone flowers whose grace excel those of real flowers
Inlaid with thousands of semi-precious stones
Culmination of the aesthetic sensibilities of Central Asia, Persia and India.
Exquisite calligraphic craftsmanship of Koran quotations

The Taj Complex
Taj Mahal

Although the onion-domed tomb of the the Taj is its most famous section, The Taj complex comprises five spectacular elements- the Rouza or the Taj Mausoleum, the Darwaza or Main Gateway, the Bageecha or Garden, the Masjid or Mosque, the Jawab or Rest House, and the Red Wall. Lesser structures include the tombs of Shah Jahan's other wives and one for a close aide of Mumtaj.

The Rouza or The Taj Mausoleum
The Taj mausoleum, built with white marble, incorporates Central Asian, Persian and Indian architectural styles with basic Persian design elements like a symmetrical building and an arc-shaped doorway.

The tomb, which is a large, multi-chambered structure, stands on a square plinth flanked by four tapering graceful minarets. The cenotaphs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaj are housed in the main chamber, but the actual graves are a level below.

The entire structure is embellished by exquisite inlay work with delicate details using precious gems. Flowery designs, geometrical patterns and calligraphy on main archways endow them captivating charm. The octagonal marble screen or jali bordering the cenotaphs has been carved through with intricate work.

That the Taj has been described as "having been designed by giants and finished by the jewellers" testifies to the exquisite workmanship.

The Darwaza or The Gateway
The Darwaza is majestic three-storey red sandstone structure with a central chamber having a vaulted roof and smaller rooms on each side, which have elaborate geometric designs. The style reminds us of early Mughal architecture. The walls are inscribed with Quranic verses in black callibraphy.

A remarkable feature is that the letters appear akin from top to bottom. This feat was accomplished by heightening the letters gradually towards the top.

The Bageecha or The Garden
Islamic architecture gives great value to lush watered gardens or charbags*. The Taj also lies in a sprawling garden that has sunken flowerfeds, raised pathways, fountains and pools. Watercourses which originate from a central, raised pool divide the garden into several flowerbeds.

The Taj Garden is a bit different from other charbag gardens. For the Taj is not at the centre of the garden but at it's end. Recently discovered 'Mahtab Bagh' or 'Moonlight Garden' explains this. The river Yamuna itself was taken into account before designing the garden, and the river had to play the role of a charbag river, in the scheme of the things.

The Masjid or The Mosque
Two red sandstones buildings, which are mirror images of each other, are situated on the far end of the complex. The red sandstone building to the west of the complex is the Masjid or the Mosque. In Islamic architecture, it is common to build a mosque near a tomb, for it sanctifies the area.

The Jawab or The Rest House
The building opposite it, which is the mirror image of the first. is the jawab or "answer". It is also known as naqqar khana. The objective behind its construction is architectural balance, for it cannot be used for worship as it faces away from Mecca. Now in decrepit state, it served as a guest house.

The Red Wall
A crenellated red sandstone wall encases the Taj Mahal on three sides. The side facing the river is left open. Small domes and structures, which may have been used as watch towers, interperse the wall.

To the west is a small museum which houses original architectural drawings of the Taj. It also contains information on the gems employed in its building.

Making of The Taj

Thirty-two million rupees, twenty-two years and more than twenty thousand workers! All these were devoted for the construction of this marvel.
More than 1000 elephants were made to transport construction materials while the construction of the Taj was in progress.
Master craftsmen from Persia, France, Iran, Italy and Turkey worked on the tomb.
The translucent white marble was brought in from Makrana in Rajasthan (India).
Twenty-eight kind of stones were used for inlay work in the Taj Mahal.
Jasper was transported from Punjab, Turquoise from Tibet, Lapis Lazuli and Sapphire from Sri Lanka, Coal and Cornelian from Arabia, Jade and Crystal from China and Diamonds from Panna.

Concise History
The year was 1631. The making of the Taj commenced. Shah Jehan, the fifth emperor of the Mughal dynasty of medieval India, started writing the 'elegy in marble'. An elegy in the memory of his beloved wife Arjumand Bano, on whom he had bestowed the title Mumtaj Mahal or the Exalted Palace. Mumtaj died while giving birth to their fourteenth child. The emperor was so grief-stricken at his wife's untimely demise that, they say, he went into seclusion for full one year and when he reappeared, all his hair had become snow white.

The emperor decided to build an unrivalled monment in the memory of his beloved and the work started in full swing. The marvel was completed in 1654.

In his later days, Shah Jahan was deposed by his own son Aurangzeb and imprisoned at Agra Fort. In captivity, he could only have a glimpse of his beloved Taj. After his death, he was buried beside the cenotaph of his beloved Mumtaj.

Myth of The Black Taj
Heard about Black Taj? Legend holds that Shah Jahan began laying the foundations for another great mausoleum on the opposite side of the river for himself, though the work was abandoned. Ruins have been discovered by the archaeologists which seem to suggest the authenticity of this viewpoint.

The Taj Mahotsava

Taj Mahotsava or Taj Festival, a mesmerising, scintillating, jovial ten-day event, is held annually at Shilpgram, near Taj Mahal, usually in the month of February. The carnival provides a platform for cultural introduction of India in general and Uttar Pradesh in particular. Agra bursts into colorful celebrations. The state's rich heritage of arts, culture, crafts, cuisine music and dance is displayed in the celebration. The event commences with a grand procession which includes caparisoned elephants and camels, folk artists and drum beaters.

Don't miss food festival, an integral part of the mahotsava. Savour scrumptious dishes prepared by exponents of Indian delicacies.

Quotes Unquotes
Sir Edwin Arnold (Eminent Poet)
Not a piece of architecture, as other buildings are, but the proud passions of an emperor's love wrought in living stones.

Rabindranath Tagore (Noble laureate)
A teardrop on the cheek of time.

Salman Rushdie (Writer)
India's Taj Mahal must be seen to remind us that the world is real, that the sound is truer than the echo, the original more forceful than its image in a mirror.

Bill Clinton (Ex US President)
World is divided between those who have seen the Taj (Mahal) and those who have not.

Anthony Weller (Writer)
Several points about the Taj Mahal that astonished me: ... How big it is ... How clean it is ... How symmetrical it is ... How much it matches all its photographs.

Useful Tips

There is no limit to the time passed in the Taj Complex. If you wish, you can spend your whole day here, indulging in activities like picknicking, reading or dozing in the panoramic gardens.
Official guides are unavailable, but your hotel can provide them. In organised tours, guides usually accompany the tourists.
Salesmen and hawkers are not allowed to enter the complex.
The ticket office is just outside the western gate. Be careful to bring the right amount of money.

How To Reach The Taj
Taxis/Autos: Auto rickshaws and airconditioned/non-airconditioned taxis are available from railway station, airport and major hotels.
Public Transport: City buses operate to and from the main sites of the city. Deluxe and ordinary coaches are available at the Agra Cant Railway Station.
Other Transport: Tongas and cycle-rickshaws are available from various parts of the city, rates of which are negotiable. Bicycles can also be hired.

Point to Remember: In the Taj area, no diesel and petrol vehicles are allowed. Only unpolluting means of transportation like battery-operated buses, tongas and rickshaws are permitted.

Monday, August 15, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Petronas Towers Malaysia

11:33 AM

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Pride of Malaysia

Petronas Towers, the tallest twin towers in the world, are the most recognisable feature of Malaysia. An achievement of stupendous proportions, they are undoubtedly one of the wonders of Asia.

Pentronas Towers

Synopsis

Country	Malaysia
City	Kuala Lumpur (capital)
Known For	Tallest twin towers in the world
Best Time To Visit	Anytime in year
Best Moment To Visit	Late evening or night
Architectural Style	Modern

Why to Visit

Sprawling, glistening views of the city from the Sky bridge.
Sight of a shimmering, mesmerising skyscraper is astounding.
Dream destination of shopaholics.
Haven of culinary delights.

Fine Points of The Petronas Towers

Centre of corporate KL (Kuala Lumpur).
House of Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.
House of Petronas Gallery of Art.
Below the twin towers is Suria KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre), a popular shopping mall.
Lies in vicinity of a projected high-tech business zone, the Malaysia Multimedia Supercorridor.

Under The Shadow
Pentronas Towers

These are the jewels within the precincts of the Twin Towers.

Sky Bridge
A unique suspended bridge, which connects the two towers on the 41st and 42nd floors, provides mesmerising views of the sprawling city. The foremost attraction of the Twin Towers, it is also called podium, since visitors desiring to go to higher levels have to change elevators here.

Visitors have to obtain passes (limited) which are free, but are served on first-come, first-served basis.

KLCC Park
Soothing greenery and water games provide striking contrast to the concrete towers. Known for its unique concept, the park provides fountain pool with an incorporated light show, children's playground, wading pool, patterned footpaths, and jogging track which are set among selected native trees and shrubs.

Suria KLCC Shopping Centre
Fanciful rollicking KLCC shopping centre sits on the base of the Twin Towers. It hosts expensive fashion boutiques, health care stores, bookshops, computer shops, jewellers, cinema, a concert hall and an art gallery. Lovers of brand shopping can find it very useful, for the prices are much lower than western countries.

Food Courts
To satisfy your taste buds, nice eateries are always ready. Scrumptious Asian and Western food is available at the food courts on the second and on the fourth floor. Upmarket restaurants serve the food-lovers on level four while cafes and bakeries provide culinary delight to the visitors throughout the shopping centre and the ground floor.
Making of the Tower
Construction of the Petronas Twin Towers commenced in 1991, on the site of a racetrack The depth of the bedrock compelled the builders to dig deep, sometimes to 120 metres. Over 500 truck-loads moved the excavated earth every night. Then, through a period of 54 hours, 13,200 cubic metres of concrete was poured for each tower.

A 21-metre high retaining wall was raised from the base, which had a perimeter length of more than 1 kilometre. Construction of the superstructure was started in 1994. The towers took final shape in 1996.

Interestingly, two separate construction companies were given the contract for each tower. Construction work was undertaken primarily at night and finishing work was accomplished during the day.

The Objective
The making of the Petronas Towers was part of a large burst of construction that marked the country's 1990s economic boom. The objective of the mammoth project was to provide the capital with an efficient and modern centre for urban activity, trade and commerce.

Pentronas Towers

Salient Features

Height of each tower is 452 metres above street level.
Number of storeys is 88.
83,500 sq. m. of steel cladding.
77,000 square metres of vision glass.
160,000 cubic metres of concrete.
29 double-decker high speed passenger lifts in each tower.
170 metres is the height of Skybridge.

Quotes Unquotes

Cesar Antonio Pelli (Architect of Petronas Towers)
'I tried to express what I thought were the essences of Malaysia, its richness in culture and its extraordinary vision for the future. The building is rooted in tradition and about Malaysia's aspiration and ambition.'

Tun Mahathir Mohamad (Prime Minister of Malaysia, 1999)
As an internationally recognised landmark, the Petronas Twin Towers are a national pride to the people of Malaysia.

Useful Tips

Reach early to get the ticket of the skybridge.
Take your photos in haste, for they don't let you stand on the skybridge for long.

How To Reach

Airport: Airport is at 50 minutes drive from the Twin Towers. You can take taxis and cabs for the Towers.
Public Transport: Local Rail Transit or LRT Station is just 150 metres away. Local bus stops are also close by.
Monorail: You can avail of this state-of-the-art local transport service.

Saturday, August 13, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Meenakshi Temple

11:19 AM

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southeast asia tour packages, Meenakshi Temple one of the most ancient in temple complexes, is the signature of Indian architecture. Located in Madurai in southern India, it is a stupendous complex, a great work of structural engineering.

Architecture in Indian Cup
Sri Meenakshi Temple, the masterpiece of Indian architecture, is one of the largest and most ancient temple complexes in India. The crowning glory of Madurai, the city of nectar, it is a stupefying structure, the treasure trove of Indian culture and ethos.

Synopsis

Country	India
State	Tamil Nadu
Location	Madurai
Known For	Skyscraping gopurams
Best Time To Visit	October to March/ April to May
Best Moment To Visit	Dusk
Architectural Style	Indian

Why to Visit

Included in Travel Wonders List by the Hillman Wonders.
Above 10,000 tourists visit the temple every day. On Fridays, the number reaches to 25,000.
One of the finest specimen of Indian art.

Fine Points of The Meenakshi Temple

Marvellous view of temple at dusk. Golden sky behind the majestic temple towers. It is idyllic!
Incredible level of artistic sophistication- 'the Temple hosts stupendous 33 million carvings.'
"Hall of a Thousand Pillars", is as great a work of structural engineering as it is of art.
One of the most sacred sites for Hindus.
Fifty metres high gopurams abundantly adorned from base to roof with flamboyant designs.
The Temple, as large as a dozen football fields, houses a myriad of fascinating small temples and corridors.

The Temple
Meenakshi Temple

Lord Sundareshvara (Shiva), the Hindu deity of cosmic dance, and his consort Meenakshi are the reigning deities of this magnificent temple. The temple is unique for it dedicates dual shrines for the God and the Goddess.

Within its huge embrace, the temple hosts several attractions. They are as follows.

Gopurams
This majestic temple complex, stretching itself over an area of six hectares, has twelve gopurams, ranging in height from 45 to 50 metres. The southern gopuram, foremost among them, is remarkable for its harmony of structure. Nine stories high, it adorned with the stone carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, painted in brilliant colors.

Dancing Nataraja
The image of Dancing Natraj is a well-renowned piece of art. Lord Shiva, the Indian God known for his cosmic dance, is also described as Lord Nataraja. ('Nata' referes to dance and 'Raja' to the king). The figure of Natraj represents the Hindu concept that human life emanates from five basic elements which are wind, earth, fire, water and space.

Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam
This spacious hall is thronged by more than hundred pillars, which are carved with the images of a peculiar animal. Miracles of Lord Shiva, and the story of Meenakshi's birth and her life as the princess of Madurai, have been depicted on the pillars. The land holder in side the mandapam has thousand plus lamps, which are illuminated during festivals.

Potramariakulam
An ancient stepped reservoir surrounded by pillored corridors, it is used by devotees to take bath. Stories abound that the meetings of Tamil Sangam, the ancient congregation of Tamil poets- were held in the area around the tank. was the meeting place of the Tamil Sangam- the ancient academy of Tamil poets.

Oonjal Mandapam
Situated on the western side of the Potramariakulam tank, it is adorned by 28 pillars, which displays sculptures related to Hindu mythology.

The Thousand Pillar Mandapam
This matchless monument of the Dravidian art is adorned by 985 beautiful columns. It also houses a museum, which showcases priceless idols, drawing, photographs etc.

Vasantha Mandapam (Pudhu Mandapam)
The mandapam is famed for Vasanthosavam, the Spring festival, celebrated in Vaikasi (April-May). The pillars embellishing the mandapam depict exquisite sculptures of Lord Shiva and his consort Meenakshi.

Temple Festivals
The Temple acts as a stage for several colorful festivals. Most prominent among them are Meenakshi Kalyanam and Teppam.

Meenakshi Kalyanam

The marriage festival of Lord Sundareshwar (Shiva) and Goddess Meenakshi, the reigning deities of the Temple, Meenakshi Kalyanam is the foremost event held in the temple premises. Celebrated annually in the month of April- May, the festival is known for the grand car procession of the God and the Goddess.

Meenakshi Temple

Conventional instrumental music, fand and beautifully embellished umbrellas are the integral part of the festival. Scenes from mythology are enacted, deriving huge applause from thousand of devotees, who assemble to celebrate the occasion.

Teppam
Teppam festival, also known as the annual Float Festival, is a grand event when the idols of Lord Sundareswara and Goddess Meenakshi are taken for a floating trip on the Mariamman Teppakkulam Tank. For several days they sail over the waters of the tank, on an illuminated raft adorned with flowers, and then, they are taken back to the Temple.

Architecture
Superb specimen of South Indian temple architecture, the Temple hosts stupendous 33 million carvings. The temple complex is embraced by a surrounding wall, with the two sanctums for Lord Sundareshwara and Goddess Meenakshi standing in the centre.

The prime sanctums are encircled by a number of smaller shrines and grand pillared halls. The highly impressive gopurams or towers rise from solid granite bases exquisitely carved with images of gods and goddesses, depictions of legendary stories and mythological figures.

The Legend of Meenakshi
As Hindu mythology holds, Meenakshi, a princess, was born with fish-shaped eyes and fishy smell. Holy men suggested that when she would meet her future husband, her fishy smell would vanish and her fish-shaped eyes would transform into beauty.

The prediction came true when she met Lord Shiva, who was destined to be her husband. Eight days later, she married him in Madurai. Lord Shiva took the form of Lord Sundareshwara or the Lord of Beauty. From the day, the Lord and the Goddess made Madurai their residence.

Concise History
The structure which stands today has its origins in the twelfth to the eighteenth centuries. Originally the temple was erected by Kulasekara Pandya, but the Nayaks, who governed Madurai between the 16th to the 18th century, deserve the real credit for making it. The marks of their magnificent impression are obvious in the Meenakshi Temple.

Travel Tips
Remember that it is a religious place. So maintain decorum.

How To Reach Sri Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
From the bus stand and railway station, buses, taxis, auto rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available to reach the temple. From airport too, which lies at the distance of ten kilometres from the city, taxis and auto rickshaws are available for the site.

Thursday, August 11, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Great Wall of China

11:07 AM

Unknown

The Great Wall of China, as it is called, is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful monuments ever made by mankind. Stretching approximately 6,700 kilometres from east to west of China, the Great Wall snakes up and down across the undulating topography, like a gigantic dragon.

Synopsis

Country	China
Known For	All-time wonder, Largest construction undertaken ever
Best Time To Visit	May, October
Best Moment To Visit	Early morning or late afternoon
Architectural Style	Various architectural influences
Stretch	Approximately 6,700 kilometres

Why To Visit
» The Great Wall is one of the all-time wonders of the planet.
» Most famous and magnificent monument of China.
» The greatest construction work ever carried out.

Fine Points of The Great Wall
» Made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
» Unique fortification combined with natural barriers.
» Many sections provide breathtaking scenic views.
» Climbing the Wall conjures up sense of thrill and adventure.
» Gives glimpses of the times of Ancient China.
The Great Wall Travel Hotspots
Though the Great Wall is gorgeous and graceful all through its journey, some of its sections have been more popular among tourists. The Great Wall tourist hotspots.

Badaling Wall
Best preserved section of the Great Wall provides amazing, fantastic and breath-taking vistas. Known for its completeness and imposing structures, this section of the Great Wall is closest to Beijing (only 60 km) and it is imperatively on the itinerary of every tourist visiting the Chinese capital.

The section is located just 11 kilometres away from the scenic Juongguan Pass. Great Wall Museum, Great Wall National Theatre, Badaling Great Wall Cableway and other tourism facilities are also established in this section. Dotted with strategic watchtowers and defended by a fortress, the landscape along this section changes every season.

The Great Wall of China

Huanghuacheng Wall
A perfect choice for hiking lovers and adventurers, this section has steep precipices on either side, a reservoir and charming wide flowers. This section has earned the nickname of Yellow Flower Great Wall, thanks to the profusion of beautiful yellow flowers here in the summer season.

Located in the vicinity of Huairou city, snaking its way above the interminable peaks, and finally fading into the horizon, the Wall seemingly challenges the climbers to discover its mysteries.

Huangyaguan Taipingzhai Wall
Taking pride in its appealing sceneries, this section, also known as 'Yellow Cliff' has earned the sobriquet 'the impregnable pass'. Attraction of this section include :

Widow Tower : A square watchtower, it commemorates the sacrifice of widows of frontier soldiers who donated their pension to build this tower.

Huangyaguan Mueusm: It tells about the historical development of the Great Wall. The arms and belongings of Ming dynasty soldiers are also exhibited.

Stele Forest : Inscriptions here display the calligraphy of Chairman Mao, some New China generals and modern calligraphers.

Marathon Race : Being held since 2000, the Race has made this section of the Great Wall very popular. More than thousand participants from over 30 countries zealously take part in this race every year.

Phoenix Fortress and Beiji Temple are two other tourist destinations of the area.

Jayuguan Pass
Renowned for its magnificent castle, Jayuguan is the best preserved of all Great Wall passes. In ancient days, it's prestige rested as a key passageway of the Silk Road.

The castle, which holds its place as a magnificent architectural complex, commanding sweeping views of Gobi Desert and snow-carpeted Qulian Mountains. The roofs exuding grandeur are upturned at the end of the ridges while towers and pavilions are glittering examples of classic beauty.

Jiankou Wall (Arrow Lock)
Use of white rocks in construction and natural beauty makes Jiankou Wall special. Located 73 kms north off Beijing, it hosts several tourist attractions like 'The Eagle Flies Facing Upward', Sky Stairs, Beijing Knot, Nine-eye Tower, Zhengbei Tower and Cloud Stairs.

The Eagle Flies Facing Upward : An extremely high watchtower built at the summit of this section. If a flying eagle desires to sit atop it, it can only do so by flying upwards. Hence the name.

Sky Stairs : These are stairs with dangerously steep inclination. The climber hardly has space to put his feet properly.

Beijing Knot : This is the point where three different sections of the Great Wall converge.

Nine-eye Tower : A watchtower with nine holes.

Zhengbei Tower : A tower which provides fascinating vistas of sunrise and sunset.

Cloud Stairs : A section of the Wall which rises steeply.

The Great Wall of China

Jinshanling Wall
If you want to soak in ancient China, this is the place. Lying in the mountainous area of Hebei province, an ex military stronghold, the section is known for complicated and well-preserved fortification systems and picturesque natural vistas.

150 kilometres off Beijing, this section is ideal for the tourists who want to enjoy the Great Wall sightseeing but avoids the crowds of Badaling.

A 3-kilometer section of the Wall is bathed after dark in colored light, making a grand "Night Great Wall".

Mutianyu Wall
Known for best quality among all Wall sections, Mutianyu Wall is situated at 70km north-east of Beijing. It is well-connected with Gubeikou Gateway in the east and Juyongguan Pass in the west. Built with granite, this section is encased by sprightly streams and lush greenery.

Shanhaiguan Wall
Aptly known as the Museum of the Great Wall, Shanhaiguan is the place one can find :

» Old Dragon's Head (the only part of the Great Wall that meets the sea)
» Number One Pass Under Heaven (the first pass of the Great Wall),
» Jia Shan (the first mountain the Great Wall climbs)
» Jiumenkou (the only part of the Great Wall in the shape of a bridge)
» Ancient Meng Jiang-Nu Temple
» Shanhaiguan Great Wall Museum

Needless to say, a tour of the Great Wall is not over without a visit to Shanhaiguan, located north of Qinhuangdao city.

Simatai Wall
Unique design, invigorating scenery and precipitous topography make the Simatai Wall an ideal place for sightseeing, hiking and exploration.

This section, situated 120km off Beijing, stands out as the only section which preserves the marks of Ming dynasty. Densely dotted with beacon towers, the precipitous Wall can make the climbers shudder with fear. Other attractions include Mandarin Duck Springs, Watching Beijing Tower, Fairy Tower, Heavenly Ladder and Sky Bridge.

Mandarin Duck Springs : Two springs, one cold and one warm, join into one lake. Making a unique half cold-half warm waterbody. In winters, steam rising from the lake makes a marvelous spectacle.

Watching Beijing Tower : The highest cultural relic in Beijing, it is the summit of the Simatai Wall. Provides vistas of faintly shimmering lights of downtown Beijing. Bricks used are stamped with the date when they were made.

Fairy Tower : Known as an architectural masterpiece, it is most enchanting of all towers. Twin lotus flowers above the arched doors enhance its beauty.

Heavenly Ladder : With seventy degree inclines and steep drop-offs, it can make even the 'lions' shudder.

Sky Bridge : 100 metre long bridge connecting the Watching Beijing Tower to the Fairy Tower. Having a cabined width of mere 40 centimetre, it can give even the most brave the feeling of vertigo.

Weeping Wall
The most popular legend associated with the Wall connects itself with this section. And commemorating the heroine of the legend are two black rocky reefs and a temple, on the shore of the Bohai Sea, beyond Shanhaiguan Pass.

The Story : A recently married youth named Fan Xiliang was forced by the emperor to work on the site. His beloved wife Men Jiangnu waited for his return for five years, but to no avail. One night, Men had a fearful dream. She rushed to the site, but found that her husband had already died and was buried under the Great Wall. At the side of the Wall, she cried and cried, and to everybody's astonishment, the Wall collapsed!

The Structure:
Sheer structure of the Great Wall lends it the credentials to become an all-time wonder. Stretching over six thousand kilometres, materials easily available locally have been used for its construction.

The Material:
Quarried limestone is put to good use near Beijing, while in some locations, granite of baked bricks were utilised. While using such materials, two finished walls are erected with packed earth and rubble fill placed in between with a final paving which coalesced all the parts as a single unit.

In some areas, mixture of egg whites and sticky rice was used to cement the blocks. In desert locations, amidst shifting sands, rough wood was strapped with woven mats and dirt thrust in between.

The Fortifications:
Sophisticated defense system was created along the wall comprising garrison towns, posts, passes, additional wall structures, watchtowers and beacon towers. Every accompaniment structure had its own value and status.

Concise History:
» Contrary to the popular belief of the Great Wall being a single structure, it actually consists of number of walls built during the times of different dynasties. Built with the objective of frustrating the designs of armed tribal intruders, the first major fortification was built during the reign Qin Shi Huangdi, a Qin dynasty ruler (around 208 BC).
» The second major wall came into being under the reign of Han dynasty (1st century BC).
» The third remarkable construction took place under Sui dynasty (7th century). Fourth round of major fortificitation was during 1138-1198, which is also known as Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period.
» Most part of the Great Wall, as it is today, was built in the times of Ming dynasty (1368-1640).

Making of the Wall
» Length approximately 6,700 kilometres
» From Shanhai Pass on the Bohai Gulf (east) to Jiayu Pass in Gansu province (west)
» Average height of the wall 8 meters (26 feet)
» Some 6.5 meters (21.3 feet) wide at the base
» Tapering to 5.8 meters ( 19 feet) at the top.
» Optimum use of natural barriers like mountains, rivers and sheer cliff faces.

Quotes Unquotes
Mr. Richard Nixon (Ex US President), visiting the Great Wall in 1972.

"It sure is a great wall."

Travel Tips
» Some sections of the Wall can test your fitness.
» It would be better to have sufficient stock of water with you.
» It is advisable to have a guide while not travelling with an organised tourist group.

Via Beijing	Badaling (70km)Through road; Cable car available
	Jiankou (73km) Through road
	Mutianyu (79km)Through road; Cable car available
	Simatai (120km)Through road; Cable car available
	Jinshanling (120km)Through road
	Huanghuacheng; Through road; Via bus to Huairao, then take taxi
Via Qinhuangdao	Shanhaiguan (15km)Through road
	Weeping Wall; Through road
Via Jayuguan, Gansu Province	Jayuguan Pass; Through road
Via Tianjin	Huanyaguang Taipingzhai; Through road

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Forbidden City

11:02 AM

Unknown

Enigmatic, awe-inspiring, puzzling, magnificent, fascinating...adjectives run short when describing the Forbidden City, a place of cultural pride for the Oriental World. Tour to the Forbidden City or the Palace Museum, the official name, is a trip of lifetime, an unforgettable experience.

Synopsis
Country : China
City : Beijing
Known For : Largest ever palace complex, Architectural masterpiece of China
Best Time To Visit : May to June and September to November
Architectural Style : Imperial Chinese

Why to Visit

Largest collection of preserved ancient wooden structures on the planet.
One of the most popular tourist attraction in the world.
Masterpiece of Chinese architecture- majestic style, flawless construction, fine coordination.
Two lakh men worked for fourteen years. The result was the Forbidden City.
It receives over 10 million visitors each year (foreign and domestic).

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Fine Points

Ranked fifteenth in world wonder list by Hillman Wonders.
Declared a World Heritage Site in 1987.
Massive palace complex comprising more than nine thousand rooms and spread over 250 acres.
The image of Tiananmen, the entrance to the Imperial City, appears on the seal of the People's Republic of China.
Museum of Chinese antiques and treasures.

Tour Attractions
Plethora of majestic structures sit in the magnificent Forbidden City. Most prominent among them are:

Halls
Hall for Ancestry Worship(Fengxiandian)
Hall of Celestial and Terrestrial Union (Jiaotaidian)
Hall of Central Harmony (Zhonghedian)
Hall of Joyful Longevity(Leshoutang)
Hall of Mental Cultivation(Yangxindian)
Hall of Preserved Harmony (Baohedian)
Hall of Supreme Harmony(Taihedian)

Gates
Tiananmen Gate
Gate of Celestial Purity(Qianqingmen)
Meridian Gate
Gate of Divine Military Genius
East Flowery Gate
West Flowery Gate

The Palace Museum

Palaces
Palace of Celestial Purity(Qianqinggong)
Palace of Terrestrial Tranquility(Kunninggong)
Palace of Tranquil Longevity(Ningshougong)
Six Eastern Palaces(Dongliugong)
Six Western Palaces(Xiliugong)

Other Structures
Huge Stone Carving
Imperial Garden(Yuhuayuan)
Nine Dragons Screen

Imperial Gardens
12,000 square metre Imperial Garden, which lies at the northern end of the Forbidden City, was used by the members of the imperial household to relax. A labyrinth of old trees and pavilions, the garden footpaths, made from small stones, are paved with mosaic patterns. made from small stones.

The Forbidden City is encircled by some more picturesque gardens. Zhongnanhai Park, the complex of buildings centred on two lakes is located towards west. To the north-west sits Beihai Park, which also centres on a lake. To the north lies Jingshan Park, also known as Jing Shan or Coal Hill.
Forbidden City: The Palace Museum
The Forbidden City, the colossal museum of cultural relics in China, is also known as Palace Museum. Itself the witness of the reigns of twenty-four emperors, it showcases one million precious historical relics relating from the Shang Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty.

Architecture
The Forbidden City, a priceless architectural marvel, fully embodies the artistic features and style of ancient Chinese imperial structure. Majority of structures, exuding harmony and symmetry, were built with wood, resting on blue-and-white stone foundations, roofed with tiles glazed yellow.

The Hall of Supreme Harmony, the Hall of Central Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony, which are within the Outer Part, and the Hall of Heavenly Purity, the Hall of Union and the Hall of Earthly Tranquility, which adorn the inner part, stand in a line from south to north on the central axis. The throne symbolizing imperial power is placed at the centre of this axis.

The Palace Museum

Layout
World's largest palace complex, the Forbidden City, is reputed to host 9,999 rooms. Encased by a mighty defensive wall and a deep moat are five halls, seventeen palaces, and numerous other buildings.

Every wall is pierced by a majestic gate. The four corners of the curtain wall are strengthened by uniquely structured towers, which were used to overlook both the palace and the sprawling city.

The Forbidden City is segregated into two parts- Outer and Inner. Buildings of the Outer Part were used mainly for ceremonial purposes while the Inner Part structures were where the Emperor worked and resided.

Colors
Yellow, the imperial color, flows over the rooftops. Red color of the walls, was considered symbol of happiness and auspiciousness. However,. Wenyuange, the royal library, with a black roof, is an exception. The Chinese believed that black symbolised water and could extinguish fire.

Concise History
The year was 1406. Two lakh men combined their hard labour for fourteen years. The result was the Forbidden City in1420.

Till 1644, the Forbidden City remained the imperial seat of the Ming Dynasty. Then, the Qing Dynasty took the reins of the imperial power.

The Forbidden City served as the home of twenty-four emperors- fourteen of the Ming Dynasty and ten of the Qing Dynasty. With the abdication of Puyi, the last emperor of China, it lost it's place as the political seat of China.

The Palace Museum

Why A Forbidden City
The Forbidden City gained this mysterious title because entry was banned without imperial permission. The offender had to part with his life.

Forbidden City : Names
The huge palace complex is called by various names:

Palace Museum	New official name
Imperial City	Old official name
Forbidden City	Popular Name
Gu Gong	Chinese Name

Interesting Facts

Once the number of rooms in the Forbidden City was 9,999. The Chinese considered 9 a lucky number.
Ringed by a 10 meter (33 foot) high protective wall. The defense was strengthened by a moat as wide as a river.
The Forbidden City occupies 720,000 square metres of land, which is equivalent to twenty plus football fields.
The colossal complex was home of some six thousand people, including the imperial family.
Puyi, the last resident emperor of the Forbidden City, was permanently evicted in 1924. He was depicted in Bertolucci's 1987 epic movie 'The Last Emperor'.
The British are the only power who succeeded in capturing the Forbidden City. They did so during the Second Anglo-Chinese Opium War, in 1860.
The earth excavated during the construction of the moat was piled up at a single place. The result was Jingshan Hill, an artificial hill.

Travel Tips

Jinshan Hill is the best place to watch the splendid layout of the palace.
Not forget to view the Tiananmen Square from rostrum of the front gate.
You could end up paying much more than you should for your souvenirs. So be careful.

How To Reach

You can take taxis/cabs from Beijing Airport and Railway Station. Local buses also ferry passengers to the area. Qianmen is the nearest underground local train station.

Sunday, August 7, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Borobudur

10:56 AM

Unknown

southeast asia tour packages, Borobudur or the mountain of statues is an astounding accomplishment of the ancient Cambodians. Take a virtual tour, become information-rich and explore this largest non-monastic Buddhist temple with us before planning your visit.

The Ascent to Salvation
Borobudur, the mountain of statues, is the largest non-monastic Buddhist Temple of the planet. A monument of breathtaking grandeur and grace, it has the power to make the viewer speechless.

Synopsis

Country	Indonesia
State	Central Java
Location	Borobudur District, South of Magalang
Known For	Largest non-monastic Buddhist stupa representing cosmos
Best Time To Visit	May to October
Best Moment To Visit	Morning
Architectural Style	Gupta architecture of Indian influence

Why to Visit

One of the seven medieval wonders of the world.
Biggest non-monastic Buddhist temple in the world.
Listed as a World Heritage Site.
Intended replica of cosmos.

Fine Points of Borobudur

Few sights as beautiful as watching Borobudur in morning.
From the air, the monument looks floating.
Structure with a unique architectural design.
A replica of the universe.
Takes the visitor to incredible journey back in time.
A marvel of history, religion and art preservation

The Structure
The form of Borobudur Temple is a combination of zigurat (middle Asian Pyramid) and Indian stupa. Perched atop a hill, the huge monument is built from volcanic rock. It is in the form of a colossal mandala, symbolically depicting the path to salvation.

The monument has nine concentric terraces. The upper three are circular while the six in bottom are square.

The Circumambulation
A pilgrim goes around the monument clockwise, starting with the reliefs on the eastern staircase. He circumambulates the monument before ascending to the next level.

Thus, going round and round the monument, he reaches the top. The total journey covers the distance of five kilometres.

Kamadhatu (World of Wishes)
The base of Borobudur, which was later covered by a platform to buttress the structure, contains Kamadhatu level. This level depicts the deeds of passion and worldly desires. At least 160 relief panels were carved around this level.

Rupadhatu (World of Forms)
The levels related to Rupadhatu display events related to the life of Siddartha or Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The depiction starts with his birth and ends with the Buddha's last sermon which he delivered near Varanasi, a city of India.

Arupadhatu (World of formlessness)
The three circular terraces at the top of the monument represent the state of Arupadhatu. No reliefs are there to convey the point. Instead, they display life-size statues of the Buddha, either within the stupas or in niches in the walls.

Not To Miss
Meet Borobudur with her companions. For the tour of the great temple would not be complete without them.

Waisak Festival
Come May and Borobudur sinks in the sea of joy. For, in May, Borobudur celebrates Waisak festival to mark the birth of Buddha.

This is a colorful, multi-day event which ends with a long, candle-lit procession of saffron-clad monks from Candi Mendut to Borobudur. Surely a vision you will never forget!

Candi Mendut
Candi Mendut, a serene Buddhist temple, lies 3 km away from Borobudur. A temple with exquisite interiors, the temple hosts three magnificent Buddhist statues. A must-see for persons interested in heritage.

Candi Pawon
Pawon Temple, also built with volcanic stones, is one and half eastward from Borobudur Temple, on the way to Candi Mendup. A Buddhist temple, it is a blend of ancient Javanese and Indian art. It seems to be built for Kubera, the Hindu and Buddhist deity of fortune.

Elephant Safari
Manohar Hotel near Borobudur Temple, organises a tour on pachyderm express. The safari has three options:

Route I (Nglipoh Village, 2.5 hours, 7 km)
Takes you through swaying paddy fields to Tanjung Sari Village, then to Nglipoh Village, famous for its earthenware craft industry. The route will also cover Kali Tengah traditional market.

Route II (Pawon Temple, 2.5 hours, 6 km)
Journey through picturesque scenery with Borobudur Temple on left side and Manoreh Hill on the right side. Then a walk along Sileng River. Idyllic! Isn't it?

Route III (Borobudur Temple Park, 1.5 hour, 2 km, day & night)
A circumambulation of Borobudur Temple

Ship Museum
Samudra Raksha, the ship museum, is at hundred yards away from the colossal temple. An ancient ship depicted in a Borobudur relief was restructured. The ship traced the ancient Cinnamon route(Indonesia to Madagascar and Africa). Then it was dismantled and its key parts placed in the museum. Don't Miss.

Dieng Plateau
Dieng Plateau, an active volcanic area, which hosts mysterious lakes and the relics of Hindu Temples from the 7th century Sanjaya Dynasty. Hissing, boiling waters of the lakes is a sight you will never forget.

Making of The Borobudur

More than 2 million blocks of stone carried by hand from the Progo River to the building site.
Borobudur houses an amazing 1,460 individual narrative reliefs and 1,212 decorative ones, all ornately and intricately carved.
Constructed on a hill about 46 meters high, Borobudur has about 55,000 m3 or stones.
The whole structure is in the form of a lotus, the sacred flower of Buddha.

Borobudur:Past and Present
It will be fascinating and relevant here to have a brief knowledge of the past and present of Borobudur.

Concise History
An inscription dated 842 AD, suggests that Borobudur was once a place for praying. The inscription mentions a place 'Bhumi Sambhara', which is considered by many the origin of Borobudur.

Most scholars agree that Borobudur Temple was build between 750-850 AD, under the reign of Sanmaratungga, a ruler of Shailendra dynasty in Central Java. Sanmaratungga belong to Mahayana sect of Buddhism.

Borobudur suffered indifference during the 10th and 11th centuries, because of the political turmoil in the region. The site also faced wrath of nature, like volcanic eruption. It vanished beneath the layers of volcanic ash and wild growth.

Rediscovery
Stories of a 'mountain of statues' lying buried went rounds for centuries. The stories were intriguing enough to compel Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles, the British Lieutenant-Governor to deploy his men to investigate the reported site. This was 1814. Their hard work eventually unravelled a collosal mountain of statues.

Restoration
Thanks to to efforts of Theodor van Erp, a Dutch engineer, in 1907-1911, Borobudur attained its previous glory to some extent. But the monument was face to face with a grave danger. Mosses and wild vegetation had made it their home. Torrential tropical rains were also playing their part in gradual collapsing of the monument.

The UNESCO took note of the situation and undertook the renovation and restoration work 1973-1984 on a grand scale. It now adorns the UNESCO world heritage list.

Quotes Unquotes
Arnold Toynbee (Historian)
As the equal of the Parthenon.

How to Reach
Air: JogJakarta Airport serves Borobudur. Fleet of buses and cabs travel to Borobudur from there.
Taxi: You can rent a car in JogJakarta and keep it for your stay in Borobudur. If yop want to drop-off, you can have metred taxis.
Bus: Number of buses from JogJakarta's Giliwangan Bus Terminal travel daily to Borobudur Bus Stop. Then you can walk to the temple site, which is 1 ½ km away.

Friday, August 5, 2011

southeast asia tour packages, Angkor Wat - The largest temple on the planet

10:50 AM

Unknown

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Angkor Wat, glory of Cambodia, is the masterpiece of Khmer architecture. One of the architectural wonders of the world, it is the pinnacle of a great ancient civilisation. Get informed about everything of Angkor Vat with us, the complex, the architecture, the history and more.

Temple Built By Gods Or By Giants
Angkor Wat, the largest temple in the world, is the supreme masterpiece of Khmer architecture. Representing the pinnacle of a great ancient civilisation, the place is the convergence of the streams of history, architecture and faith. One of the architectural wonders of the world, it currently holds the tag of the biggest tourist attraction in Cambodia.

Angkor Wat

Synopsis

Country	Cambodia
Province	Seam Reap
Known For	One of the architectural wonders
Best Time To Visit	Anytime in year
Best Moment To Visit	Sunrise
Architectural Style	Khmer, Influenced by Indian architecture

Why to Visit

Biggest tourist attraction in Cambodia.
Listed thirteen by Hillman Wonders in World's Top Hundred Wonders.
Largest temple in the world.

Fine Points of The Angkor Wat

Supreme masterpiece of Khmer architecture.
Moat circumferencing the temple itself an engineering marvel.
Cultural home of Khmer people.
Occupies space on Cambodian flag.
Only major religious centre, which was first Hindu and then became Buddhist.

The Complex
Angkor Wat is just one of the structures in a massive complex, which is spread out over 230 sq km and houses thousand plus monuments having their origin in different periods. Some spectacular jewels of Angkor treasure house are

Angkor Wat Temple
The best-preserved and largest temple at the site, Angkor Wat has found place on the Cambodian flag. Glorious example of Khmer architecture, the temple is remarkable for remaining a significant religious centre- first Hindu, and then Buddhist, since it came into being.

The Symbolism
Angkor Wat, which translates as 'The Pagoda Of The City', represents Mount Meru, considered home of deities by Hindu mythology. The five towers symbolise five peaks of Mount Sumeru. The outer wall hints the end of the world while the oceans are represented by the surrounding moat.

Gallery of a Thousand Buddhas
This marvellous collection of priceless heritage was a part of Angkor Wat, which got its name for the Khmer faithful left great number of Buddha statues here. Alas! most of these were annihilated during the recent civil war.

The Moat
A massive moat, which symbolises the Ocean, encircles the Temple. The moat itself provides testimony to the grand efforts of the makers of the temple- it is four miles in length and six hundred feet in width. Only after crossing the moat, or the ocean, you enter the 'home of deities'.

Architecture
A prime example of Khmer architecture, the Temple, with its ornate and exquisite stone carving, specially the dancing female sculptures, enthralls the visitors. The Temple, with the harmony of its design, has been often compared to the architecture of ancient Greece or Rome.

Unlike most temples, unique Angkor Wat sits looking west, on a sandstone plinth a meter above the ground. Adorned with naga balustrades, it occupies land measuring 1300 meters north-south, and 1500 meters east-west.

Some peculiar features of the Temple include: majestic towers shaped like lotus buds; half-galleries to broaden passageways; axial galleries connecting enclosures; and the terraces which are present along the main axis of the temple. Exquisite stone carvings of devtas and apsaras, bas-reliefs, and narrative scenes on pediments, are typical embellishment styles off the Temple.

First Enclosure
Near the first Temple enclosure is a series of four rooms arranged in a cruciform. Sunken floor is the common feature of every room, which are also surrounded by continuous gallery.

Inner Enclosure
Resting on a eleven meters tall two-tiered pyramid, the Inner Enclosure, with steep stairs, looks grand. A continuous gallery in the upper encases an inner cruciform of four rooms. Five towers jut from the upper tier. Once, the cruciform housed a lot of shrines, but now, in the absence of wooden doors, they look like passageways.

Construction Material
Sandstone is the main construction material, while laterite is also used in some parts.

Angkor Wat

Concise History
The first half of the 12th century witnessed the construction of Angkor Wat, during the rule of Suryavarman-II (1113-1150). But after his death, his empire disintegrated. In 1177 Angkor was ransacked by the Chams, the sworn enemies of the Khmer. Thereafter the empire was reestablished by Jayavarman VII, an eminent ruler. The Temple assumed Buddhist ambience in the 14th or 15th century. With the decline of the Khmer empire, the temple was abandoned. The temples, which were once full of life, became 'the lost royal city of Angkore'.

An accidental visit to the site by Henri Mouhot, a French colonialist, in 1860 unearthed the great archaeological heritage. Angkor Wat regained its prime.

Quotes Unquotes
Maurice Glaize, a mid-20th-century conservator of Angkor
The temple "attains a classic perfection by the restrained monumentality of its finely balanced elements and the precise arrangement of its proportions. It is a work of power, unity and style."

Antonio da Magdalena, a Portuguese monk who visited in 1586
The temple "is of such extraordinary construction that it is not possible to describe it with a pen, particularly since it is like no other building in the world. It has towers and decoration and all the refinements which the human genius can conceive of".

Travel Tips

Carry as much cash as necessary.
Be well-informed about current affairs within the country. It can come handy.

How to Reach
Easily accesible from Seam Reap. Daily tourist buses operate. You can also take taxi.