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Winter presents an ideal opportunity for travel, offering a unique pleasure in experiencing the serene beauty of mountains, seas, or forests accompanied by a gentle chill in the air. Jhargram emerges as a quintessential destination for a short holiday with loved ones, ideally suited for a one to two-day retreat.

Notable Tourist Attractions in Jhargram:

1. Jhargram Rajbari:

This historic palace is a significant attraction in Jhargram, now transformed into a heritage hotel. Its stunning gardens and ancient architectural features are key highlights.

2. Chittaranjan Palace (Dewanraja):

A testament to the rich traditions and history of the local dynasty, this site captivates visitors with its exquisite architecture and picturesque surroundings.

3. Kanakadurga Temple in Chilkigarh :

Situated in the village of Chilkigarh near Jhargram, this ancient temple is complemented by a scenic water body encircled by lush forests.

4. Rikhia Canyon (Gorges):

Characterized by its natural rock formations and river vistas, this location provides a distinctive experience for tourists, making it an excellent spot for trekking.

5. Sitanath Pahar:

This area is perfect for those wishing to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of hilly terrains and forests, featuring various small trekking paths.

6. Khandarni Lake:

Nestled within verdant jungles, this lake serves as an ideal picnic destination, enchanting visitors with its surrounding natural beauty and opportunities for boating.

7. Jhargram Mini Zoo and Deer Park:

A delightful venue for family visits, this park offers the chance to observe deer and other wildlife.

8. Gopiballabhpur:

This rural tourism hub in Jhargram attracts nature enthusiasts with its tranquil rivers and serene environment.

9. Belpahari:

Renowned for its hilly landscapes, waterfalls, and tribal culture, Belpahari’s allure is particularly heightened during the monsoon season.

10. Ghaghra Waterfall:

Ghaghra is a prime location for appreciating the splendor of hill waterfalls, providing visitors with an opportunity to connect with nature. A recent visit to this area has inspired me to share my experiences; feel free to explore my profile for the complete blog, which I hope you find enjoyable.

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The Dhamokhar Zone Jeep Safari offers an exciting wildlife adventure in Bandhavgarh National Park, located in Madhya Pradesh, India.

Location: This zone serves as a buffer area in the park’s southwestern section, stretching from the Magadhi core zone. You can enter the Dhamokhar Zone at Mahaman village and exit at Parasi village.

Attractions: Visitors to the Dhamokhar Zone can expect to see a range of wildlife, including sambar, chital, sloth bears, leopards, and wild boar. The area is also rich in birdlife and features the Mudgudi dam along with nearby caves.

Safari experience: The safari takes you through several scenic routes, including Jamunia, Jhaanjh, Mudgudi, Kehrawah, Kadewaha, Kudarmada, Sahu, Taal, Shimada, Madehavah, Kalwahdhaar, and Badawar.

Booking: Tickets for the buffer zones can be reserved a few days in advance. To book, you’ll need to present a valid ID, such as a passport, driving license, or Aadhar card, along with your full name, age, gender, and nationality.

Safety: The safaris are conducted in open jeeps, ensuring a safe distance is maintained between the vehicles and the wildlife.

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The TTF series is India’s oldest and largest travel trade show network. It aims to provide effective marketing platforms to promote tourism in 8 major travel markets across India, including Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Delhi, Hyderabad, Patna, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.

Also, travel agents from India’s neighboring countries (Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Andaman, Thailand, etc.) gather in this fair, and try to present various information about their country’s culture and travel to the general public.

The Travel and Tourism Fair (TTF) took place this year at Biswa Bangla Mela premises in Kolkata on the 12th, 13th, and 14th of July. The event attracted hoteliers and tour operators from across the country and abroad. It was bustling with travel enthusiasts from Kolkata and beyond—the fair primarily focused on facilitating business-to-business (B2B) interactions.

However, I managed to gather valuable information about tourism from the pavilions representing various Indian states such as Rajasthan, Dehradun, Almora, and Nainital. Notably, some of the leading hotel groups in India, including 4 or 5-star and heritage properties, had set up stalls at the fair. I captured videos and photos of the stalls to share information for those who missed the event. You can find the videos on YouTube under @nationalvideography1. Also, please note that there is no entrance fee, but visitors need to scan the QR code at the entrance for entry.

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The Kali temple of Dakshineshwar, dedicated to Mother Bhavatarini, is well-known throughout India. It was built in 1855 by Lokmata Rani Rasmani for Mother Bhavatarini.

Located on 20 acres of land, this temple complex of Dakshineshwar Kalibari was earlier known as Saheban Bagicha. Rani Rasmani Devi bought this land from an Englishman named John Hastie

This Navaratna temple cost about 9 lakhs of rupees and took approximately 8 years to build. On May 31, 1855, Rani Rasmani Devi inaugurated the idol of Maa Bhavatarini in this Navaratna temple during the Snan Yatra.  

Additionally, the temple complex contains twelve octahedron Shiva temples known as the “Twelfth Shiva Mandir”. 

The area around the main temple has special places filled with memorabilia of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and his family members, such as the Traditional Kuthibari, Nahabat khana, Rasmani Devi Temple, Panchabati Tala, Gazi Tala, Gazi Pond, as well as on Bhog eating rules, temple opening time, temple closing time, and a guide on how to take the sky walk from Dakshineshwar metro station to the main gate of the temple.

Traditional Kuthibari / Pragya Thirtha Library

During its establishment, the temple’s first and chief priest was Ramkumar Chattopadhyay, the Elder brother of Ramakrishna Paramahamsedeva. After Ramkumar’s death, young Ramakrishna Paramahamsa took over the puja of the Dakshineshwar Temple.

After the death of Sri Ramakrishna’s nephew Akshay, he left this cottage and moved to the room in north-west corner of the temple. And Sri Ramakrishna spent most of his last life in this house. 

Pragya Thirtha Library was established in 2009 at this historical cottage (Kuthibari) under the initiative of Lokmata Rani Rasmani Foundation.

This library has about 7000 books, many periodicals, and newspapers (in Bengali, Hindi, and English).

The library is open to the general public from 11:30 am to 8:00 pm. (The library is completely closed on Wednesdays)

The books that enrich this library are:- Theology, Novels, Literature, Linguistics, Biography, Philosophy, History, Geography, Economics, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Technology, Pedagogy, Sociology, Law, Politics, Psychology, Arts, Commerce. , Computers & Information Technology, Travel Books, Competitive Books, and many Rare Books.

Gaji pukur and Gaji tola in Dakshineswar Kali temple

To the east of the temple is a pond called ‘Gaji pukur’, which measures 260 ft in length and 120 ft in width. Northeast of the pond is Gaji Tala, where Sri Ramkrishna explored Islam. Nearby, there is a peepal tree. 

When the Dakshineswar Kali temple was constructed, Rani Rashmoni designated the Gaji Tala as a place for both Hindus and Muslims to offer prayers, without disturbing it. Today, Gaji Tala is maintained by the Debottar Estate.

Nahabat Khana is the room of Sri Sarada Ma

“Within the Dakshineshwar Complex, there are two Nahabat Khana. One located in the southern garden is closed, while the other is situated west of the Kuthi Bari and north of the Kali Temple. In the past, Nahabat was used to play a variety of musical instruments, but today, the temple authorities only use Dhak, Dhol, and Kashi during the ‘aarati’. Just below the Nahabat Khana is the room of Sri Sarada Ma, where she resided when she visited Dakshineshwar. Daily prayers are offered to her here.”

Panchabatitala

To the north of Bakul Tala is a wide open space called Panchabati. Under Sri Ramkrishna’s guidance, five trees – Banyan, Peepal, Neem, Amlaki, and Woodapple trees – were planted in the southern part. Soil from the ‘Radha Kund’ and ‘Shyam Kund’ of Vrindavan was brought here to plant these trees. Sri Ramkrishna spent 12 years of sadhana in Panchabati and had the darshan of Bhavatarini for the first time, attaining siddhi in matri sadhana. He took sanyas according to vedantic rites under the tutelage of Sri Totapuri. A hut was built in Panchabati for sadhana, which was later rebuilt into ‘Shanti Kuthi’. Close to it is a Shiv temple with a Shiv linga, where puja is performed every day.

Directions

From anywhere in Kolkata you will get alight at Dakshineshwar Railway Station or Dakshineshwar Metro Station
Then a 3 to 4 minute walk through this sky walk will reach the main gate of Dakshineshwar temple.

Please take note of the following information about Dakshineshwar temple:

Maa Bhavatarini Darshan Timings : – 6:30 AM to 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM 

If you wish to partake in the noon meal, you can Collect the coupon from inside the main temple complex. Bhog coupons are available daily from 9 am.

During summer evenings, the Ganga Aarti starts at 6:20 PM, followed by Bhavatarini’s Sandhya Aarti. The temple closes at 7:30 PM when the Sandhya Aarti concludes.

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Traditions and Significance:

On Raksha Bandhan, sisters tie a decorative thread called a “rakhi” around their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of love, protection, and the sacred bond they share. In return, brothers give gifts or tokens of appreciation to their sisters and promise to protect them from any harm. The rakhi symbolizes the sister’s prayers for the well-being and safety of her brother, while the brother’s gift represents his promise to care for and support his sister.

The festival is not limited to biological siblings; it also celebrates the bond between cousins, friends, and even neighbors who consider each other as brother and sister. The festival highlights the importance of nurturing and maintaining relationships within the community.

Rituals:

1. Rakhi Selection: Sisters often choose beautifully adorned rakhis that come in various designs, materials, and colors.
2. Ritual Preparation: Sisters prepare for the ceremony by lighting a diya (traditional oil lamp) and applying a tilak (vermilion mark) on their brothers’ foreheads.
3. Tying the Rakhi: Sisters tie the rakhi around their brothers’ wrists while reciting prayers and expressing their love and good wishes.
4. Gift Exchange: Brothers give gifts, sweets, or money to their sisters as a gesture of gratitude and affection.
5. Promise of Protection: Brothers promise to protect their sisters and offer them support throughout their lives.

Celebration:

Raksha Bandhan is a joyful and vibrant celebration. Families gather, wear traditional attire, exchange gifts, and share festive meals. It’s a day of laughter, storytelling, and strengthening the bonds of love between siblings. In addition to the personal celebrations at home, communities often organize cultural events, fairs, and gatherings to mark the occasion.

Modern Outlook:

While the core essence of Raksha Bandhan remains the same, the festival has also evolved with time. In the modern era, the festival has become more inclusive, with people celebrating the bond of protection and love regardless of gender, age, or biological relationships. It has also extended beyond the Hindu community, with people from different backgrounds participating in the spirit of unity and love.

In summary, Raksha Bandhan is a cherished festival that celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters, and it continues to hold immense cultural and emotional significance in the Indian tradition.

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1. YAMUNOTRI

The holy abode of Goddess Yamuna is situated near the foot of Kalind Parbat (peak) and on a side of Banderpoonch Parbat. Nestled in the intimidating Himalayas, Yamunotri temple is believed to be constructed by the king of Tehri, Naresh Sudarshan Shah in 1839. Yamuna River jets down from one side of the temple, which houses Goddess Yamuna in the form of a black marble idol. Ganga Devi too finds her place, in white stone, by the side of Yamuna.

The temple of Yamuna closes its portals as winter approaches on Yama Dwitiya (second day after Diwali or on Bhai Dooj). Devi’s winter address is Kharsali village where she reaches in a palanquin and will remain for the entire period of winters. On Akshaya Tritiya the goddess comes back to grace Yamunotri again. Both closing and opening ceremonies of the Yamunotri shrine are brought about with celebrations, elaborate rituals and vedic chants.

YAMUNOTRI SIGHTSEEING SPOTS

Divya Shilla: It is a reddish-brown rock near the Surya Kund which needs to be worshipped before offering reverence to the main deity, Yamuna maa (mother). According to Skanda Purana, with a mere touch of the sacred rock one can attain spiritual liberation.

Surya Kund: Surya Kund is the most important and sacred thermal spring of Yamunotri amongst the cluster of thermal springs in the vicinity of the temple which flows into numerous pools. The pool is named after Surya or the sun god, the father of Yamuna.

Saptarishi Kund: This kund is situated 10 kms away from yamunotri. This is the actual place where Yamuna rises and an extremely difficult journey covered with ice. The water of the glaciers gathers in this lake. On the banks of the lake are naturally carved slate stones.

Hanuman Chatti: It’s 13 km from Yamunotri. The confluence of Hanuman Ganga and Yamuna rivers, from where the trek to Dodi Tal starts.Route Rishikesh-Barkot, Hanumanchatti, Yamunotri. Hanumanchatti -Darvatop -Dodital, Agora-Uttarkashi, Rishikesh.

2. GANGOTRI

Gangotri Dham, located at the height of 3,100 meters (approx.) on the Himalayan range in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, holds a very special place in the hearts of Hindus. It is one of the four sacred and important pilgrimage sites of Chota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand. Amid all the natural beauty and grace which the mountains and altitude of the place affords, what makes Gangotri one of the holiest places is its intimate connection with River Ganga (the Ganges).

Ganga Maa the much revered deity of Hindus, originates from the Gangotri glacier at Gaumukh which is some 18 km from the Gangotri town. It is said that Goddess Ganga came to earth in order to wash away the sins of King Bhagirathi’s ancestors. From the folds of mythology till the present time, Ganga River has always been a sacred source of purity for the mankind.

GANGOTRI SIGHTSEEING SPOTS

Bhaironghati: Further downstream,10 km from Gangotri, is the picturesque forested halting place of Bhaironghati. There exists a small temple of Bhairon, appointed by Shiva to safeguard this region which gives the place its name.

Sat-Tal: Sat-Tal, meaning seven lakes, is situated just above Dharali, 2 Kms. beyond Harsil. The trek of about 5 Kms. is rewarding as this group of lakes is situated amid beautiful natural surroundings. It also provides lovely camp sites.

Gaumukh: The Gaumukh glacier is the source of Bhagirathi (Ganga) and is held in high esteem by the devotes who do not miss the opportunity to have a holy dip in the bone chilling icy water. It is 18 Kms. trek from Gangotri.

Tapovan: Located at an altitude of above 4460 mts above sea level, Tapovan is a beautiful meadow that surrounds the peaks. Enriched with lovely flowers, a climb to this meadow sharpens the images of the surroundings peaks and ranges.

3. KEDARNATH

An imposing sight, standing in the middle of a wide plateau surrounded by lofty snow covered peaks. The present temple, built in 8th century A.D. by Adi Shankaracharya, stands adjacent to the site of an earlier temple built by the Pandavas. The inner walls of the assembly hall are decorated with figures of various deities and scenes from mythology. Outside the temple door a large statue of the Nandi Bull stands as guard.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the exquisitely architecture Kedarnath temple is considered to be more than 1000 years old. Built of extremely large, heavy and evenly cut gray slabs of stones, it evokes wonder as to how these heavy slabs had been handled in the earlier days. The temple has a “Garbha Griha” for worship and a Mandap, apt for assemblies of pilgrims and visitors. A conical rock formation inside the temple is worshipped as Lord Shiva in his Sadashiva form.

KEDARNATH SIGHTSEEING SPOTS

Chorabari Tal: Chorabari Tal is a beautiful lake situated 3kms ahead of Kedarnath . Chorabari Tal is a pristine lake which shows the reflections of the gigantic Himalayan peaks. The trek is easy but be careful while crossing the waterfall in between.

Bhairav Temple: This Temple is one of the most popular temples in Kedarnath. This temple is dedicated to God Bhairav, who is supposed to be the main gana of Shiva. The weapon of the Lord is Trishula and his vahan is a dog. The temple is also known as Kshetrapal.

Vasuki Tal:Vasuki Tal is one of the holiest places in India. this place is dotted with Hindu temples. Besides these holy shrines, Kedarnath offers a picturesque ambience that grabs attention of lots of tourists. It is one of the beautiful sites in Kedarnath.

Trijuginarayan: According to legend, this was the place where the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati was solemnized. In front of the Shiva Temple is an eternal flame, which is said to be a witness to the marriage. It can be reached by a 12 km from Sonprayag.

4. BADRINATH

The temple at the bank of Alaknanda River is a hot water spring known as “Tapt Kund”, a bath in which is very refreshing to all travellers. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple of Shri Badrinathji, is 5 m high, built in the form of a cone with a small cupola of a gilt bull and spire. The temple opens every year in the month of April-May and closes for winters in the third week of November. Even though legend dates the temple back to the Vedic age, Guru Adi Shankaracharya has established the present temple.

The Badrinath temple was constructed and renovated by Shankaracharya some time in 8th century during his pilgrimage to Badrinath Dham and Kedarnath Dham after he had established ‘Jyotirdham’ in Joshimath. Narada Kund, Surya Kund, Basudhara, Mata Murti and Charan Paduka are the other holy places of attraction for the large number of pilgrims who visit Badrinath Dham every year.

BADRINATH SIGHTSEEING SPOTS

Tapt Kund: Tapt Kund is a natural thermal spring where the devotees take a holy dip as it is very important to take a bath before visiting a temple. It is also believed that the kund has medicinal values and can cure allergies of the people. All the devotees take holy dip in the natural hot water together with unknown people.

Mana Village: Mana is very close to Tibet border and it is one of the last villages of India. Most of the tourists who visit Badrinath also come to see the end of the road at Mana. Mana is inhabited by Indo-Mongolian tribes often called as bhotias. Mana is situated 3kms from Badrinath.

Vyas Cave:Vyas Cave is an ancient cave that is situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, just few kilometers away from the famous Badrinath shrine. It is believed that it is this place where sage Vyas composed the Mahabharata epic with the help of Lord Ganesha. This cave is situated in the Mana village in Badrinath.

Bheem Pul: Enthralling place with mythological importance. This is the place where Bheem threw a big massif rock to make a path joining two mountains so that Draupadi could walk easily on it. Saraswati River is coming from between the mountain with immense force to merge with the water of Alanknanda River.

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