 City Information
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 Delhi City Information
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 FACTS & FIGURES
Area : 1470 Sq. Km.
Altitude : 239 Mts
Temperature : Max- 41.2C and Min-21.4 C in Summer, Max-33.7C
and Min-6.00C in Winter.
Rainfall : 50.0 CMS (June to Sept)
Best Season : September to March
Languages : Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu, English is equally in the use
STD Code : 011
PLACES TO VISIT
Qutab Minar : Perhaps the most facinating feast for the tourist's eye is this magnificent structure int eh soutern part of the capital. Minar (which means tower) was built by a Muslim King, Qutab-ud-din Albak, as early as 1199 A.D. and a part of it which he could not finish was completed by another Muslim King, IItutmish. 
The tower is 72.5 metres high and has at its base a mosque. In front of the imposing structure is an iron pillar believed to have been built in the 5th century A.D. It's uniqueness lies in the fact that it has not caught rust ever since it was built. Tourists are not permitted to climb the tower.
Red Fort : Another marvel of architecture is the Red Fort and it could perhaps be singled out as yet another monument, which should not escape the tourist's eyes. Known as lal qila (lal means red and qla means fort), it is laid out along the river Yamuna as an irregular octagon. It is surrounded by a wall of about 2.4 Kilometers in circumferance and is built of Red Sandstone. The Mughal king Shah Jahan transferred his capital from Agra to Delhi and the fort was completed in 1648, nine years after the king shifted to this city. The fort has two main enterances, the Delhi Gate and the Lahori Gate which faces the famed Chandni Chowk market. Shah Jahan, incidentally was also the king who built the Taj Mahal of Agra. The fort has the Diwan-e-am, where the king would grant audience to the public to listen to their problems. The other feature is the Diwan-e-Khas (khas means special) where the king would grant audience to important people. Besides this, is the Rang Mahal, the water cooled apartment for the royal ladies. In the basement of the fort is a market where several traditional Indian goods can be purchased at nominal rates. Another attraction is the Light and Sound Show held in the evenings.
Jama Masjid : Is the country's largest mosque where thousands of Muslims offer prayers even today. It was built in 1656 and is a tribute to the values of the Mughal Kings as also their commitment to religon and prayer. It lies opposite the Red Fort and is surrounded b a large number of shops which deal in a variety of goods. The flight of stairs and its large courtyard are something to be admired. Besides this there is a variety of the choicest non-vegetarian food available in several restaurants located around the comples.
Purana Qila (Old Fort) : The ruins of the fort are located on a small hill which once stood on the banks of the river Yamuna. Legend has it that the fort marked the site of Indraprastha, the magnificent capital of the Pandavas, though the construction was carried out by Sher Shah Suri any time between 1538 to 1545 A.D. The structure houses a mosque which has a double-storeyed octagonal tower. It is said that the Mughal king Humayun fell from the tower accidentaly and died. At the foot of the hill is a lake where the Delhi Tourism has arrangements for boating.
Jantar Mantar : Within the Connaught Place area is the Jantar Mantar observatory built by the Rajput king of Jaipur, Sawai Jai Singh in 1724. It was believed to have been built with masonary instruments for observing the movements for the stars and the planets. The samrat of the uantra supreme instrument, the largest structure in the comples which is in the shape of a right-angled triangle, is actually a huge sun-dial.
Humayun's Tomb : This tomb, which was built by emperor Humayun's wife, took eight years to complete and is regarded as an example of the early Mughat archetecture. The emperor's wife, Begai Begum, was buried in the tomb and the structure is the first of its kind built in the centre of a well-planned garden. The combination of white marble and red sandstone was a great influence on later Mughal architecure. It is generally regarded as a prototype of the famed Taj Mahal of Agra.
Safdarjang's Tomb : The garden tomb was built in 1753-54 soon after Safdarjang died. It is a red and brown sandstone with double storeyed towers in the corners and is one of the last examples of Mughal architecture.
Chandni Chowk : It was the eyes and ears of the Mughal's commercial instincts and is today one of the country's best known wholesale markets for textiles, electronic goods and watches. The entire area was designed by Jahanara Begum, Shah Jahan's favourite daughter and was then inhabited by the well-to-do families oft he time. There is however a word of caution and that is that there are several elements who are believed to be selling duplicate goods and the tourist needs to be careful about this.
Parliament House : A marvellous piece of architecture which can be admired only from outside on account of security restrictions. Close to Tashtrapathi Bhavan, it is a domed almost circular structure almost a kilometer in circumference, and was designed by the famed architect Lutyens. It is the seat of the Indian Parliament and during the sessions of Parliament there is a flurry of activity in and around the structure.
Rashtrapati Bhavan : Almost a stones' throw away from Parliament House is the Tashtrapati Bhavan which is the official residence of the President of the country. Designed by Lutyens, it was the official residence of the Viceroy when the British ruled India. With 340 rooms and an area of about 330 acres. It is an imposing structure and tourist's delight. The pillars and the porticos are an architect's marvel and so are the Durbar Hall and the Ashoka Hall within the complex. Although special permission has to be obtained to visit the complex, the Mughal Gardens within the complex are a treat for the eyes and are open to the public during certain periods of the year.
Mughal Gardens : Situated within the Presient's Estate, these gardens boast of the finest varieties of roses in the country besides other flowers which are maintained with the utmost care and thought. The lawns of the gardens is the place where the President hosts tea parties. Besides this there are several artificial ponds where one can get to see a variety of fish and perhaps one of tthe most interesting sights are the almost romantically designed fountains illuminated with multicoloured lights
India Gate : Straight down the road from Rashtrapati Bhavan along a magnificent view and totally unhamnpered drive is India Gate which is primarily a memorial to the unknown soldier. Designed by Lutyens, the 42 metre high structure is a war memorial in honour of the soldiers who died during the second world war. The imposing structure from where stretch massive lush green lawns has an eternal flame (amar jawan jyoti) to honour the memory of the unknown soldiers. A popular picnic spot, one can see hoardes of people moving about the area and on the lawns on summer evenings.
Connaught Place : One of Delhi's most popular shopping canters built as early as 1931 there is nothing that one cannot buy here and it also has several eating houses which are for a large part of the day dull. The state emporia buildings are also located in this area so are the head offices of major banks, airlines and other such things of importance to the tourist. The complex, popularly referred to as C.P. is an important meeting point for all sections of people and is something which no tourist should miss if for nothing else then for its architecture and the humdrum of everyday life.
National Gallery of Modern Art : Located very close to India Gate, the building was the palace of the Maharaja of Jaipur. It has around 4,000 paintings of modern artists and also included are graphics and sculptures. The gallery arranges special exhibitions for those who wish to exhibit their works. The gallery also houses a library which can be used by museum, which is open from 1000 hours to 1700 hours, is closed on all holidays and observes Monday as its weekly off.
National Museum : The National Museum is another interesting spot located very close to India Gate. The museum has a rich variety of all facets of ancient Indian history and alsoof central Asia. In fact the museum takes one through a fascinating journey of what ancient India was all about, rare coins, pottery, and numerous such things including art and architecture, costumes are for all to see. It's something every tourist should find time to visit even if the schedule is tight.
Birla Mandir : It is another landmark close to Connaught Place and was built by industrialist Raja Baldev Birla in 1938. The temple is an important prayer site and contains idols of several deities. Interestingly Mahatma Gandhi, who inaugurated the temple, was also a regular visitor to it and would often pray there.
Rail Transport Museum : Located in the south of Delhi close to the diplomatic area of Chanakayapuri it traces, through exhibits, the 140 year-old history of the Indian Railways. The museum, established in 1977, and spread over a ten acre area, is the first of its kind in India. The highlights include the Fairie Queen of 1885 the oldest workign steam locomotive, the luxury saloon of the Prince of Whales and the saloon of the Maharaja of Mysore.
Timings : Summer 0830 to 1130 and 1600 to 1730 hours
Winter : 0900 to 1730 hours.
It is closed on Mondays.
Pragati Maidan : The venue of the annual India International Trade Fair where thousands of businessmen and visitors come from all over the world in November. It is a massive complex with well laid out roads and close to the zoo as ITO. The complex also hosts all the international trade fairs. It also has permanent buildings for pavillions of all the states of the country. It is ideal to visit in the winter months. Timings Weekdays: 0930 to 1730 hours; Sundays and public holidays: 0930 to 2000 hours.
Lotus Temple : Is a very recent architectural marvel of the Bahai faith and is visible from several spots in south Delhi. Located in Kalkaji in the south of Delhi, it is lotus shaped and has rightly been given the name. It is made of marble, cement, dolomite and sand. It is open to all faiths and is an ideal place for meditation and obtaining peace and tranqillity.
HOW TO REACH THEREBy Air : Delhi has an extensive network of international and domestic flights. All the major airlines in the world fly through Delhi and it is easily accessible from anywhere in the world. Domestic air links cover Delhi from all the major cities in the country.
By Train : The Indian Railway with their modern and organized network connects Delhi to major and minor destination in India. There are three important railway stations in Delhi to all major and minor destinations in India, namely New Delhi Rly. Station, Old Delhi Rly. Station and Hazrat Nizamuddin Rly. Station. Trains run from all the parts of the country to Delhi. For nearby places like Chandigarh, Dehradun, Gwalior, Bhopal, Lucknow and Kanpur, the Shatabdi Express is recommended.
By Bus : Delhi is well connected by road to all major destinations in North India. The Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT) is located at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale-Khan and Anand Vihar. Delhi Transport Corporation and Road Transport Corporations of the neighboring States provide frequent bus services through Air Conditioned, Deluxe and Ordinary Coaches. Buses from all the major places in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are available for getting to Delhi. During summer months, air-conditioned coaches are recommended.
By Airports : Delhi has two airports. Indira Gandhi International Airport, is 20km away towards city in the same area. Palam is city bound Internal Terminal Airport. Indira Gandhi links Delhi with the whole world.
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Mumbai City Information |
 FACTS & FIGURES
Total Population : 13 million (approx.)
Area : 440 sq km
STD Code : 022
Language : Marathi, Hindi, English, Gujarati
PLACES TO VISIT
Gateway Of India : Mumbai's most famous landmark, The Gateway of India, is situated at Apollo Bunder. It was designed by George Wikket. It was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911. Through this magnificent monument, numerous viceroys and governors were welcomed to India as they disembarked from their steamers, hence the name.
Flora Fountain (Hutatma Chowk) : This marvellous fountain was built in 1869, in honor of Sir Henry Bartle and Edward Frere. It is situated in the heart of the Mumbai city at a junction of five streets. The fountain has a figure of "Flora", the Roman Goddess of Flowers at the top.
Chowpatty Beach & Juhu Beach : Chowpatty beach is situated on Marine Drive. This beach is well-known for it's stalls selling "Bhel-Puri and Pani -Puri chat" a favourite fast food among the Mumbaites and visitors to the city. Juhu Beach is the most popular beach in Mumbai which is 30 kms away from the heart of Mumbai. It is a long stretch of sandy beach from Santacruz to Vile-Parle. This is a very popular beach for picnic. Both these beaches are crowded on week-ends.
Haji Ali : Haji Ali mosque, and the tomb of a Muslim saint, is located off shore, in the Arabian sea opposite Mahalaxmi temple. During high tide the walkway to the mosque is submerged in the sea and it can be visited only during low tide.
Kamala Nehru Park & Hanging Gardens : The giant Old woman's shoe in the Kamala Nehru Park is very popular with children to play in. One gets a panoramic view of parts of the city from these parks situated at the height of Malabar Hill. When seen at night, the view of street lights of Marine Drive resemble a dazzling bejewelled "Queen's Necklace". At sunset, the waterfall and fountains in the park are lit with colorful lights which are worth seeing. The Hanging Gardens surrounded by beautiful flower beds and lush green lawns are very popular as picnic spots.
Mahalaxmi Temple : This temple is situated very close to the sea off Mahalaxmi. This temple has three beautiful images of Hindu goddesses, Mahalaksmi, Mahasaraswati and Mahakali which are made of gold. During Navaratri festival, devoted Hindus throng this temple in great numbers to offer coconut, flowers and sweets to the goddesses.
Mount Mary Church : This is one of most prominent and splendid churches in Mumbai, situated in Bandra (West). During the month of September a week long fair is held which is attended by the people of all relegions.
Mahalaxmi Race Course : Situated in Mahalaxmi, this racecourse is one of the best in the world. The racing season is for six months from October to April. It attracts huge crowds for heavy betting.
Nehru Planetarium and Science Centre : This Sience Centre is named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime-Minister. It is situated in Worli. It has a computer laboratory, mobile science exhibition units, a heritage hall, an auditorium, inflatable dome planetarium, science library and a children's science park. The sky-show at the planetarium is very interesting with it's narration, sound effects and slide projections which combines entertainment with education. It has a library containing a large collection of books on astronomy, astrophysics and space sciences.
The Prince of Wales Museum : This museum stands not too far from the Gateway of India. It has a priceless collection of art, sculpture, china and other antics. Carefully presereved, this mid-Victorian Gothic style building built in 1904 with beautiful gardens surrounding it, is worth visiting in Mumbai.
Taraporewala Aquarium : Situated on the Marine Drive, this aquarium has fish in varying shapes, sizes and colour. It's a delight for children as well as grown-ups.
Victoria Gardens (Veermata Jeejabai Bhonsle Udyan) : These botanical and zoological gardens have an interesting collection of flora and fauna. Apart from these, it also has a beautiful gateway, an arched architctural screen and a museum building in the Greco-Roman Style. A large stone elephant at the entrance is also worth seeing. These gardens are situated in Byculla.
HOW TO REACH THERE
By Air : Bombay's International Airport is at Sahar (30 kms) and Domestic Airport at Santacruz, 26 km. Most of the International Airlines, Indian Airlines Vayudoot & many other private airlines touch Bombay and connect it with the major cities of India and the world.
By Rail : Bombay is the headquarters for both western & Central Railways. Regular train services connect Bombay with all major towns and cities in India.
BY Road : Mumbai is connected by good motorable road
Distances :
City |
Distance |
City |
Distance |
| Pune |
163 km |
Mahabaleshwar |
239 km |
| Nasik |
185 km |
Shirdi
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307 km |
| Vadodara |
432 km |
Aurangabad |
392 km |
| Ahmedabad |
545 kms |
Panaji |
597 kms |
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Chennai City Information |
 FACTS & FIGURES
Language : Tamil and English
Climate : Summer- Max. 37, Min. 22.1
Winter : Max. 32, Min. 19.8
Season : Throughout the year (Preferably October to March)
STD Code : 044
INTRODUCTION
Chennai, the largest city in southern India located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, developed after 1639 when the British East India Company
established a fort and trading post at the small fishing village of Chennai.
Over the past three and a half centuries, the small fishing village has grown into a bustling metropolis which is especially known for its spaciousness which is lacking in other Indian cities, This characteristic is exemplified by the long esplanade called the Marina and which is lined by impressive buildings which remind the casual visitor of the long and inseparable association the city has had with the British.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Fort ST. Geroge : was built in 1640 AD, by the British East India Company under the direct supervision of Francis Day and Andrew Cogon. This place achieved its name from Saint George, the patron saint of England. The fort houses Saint Mary's Church and fort museum. Saint Mary's Church the oldest Anglican Church built in 1680 and the tombstones in its courtyard are the oldest British tombstones in India.
Marina Beach : its the second longest beach in the world with a strech of 4.5 kms (2.5 miles). This stretch is filled with statues of rememberence from our Tamil culture to our great leaders. A walk along the Marina in the evening creates elated feelings. The old buildings on side of Kamarajar Salai, a main road along the Marina, would remind you of the good old British days. People from all over the city gather here in the evenings to cool off and eat crispy "sundal and murukku"!
ANNA Memorial : the memorial for ARINZAR ANNADURAI - leader of the Dravidian movement, affectionately called Anna. His speech in Tamil has enchanted millions. Adjoining to this memorial lays another for leader Dr. M.G. Ramachandran leader of AIADMK movement, commonly know as Puractchi Thalaivar MGR. Both of them are situated at the northern end of the Marina Beach. Both these leaders are still living in the hearts of Tamil Nadu people.
Light House : a massive tall structure situated at south end of the Marina Beach beckons the visitors in the evening and adds glory to the golden sands. All India Radio (AIR) radio broadcast station is located opposite to the light house
San Thome Basilica : at the south end of Marina Beach was named after Saint Thomas "doubting apostle of Jesus Christ". It is belived he has come to Madras in 52 AD and kill at St. Thomas Mount just outside the city in 78 AD. Built in 16th Century by the Portuguese, in 1896 it was made a basilica. The beautiful stained glass window at the basilica portrays the story of St Thomas and the central hall has 14 wooden plaques depicting scenes from the last days of Christ.. In the cathedral is a 3ft. high statue of Virgin Mary, which is believed to have been brought from Portugal in 1543
Theosophical Society : formed to facilitate and encourage the study of comparative religion, philosophy and science is situated in beautiful sylvan settings in Adyar. The society was founded by Madame Blavatsky and Col. Olott in USA, and later moved to Adyar in 1882. Apart from shrines of all faiths and the peaceful Garden of Remembrance, there is a 95-year old library which has a very good collection of rare Oriental manuscripts written on palm leaves and parchment.
Elliots Beach along the coast down south from Marina. It is also the night beachs for Chennai youth. At the end of this beach are the Velankanni church and the Ashtalakshmi temple. Though the church is much smaller than the original one at Velankanni it attracts its own share of pilgrims. The Ashtalakshmi temple dedicated to goddess Lakshmi looks quite different from the usual South Indian temples as it is a modern granite tier construction, not even 20 years old
Birla Planiorium is located near Adyar and Guindy. This modern planetarium is housed in a hemi-spherical theatre. Here a fully computerized projector brings the heavenly bodies to life. The latest astronomical phenomena are brought back to life in simulated environment. Periyar Science & Technology Centre situated near enables the visiting public to understand scientific and technological inventions through working models
Kalakshetra : It is located eyond Elliot's beach, is Kalakshetra or 'Temple of Art'. It was founded in 1936 by Rukmini Devi Arundale to train, encourage and revive interest in bharatanatyam, which is the classical dance form of the state. This institution is among the finest of its kind in the country and is run on the ancient gurukulam system. Throughout the year Kalakshetra conducts music recital and dance performances in different parts of Chennai. Details about venue and timings can be obtained from the daily newspapers or from the information desk of the Government of India Tourist Office.
Adyar Banyan Tree : is one of the largest tree in the world. It measures 238ft from north to south and 250ft from east to west. The total area exceed 59,500 sq ft. This tree is a unique specimen. It has been the centre of many notable gatherings of the Theosophical Society and thousands of visistors have rested in its shade
Valluvar Kottam : the memorial to the poet-saint Tiruvalluvar is shaped like a temple chariot and is, in fact, the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. A life-size statue of the saint has been installed in the chariot which is 33m. tall. The 133 chapters of his famous work Thirukkural have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. The auditorium at Valluvar Kottam is said to be the largest in Asia and can accommodate about 4000 people. It stands as a modern memorial to the great poet who represents the glorious culture of the Tamils
Government Museum : previously known as Pantheon Complex in British period, today houses the Government Museum, Connemara Public Library and the National Art Gallery. The museum contains exhibits ranging from contemporary artifacts to prehistorical findings. Sculptures and bronzes of various periods, sections for zoology, anthropology and geology impress every visitor. Buddhist sculptures found in the Amaravathi section depict the events recorded in the life of the Buddha.
HOW TO REACH THERE
By Air : Chennai is an international airport with flight connections to all major parts of the world, Domestic airlines connect Chennai with all the major cities of India.
By Rail : Regular train services connect Chennai directly with all major cities of the country. Suburban Electric trains run from Beach station to Tambaram and from Central to Gummidipoondi and Arakonam.
By Road : Chennai being gateway to the south is connected by excellent roads to all parts of the south. Taxis, Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available. all types of tourist vehicle are easily available on hire.
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Kochi City Information |
 FACTS & FIGURES
District Area : 2408Sq Km
District Population : 27,97,779
Altitude : Sea Level
Temperature : Max.35°C,Min.20°c
Rainfall (Annual) : 254cm
Clothing : Tropical
Tourist Season : September to May
INTRODUCTION
The commercial capital of Kerala and the most cosmopolitan of the State's cities, Cochin has long been eulogised in tourist literature as the' Queen of the Arabian Sea'. It has a fascinating blend of Cultures. From time immemorial,traders and travellers frequented the place. One of the finest natural harbours in the world is located here.
Most of the city's commercial centres and shops are located in the mainland,the town called Ernakulam which also lends its name to the district.
The Chinese fishing nets swaying in the breeze over the backwaters,the Jewish synagogue, Dutch Palace, Portuguese architecture and British influence all blend harmoniously with the basic thread of kerala's rich heritage.
HOW TO REACH THERE
By Air : Cochin international airport is at Nedumbassery(33km North East of Ernakulam City).There are direct services to Delhi, Bombay, Madras,Goa ,Banglore,Thiruvananthapuram and Gulf countries.
By Rail : Kochi is connected by rail with many important cities.
By Road : kochi is connected by road with several Tourist centres in India.
By Sea : Kochi harbour-periodical service to Lakshadweep Island.
By Ferry(Boat jetty) : The main Ferry station is located one kilometre away from Ernakulam south railway station. From here boats are available to all islands.
TOURISTS PLACES AND OTHER ATTRACTIONS
Jewish Synagogue,Mattancherry : Built in 1568 AD, the great scrolls of the old testament, the copper plates in which the grants of privilege made by Cochin rulers were recorded and the exquisite Chinese handpainted tiles are of interest . Two hundred years old, no two tiles are alike. There are also several finely wrought gold and silvercrowns gifted to the synagogue by various patroans.
Mattancherry Palace(Dutch Palace) :
Built by the Portuguese and presented to the Cochin Raja in 1555 AD,it acquired the present name after 1663, when the Dutch carried out some extensions and repairs in the Palace. In the centre of the building is the coronations Hall where the Cochin Raja's held their coronations. Today, it is portrait gallery of the Cochin Rajas. Adjacent rooms contain 17th century murals depicting scenes from the Indianepic the Ramayana.
Santa Cruz Basilica :This church was built by Portuguese and elevated to cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. The British demolished Dom Gomez Ferreira commissioned a new building in the same site in 1984 the church was proclaimed a Basilica by Pope Joh Paul II.
Vasco house : Built during the 16th century, the Vasco House is believed to have been the residence of Vasco- Da Gama. It is in fort of Kochi and is one of the oldest Portuguese constructions.
St.Franci's Church, Fort Cochin : This Protestant Church was built originally by the Portuguese in 1510 AD and it is believed to be the first church built by the Europeans in India. Vasco-Da-Gama was buried here. Fourteen years later , his mortal remains were taken to Portugal.
Willingdon Island : Another of Cochin's famous islands is Willingdon Island named after Lord Willingdon, the British Viceroy of India . It is a man made island created from the material dredged while deepening the Cochin Port Situated between Ernakulam and Mattancherry and separted by the backwaters,Willingdon Island is an important part of Cochin. It sites some of the city's best hotels (Casino Hotel ,Taj Malabar & Trident)as well as the Government Of India tourist office, the Southern Naval Command head Quarters, the Cochin port trust, and the customs house. Also on the island are the offices of several major trading and industrial houses as well as the Cochin chamber of commerce and Industry.
Chinese Fishing Nets : The entrance to the Cochin harbour is dotted by the Chinese Fishing Nets called Cheena vala in Malayalam. There are large nets which hang from bamboo or teak posts and are still used by local fishermen in fort Cochin to catch fish attracted by the light suspended above the net. Silhouetted against the sunset, they present a spectacular sight of Cochin's waterfront.
Distances :
City |
Distance |
City |
Distance |
| Trivandrum |
226 km |
Madhurai |
234 km |
| Alleppey |
56 km |
Kumaracom
|
56 km |
| Kollam |
66 km |
Calicut |
188 km |
| periyar |
200 km |
Ooty |
310 km |
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