Formerly Punjab Hill states, Himachal Pradesh is a state in northern India. It is mostly mountainous, cultivated valleys and glorious green hill slopes. Himachal - which means 'the home of eternal snow' - has the mountains as a steady picture frame over almost all areas. It is spread in the area of approximately 56,019 sq km. Temperatures of Himachal vary from region to region. It is bordered by Indian states of Jammu & Kashmir (north), Haryana (south), Punjab (west), and the international border with Tibet (east).
Himachal Pradesh is a hot destination for tourists. Exotic valleys, glorious lush green hill slopes, snowcapped mountains, chatty streams and the hills of Himalayas greet tourists from all over the world. Full of hill resorts, pilgrimages, adventures sports destinations, rich culture and heritage, festivals and celebrations, and wildlife. Himachal Pradesh tourism attracts wide range tourist traffic to the hill stations. Himachal is also famous for excellent trekking and beautiful hill stations.
Himachal is one of the few places in the world with five distinct seasons. Spring, summer, the monsoon, autumn and winter pack a range of dramatic distinctions into every year. Snow, rain and bright sunshine create a range of options and combinations.
Illustrious tourist destinations and hill stations that Himachal Tours covers are followings.
1. Shimla- Queen of Hill Stations (called by the British), Situated in north-west Himalayas, Shimla the summer capital of India before independence is now the capital of Himachal Pradesh.
2. Palampur- One of the major hill stations in Kangra Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
3. Dharamsala- Blesses with marvelous natural beauty, Dharamsala is well wooded with oak, deodar, pine and other timber yielding trees.
4. Kullu-Manali- Called as 'Himachal's Silver Valley' Kullu-Manali is blesses with natural beauty. When the rays of sun skim over the waters and snows - or when moonlit beams dance on its surface - the entire area glows iridescent silver.
5. Dalhousie- A beautiful hill station, Dalhousie is built on and around five hills. It is surrounded by the beautiful panorama of snow capped peaks. With natural beauty, Dalhousie holds a variety of colonial architecture and a variety of sightseeing and activity.
6. Mandi- Situated on the bank of the river Beas, this historic town is known as the town of temples or Kashi of Himachal.
A visit to hill-stations of Himachal Pradesh gives tourists the essence of what Himachal is all about. From superb hill-stations, temples, festivals, exciting wildlife, adventure sports, trekking, natural beauty, culture and heritage there is much to see and experience that attracts the tourist. Himachal is indeed a paradise for tourists. Tourists will hardly find attractions like in Himachal Pradesh elsewhere.
About the Author
Michael Braganza is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has authored many books on tour guide for India like Himachal tours and Rajasthan tours. Now he is rendering his services to http://www.swagattours.com/
Exotic Tourist Destination Headline Animator
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Chiangmai General Information by www.chiangmai.110mb.com
Experiencing the merging of the past into the present in Chiang Mai where locals are proud of the city's 700-year history. Its rich traditional heritage and unique culture is a perfect foundation for the development of the city. Chiang Mai is one of the few places in Thailand where it is possible to find in the heart of the city centuries-old chedis and temples next to modern convenience stores and boutique hotels. The original city layout still exists as a neat square surrounded by a moat with vestiges of the fortified wall and its four main gates offering prime access to the old town.
For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.
The old city of Chiang Mai with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity.
Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.
The Past
Chiang Mai literally means new city and has retained the name despite having celebrated its 700th anniversary in 1996. King Meng Rai founded the city as the capital of the Lanna (A Million Rice Fields) Kingdom on Thursday, 12th April 1296 during the same period of time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. King Meng Rai the Great conferred with his friends, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and King Ngam Muang of Phayao before choosing the site where the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was to be founded.
From then, Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, it was also the centre of Buddhism in northern Thailand. King Meng Rai himself was very religious and founded many of the city's temples, which are still important today.
At the height of its power, the Lanna Kingdom extended its territory far into Burma and Laos, and southwards to Kamphaeng Phet a province above Sukhothai.
The Burmese conquered the Lanna Kingdom in 1556 ending the dynasty founded by King Meng Rai that lasted over 250 years. As Burma had occupied Chiang Mai for nearly 200 years, Burmese architectural influences are visible in many temples. At the end of the 18th century, King Taksin the Great regrouped the Thais in the south and finally drove the Burmese out with the help of King Kawila of Lampang thereby regaining Thai independence from Burma. Chiang Mai was then governed by a succession of princes who ruled the north as a Siamese protectorate under the Chakri dynasty. In the late 19th century, King Rama V appointed a high commissioner in Chiang Mai and it was only in 1939 that Chiang Mai finally came under the direct control of the central government in Bangkok the same time the country was renamed Thailand.
In the past, Chiang Mai was only accessible by river and elephants. More convenient access was achieved only when the railway line was completed in the late 1920's. Moreover, the first motor vehicle driven directly from Bangkok arrived in Chiang Mai in 1932. Such isolation was more favorable to Chiang Mai as it helped to nurture and preserve the unique Lanna culture.
When we look at Chiang Mai today, it is the economic, cultural and communications hub of northern Thailand complete with excellent infrastructure, good roads, by passes and road tunnels, and reliable communications infrastructure.
The Setting
Chiang Mai, with an altitude of approximately 310 meters above sea level, is situated approximately 700 kilometers from Bangkok on the Mae Ping River basin. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, the city covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometers and is the country's second largest province. Chiang Mai borders Myanmar on the north, Lamphun and Tak Provinces on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun Provinces on the east and Mae Hong Son Province on the west. The terrain is mainly comprised of jungles and mountains, which are home to the hill tribes. In addition, wildlife and exotic flora may be found in the national parks.
Most of Chiang Mai's mountains are oriented from north to south. Together they create a multitude of streams and tributaries including Mae Chaem, Mae Ngat and Mae Klang. One of Chiang Mai's distinctive features is Doi Inthanon, Thailands highest peak, which is 2,575 meters above sea level. In addition, the province boasts flat, fertile valleys, which spread along the banks of the largest and most important river in Chiang Mai Mae Nam Ping (Ping River) which originates from the Chiang Dao mountain range.
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For years, tourists have mistaken Chiang Mai as the northern junction and the base from which they can explore other provinces. The phrase "a day in Chiang Mai is enough to see things around" was common. Today, tourists are surprised by the fact that there is always something new to discover Chiang Mai. Intriguing diversity among ethnic tribes coupled with breathtaking scenery makes Chiang Mai one of Asia's most attractive tourist destinations. Two weeks in Chiang Mai may not be long enough for serious travelers.
The old city of Chiang Mai with its fascinating indigenous cultural identity such as diverse dialects, cuisine, architecture, traditional values, festivals, handicrafts and classical dances is a prime location in its own right. In addition, the presence of hill tribes and their wealth of unique cultures enhance Chiang Mai's distinctive diversity.
Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources of mountains (dois), waterfalls, and other nature-based tourist attractions. At the same time, Chiang Mai residents are warm, gracious and congenial providing authentic hospitality making visits memorable and meaningful. Moreover, visitors from all walks of life can collect handicrafts of silk, silver and wood produced locally as timeless souvenirs. Chiang Mai is a place where both backpackers and luxury tourists can enjoy themselves to the fullest.
The Past
Chiang Mai literally means new city and has retained the name despite having celebrated its 700th anniversary in 1996. King Meng Rai founded the city as the capital of the Lanna (A Million Rice Fields) Kingdom on Thursday, 12th April 1296 during the same period of time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. King Meng Rai the Great conferred with his friends, King Ramkhamhaeng of Sukhothai and King Ngam Muang of Phayao before choosing the site where the capital of the Lanna Kingdom was to be founded.
From then, Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, it was also the centre of Buddhism in northern Thailand. King Meng Rai himself was very religious and founded many of the city's temples, which are still important today.
At the height of its power, the Lanna Kingdom extended its territory far into Burma and Laos, and southwards to Kamphaeng Phet a province above Sukhothai.
The Burmese conquered the Lanna Kingdom in 1556 ending the dynasty founded by King Meng Rai that lasted over 250 years. As Burma had occupied Chiang Mai for nearly 200 years, Burmese architectural influences are visible in many temples. At the end of the 18th century, King Taksin the Great regrouped the Thais in the south and finally drove the Burmese out with the help of King Kawila of Lampang thereby regaining Thai independence from Burma. Chiang Mai was then governed by a succession of princes who ruled the north as a Siamese protectorate under the Chakri dynasty. In the late 19th century, King Rama V appointed a high commissioner in Chiang Mai and it was only in 1939 that Chiang Mai finally came under the direct control of the central government in Bangkok the same time the country was renamed Thailand.
In the past, Chiang Mai was only accessible by river and elephants. More convenient access was achieved only when the railway line was completed in the late 1920's. Moreover, the first motor vehicle driven directly from Bangkok arrived in Chiang Mai in 1932. Such isolation was more favorable to Chiang Mai as it helped to nurture and preserve the unique Lanna culture.
When we look at Chiang Mai today, it is the economic, cultural and communications hub of northern Thailand complete with excellent infrastructure, good roads, by passes and road tunnels, and reliable communications infrastructure.
The Setting
Chiang Mai, with an altitude of approximately 310 meters above sea level, is situated approximately 700 kilometers from Bangkok on the Mae Ping River basin. Surrounded by high mountain ranges, the city covers an area of approximately 20,107 square kilometers and is the country's second largest province. Chiang Mai borders Myanmar on the north, Lamphun and Tak Provinces on the south, Chiang Rai, Lampang and Lamphun Provinces on the east and Mae Hong Son Province on the west. The terrain is mainly comprised of jungles and mountains, which are home to the hill tribes. In addition, wildlife and exotic flora may be found in the national parks.
Most of Chiang Mai's mountains are oriented from north to south. Together they create a multitude of streams and tributaries including Mae Chaem, Mae Ngat and Mae Klang. One of Chiang Mai's distinctive features is Doi Inthanon, Thailands highest peak, which is 2,575 meters above sea level. In addition, the province boasts flat, fertile valleys, which spread along the banks of the largest and most important river in Chiang Mai Mae Nam Ping (Ping River) which originates from the Chiang Dao mountain range.
www.chiangmai.110mb.com
About the Author
admin www.chiangmai.110mb.com
WorldsTravelOnline.com
GREAT PRICES on Air, Hotel,Cruises,Car,Tour,Resorts,All-Inclusive Resorts&Packages
Travel at Wholesale Rates
Now you can enjoy traveling at wholesale rates.
The Best Travel Site EVER!!!
Come here for the best deals on vacation packages, airfare, and cruises. Huge discounts!!!
Travel Just Fine
Adventure Travel, extreme site,Nfl,MlB, Nba, Nhland Nascar Tickets
Travel For Free Network
Our members offer free places to sleep and great things to do for free. Sign up now, it is Free!
low fares
research all major travel industry and gives you the customers the lowest fares.
Travel in Africa
Holidays, Safaris, Beach breaks, Honeymoons, Adventure and eco-tourism in Africa
holmanworldwidetravel
book travel to anywhere in the world,concert and event tickets, crusies, airfare,car rentals,golf
Vacation Your Way, Book Now
Vacation Packages, Last Minute Weekend Deals, Hawaii Travel, Air, Hotel, Car and Attractions
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Air Fare,travel,cheap hotels,Online Cruise.
Travel to Exotic Places in Kenya and In a Tight Budget by Wanjiku Jaqueline
Lets Say that you want to travel to kenya but you have a tight budget. And lets say also that you are tired of hearing stories of how exotic adventure in Kenya is and would wish to have an experience of your own. Here, i will explore five travel destinations across kenya that are both exiting and so affordable that you could start planning your getaway right now.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is on the lips of every tourist destined to Kenya. It was only recently declared the 7th Wonder of the World. This Reserve is a perfect example of Savanah grassland of the African plateau. It covers 1,500 square kilometers of grassland and shrubs with a variety of wild animals scattered strategically within the reserve. The most momorable attraction here is the annual migration of wilderbeast in August to the nothern expansive Serengeti Plains and October acrosss the the Mara river to the South in search of Pasture.
The Meru National Park rivals the Masai Mara National reserve. This is a 4,000 Square kilometer conservatory in the Cenytal Kenyan Highlands. This area experienses vast amount of rainfall and has numerous permanent springs crisscrossing all around it. The Meru National parks boasts green deep indegenous forests and tall grass and is home to a wider selection of wild animals and birds than any other national park. The Challenge though is in spotting game. So, basically, you need to stay here longer though your stay is complemented by the many hotels and lodges lining withing the park.
The Fort Jesus which was built in the 16th century by the portuguese during the battle for the control of the East African coast so as to enforce their rule on the Swahili. it is situated in Mombasa. This fort has long been declared a National meseum by the Kenya Government. Inside, you will find a showcase of exibits mainly ceramics, artifacts and pottery repesenting the history of the Swahili community that lived along the coast from Somalia all aong to the Tanzania Coastal town of Zanzibar. This fort also borders the Mombasa old town and its at the end of Nkurumah Street.
The Lake Nakuru National Park is home to thousands of Flamingos feeding on the algae that grows on the lake Surface. This is a salt water lake which almost got dry a few years ago due to defforestation of the water catchment areas on the Mau Ranges which feed the Lake. Due to the intervention of the Kenya government and Non-Governmental environmentalists, the Park is now coming to life. The Flamingos have flown back to their original habitation from Lake Bogoria where they had sought refuge for years. This park is also home to Acasia trees, dry grassland, variety of bird species and and wild animals mostly herbivorous.
The Tsavo National Park is the Largest National Park in Kenya running into a whoopping 22,000 square kilometers. The Park is devided into two by the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. This area held the biggest amount of Game in kenya but were reduced considerably due to porching but the numbers are now rising due to incresed survaillance by the Kenya Wildlife Service Police Unit. Here you will notice a remarkable difference in vegetation between Tsavo National Park and the masai Mara Gave Reserve. The Grass is taller but its a far cry from the Vegatation on the Meru National Park. But this park is sure to treat you to wider variety of Game.
With all these options available, there is no excuse to put off that life-long desire to travel to Kenyas' exotic places at the far ends of the African Continent and deep into the African Jungle.
About the Author
Wanjiku Jaqueline is a tour operator and has been organizing and reporting on Vacation, Travel and Tours for years. For more information on Exotic Places Kenya, visit her site at Exotic Places Kenya
The Masai Mara National Reserve is on the lips of every tourist destined to Kenya. It was only recently declared the 7th Wonder of the World. This Reserve is a perfect example of Savanah grassland of the African plateau. It covers 1,500 square kilometers of grassland and shrubs with a variety of wild animals scattered strategically within the reserve. The most momorable attraction here is the annual migration of wilderbeast in August to the nothern expansive Serengeti Plains and October acrosss the the Mara river to the South in search of Pasture.
The Meru National Park rivals the Masai Mara National reserve. This is a 4,000 Square kilometer conservatory in the Cenytal Kenyan Highlands. This area experienses vast amount of rainfall and has numerous permanent springs crisscrossing all around it. The Meru National parks boasts green deep indegenous forests and tall grass and is home to a wider selection of wild animals and birds than any other national park. The Challenge though is in spotting game. So, basically, you need to stay here longer though your stay is complemented by the many hotels and lodges lining withing the park.
The Fort Jesus which was built in the 16th century by the portuguese during the battle for the control of the East African coast so as to enforce their rule on the Swahili. it is situated in Mombasa. This fort has long been declared a National meseum by the Kenya Government. Inside, you will find a showcase of exibits mainly ceramics, artifacts and pottery repesenting the history of the Swahili community that lived along the coast from Somalia all aong to the Tanzania Coastal town of Zanzibar. This fort also borders the Mombasa old town and its at the end of Nkurumah Street.
The Lake Nakuru National Park is home to thousands of Flamingos feeding on the algae that grows on the lake Surface. This is a salt water lake which almost got dry a few years ago due to defforestation of the water catchment areas on the Mau Ranges which feed the Lake. Due to the intervention of the Kenya government and Non-Governmental environmentalists, the Park is now coming to life. The Flamingos have flown back to their original habitation from Lake Bogoria where they had sought refuge for years. This park is also home to Acasia trees, dry grassland, variety of bird species and and wild animals mostly herbivorous.
The Tsavo National Park is the Largest National Park in Kenya running into a whoopping 22,000 square kilometers. The Park is devided into two by the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. This area held the biggest amount of Game in kenya but were reduced considerably due to porching but the numbers are now rising due to incresed survaillance by the Kenya Wildlife Service Police Unit. Here you will notice a remarkable difference in vegetation between Tsavo National Park and the masai Mara Gave Reserve. The Grass is taller but its a far cry from the Vegatation on the Meru National Park. But this park is sure to treat you to wider variety of Game.
With all these options available, there is no excuse to put off that life-long desire to travel to Kenyas' exotic places at the far ends of the African Continent and deep into the African Jungle.
About the Author
Wanjiku Jaqueline is a tour operator and has been organizing and reporting on Vacation, Travel and Tours for years. For more information on Exotic Places Kenya, visit her site at Exotic Places Kenya
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