Chal Re Matke Tambaktu

Land Of Kamasutra - Khajuraho

The land of Kamasutra ! the place of Art , Culture and Love

 

 

Khajuraho is a small town located in the Bundelkhand region (Chhatarpur District) of Madhya Pradesh and is famous for groups of Hindu and Jain temples. These temples are a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their beautiful and erotic rock carvings.

Khajuraho has the Vindhya range of mountains as its beautiful backdrop. This makes Khajuraho a more fascinating destination to visit.

 

Why it is Special

Khajuraho's art is a manifestation of the essence of the philosophy of Indian aesthetics. The erotic sculptures of Khajuraho depicting Kama Sutra are unique in the world. These sculptures representing the Indo-Aryan architecture, congeal in stone a lyrical paean to love and passion and reflect the Chandela dynasty's passion and immense appreciation for the forbidden art, paradoxically, in the land of Kama Sutra. They cannot be passed off as just erotic sculptures, the temples have some of the most revered Gods of Hinduism.

Khajuraho, one of the World Heritage Sites, is famous for the sculptures displayed in the temples. It is actually a village that is situated in the Chhatarpur District of Madhya Pradesh. This place is well known for a number of medieval Jain and Hindu temples, popular for the erotic sculptures. Khajuraho got its name from ‘khajur’ meaning palm and date. These temples were built in a time span of hundred years, from 950 – 1050. History states that the Jains inhabited the eastern side of Khajuraho, which is evident in the number of Jain temples situated in this region. As a part of renovation, a wall has been constructed enclosing the Jain temples, with the exception of Ghantai temple that lies outside.

 

 

 

Climate and Best time to Visit

Khajuraho's climate is quite extreme, with wide variation in day and night temperatures along with minimal rainfall. Summers are hot at 45°C and winters pleasant at 27°C. Rainfall of 114 cms annually. As summer is too hot, winter is a good time to visit. A good time to visit is March, when the annual Dance Festival takes place. So the best time to visit Khajuraho is from September to March.

How to Reach

Khajuraho airport is well connected from Mumbai , Delhi , Varanasi

 

 

 

Audio Guides Official Smartphone App

Visitors may avail of the audio guide facility from the official audio guide booth near the monument ticket counter. Prices for audio guide services are Rs. 100 (+ taxes) in English & Foreign Languages or Rs. 60 in Hindi & Indian Languages

An Android and iOS official smartphone app has become available that help visitors tour the Western Group of Monuments. The smartphone apps include a touch screen map, graphics, and the same audio content that is available in the official audio guide.

What to See :-

 

Western Group of Temples

There is an entry fee of Rs. 10/- (for Indians) and USD $ 5 (for foreigners) to enter the Western Group of temples. (If you have a ticket from Taj Mahal, you can use it here again.) All the temples are open from sunrise to sunset. These are the richest and largest of all temple groups

Lakhmana Temple - The oldest and finest of the western group of temples, named after the ruler that built the temple. The A horizontal beam over the entrance of this beautiful Vaishnavite temple shows the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva with Lakshmi, Vishnus consort.

Kandariya Mahadeo Temple - This temple is decorated with a profusion of sculptures that are among the greatest masterpieces of Indian art.

Devi Jagdamba Temple - Dedicated to the Goddess(devi), this is smaller and much more delicately proportioned temple and is home to some of the finest sculptures of Khajuraho.The garbha griha has a huge image of the Devi of the Universe (Jagdambi), though it appears to have started as a Vishnu temple. It has the usual three bands of sculptures, but the third and most uppermost of these houses some of the most erotic sculptures.

Chaunsat Yogini - The only granite temple in the Khajuraho group

Chitragupta Temple - is dedicated to the Sun God (Surya), it faces eastward to the rising sun

Matanageswara Temple - A temple dedicated to Shiva, a huge 8ft Lingam adorns the temple.

Varaha temple - dedicated to the Varaha avatar of Lord Vishnu, it holds the statue of a Vraha[boar] in the centrestage with the Sheshnag lying beneath. Carving of an idol of Devi Saraswati on the snout of the Varaha reflects that every word/sound[dhvani] seeks blessing of Devi Saraswati [Goddess of speech,learning and knowledge]

Vishwanath Temple - dedicated to Lord Shiva, also called Vishwanath [master of the universe]. In the same premises, a temple dedicated to Nandi, holds a huge statue of Nandi [the Bull, the companion, attendant and closest aide of Lord Shiva].

 Eastern Group of Temples

Parsvanath Temple - Largest among the group, with exquisite carvings in detail. The sculptures on the northern outer wall are the highlights of this temple. The image was installed in 1860.The three roofs of this temple depict mixture of Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim influences.

Ghantai Temple - This Jain temple has a frieze which depicts the 16 dreams of Mahavira's mother, and a jain goddess on a winged Garuda.

Adinath Temple - Dedicated to Jain Tirthankar(God), adinath, the temple is lavishly embellished with sculpted figures, including yakshis.

Brahma Temple - considered to be one of the oldest temples of Khajuraho made entirely in granite and sandstone, is dedicated to Vishnu.

Vamana Temple - is the dwarf form of Lord Vishnu, located in a secluded place and is known for its simple architecture.

Javari Temple

 Southern Group of Temples

Dulhadev Temple - The last temple of Khajuraho, lies to the south of Ghantai temple. The temple enshrines a Shivalingam. The apsara and ornamented figures are the temple's most striking features.

Beejamandal Temple - It is a ruined temple, and is near the Chattarbhuj Temple

Chattarbhuj Temple Or The Jatkari Temple - Built in 1100 A.D., is well-known for its architecture, and is also the only temple to be devoid of any erotic sculpture. 3 km away from the Eastern Group. Facing West, have to take 10 steps to reach the sanctum. The massive 9 feet intricately carved Vishnu idol in Chaturbhuja (four-armed).

Light and Sound Show at Western group of temples - After visiting the temple complex is over, the sound and light show, narrated by the Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachhan, is held every evening. Entry ticket Rs. 120/- for Indians and Rs. 300/- for foreigners.

Khajuraho Dance Festival

 

 

Khajuraho Festival of Dances is celebrated at a time when the hardness of winter begins to fade and the king of all seasons, spring, takes over. Feb - March The most colorful and brilliant classical dance forms of india with their roots in the ling and rich cultural traditions across the country, offer a feast for the eyes during a weeklong extravaganza here.

 

 

Jain Temples -

 

Owing to the renovation measures from time to time, it seems that the white Jain temples are comparatively new. The life-size sculpture of Jain God is praiseworthy. On your visit, you can also spot sculpture of animals inside the temple complex. Besides the sculpted figures, the architectural beauty of the white as well as other Jain temples are noteworthy.

Most important temple in the Jain Temple series is the Parshvanatha Temple, which is the largest of all. There is a statue of Parshvanatha inside the holy temple, who was a Jain Tirthankara. This temple is popular for the non erotic sculptures of Khajuraho. It is said that some of the best non erotic sculptures are found in this temple. One of the well known sculptures of this temple is the celestial beauties, known as ‘Sura Sundaris’; one of them is applying make up and the other one is removing a thorn from the feet. You can spot this beautiful work of art in the southern façade of the temple. The most talk about sculpture in the northern façade is a sura sundari tying ankle bells.

Are you still hesitant to decide your next travel destination? The pictures in the Picture India gallery can help you to make your decision; you can also make a note of the important attractions of the Jain temples in Khajuraho.

Getting Around

A good way to get around and see the temples as well the village life in Kharujaho is by bicycle, which you can easily rent in the bike shops near the main temple complex, or bicycle rickshaw. They charge Rs.20 per day.

Beware of the fake school teachers, principals and students who are too much interested in your dollars as donation, which hardly goes to the school itself.

There are many car rental companies available. The Auto rickshaws provide a comfortable enough ride around the small town. Also they offer a lot cheaper deal with a friendly guide in the rickshaw drivers

 

Valentine's Day Romantic Ideas

 

 

Romantic Valentine's Day Ideas

Tips for a Happy Travelling with Your Infant Child

Travelling with a small baby in plane is not very easy task. To make yourself, your little one and your co-passengers more comfortable on the flight, follow these simple and easy guidelines.

1. When you're booking your air tickets, make sure you inform the airline that you are travelling with an infant. Your baby will need a ticket, even if you are making him/her sit on your lap. Most importantly, this way you can find out what kind of special facilities the airline offers for babies on board.

2. Remember your baby do need passport, no matter how young he is

3. It is always good to have a co-passenger with you if you are travelling with a baby. It will give you a comfort of using loo or having your meals.

4. Bring some toys for baby to keep him/her engaged.

5. Choose the window seat .It will give you little privacy for nursing, and your baby can enjoy looking out as well.

6. Pack a small bag for with extra cloths and diapers etc.

7. Nurse your baby during take-off and landing, this will divert baby’s attention from the fright of the movement

8. Consider booking an extra seat for air travel with baby - if not, you will be expected to sit with an infant under 2 years of age on your lap. Depending on the length of your flight, this can be very hard work, particularly with an older baby.

9.  If you do book an extra seat, think about taking a car seat on board for your baby to sit in. Certain car seats are FAA approved for air travel with baby, so this is something to check when buying one.

10. If you do not have a car seat, you will be given a mini seat belt for your baby - this goes around him, and then attaches to your seat belt.

11. Do call your airline and ask about all the facilities for baby on the board. including baby food etc

12. If you are using an airline with a frequent flyer program, enrol your child as well. Some airlines offer full points for child fares.

Hope these tips will be a good help for all you travel enthusiast.
Happy Travelling

Hot List Honeymoon Destination, South Africa

    South Africa is a one of the beautiful, multi-cultural country that has an abundance of unique destinations and experiences for travellers of all age . In this magnificent country, you can go on a safari, indulge in adventure activities, enjoy shopping, enjoy the beautiful cities, relax by the beach or sample delicious food and wine. Honeymooners have innumerable possibilities for romance and bring back unforgettable memories. It is immerging as a hot destination for the honeymooner’s .With so many things to do, here's how newlyweds can explore the wonderful rainbow nation.

Enjoy Self-driving

South Africa has first-rate road infrastructure, a variety of authorised vehicle hire fleets run by international and local rental companies, great weather, scenic beauty, splendid wild life and adventure activities, which makes self-driving a viable and pleasurable option during your honeymoon.

Close to Nature

Apart from spectacular scenery, there are many places where wildlife and nature can be enjoyed in leisure and luxury. The splendid game lodges  will pamper you with a list of experiences like game drives, bush walks, romantic candle-lit dinners and rejuvenating spa treatments in the wild.

 

 

Give a hint of adventure in the Romance

SA offers various soft and hard adventure activities across provinces. From world-class surfing, bungee-jumping, diving (shark cage, scuba, crocodile cage), hiking to horseback safaris, mountain biking, river rafting and more, all are supported by operators.

 

Shopping Paradise

There is some shopping reserved for everyone , pamper your sweetheart with so many shopping options and definitely  bring back some great souvenir for your home sweet home — from the eclectic to the conservative to the trendsetter or trend follower. South Africa is home to many a shopping Mecca from designer brands to local handicraft.

 

 

Best Places to See in South Africa

1. Cape Town - Cape Town & Western Cape is home to spectacular and unrivalled natural beauty.
Branded the destination of choice for leisure, events and business, Cape Town & Western Cape represents African sophistication, flair and affordable luxury.

Cape Town & Western Cape has an adventurous, stylish and a colourful melting pot of cultures, and offers visitors an opportunity to discoveries unexpected gems.

 St George’s Cathedral in Wale Street , The Castle of Good Hope , Melkbosstrand’s 7km-long stretch of white sand beckons , Muizenberg the nicest swimming beach , Drive to the scenic town of Kalk Bay , The Durbanville Wine Valley has so much to offer – and it’s just 20 minutes from Cape Town , Mongester OliveOil  - Enjoy a drive to a tasting experience with a difference, learn to cook African style and wash it all down with some delicious wine.

 

2. Hermanus  - With its unparalleled scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, upmarket shops and endless adventure options, it’s little wonder that Hermanus has grown in size and popularity during the last decade.

Hermanus has the status of being the best land-based whale watching destination in the world. Southern right whales visit Walker Bay from June through to December and can be viewed from aboard a boat, an airplane or the shore. Hermanus is home to the world’s only Whale Crier who blows his kelp horn when whales are spotted along the central sea route.

The Whale Festival has also become a feature on the town’s calendar . Shark cage diving provides an adrenaline fix for adventure lovers and kayaking trips on the sea or lagoon can be booked. Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers a range of spectacular walks among the fynbos

 

3. Knysna -  A gem of the scenic Garden Route, is situated between George and Plettenberg Bay. Perennially green thanks to a Mediterranean Maritime climate with rain falling throughout the year, Knysna is mantled by indigenous forests extending into the Tsitsikamma National Park area. Nestled between the impressive Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian ocean, the culinary capital of oysters and other delectable seafood is a compulsory stopover on every travelers’ itinerary. At the heart of Knysna is a lagoon protected from the sea by the monolithic sandstone "Heads”  best explored on board a catamaran or from along hiking paths in the Featherbed Nature Reserve. A hotspot for art and craft, as well as adventure activities such as tree canopy gliding, kloofing and abseiling, Knysna offers something to everybody.

 

 

4. Durban - The Indian and colonial influences in this South African beach city can’t be missed, and the blend of cultures and architecture makes Durban unique in South Africa. Durban’s Golden Mile is a destination for surfers, families and fisherman, due to its blend of natural beauty and modern resort. Major-city attractions abound, making this a good destination for families and couples alike.

 

 

5. Hogsback -  Hogsback is a fairy-tale world of mountains and forests. It is situated high up on the Amathole Mountains of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, and is surrounded by centuries-old indigenous Afro-montane forests. Hogsback offers the ultimate break-away from the rush of city life - a dramatic natural beauty, lots of nature-based activities, and above all, silence and serenity.

 

6. Drakensberg Mountains - The Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa or uKhahlamba (the Barrier of Spears) is a 200-kilometre-long mountainous wonderland and world heritage site. The largest proportion of the Drakensberg area falls in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Combining sheer natural beauty with a wealth of biological diversity, this 243 000 hectare mountainous region known as the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park has been preserved and venerated for eons since the San people or bushmen roamed these slopes. Tens of thousands of paintings depicting their daily life can be found on the rock faces, and in December 2000, the park received international recognition and was declared KwaZulu-Natal's second World Heritage Site. One may choose to try sheer rock or ice- climbing - or they may prefer the adrenaline rush provided by abseiling, white water rafting or taking a helicopter ride to view the Drakensberg mountains from above.

7. Kruger National Park - Soaked in legend and history, the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is waiting for you to explore its vast landscapes and outstanding African wildlife. Enjoy exciting game drives and walking safaris – find out what it is like to be close to a pride of Lion, feel the delight and intensity of a South African safari in Kruger National Park

 

Important Information and Websites for Your Travel Plan -

1.If you would like to receive a brochure on the Drakensberg of KwaZulu-Natal, please send an email requesting one to kznta@iafrica.com. And for inquairy cdta@futurenet.co.za

2. krugerparkbookings.com
3. capetown
4. Krugerpark
5. Information about Climate , Religion , currency , Time Zone , Health Issues please visit  Before You Go

X S Nightclub - Best Nightlife in Vegas

X S night club Las Vegas

What can be a better place than X S Nightclub in Las Vegas for new year celebration

XS New Years Eve 2013 with Avicii 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The most expensive club ever built in Las Vegas.Best for Nightlife

That's because The XS nightclub at the Wynn is stunningly beautiful, and lets the crowds in at an average (for Vegas) price of twenty to thirty dollars most nights

The 40,000 square feet club is built around a swimming pool. It's a gorgeous sight, inside and out. Large areas of the water are shallow enough to dance in, and every night girls can be seen, with shoes in one hand and a drink in the other, laughing and splashing around. The music pumps everywhere, a mix of Hip-Hop, House, and even a little Salsa. The outdoor area, even if it's packed, feels a little calmer than the indoors, probably due to the breeze and the open space of the pool. Bottle service is available inside and out, and useful items fill the space, like free seats and stripper poles. The bathrooms are big, beautiful, and service people are everywhere. Men will have their jackets dusted lint-free while they wash their hands, and women can solicit the help of free manicurists and makeup artists.  A perfect place for Bachelor and Bachelorette parties

 

 

Location:-

 

XS Nightclub is located between the Winn and Encore Properties and is nothing less than stunning.

X S NightClub on Google Map

View Larger Map

 

How to Plan for X S Nightclub our tips:-

1. Plan out your visit to X S properly because just dropping in might cost you dearer. There are so many things waiting for you that you may fall short of dollars.

2. Avail VIP Services at XS including Table Reservation, VIP Passes and Hosted Entry.

3. Keep time on hand for the counter the traffic on road.

4. Bottle Service at XS does not come cheap and patrons should know the table location is a key determinate in pricing. Mainroom seating start at a minimum of 3 bottles and if a celebrity DJ is hosting  , plan on purchasing 4 bottles for any booth on the back wall .

5. Free entry for girls

6. You can get flat footwear from the vending maching in X S, if you wanna get rid of your high heels. (for girls)

Some blurred points of X S :-

1.  The carpet area near bar some time smells nasty.

2.  it’s a well-lit club, so if you are looking for some dark ambience than you might slightly feel disappointed.

3. Some people find the drinks not so cheap.

Essential information:-

1. Timing: - 10 P M to 4 A M

2. It Accept Credit Cards

3. No Happy Hrs

4. Best Nights to visit Friday , Saturday, Sunday

5. Very good for groups

6. Age allowed: - 21

7. Wheelchair Accessible

 

X S Nightclub

 

 

 

Most of the visitors give it rating not less than 3.5. Many say it’s a must go place in Vegas , So it’s worth checking out once in a lifetime

 

Some useful Websites :-

X S Night Club

BachelorVegas

Exploringlasvegas.com

 

Moulin Rouge , A Place of Romantic Night Out in Paris

      Paris considered as one of the most romantic place on earth and its night life enjoys the status of the most colourful and romantic night life in the world .

When we talk about the night life of Paris , most of us do mention about The Moulin Rouge.

Moulin Rouge is best known as the spiritual birthplace of the modern form of the can-can dance. Originally introduced as a seductive dance by the courtesans who operated from the site, the can-can dance revue evolved into a form of entertainment of its own and led to the introduction of cabarets across Europe. Today, Moulin Rouge is a tourist attraction, offering musical dance entertainment for visitors from around the world. The club's decor still contains much of the romance of turn-of-the-20th-century France.

Moulin Rouge is a cabaret in Paris, France. It was built in 1889 by Joseph Oller, who also owned the Paris Olympia. Close to Montmartre in the Paris district of Pigalle on Boulevard de Clichy in the 18th arrondissement, it is marked by the red windmill on its roof. The closest métro station is Blanche.

I Should or I Shouldn’t ? :-

You will always get a mixed review for this Club. Some will say it is worth visiting and some will say it not so good.

Our take is :-

 If you have ever visited the similar big Clubs in Europe or USA, or if you have ever seen a Vegas Show then you may not like it very much. It’s way too expensive as well. Some people find it too crowded also. Some time you may need to share your table with some strangers. Some tourists avoid eating there because of the high price of food and drink and if you are vegetarian then eating in the Moulin Rouge would be worthless for you. Some time you have to wait in queue to get inside which might be painful in winter.

BUT, it is also true that many tourist do list it among their must see places list and it gets many recommendations also. So if you are in Paris, then plan smartly and enjoy the Moulin Rouge, and we are here to help you on this:-

How to Plan for the Moulin Rouge in best way :-

1) Arrange discounted tickets

Most of the tour operators arrange the tickets for The Moulin Rouge. Though the price of the tickets are on the higher side but if you plan well and surf through some useful sites , you can actually save some money. Here are the list of some of the sites providing discount for the Moulin Rouge :-

365tickets

Discount-Paris

2) You can save a lot of money if you arrange for your dinner somewhere else.

4) Definitely not a place to go with very small kids.

5 ) Book in advance to get a good place and table .

6 ) Must ask to the information centre or your tour operator for the transport arrangement.

For Further Information , Refer these sites :- 

Facebook Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge Store

Moulin Rouge France

Moulin Rouge Paris UK

Video of Moulin Rouge Paris

 Do write to us about your The Moulin Rouge experience .