South India Religious Tour Package

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Itinerary

Day 1Chennai

Upon your arrival at the Chennai International airport you will have a reception at the airport and then be transferred to the hotel. Chennai is the capital of State Tamil Nadu and one of the four largest metropolises of India.
Today, you will go for a half day city excursion. Madras is a pulsating metropolis with over 6 million residents. Today many south Indian feature films are shot here so the city has earned the name “Hollywood of India”. On the city excursion, you will visit the Kapaleshvara temple which is dedicated to God Shiva and is a good example of the colorful south Indian temple architecture. After that, you will visit the fort St.George, a trade post built during 1639. You will also visit the 16th-century St.Thomas Church. At the National museum, you will see sculptures out of the Pallava, Pandava and Chola time. Your excursion will also include a visit to the Marina Beach.An overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 2Chennai - Tirupathi - Chennai (By road)

After the breakfast, you will drive to Tirupathi- a temple town known for the famous ancient temple of Lord Venkateswara (Lord of seven hills or Balaji, as he is affectionately known) on the top of the 860mts high Tirumala hills. The temple of Lord Venkateswara is not only believed to be amongst the oldest temples in the country, but also the richest of them all. Legend has it that Lord Venkateswara borrowed money from the divine treasurer Kubera for his wedding expenses. He is still paying back this debt which is why the pilgrims donate generously to the temple funds. In the evening return to Chennai. An overnight stay in Chennai.

Day 3Drive from Chennai to Mamallapooram via Kanchipuram -

After breakfast you will drive to Kanchipuram (76 kms/01.50 hours). It is the ancient capital of the Pallavas famous as a city of 1000 Temples and still has 124 shrines. The first temple dedicated to Shiva was built in the 7th and 8th century and has paintings on the walls. Temples of Ekambaswara, Kailasanatha, Sri Kamakshi and Varadarajaswamy are of interest. Kanchipuram is also famous for its silks.Later drive to Mamallapooram and transfer to hotel. Afternoon visit the city – built in 7th century, earlier called Mahabalipooram, this ancient Pallava port, is today the sight of several antique sculptural marvels. In this ancient seaside town, shrines and huge sculptures cut-out of rocks more than 1200 years back during the reign of Pallava Kings in the region can be seen. The rock carvings depicting mythological episodes – of demons, Gods and animals in battle and others – are truly poems in stone. The only Shore Temple which remains here is the spectacular two – spired shrine, unique because it houses both Lord Shiva and the Lord Vishnu in its sanctum-sanctorum. An overnight stay in Mamallapooram.

Day 4Drive from Mamallapooram to Pondicherry via Tiruvannamalai

After breakfast you will drive to Tiruvannamallai (112kms/03hours) a pilgrim centre with an ancient temple of Lord Shiva. Continue drive to Pondicherry (131kms/ 3.5hrs), which carries a strong whiff of the French presence in India. This erstwhile French colony on the east coast of South India merged with the rest of the country in 1954. Legend says that Pondicherry is the place where St.Agasthaya settled down. An overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 5Pondicherry (By road)

After breakfast you will drive to visit Aurbindo Ashram, the city of dawn, which is 10kms north of Pondicherry. This ashram promotes Aurbindo’s ideas in bringing about a synthesis of Yoga and modern science, so as to unite the spirit and matter. After lunch at hotel, visit Auroville – a unique experiment in international living and in creating a new environment where men and women of all nationalities live together in harmony. An overnight stay in Pondicherry.

Day 6Drive from Pondicherry to Tanjore via Chidambaram

After breakfast you will drive to Chidambaram (65kms/1.5 hours) also called as Thillai, which has the famous Nataraja temple with the root of the sanctum-sanctorum covered with golden plates is located in the centre of the town covering an area of 40 acres. In this temple, postures from the Bharatnatayam form of dance are depicted in sculpture. Natraja is Lord Shiva as a cosmic dancer. Later drive to Thanjavur (104kms /03 hours) enroute visiting the Brass factory at Kumbakonam. Tanjore once the capital of Chola Kings, has the Brahadeswara temple(or the big temple of God).The temple tower rises to a height of 15mts from a square base of 29 mts and then tapers off, making a total of 66mts. An overnight stay in Tanjore.

Day 7Drive from Tanjore to Trichy (54kms / 02 hours by road )

After breakfast leave for Trichy, short name of Trichurapalli, situated on the banks of Kaveri River is a blend of history and tradition as well as pilgrim centre, it is famous for Ranganath temple at Srirangam. Later, you will visit Rock fort and its temple at a height of over 23mts. Also, you will visit Srirangam and Jambukeshwar Temple. An overnight stay in Trichy.

Day 8Drive from Trichy to Madurai (133kms / 3-4 hours by road)

After breakfast, you will proceed to Madurai and transfer to hotel. The ancient city of Madurai, some 2600 years old is laid out in the banks of river Vaigai as a lotus flower with the Meenakshi temple in the centre. Afternoon, you will visit Meenakshi temple, King Tirumala’s Palace, Great tank and Gandhi museum. An overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 9Drive from Madurai to Rameshwaram (154kms / 04 hours by road)

After breakfast you will drive to Rameshwaram- the most sacred temple town of India is an island hallowed by the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama is said to have visited before going into battle of Srilanka. Legend has it that Lord Rama sent Hanuman to Mount Kailash to bring a Lingam for worship when he set foot after defeating Ravana. As Hanuman did not return when the auspicious hour was approaching, Sita made a sand Lingam so that worship could be performed in time, which is where the present day Ramanatha Swamy Temple stands close to sea on the eastern side of the island. One of the twelve Jyotirlingam shrines is also well known for its magnificent corridors and the massive sculptured pillars lining them. Return to Madurai and transfer to hotel. An overnight stay in Madurai.

Day 10Drive from Madurai to Trivandrum (329 kms / 8-9 hours by road)

After breakfast you will drive to Trivandrum. Upon arrival you will be transferred to hotel. Evening is at leisure. An overnight stay in Trivandrum.

Day 11Drive from Trivandrum to Kanyakumari (87 kms /1-2 hours by road)

After breakfast you will drive to Kanyakumari the land’s end of India where the water of the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean meet. An important pilgrim centre of India, it is famous for the Amman Temples – a symbol of unity and sanctity – deidicated to the virgin Goddess, Kanya Kumari. To its South – East lies the famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial, a blend of all the architectural styles of India. Evening enjoy the beautiful sun set and later return to Trivandrum. An overnight stay in Trivandrum.

Day 12Tivandrum - Departure

After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport for onward journey.

Rajasthan Pushkar Cattle Fair

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Rajasthan Pushkar Cattle Fair is held each October – November at the time of the Kartik Purnima full moon , Pushkar Camel Fair is one of India’s most highly-rated travel experiences, a spectacle on an epic scale, attracting 300,000 people and up to 20,000 camels, cattle and horses. For visitors it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the color, spectacle and carnival of one of the last great traditional Fair, which brings livestock, farmers, traders and villagers from all over Rajasthan.

The Pushkar Fair, also known as the Pushkar Camel Fair, or Pushkar Mela, is a colorful and vibrant display of unique exhibitions, exciting competitions and fascinating events. Extending to seven days, this annual camel and livestock fair, held in the town of Pushkar between the months of October and November draws a large number of crowds. Besides, this fair is renowned for being one of the world’s largest cattle fairs. Apart from its celebratory aspect, this wonderful event also possesses a religious significance. Over the years, the fair has found an honorable mention in Rajasthan Tourism.

A Brief History of Pushkar Mela 
According to mythology, all the 330 gods and goddesses of Hinduism assembled at Pushkar Lake on the day of Purnima (full moon night) to consecrate the lake. This is how the lake came to be deemed as sacred. This is the reason behind an enormous amount of pilgrims coming together at the Pushkar Lake for a holy bath to wash away their sins and pay their respects at the Brahma Mandir, the only one of its kind in India. The waters of this lake are also believed to possess healing properties. Pushkar has also been mentioned in the Mahabharata, a 2000 yrs old epic as one of the most ancient sacred sites in India. Besides this, it has also been referred to in the Hindu scriptures as one of the five holy cities.

When and where it is celebrated ?
As the name implies, Pushkar Camel Fair, or Pushkar Mela, as it’s commonly known, is held over a period of seven days in the town of Pushkar, which lies in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan. The fair is celebrated between the months of October and November on the occasion of the holy Kartik Purnima. This year it is going to be start from 28th October – 04 Novermber 2017 on the auspicious day of full moon in Kartik month.

Highlights of Pushkar Mela
Although the Pushkar Mela is primarily held to showcase the camels and livestock, and is the world’s largest cattle fair, there are other events and feature which are the main highlights of this fair. These events enhance the entire experience of the fair while gifting the visitor with some lovely memories.

Elevated Sitting Arena 
There is the elevated sitting arena, which allows the visitors to be seated in a specially designed tented viewing gallery equipped with all the modern amenities. The opening ceremony is in itself a grand event. It’s marked by hundreds of brightly adorned camels and horses mounted by riders clad in vibrant traditional Rajasthani attire. Pushkar  Experience One of the best things to enjoy in Pushkar Fair is the Pushkar Clamping Experience. These camps combine the pleasures of camping amidst luxury. An example of this is the tented accommodation at the Sky Waltz Camp which offers a choice of air conditioned and non-air conditioned options of stay in Pushkar Fair. The other major attraction is the stunning performances by eminent fusion maestros from around the world.

Hot Air Ballooning
You can also enjoy hot air ballooning at the Pushkar Fair. Watching the buzzing activities from above gives you an experience like no other. This thrilling activity is one of the top reasons to visit Pushkar Fair. Further, along with this unique experience, one can also indulge in a number of adventurous activities like parameters’, quad biking and horse riding, among others.

Cattle Fair
Of course, there is the cattle fair, which is one of the major highlights of Pushkar Festival, Rajasthan. The fair witnesses the cattle owners bringing their livestock – camels, horses, cows, goat and sheep, all dressed in colorful attire to be sold and purchased.

Religious Gatherings
However, it must be remembered that the fair has a strong religious association with it too. This is also the time when a large number of pilgrims visit the lake to mark the importance of this event while the temple city buzzes with religious activities.

Delightful Handicrafts
You should also visit the famous Pushkar Mela for taking home with you delightful handicrafts. During the event, a number of makeshift stalls are set up which sell items ranging from saddle straps, saddles and beads to strings of cowries. The fair is also attended by women in large numbers, and as such, one can also find a gamut of traditional silver ornaments, bead necklaces from Nagpur, garments of patchwork, printed textiles from Ajmer and traditional footwear, besides others.

Harmony Half Marathon Harmony
Half Marathon is one of the things not to miss in Pushkar Fair. Held during the course of the Pushkar Fair, the run starts from Dargah Ajmer Sharif and ends at the Pushkar Stadium Ground.

How to Reach Pushkar
By Air: Sanganer airport in Jaipur is the nearest airport to Pushkar, at a distance of 146 km. From there, one can hire taxis or private vehicles to reach Pushkar.
By Train: Pushkar Terminus Railway Station, which has been in operation since 2012, is connected to Ajmer railway station, located at a distance of 11 km.
By Road: Pushkar is well connected to the national highways of Rajasthan. Regular buses ply from Pushkar to the major cities of Jaipur, Jodhpur and Ajmer from the Ajmer bus stand.

Visit Taj Mahal during full Moonlight

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In the month of November 2017, the Taj Mahal will be open for the night viewing from 2nd November to 6th November 2017. It is open two days before and two days after the full moon. The tickets are booked 24 hours in advance. The visitor is required to fill up a detailed form along with the copy of their passport.
Altogether, 400 tourists are permitted per night for the visit. The 400 tourists are divided into a batch of 50. There are only eight batches. The timings for the night view commences from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM according to the Indian Standard Time.

WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED INSIDE THE TAJ MAHAL
There are certain things which are not permitted inside the Taj Mahal. Any electronic gadget apart from your camera and mobile phone, eatables, wires, any sharp article like swiss knife, nail cutter, no religious books except travel guide books, match box, lighter, cigarette, liquor, and any promotional material.

HOW TO CLICK PHOTOGRAPHS DURING NIGHT VIEWING
The night viewing is one of the most breath taking, life time experience. The Taj is not lit up by artificial lights. It is the moonlight that lit up the entire structure. The time duration per batch is only 30 minutes, so normal photography will not be possible. In order to capture the moment, first change your camera or mobile to night vision mode. And then click the photographs. Another thing is that you will not be able to take selfie.
The Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World which is considered as the most photogenic destinations of India. It is one of the most exquisite structures ever built by any emperor. It was constructed by the fifth Mughal emperor in the fond memory of his favorite wife Mumtaj Mahal. The Taj Mahal in terms of architecture, is one of the most symmetrical structures in the world, constructed using pure white marble and adorned with precious and semi precious stones. The construction started in 1631 and got completed in 1653 AD; 20,000 workers worked day and night together for 22 years.

Foreign Tourists arrival recorded 18 percent increase

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The tourism ministry has registered a growth of over 18 per cent in foreign tourist arrivals in the country in September 2017 as compared to last year.
The number of foreign tourist arrivals (FTA) in India in September 2017 was 7.23 lakhs as compared to 6.08 lakhs in September 2016 and 5.43 lakhs in September, 2015, according to a statement by the ministry.

"The growth rate in FTAs in September 2017 over September 2016 is 18.8 per cent compared to 12.1 per cent in September 2016 over September 2015," the statement said.Most tourists arrives from Bangladesh (29.65 per cent) followed by the US (10.24 per cent), the UK (7.04 per cent), Sri Lanka (3.98 per cent), Australia (3.50 per cent), Malaysia (3.32 per cent) and Germany (2.57 per cent), among others.

With almost 29 per cent share of FTAs, the Delhi airport remained the busiest followed by Haridaspur Land Check Post (16.06 per cent), Mumbai Airport (13.57 per cent) and Chennai Airport (6.56 per cent).The ministry compiles monthly estimates of FTAs, including those with e-tourist visas, on the basis of their nationality and port, courtesy the data received from Bureau of Immigration (BOI).

India is a large market for travel and tourism. It offers a diverse portfolio of niche tourism products - cruises, adventure, medical, wellness, sports, MICE, eco-tourism, film, rural and religious tourism. India has been recognized as a destination for spiritual tourism for domestic and international tourists.

Total contribution by travel and tourism sector to India’s GDP is expected to increase from US$ 136.3 billion in 2015 to US$ 275.2 billion in 2025. Travel and tourism is the third largest foreign exchange earner for India. A sum of US$ 1.76 billion was earned under foreign exchange through tourism during the month of September 2016.

The launch of several branding and marketing initiatives by the Government of India such as Incredible India! And Athiti Devo Bhava has provided a focused impetus to growth. The Indian government has also released a fresh category of visa - the medical visa or M visa, to encourage medical tourism in the country.

The Government has also been making serious efforts to boost investments in tourism sector.

In the hotel and tourism sector, 100 per cent FDI is allowed through the automatic route. A five-year tax holiday has been offered for 2, 3 and 4 star category hotels located around UNESCO World Heritage sites (except Delhi and Mumbai). The investment in tourism sector is expected to be US$ 12.4 billion in the 12th Five Year Plan; of these, private investments are likely to total US$ 9.2 billion.

Legends Stories related to Diwali festival

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India, the land of rich cultural heritage, has one or the other festival for every month. It is the spiritual and religious richness in India that each festival is related to some or other deity. One of such festival is the ‘festival of lights’ – Deepawali. It is the glorious occasion that is not restricted to one day, but extended to a five-day celebration. All through these five days, people are in a festive mood. Adding to the festivity is the colorful display of lights. Like every other Hindu festival, stories from Mythology are associated with Diwali too. Given below is information on the celebrations of Diwali.

Stories & Legends of Deepavali Return of Shri Ram To Ayodhyaa
The most famous legend behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the prince of Ayodhya Nagri – Lord Shri Ram. The king of Lanka, Ravana, kidnapped Ram’s wife – Sita from the jungle, where they were staying as per the instructions of King Dashratha, father of Lord Ram. In order to freed Sita from Ravana’s custody, Ram attacked him. This was followed by a war, in which, Ram defeated Ravan and released Sita from his custody. On the arrival of Lord Ram along with his wife Sita, people of Ayodhya decorated their homes as well as the city of Ayodhyaa by lighting tiny diyas all over, in order to welcome their beloved prince Shri Ram and Devi Sita.

Incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi
On the auspicious new moon day, which is ‘Amavasyaa’ of the Hindi month of Kartik, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity – Lakshmi was incarnated. She appeared during the churning of the ocean, which is known as ‘Samudra Manthan’, by the demons on one side and ‘Devataas’ (Gods) on the other side. Therefore, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the Lakshmi Pujan, on the day of Diwali, became a tradition.

Lord Krishna Destroyed Demon Narakasur
One famous story behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the demon king Narakasur, who was ruler of Pragjyotishpur, a province to the South of Nepal. After acquiring victory over Lord Indra during a war, Narakasur snatched away the magnificent earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi, who was not only the ruler of Suraloka, but also a relative of Lord Krishna’s wife – Satyabhama. Narakasur also imprisoned sixteen thousand daughters of Gods and saints in his harem. With the support of Lord Krishna, Satyabhama defeated Narakasur, released all the women from his harem and restored the magnificent earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi.

The Return of the Pandavas
The great Hindu epic ‘Mahabharata’ has another interesting story related to the ‘Kartik Amavasyaa’. According to the story, ‘the Pandavas’, the five brothers Yudhishthhira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahdeva, were sentenced to thirteen years exile as a result of their defeat against ‘the Kauravas’ – Duryodhana and his ninety nine brothers, at the game of dice. Therefore, the Pandavas spent thirteen years in the jungles and returned to their kingdom on the day of ‘Kartik Amavasyaa’. On their return, the people of their kingdom welcomed the Pandavas by celebrating the event by lighting the earthen lamps all over in their city.

Coronation of King Vikramaditya

Another legend or story about Diwali celebrations relates to one of the greatest Hindu King – Vikramaditya. It was the day when he was coronated and the people celebrated this event by lighting tiny earthen ‘diaa

Is the Taj Mahal a tomb or Shiva temple

These days there are a lot of debates about the Taj Mahal’s identity of being a tomb or temple. The follower of both the religion claims it to be an integral part of their culture. The Taj Tours comes out with some facts before jumping on any conclusion.

Shah Jahan’s empire extended from present day Khandhar (now Afganistan) to Bengal (now Bangaladesh). The first question arises here is that when he was the owner of such a vast land then why would he construct the tomb of his favorite wife only on a Shiva temple.

Secondly, during the reign Shah Jahan, he banned the construction of new temples but he never ordered the demolition of the old existing Hindu temples. Another point is worth mentioning here is that his mother Jagat Gosain was also Hindu. She was never compelled either by her husband Jahangir or son Shah Jahan to embrace Islam. It shows that Mughal emperors were liberal.

Thirdly, most of the workers were Hindus and if the Taj was constructed on a temple then the workers would have refused to work.

Fourthly, the account of the foreign travelers. For example John Albert de Mandesto, a German traveler, who reached Surat in 1638 A.D. Peter Mundy (1630-34 A.D) an Italian traveler who visited India during the reign of Shah Jahan. He gives valuable information about the living standard of the common people. Jean Baptiste Tavernier (1638-1663 A.D.) a French traveler who visited India six limes. His account covers the reign of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb. All of the travelers specially Tavernier, mentions about the construction of Taj Mahal by Shah Jahan. None of them ever mentioned about any revolt or controversy related to the Taj Mahal.

The archaeologists do not agree with the myth of Shiva temple, as no strong evidences favoring this theory could be put forward. The Taj Mahal was an Indo-Islamic structure. The Mughal’s brought with them Persian architecture. It consisted of dome, arches and minarets. Although, according to the Islamic laws depiction of life is prohibited. But Akbar, the third Mughal emperor overlooked them. Being a liberal emperor he started making use of both flora and fauna. The same tend was followed by his generations. If the construction is done following Islamic laws then its decoration was done in an Indian/Hindu way.

At the same time, we do not find any reference in any of the contemporary books. No reference was made by any of the Mughal court writer or Shah Jahan.

REALITY

Just one reference in Purushottam Nagesh Oak’s book “The Taj Mahal” cannot change the history. History is entirely based on evidences. We must be proud of our history and culture instead of presenting it in distorted form.

In 2000 India’s Supreme Court dismissed Oak’s petition to declare that a Hindu king had built the Taj Mahal and reprimanded him for bringing the action, saying he had a “bee in his bonnet” about the Taj. In 2005 a similar petition was dismissed by the Allahabad High Court. This case was brought by Amar Nath Mishra, a social worker and preacher who says that the Taj Mahal was built by the Hindu King Parmar Dev in 1196

Mughal Emperor turned 475 years today

Akbar was born on 15th October 1542. Mughal Emperor Akbar turned 475 Years today. He was one of the great was a reformist emperor. Although in his initial years as emperor he was known to be a conqueror but as the years went by as he matured and turned into a benevolent emperor.
Akbar is called great because of the following reasons

ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS
1. The important reform he introduced was to remove jaziya tax and pilgrimage tax. The pilgrimage tax was imposed on all citizens of empire (except Mughals) who went to places of worship. This was abolished by Akbar in 1563 and all citizens could travel freely across the empire to visit places of worship. The second tax jaziya was introduced in 11th century Muslim rulers on majority Hindu’s to go to any place of worship. This was done to force them to convert to Islam. But Akbar abolished this tax too in the year 1564.
2. Akbar was the first ruler to appoint Hindus in high positions in court in large numbers. Out of this 9 Navrathna’s or 9 Jewels were Raja Birbal, Raja Man Singh, Raja Todramal were from the majority Hindu community. Many officers in state level were also Hindu’s. Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khanan another Navratna’s mother was from Lord Krishna’s family. So many Hindus got an opportunity to participate in decision making and given high ranks.
3. Akbar introduced mansabdari system and divided his empire into 15 subhas(Organized Group) and each sabha had a subedhar(Governor). These subhas were divided into Sarkars(State) and they were under Faryadar. The sarkars were futher divided into Parganas(District) and they were under Choudary’s. Big Towns were kept under Kotwals(Police Commissioners)
4. Raja Todarmal introduced scientific taxation system that reduced tax burden on poor people. The land was divided into Pulaj, Parouti, Chachar and Bhanjar. The tenants paid tax directly to the governor and no middle man or landlord could force them to give any additional tax.
5. Akbar separated criminal law from religion and a single criminal law was introduced for the entire empire
6. In 1581 a census was made of the population of the entire empire
7. In 1582 Akbar brought an order banning slavery and keeping slaves as a punishable offence
8. In 1582 the judges and Subedhars of Mughal empire could not give capital punishment to anyone without Akbar’s approval.

RELIGIOUS REFORM
9. Akbar cancelled the state policy of ullema (Muslim religious leader) supremacy in decision making and ensured that state and religion policy was kept separate.
10.Akbar started the Ibadat Khana or religious debate in 1565 in Fatehpur Sikri and Jains, Buddhist, Hindu, Christians etc were invited to debate on various aspects of religion
11.Akbar introduced civil laws as per religion and all religions could decide civil disputes as per their holy book and past customs.
12.He introduced Sul I Khul(Peace for all) policy in politics
13.Akbar banned forcible sati practice. All kotwalis(police station) were instructed to allow sati only and only if the woman was willing to burn on the pyre. Humayun had introduced sati ban during his regime too but it was strictly followed only after Akbar’s accession
14.Akbar banned eating non vegetarian food on his accession day(Thursday)
15.Akbar banned killing of animals on first day of the week as the day is sacred to Sun. Animals could not be killed on important festival days of Hindus and Jains and Buddhists etc
16.Akbar banned cow slaughter completely
17.Many Hindu religious texts were translated to Persian, Arabic and Chatagi language. Abul Rahim Khan e Khana translated Ramayana to Persian, Abdul Fazal was incharge of translating Mahabharat to Persian (which took 5 years) and Bhagvad Gita was translated to Persian and Urdu.

SOCIAL REFORM
18.In the year 1562, Emperor Akbar prohibited the custom of enslaving prisoners of war and selling their wives and children to highest bidders in open bazaars. Many prisoners and their family benefited and were set free by their owners after Akbar’s new law came into existence.
19.Akbar banned practice of child marriage in his empire. The marriage age was increased to 14 years for girls and 16 years for boys. Cousins were prohibited from marrying.
20.Akbar introduced marriage registration policy in his empire. Any couple who married had to register their marriage in local kotwali(police station).
21.Marriage tax was introduced to prevent multiple marriages.
22.Akbar promoted widow remarriage and even provided grants to widows
23.The killing on small birds and reptiles for any activities was banned
24.Public hospitals were introduced in many cities on the orders of the emperor where people could get free treatment
25.Akbar opened the schools (meant for rich and powerful) and Muslims to other children and for first time Hindu and Muslim kids studied together. Apart from religious teachings math’s, accounts, astronomy, history etc were introduced in their curriculum. Many private schools too flourished. Makthab was the elementary school that was attached to every mosque where kids were taught basic reading, writing and arithmetic. Madrasas were the higher secondary and colleges. Akbar started them at Agra, Delhi, Fatehpur Sikri, Lahore and other courtiers started them at other places.
26.He wanted wine to be sold only on doctor prescription as he could not ban wine consumption completely.
27.He set up places for beggars and destitute were they could have free meals. Dormitories for Muslim beggars were called Khairpura, for Hindus Dharampura and for jogis as Jogipura. These meals were sponsored at state cost.
28.Akbar tried banning gambling but it was impossible to do so. So he levied a fine on them and even introduced loans from state exchequer to gamblers who had ruined all their wealth so they could start afresh.
29.Akbar not only allowed his sons to learn about Quran but his second son Murad was taught Bible- the Christian Holy Book and Daniyal his third son was appointed a priest from Kashi to learn about Hindu religious teachings.
30.Akbar introduced equal property rights to all daughters in father’s property.

ART AND ARCHITECTUREhttps://www.thetajtours.com/mughal-emperor-akbar-turned-475-years-today/
31.Akbar was also a lover of Art and Architecture. He adopted several Indian styles in his architecture and thus considered as the founder of Indo Islamic or Mughal architecture.
32.He constructed Fatehpur Sikri that is a blend of all the religions of that time. Panch Mahal depicted Buddhism, Jodha Palace Rajput architecture etc.
33.He also constructed Palaces in Agra, Allahabad and Lahore.
34.He constructed his own tomb at Sikandra.
35.Akbar was also a lover of painting. It was during his reign that the foundation of Miniature paintings was laid in India. His court was adorned with Baswan, Daswan, Mukund, Jagan, Madhu etc.

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Day 1Welcome to Delhi!

You will arrive at the Delhi International Airport. Delhi is India’s national capital and the second largest metropolis after Mumbai. Delhi has been continuously inhabited since the 6th century BC. Through most of its history, Delhi has served as a capital of various kingdoms and empires. It has been captured, ransacked and rebuilt several times, particularly during the medieval period, and modern Delhi is a cluster of a number of cities spread across the metropolitan region.An overnight stay in Delhi

Day 2Exploring Delhi!

On your first day you will explore the old and new city of Delhi. You’ll be mesmerized by the 100-foot, red-stone boundary walls of Red Fort built during the 17th century. Opposite this ancient structure is the Jama Masjid (Jama Mosque), built in 1656 AD, construction of red sandstone and white marble. It is the largest mosque in India where 20,000 people can pray together. You will also tour the town in a Rickshaw. Along the streets of old Delhi you will visit the Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi (Father of the Nation) Memorial, which is close to the river Yamuna. Next, you will visit the Humayun Tomb, tomb of the second Mughal emperor, which was completed by his wife during the 16th century. The Qutub Minar, a 220-foot tower made by one of the first Muslim leaders in India, was built between 1199 and 1368 AD. It runs counter to Rashtrapati Bhawan, the residence of the President of India. There you’ll also see the Government Buildings & Parliament and India Gate which is 130-foot wall built in memory of the soldiers who died during the First World War. An overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 3Explore Delhi once again and then drive to Jaipur (265 km, 5-6 hours)

Today after breakfast and check out from the hotel, you will go for the sightseeing of Delhi. Today your day will experience the religious side of India, because you will visit different temples dedicated to different religions of India. First you will visit Akshardham Temple, the largest temple complex of India. It is considered to be the most beautiful Temple of India, and one of the architectural wonders, as the whole Temple is built without the use of any cement and lime. Technology of interlocking of stones has been used in this temple. It also boasts off 150 kilo Gold Statue, the main shrine in the temple. Later you will visit Sikh Temple, dedicated to Sikh Religion in India.
Then it’s on to Jaipur, the capital of the state Rajasthan. It is also well known as the “Pink City” because the houses’ facade and city wall are all pink. After your arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. An overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 4Explore! Jaipur

After an early breakfast you will drive to fort Amber (10 km), the former capital of Kachhawaha Rajputs. On the way, you will stop to visit the city’s landmark: the Hawa Mahal (palace of the winds). Built during the 18th century, the five-story building features 953 windows and niches from which the royal women observed the procession in the street without being seen. Next you will visit Amber fort, which lies on 400-foot-tall hill and is surrounded by the chain of mountains known as Aravalli. You will ascend the fort on an elephant back like a Maharaja. Afterwards you will visit the Pink city Jaipur. The City Palace built in 1734 lies in the center of Jaipur and is now the residence of the royal family of Jaipur and a beautiful museum. After that you will visit Jantar Mantar, an observatory. It was built in the 18th century by the city founder Jai Singh II. The instruments are out of stone and marble and served to explore the night skies. In the evening, you will visit Nahargarh Tiger Fort to experience beautiful view and sunset over Jaipur. You will then return to your hotel. An overnight stay in Jaipur.

Day 5From Jaipur to Ranthambore (145 km, 3-4 hours)

Today you will drive to Sawai Madhopur to visit Ranthambore National Park, which is world famous for its Tigers. After arrival, transfer to your hotel in Ranthambore. Afternoon, you will go for your first Jeep safari in the Ranthambore National Park. In the evening return to the hotel. An overnight stay in Ranthambore.

Day 6Ranthambore Tour (Safari to Jungle with Jeep)

Your day will be dedicated for a jungle safari by jeep canter through Ranthambore National Park. You will be accompanied by a naturalist who can explain the wildlife, plants and other sites that you will see during the Safari. In late morning, you can visit the Ranthambore Fort, whose foundation was made 1000 years ago. You may encounter a tiger at the fort as they love to live in it during the hot hours of the day.
Afternoon again, you will again go for your Jeep safari in the Ranthambore National Park. In evening you will return to the hotel. An overnight stay in Ranthambore.

Day 7From Ranthambore to Agra (270 km, 5 hours)

Today you will drive to Agra. En route you will visit Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site and famous for different bird species. 20 km ahead, you will also visit Fatehpur Sikri (36 km from Agra), the former metropolitan of Akbar, built in 1569. Akbar moved the capital to Fatehpur Sikri, but after 13 years due to the scarcity of water, the capital was shifted to Lahore in Pakistan and later again to Agra. You will continue your drive to Agra. After arrival in Agra, transfer to hotel. An overnight stay in Agra.

Day 8Explore Agra!

At sunrise, you will visit the world renowned Taj Mahal (built between 1631to 1653 AD). A poem in white marble it was built by Mughal ruler Shah Jahan for his deceased wife Mumtaz Mahal. Its extravagant architecture reveals its secret of being one of the Seven Wonders of the World. 20,000 workers with experts from Italy, France, Iran and Asia were busied for 22 years with the monument.Return to hotel for breakfast.
Afterwards you will visit the huge and massive Agra Fort at the west bank of the Yamuna River. The Agra fort was built in the 16th century by Akbar and was completed by his grandson. Then you will visit Sikandra, the impressive grave of Akbar, the most powerful of all Mughal emperors that is located about 10 km away from the city. You will also visit Itmad-ud-daula (also known as baby Taj), situated on the other side of the river. Finally at sunset you will see Taj Mahal once again but this time from the other side of the river, from where most of the beautiful pictures are taken. You will then return to your hotel. An overnight stay in Agra.

Day 9From Agra to Khajuraho (2 hours by Train)

In the morning after an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Agra railway station to board the train Shatabadi Express for Jhansi. After your arrival in Jhansi, you will be met by one of our representatives and taken to Khajuraho by car. En route you will visit Orchha, which is famous for its 17th century forts and palaces. You will then continue your drive to Khajuraho. After your arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. An overnight stay in Khajuraho.

Day 10From Khajuraho to Bandhavgarh (275 km, 6 hours)

After breakfast, you will visit the East and West Group temples which houses artwork and sculptures about love making. The 1000-year-old temples are truly unique in the world. You will then drive to Bandhavgarh National Park, which has the highest density of tigers in India.
Bandhavgarh is the zone with most tigers on the Indian subcontinent. Easily accessible hilly areas and grasslands present themselves good opportunities to observe tiger in its natural habitat. Through the unusual density of the wild cats (tigers) in this zone, Bandhavgarh became world-famous. But also other species live in this unique national park: Gaur (Indian Bison), Leopards, four kinds of deer (barking, sambar, hog, black buck and chital), Nilgai (or Bluebull), wild pigs, Indian bears, rhesus monkeys, Langurs, jungle cats, hyenas, jackal, foxes and Dhole (Indian wild dogs).
Upon your arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. An overnight stay in Bandhavgarh.

Day 11Bandhavgarh (Safari to Jungle by Jeep and Elephant)

Today, your day will be dedicated to the jungle safari both by jeep and elephant through Bandhavgarh national park. You will be accompanied by a naturalist who can explain the wildlife, plants and other sites that you will see during the Safari. An overnight stay in Bandhavgarh.

Day 12Bandhavgarh (Safari to Jungle by Jeep and Elephant)

Your day will be dedicated for a jungle safari both by jeep and elephant through Bandhavgarh national park. You will be accompanied by a naturalist who can explain the wildlife, plants and other sites that you will see during the Safari. An overnight stay in Bandhavgarh.

Day 13Transfer to Varanasi by Train

In the morning you will be transferred to Katni Railway Station (2 hours from Bandhavgarh) for your train to Varanasi. You will arrive at Varanasi in the evening. After arrival, transfer to hotel. An overnight stay in Bandhavgarh.

Day 14Explore! Varanasi

Early that morning you can enjoy a boat ride on the river Ganges. You can watch the golden sunrise and see hundreds of people worshiping and taking bath in the holy river. You will then return to your hotel for breakfast.
Afterwards you will tour the old city and visit temples including Kashi Hindu University where more than fifty thousand students from all over the world are enrolled. Also, visit the fort on the bank of the river Ganges. Most of the part of this fort is now converted into a beautiful museum.
After a short break you make an excursion to Sarnath (10 km), one of the head centers of Buddhism. Buddha preached his first sermon in Sarnath after he got enlightenment. Of the entire complex, the Dhamekh Stupa (built during the 5th and 6th centuries) and the Dharma Chakra are imposing buildings built to pay tribute to the place where Buddha preached his first disciples. You will also visit the Dharmarajika Stupa (273-326 BC) where Buddha meditated, and where the alleged bones of Buddha are said to be at rest. Afterwards visit Sarnath Museum.
Evening you will go Ganges and boat ride once again to watch the world famous religious ceremony on the ghats of river ganges. You will return to your hotel. An overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 15Flight from Varanasi to Delhi

Today you will be transferred to airport for your flight to Delhi. After arrival you will take your connecting flight.