Meghalaya

Meghalaya is an embodiment of eternal bliss and tranquility wrapped in utter beauty. The “Abode of Clouds” acquires its charm from the picturesque locales, bountiful nature, fresh and sedating surroundings and yes the adventure sports. The exposition of exuberant emerald hills and glens often bathing in frequent drizzles will resuscitate your spirits. Trip to Meghalaya promises a rendezvous with the exclusive flora and fauna, the amicable tribal folks and their cultural heritage. Tour to Meghalaya can be for adventure, for sightseeing, for resurrection or simply to relax and enjoy. 

Meghalaya was created as an autonomous state within the state of Assam on 2 April, 1970. The full-fledged State of Meghalaya came into existence on 21 January, 1972. It is bound on the north and east by Assam, and on the south and west by Bangladesh. Meghalaya, literally meaning the abode of clouds, is essentially a hilly state. It is predominantly inhabited by the Khasis, the Jaintias, and the Garo tribal communities. The Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills, which form the central and eastern part of Meghalaya, is an imposing plateau with rolling grasslands, hills and river valleys. The southern face of the plateau is marked by deep gorges and abrupt slopes, at the foot of which, a narrow strip of plain land runs along the international border with Bangladesh.

There are two National Parks and two wildlife sanctuaries in Meghalaya. Nobrek and Balpakam are the two National Parks and Nongkyllem and Siju are the two wildlife sanctuaries in Meghalaya.

Balpakram National Park

The 'Land of Perpetual Winds’ to the outside world but the tableland is in the south eastern corner of the Garo Hills. It has an importance for both Garo and Hindu religious beliefs. Balphakaram, which is declared as a national park in 1987, is the land of scenic beauty, lying at an altitudeof narly 3000ft above sea level, covering an area of 200 sq.km.

It is vast tableland of dense forest, teeming wildlife and quite an unknown rich bio diversity spot in India. it is a home many rare and exotic species of fauna, some endemic to the area, many almost extinct, evokes interest among wildlife enthusiasts. The Garos consider Balphakram to be sacred as the land where the spirits of the dead sojourn. The steep rock cliffs of the canyon are believed to be the natural habitats of the gonchos or evil spirits. Interesingly, on the Khasi hills border, there is a natural water tank of the rock, which is perpetually clear and transparent.

The main fauna of Balphakaram is birds. There are hundreds of species of birds are found. Apart from birds there are other wildlife like langur, cheetal deer, leopard, different reptiles and many other. But the main attraction is to explore the mythical and fiercesome terrain of this high altitude. Acres and acres of vast tableland is covered with ground orchids and other herbs and bush in multi colour blooms present an unforgettable sight. Also mid April to Mid June , it is the best time for bird watching and wildlife study.

Nokrek National Park

Covered in thick forest, at an altitude of 1418 meters above sea level, Nokrek is the highest peak in the Garo Hills and home of the mother plant of Citrus-Indica (orange). An area of 47 sq. kms. around Nokrek has been declared a National Park. The entire Nokrek range has also been demarcated as a biosphere reserve where many rare species of plants and animals are found. Almost all the rivers of Garo Hills originate along these ranges and, the most famous is the Singsang River. The story of the wild jungle men locally called the Mande Burung is told to travelers, though this belief is slowly disappearing, the local villagers are convinced of their presence.

The entire Nokrek Biosphere Reserve covers an area of about 800 sq. kms. and has a number of villages within its boundaries. Arrangements can be made for stay in these villages. Activities such as trekking, bird watching and observing wild elephants in their natural habitat are some of the interesting attractions while visiting this biosphere reserve. An exciting trekking track is from Nokrek to Tura the administrative headquarters of Garo Hills through the Tura Peak. This trekking track goes through some thick virgin tropical forests before reaching the Tura Peak. A breathtaking view of the rolling hills and Bramaputra in the distance greets you here.

There are several picturesque sites and rivers surrounding Tura but a visit to Badadam area is a must. Here, Borangs or the original tree houses are a common sight. These are used by farmers in their jhum field as rest houses and protection against wild animals. The other structure that is typical to this area is the traditional bamboo house. The unique feature of this structure is that although made of bamboo, it is specially designed, and constructed to be ‘tiger proof’. Bamboo poles are fixed and tied in several layers to construct walls in such a manner that will make it impossible for a tiger to attack the dwellers unawares. Another interesting tradition practiced by the people is the erection of carved memorial posts (Kima) made of wood to commemorate the death of a loved one. Close to Tura, at the confluence of two rivers namely Ganol and Rongram is an old stone age site which is worth visiting especially for an anthropologist. It is believed that the orange tree originated in the hills of Meghalaya, and later the Arab merchants traded oranges from the Khasi hills, Garwal, and Sikkim and took them to Southern Europe. Cuisine of Meghalaya In Meghalaya, multi cuisine restaurants as well as local food stalls are to be found everywhere. Other than the usual Chinese, Indian and continental dishes one can also go for local dishes. For the more adventurers one can sample the local food, one is sure the taste buds are in for a treat for the spicy dishes. Red rice from the valley of Sung is known to be delicious. Pork in every form is enjoyed by all the people of Meghalaya. During the early monsoon, different varieties of mushroom sprout all over the Jaintia and Khasi Hills and these make their way to the local markets. The mushrooms are either cooked in combination with the meat dishes or just fried lightly on its own. Rice is cooked either plain or in combination with onions, ginger and turmeric, giving it the characteristic yellow color this is known as Jastem. Another variation is the Jadoh which is rice cooked with meat (generally Pork). Rice cakes called Putharo and the drier flaky Pumaloi are prepared from rice flour. Another variety is the deep fried jaggery sweetened Pukhlein and steamed Pusla usually eaten as snacks with tea.  Multi cuisine restaurants in all the major towns of Meghalaya offer Chinese, Indian and Continental dishes. Staple food is rice and it varies from red rice to the sticky glutinous rice. Even a cold salad of shredded pork with onions and ginger is also very popular Among the three group Garo cuisine is comparative simple to cook with various variations of spices adding richness to the flavor. One of the most popular dishes among the Garos is the Nakham Bitchi dish which is prepared from special; dry fish, chilies and soda. This is hot spicy soup and is usually served with rice. Plus there are other fish or meat dish, usually boiled with Yam, Gourd, Pumpkin, chilies and bamboo ash water. Popular among the dishes are the one cooked wrapped in leaves or in fresh or green bamboo cylinders over an open fire. Once the food is cooked there is a sound of the bamboo cracking. The food thus prepared has the flavor of the leaves and green bamboo. Also popular among the Khasi, Jaintia and Garos is fish and meat preserved either by drying in the sun or smoked over fire. A variety of Chutneys prepared from different types of herbs, fermented Soya bean and fermented fish always accompany the meals. Last but not the least is the Betel nut and leaf, the perfect end to a hearty meal and a must serve for guests in every household.

Sikkim

Sikkim tourism is incredible! Sikkim is a wonderland in the bosom of Eastern Himalayas with its avant garde surroundings and spectacular tableau. The Shangrila, the Mt. Kanchenjunga makes Sikkim a charming land representing a concoction of Buddhism and Tibetology. With Buddhism predominant in the state you will see many monasteries and ruby clad monks on your Sikkim tour. For you, the nature lovers, the state has eminent orchids sanctuary where 500 indigenous species of orchids are found. An Sikkim tour has many druthers for adventurers. On your way to trekking you will witness many quaint dales and mountain lakes. A base for mountaineering expeditions the rivers of Teesta and Rangeet are superb for river rafting. 


Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Sikkim
As the state has moderate temperature it furnishes natural habitat for the wilds, the untamed and the docile. There are many National Parks and Sanctuaries that provide a dwelling for these animals. Some of the Parks and Sanctuaries are as Khangchendzonga National Park, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. Travel Sikkim to explore its wild world.


Sikkim's Kingdom Animalia has a large selection of animals and birds. The dense forests of Sikkim provide a comfortable habitat to the fauna in the state. Sikkim also allows snow leopard, wild ass, leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear, musk deer and flying squirrel to roam in its area. In the alpine zones, the yaks are quite prominent and residents have also kept them to get milk, meat, wool and other useful items from the animal. The musk deer is a part of endangered species and it can be found in the upper temperate zones.

The barking deer is a common animal in Sikkim. On the treetops at altitudes between 6,000 and 12,000 ft, you can see Red Panda that really looks cute. You must have read about Snow leopard in stories, but Sikkim comprises this animal in real. Although, the animal hardly comes across the sight, up to now, only two zoologists have captured its photographs. Amongst others, Blue sheep, flying squirrels, binturong, tahrs, marmots and mush deer are some more populace of the region.

The avifauna of Sikkim comprises 30% of the total birds, found in the whole Indian subcontinent. Sikkim encompasses more than 650 species of butterflies that are traceable at different altitudes. Not concluding the bird fauna, Sikkim also has more than 600 species of birds including Impeyan Pheasant, Crimson Horned Pheasant, Snow Partridge, Snow Cock, Lammergeyer, Griffon Vultures, Golden Eagles, Quail, Plovers, Woodcock, Sandpipers, Pigeons, Old World Flycatchers, Babblers and Robins.

The extensive flora & fauna of Sikkim made Government to convert the densely animal-populated regions into wildlife sanctuaries. The main cause for this conversion was to protect the wildlife from the poachers. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kyongnosia Alpine Sanctuary, Khangchendzonga National Park, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary and Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary are the places, where both animals and plants reside in complete harmony with each other.





Cuisines of Sikkim - The food pattern in Sikkim is not limited to either vegetarian or non vegetarian as both are easily available here. One can relish Indian, Tibetan and Chinese cuisines at Sikkim with a very limited range of continental cuisine also available. A wide array of local fare is available in Sikkim that proves to be a gourmet's real delight. Traditional Momos and Thukpa are found everywhere and taste great. There are several good reaturants in Sikkim that specialize these traditional delicacies. Cafe Tibet at Gangtok is an ideal fast food joint. 

If you are going to the Northern part of Sikkim, you will have a very limited choice of dishes owing to the remoteness of the region. Especially at Lachung, Yumthang and Lachen, the eating houses cater to the food habits of local people only. But at Pelling, you can relish delectable delicacies at Hotel Sikkim Tourist Centre and Hotel Norbugang.

Nagaland

undulating state of Nagaland is extremely charming and lovingly beautiful. A home to as many as sixteen tribes, the state has much to explore. The virgin terrains of the state are breathtakingly enchanting. You must visit Naga City to experience the panorama of nature, the warmth and hospitality of people, lavish blossoms and coy rivers making their way through the rugged terrains. If you are the victim of hectic monotonous lifestyle and then a tour to Nagaland is for you. 


Wildlife of Nagaland:


The state has two wildlife sanctuaries. Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary and Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary. 


Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary:


The Fakim Sanctuary in Nagaland is nearby the border of Myanmar. It is full of numerous flora and fauna. You will find the trees of Bonsum, Bogipoma, Khasi Pine, Oaks, Amari, Gamari, Hollock, Nahor, Uriam, Alder, Kachnar, Sasi here. As the foprests here receive plenty of rains, the woods are brimmed with undergrowth shrubs, Dalchini and Tejpatta. If you will go in the months of March and April, you will gte to see blooming Rhododendrons, varieties of Bamboo and Cane.


The fauna of the sanctuary is packed with Tiger, Hoolock gibbons, Panther, Jungle Cat, Himalayan Bear, Bison, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Slender Loris. Some beautiful birds that are found in this sanctuary are Indian Horn Bill, Tragopan Pheasant, Grey Pheasant, Jungle Fowl, Green Pigeon, Doves etc are the important birds of the region.


Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary:


The Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary in Nagaland is preserves by the Forest Wildlife Department. It is a shelter to various animals including some rare species of birds. The sanctuary boasts of having rich and varied treasure of flora & fauna. This Sanctuary is a home to Hoolock Gibbon (the only Gibbon found in India), Elephant, Mithun, Sambar, Barking Deer, Goral, Flying Squirrel, Wild Dog, Tiger, Sloth Bear. The birds you can locate here are Kaleej and common pheasant, Hornbill and Black Stor.

Dance:

You can get an acumen of the taciturnity of the Nagas through the tribal dances. These dances are tribe specific and people wear vibrant attires, gaudy jewelery and of course a sweet smile. The dances are named after the hand and leg gestures and movements of the dancers. Be it a festival or a ceremony, harvest or recreation, Nagas always have a reason to celebrate and rejoice by dancing. Their dances full of liveliness and they use props generously.

Most of the traditional dances of the aboriginal tribes of Nagaland prefer male performers who dance in closed circle. Dressed in traditional and attractive clothes, the dancers perform with full dedication which is reflected in their flawless performance. The Zeliang dance of Nagaland portrays the unique dancing qualities and artistic skills of the performers. 

Almost all the tribal communities of Nagaland have their unique dancing styles. The dances derive their name from the different movements of hands and feet of the performers. One such unique dance is the Cock dance of the Nruirolians which has derived its name because the hand movements bear resemblance to the movements of a cock.

The Fly dance of Nagaland requires the performers to move like the Temangnetin insect, while in the Cricket dance the dancers move their hands and feet in all directions. The valiant men of Nagaland perform the Bear dance which is commonly referred to as Hetateulee after they have successfully defeated their foes.

An integral part of social and cultural lifestyle of the native population of Nagaland, the unique dancing styles of the state are performed with proper props of dao, shield or spear. Any religious or social gathering among the local indigenous tribal groups is incomplete without the performance of their traditional folk dances. 

Assam India

A “Peerless” land, as that is what Assam means owing its derivation from a Sanskrit word 'ASOMA', is an entryway to the North East India. It is a region where nature herself has painted the vibrant landscape, hillocks, woods , brooks and streams, flora and fauna and above all the affectionate people. Crafted with much special care, the state of Assam India cast a spell on the travelers exploring the treasures of pleasure on Assam tourism. An abode of one horned rhino, blue rivers and red mountains, aromatic tea gardens make Tourism in Assam a special experience. Assam bears a testimony of rich cultural heritage through its temples, monuments, and torrential Brahmaputra River. It is legendary state in terms of traditions and civilization and hence makes for an amzing experience - in short Assam tour is must for an incredible travel experience!.                                                      








Wildlife in Assam:


Assam tourism will also introduce you to the wildlife parks and sanctuaries of the state. There are many wildlife sanctuaries and National Parks in Assam India that make this state a unique habitat for the wild beasts. Among the well known are Kaziranga National Park (famous for sheltering the rare one horned rhino), Manas National Park (famous for the largest tiger reserve and a World Heritage Site), Orang National Park (a mini Kaziarnga), Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, Pabha or Milroy Sanctuary, Dibru-Saikhowa National Park ( a biosphere reserve), Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Namber Wildlife Sanctuary, Pani Dihing Wildlife Sanctuary, Barandi Game Reserve. 











Dance and Music of Assam:


Travel Assam to catch a glimpse of beautiful dance and music form of the Assamese. Each occasion is observed with enthusiastic fervor in Assam. Celebrated with much vigor each form of dance and music is Assam is extraordinary. Some of the famous dances of Assam are Bihu Dance (the most popular dance performed by young boys and girls characterized by brisk stepping, flinging and flipping of hands), Satriya Nritya, a beautiful classic dance of Assam, Bhor Tal Nritya , an extension of Sankari culture, Chah Baganar Jumur Nach (Jumur dance of tea garden), Bagurumba dance of Bodos, Mishing's Ali Ai Ligang. There are many other folk dance forms in Assam like Husari and Bihunas, Dhuliya and Bhawariya, Deodhani, Zikirs, Mohauhau or Mahkheda and Apsara-Sabah. 





































                    

Kanch Mandir

The Kanch Mandir, as the name suggests, is a temple which is entirely made up of glass and mirrors. It is also known as the Seth Hukamchand Temple, as it was built by the "Cotton King" Sir Hukamchand Seth in the early 20th century. It is primarily a Jain temple and is a wonder in glass. The walls, ceiling, floor, pillars, doors, everything here is entirely adorned with glass. The Kanch Mahal has always been an object of interest for almost all the Hindu rulers in India.

The dazzling Sheesh Mahal in Amer Fort of Rajasthan is an exemplary piece of art and provides a breathtaking sight. The Kanch Mahal of Indore is somewhat the same. The major difference being that it is a temple rather than a palace. Owing to its beauty, the palace attracts a number of tourists. Kanch Mandir is located quite close to the Rajwada. The temple is decorated with thousands of mirrors with patterned ceramic tiles.

The charisma of the temple is further intensified with the delicately crafted Chinese lantern-type glass lamps and cut glass chandeliers. The interiors of the Kanch Mandir are just mesmerizing. The temple boasts of more than 50 murals depicting Jain stories. They also depict scenes of conversion to Jainism, torture of sinners in the afterlife and 19th century court life. The Kanch Mahal is quite different from all the other such monuments in the country.

Its uniqueness arises from the fact that it is too showy and splendid to be the shrine of a religion which advocated simple living. Infact, not just simple living, rather austerity. The colorful glass beads and raised sculpted figures give a special 3D effect to the temple. The idol of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism is made from shimmering black onyx. The temple is a place of interest for both the Jain pilgrims as well as the tourists. The temple is situated on Jawahar Road near the Rajwada and opens at 10:00 am.

                                                                

Chhatris

The Maratha Rulers were skilled in the field of architecture. An exquisite example of their architectural style comprise of the Chattris of Indore. These chhattris are the cenotaphs built in the memory of the Holkar rulers. The memorials are built in stone and have stood the test of time. They stand elegantly on the banks of the Khan River. The cenotaphs are tombs built on the cremation spot of the Holka rulers near Rajwada. The Chhatris have dome type structure with pyramidal spires on top.

According to historical records, the Holkars ruled over a large area of the state of Madhya Pradesh. They were great rulers and enjoyed support of their people. During the year 1858, British dominated the country and India came under the rule of the Queen. The Holkars were defeated by the British in the war and had to submit their kingdom in their hands. As their capital was also lost, they shifted to Indore. The city derives its name from the famous temples named Indreshwar and Indrapur.

As a result, they erected these Chhatris, a constant reminder of their rule and their glory. Facing west, there is the cenotaph built over the ashes of a woman ruler of Malwa, Maharani Krishnabai. There are two other Chhatris dedicated to Tukoji Rao II and Shivaji Rao, father and son respectively. These cenotaphs are linked by a common prayer hall, which has delicately carved arches and pillars. It also contains life size statues of these rulers on a high platform along the garbha grihas.

There is a place called Chhatri Baag here, which has two compounds. There is also a beautiful Chhatri in the memory of Bolia Sahib. It was constructed after his death near this Chhatri Baag. At night, these Chhatris provide a breathtaking sight, as they get illuminated. The Chhatris glow ethereally against the dark of the sky and pay tribute to the great souls of the Holkar rulers. An artificial lake has been created in this stretch of the otherwise dry Khan River. It has been further beautified with a fountain, well laid gardens on both banks and boating facility.

Rajwada is the historical palace of the Holkars. It was built about two centuries ago and is located near the Chhatris in the main square. It is a seven storied structure, which serves as the living example of the grandeur of the Holkars. Rajwada stands in the centre of the city. The new palace is on the northern side, while the old palace stands in the old part of the town. The old palace is a multi-storied building which also serves as a gateway of the Rajwada. It stands amongst the crowded streets of the Kajuri Bazar and faces the main square of the city.

The palace was once the centre of all the trading activities in the city. It is a blend of Maratha, Mughal and French style of architecture. The entrance of the palace has a lofty archway with a giant wooden door which is covered with iron studs. The gopura-like monument is made up of wood and stone. It has a number of balconies windows and corridors. The entrance leads to a huge courtyard, which is surrounded by galleried rooms and the arcaded Ganesha hall, which was once the venue of all state and religious functions. This hall is now used for art exhibitions and classical music concerts.

Rajwada has been burnt three times in history. The last fire broke out in 1984 and caused the maximum destruction. The lower three floors are made up of stone, while the top floors are made of wood. This made it very vulnerable to destruction by fire. Now, only the front part of the original structure remains. The palace has recently been renovated, which has managed to bring back the old glory to some extent. In the rear part of the palace, a beautiful garden has been created. It contains fountains, an artificial waterfall and some magnificent pieces of 11th century sculpture.