ABOUT THE PLACE
MUMBAI
Mumbai is built on what was once an archipelago of seven islands: Bombay Island, Parel,Mazagaon, Mahim, Colaba, Worli, and Old Woman's Island (also known as Little Colaba). It is not exactly known when these islands were first inhabited. Pleistocene sediments found along the coastal areas around Kandivali in northern Mumbai suggest that the islands were inhabited since theStone Age. Perhaps at the beginning of the Common era (2,000 years ago), or possibly earlier, they came to be occupied by the Koli fishing community. Native Christians include East IndiansCatholics, who were converted by the Portuguese during the 16th century, are also koli people.
In the third century BCE, the islands formed part of the Maurya Empire, during its expansion in the south, ruled by the Buddhist emperor, Ashoka of Magadha. The Kanheri Caves in Borivali were excavated in the mid-third century BCE, and served as an important centre of Buddhism in Western India during ancient Times. The city then was known as Heptanesia (Ancient Greek: A Cluster of Seven Islands) to the Greek geographer Ptolemy in 150 CE. Between the second century BCE and ninth century CE, the islands came under the control of successive indigenous dynasties: Satavahanas, Western Kshatrapas, Abhiras, Vakatakas,Kalachuris, Konkan Mauryas, Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas, before being ruled by the Silhara dynasty from 810 to 1260. Some of the oldest edifices in the city built during this period are,Jogeshwari Caves (between 520 to 525), Elephanta Caves (between the sixth to seventh century), Walkeshwar Temple (10th century), and Banganga Tank (12th century).
The Haji Ali Dargah was built in 1431, when Mumbai was under the rule of theGujarat Sultanate
King Bhimdev founded his kingdom in the region in the late 13th century and established his capital in Mahikawati (present day Mahim). The Pathare Prabhus, among the earliest known settlers of the city, were brought to Mahikawati from Saurashtra in Gujarat around 1298 by Bhimdev. The Delhi Sultanate annexed the islands in 1347–48 and controlled it until 1407. During this time, the islands were administered by the Muslim Governors ofGujarat, who were appointed by the Delhi Sultanate.
The islands were later governed by the independent Gujarat Sultanate, which was established in 1407. The Sultanate's patronage led to the construction of many mosques, prominent being the Haji Ali Dargah in Worli, built in honour of the Muslim saint Haji Ali in 1431. From 1429 to 1431, the islands were a source of contention between the Gujarat Sultanate and the Bahamani Sultanate of Deccan. In 1493, Bahadur Khan Gilani of the Bahamani Sultanate attempted to conquer the islands but was defeated.
PANCHAVATI
Panchavati has significant religious significance for Hindus with a temple complex on the bend of the Godavari river, which includesKalaram Temple. It is a pilgrimage site, with the Kumbh Mela, the largest peaceful gathering in the world – involving over 100 million people in 2013, taking place here once every twelve years in rotation with Haridwar, Allahabad, and Ujjain.
In Hindu theology, as outlined in the epic Ramayana, Panchavati was the place in the forest of Dandakaranya (Danda Kingdom), whereRama built his home along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshman during their period of exile in the wilderness. Panchavati literally means "a garden of five banyan trees". These trees are said to have been there during the exile of Lord Rama. There is a place called Tapovan where Lakshmana, the brother of Rama, cut off the nose of Surpanakha, the sister of Ravana, when she attempted to kill Sita. The entire Aranya Kanda (book of the forest) of Ramayana is set in Panchavati.
SHIRDI
Sai Baba of Shirdi (unknown – 15 October 1918), also known as Shirdi Sai Baba, was a great spiritual master who was and is regarded by his devotees as a saint, fakir, avatar (an incarnation of God), or sadguru, according to their individual proclivities and beliefs. He was revered by both his Muslim and Hindu devotees, and during, as well as after, his life on earth it remained uncertain if he was a Muslim or Hindu himself. This however was of no consequence to Sai Baba himself.] Sai Baba stressed the importance of surrender to the guidance of the true Sadguru or Murshad, who, having gone the path to divine consciousness himself, will lead the disciple through the jungle of spiritual training.
Sai Baba remains a very popular saint, especially in India, and is worshiped by people around the world. He had no love for perishable things and his sole concern was self-realization. He taught a moral code of love, forgiveness, helping others, charity, contentment, inner peace, and devotion to God and guru. He gave no distinction based on religion or caste. Sai Baba's teaching combined elements of Hinduism and Islam: he gave the Hindu nameDwarakamayi to the mosque he lived in, practised Muslim rituals, taught using words and figures that drew from both traditions, and was buried inShirdi. One of his well known epigrams, "Sabka Malik Ek" ("One God governs all"), is associated with Islam and Sufism. He also said, "Trust in me and your prayer shall be answered". He always uttered "Allah Malik" ("God is King").
About Aurangabad
Aurangabad. Tourism Capital of Maharashtra, state of India. An exciting tourist hub, surrounded with historical monuments, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves, Aurangabad is City of Gates and a fast growing city. Aurangabad the only tourist district of India having two-world heritage monuments to its credit. Barring these heritage monuments of Ajanta, Ellora, Daulatabad and Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, which is Taj of Deccan, the district is rich in monuments, historical and religious, of National importance. Hence, it deserves the epithet as Tourist District of India.
The District of Aurangabad has over the centuries become a meeting place of life styles as it is centrally located on the map of India. Aurangabad owes a lot of its history to its strategic location on the Deccan plateau. It has witnessed the rise and fall of many Royal dynasties such as the Satvahanas, the Vakatakas, the Chalukyas, the Rastrakutas, the Yadavas spanning fifteen centuries till the advent of Muslim rule at the very end of the thirteenth century. The City is historical place having a special deccan flavor in its lifestyle.
AJANTA- ( Ajanta closed on Monday )
Description:
Two nights and Three days package for 2 adults and 1 children (Up
to 6 years of age).
Package includes the following
Full day sight seeing to Ajanta caves.
Bed tea, Buffet breakfast and dinner.
Complimentary Transfer on check-in and check-out to and from the
hotel.
ELLORA ( Ellora closed on Tuesday )
Description:
Explore the historic Ellora caves through the Ellora package which
includes the following:
Full day sight seeing to Ellora Caves ( Bibi-ka-Maqbara,
Daultabad-Fort,
Panchakki,GhrishneshwarTemple)
*Bed tea, buffetbreakfas and dinner.
Airport or Railway-station transfer.
Miracles are Miracles - Some believe in them and some
don’t.. Some Sai devotees after seeing the below picture might feel
the bliss of Sai darshan and some devotees might try to search
logic in it. But whether you believe it or not , Sai has shown his
presence to all His devotees in some form or the other. Some have
seen Baba in Shirdi , some have seen Baba in their houses, some in
their dreams, and for some of His staunch devotees- Baba is
everywhere and life is full of Sai leelas for them. Here is one
such leela of Baba that was captured thru a photograph ,where one
can clearly see Baba's shadow under the neem tree.. Below is a copy
of the email sent to me by Sai Bhakt Manu Gidwani. My sincere
thanks to him for sharing this wonderful leela of Baba with all Sai
devotees.
May Sai always be with all of us and may our faith and
devotion in Sai help us to see the magic of Baba, that keeps
happening even after his samadhi.
In contrast to the Hinayana excavations at Ajanta, which are virtually devoid of carvings, are the ornate sculptures of the Mahayana period. These carvings are remarkable for their classic qualities and display a graceful elegance, restraint and serenity. The sculptural themes, mostly related to the life of the Buddha and the Buddhist divinities, are adorned withdecorative columns and medallions. In the shrines are huge figures of the Buddha in the meditation and teaching pose. Their benign expression and grace of form evoke a sense of awe and reverence.
The ancient village of Ellora, known for centuries to the world as verul, featured prominently in the travelogues of Arab and European travelers, as it lay at the crossroads of ancient trade routes. Tucked away in the lap of a crescent-shaped hill, the caves of Ellora have been carved, in a north-south line, looking across the vast Deccan plain. The Ellora caves comprise the Buddhist caves: Nos. 1-12. from the 5th century to the 7th century AD; the Hindu caves : Nos. 13-29, from the 8th to 9th century AD ; and, the Jain caves: Nos. 30-34 from the 9th century to the 11th century AD.
Almost 800 years ago, Daulatabad, then called 'Devigiri' was a thriving city. It was founded by Bhillamraja of the Yadava dynasty in 1187 AD. Later, the fort of Daulatabad passed through the hands of several dynasties in the Deccan. Less than 150 years after the Yadava dynasty, Daulatabad also became the capital of India for a short period during the reign of Sultan Muhammad-bin-Tughluq, who gave the city its present name. But very soon the charm of this ancient city faded.
This inscription tells us that the tomb was designed by Ata-ullah, an architect, and constructed by Hanspat Rai, an engineer. The marble used in its construction is said to have been brought from the mines situated near the 'Pink City'. The design of the Bibi Ka Maqbara has largely been based on the Taj Mahal of Agra. However, it could not rival the magnificent 'Monument of Love' and was reduced to a poor imitation. Still, the mausoleum is today known as the 'Taj of Deccan'.
Panchakki otherwise known as the water mill was built during the early years of the 17th century. The mill used to grind grains for the pilgrims. It was so designed that it generated energy through water which was brought from a spring on a mountain.
Situated 25 kms from Aurangabad city Khuldabad may be a small town in Aurangabad district, but it is worth including it in the list of must see places when you visit Aurangabad. The Bhadra Maruti temple here has made the place an important pilgrimage center. The view of this marble white painted temple from a distance is very inviting. The temple is crowded on Saturdays with long serpentine queues for darshan, as it is considered to be an auspicious day to worship Lord Maruti (also called Hanuman).
51 Km south of Aurangabad, the looms of Paithan still weave the beautiful Paithani saris that are prized by women. The town is also famous for the Dnyaneshwar Udyan, which is the largest garden in Maharashtra, and a museum which treasures a fascinating collection of art. The Jaikwadi Dam nearby is a bird watcher's delight. The garden is on the lines of Vrindavan Garden of Mysore with channels of flowing water, musical fountain, varied trees, plants, shrubs, and flowers. It is one of the best maintained garden. The lighting arrangement is also very charming. The entire garden creates the most picturesque and enchanting environment.
Grishneshwar is an ancient pilgrimage site revered as the abode of one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. It is located at a distance of 11 km from Daulatabad near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. Daulatabad was once known as Devagiri. Located nearby are the popular tourist attractions Ellora - featuring ancient rock cut monuments from the 1st millennium CE, and Ajanta known for its exquisite cave paintings again from the 1st millennium CE. The Grishneswar temple was constructed by Ahilyabhai Holkar who also re-constructed the Kashi Viswanatha temple at Benares and the Vishnu Paada temple at Gaya. Grishneshwar is also known as Ghushmeshwar.
Mhaismal, also spelt as Maheshmal, is a small hill station, situated at an altitude of 1067 m, in Aurangabad District of Maharashtra. It is about 12 km from Khuldabad on the way to Ellora caves.
One of the things that makes Aurangabad stand out from the several other medieval cities in India are its 52 'Gates' each of which have a local history or had individuals linked with them. Not many people are aware of the fact that Aurangabad is also known as the 'City of Gates'. There are the ten to tw elve gates which still stand with pride and have become the characteristic part of the old city.
Situated about 3 km. from the city is Bibi Ka Maqbara, the burial place of Aurangzeb's wife, Rabia-ud-Durrani. Maqbara was built by one of Aurangzeb’s son Azam Shah between 1651-1678 AD. It is an imitation of the Taj at Agra and due to its similar design. Here you will find a spacious and formally planned Mughal garden with axial ponds, fountains, water channels, broad pathways and pavilions. It is the only piece of Mughal architecture on the Deccan.
The 17th century water mill situated in old city. An intriguing water mill,surrounded by fish-filled tank. the Panchakki was used for grinding food grains for the community kitchen. It is also famous for its underground water channel, which traverses more than 8 km. to its source away in the mountains.
Situated at a distance of 5 km, nestled amidst the hills are 12 Buddhist caves probably dating back to 3 A.D. Caves are typically Buddhist in architectural form, with remarkably detailed sculptures. One is also treated to a panoramic view of the city as well as the imposing Maqbara from this point.
Situated near Subhedari Guest House on VIP Road, dedicated to the Great Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Museum has got 6 Exhibition Halls. The tourists and students get inspiration from the events depicted in pictorial and model forms. Wooden craft which reminds us the glorious past, sword shields and ancient rifles, photographs and transparencies of forts like Torana, Lohagarh, Panhalgarh, Singhgarh. One can see the advanced architectural beauty of the forts. Vessels used by the people contemporary to the great King Shivaji Maharaj. The separate space provided for the exhibition of coins. These coins are rare. The coins were used by Satwahan Dynasty. A 500 year old chain mail suit, a copy of the Quran handwritten by Aurangzeb and a 400 year old Paithani sari are some of the main exhibits in the museum.
Gautala sanctuary is nearby, spread in the hilly area i.e.
Sahyadri ranges. located at a distance of near about 70 km from
Aurangabad. The sanctuary spreads over 260 sq.kms. and is located
at a height of 700 feet. Spread in the hill ranges of Sahyadri , in
between Chalisgaon & Kannad, it is called Gautala-Autramghat
sanctuary, the diversified vegetation scattered intermittently
support rich faunal and floral diversity. Particularly it is good
for sloth bear habitat and excellent for resident and migratory
birds.
Wildlife population includes chinkara, sloth bears, bats, wild
boar, jungle cat, monkey, civet cat, barking deer, fox, jackal,
langur, leopard, nilgai and wolf. Cranes, spoonbills, storks, ibis,
pochards, peafowl, quail, partridges, and various species of waders
are some of the bird species found here.
Dense forested hill tracts also harbor important monuments. Patna
Devi, a significant ancient temple attributed to Parvati, wife of
Lord Shiva. Pitalkhora, the oldest rock-cut caves are also near
Gautala. Antur fort, another important monument , is also embraced
within the sanctuary’s environs.
Thirteen Rock-cut caves here, are the interesting, Pitalkhora lies in the Satamala range of the Sahyadri hills. are of great interest.. Many of the caves have crumbled and are badly damaged. But the surroundings are beautiful. Pitalkhora Caves, which dates back to 2nd century BC are only 40 km away from Ellora caves at Aurangabad. A group of viharas, a chaitya hall, and two smaller caves across the gorge with stupas consist the complex.
Siddharth Garden near Central Bus Stand. It is a beautiful landscaped garden, with good variety of trees and shrubs. There is a small aquarium inside the garden, however the biggest attraction is the Siddharth Garden Zoo, with a large variety of animals, viz. Lions, Tigers (White & Bengal), Leopards, Crocodiles, Snakes (Snake-house), Civet cats, Hyena, Fox, Porcupine, Emu, Deer and sprawling lawns to sit and have a great picnic.
A huge temple of Lord Shiva is located in Khadkeshwar area, which is in city. A pictorial view of temple attracts the traveler. Ample parking place is available.
A well known Ganesh temple in the city located in Samarthnagar, near Central Bus Stand & Siddharth Garden.
The Ajanta Caves 107 km away from the City to north. are 31
rock-cut cave monuments dating from the 2nd century BC. The caves
include paintings and sculptures, it took more then 800 years to
complete, they comprise Chaityas (shrines) dedicated to Lord Buddha
and Viharas (monasteries). The paintings & sculptures depict
incidents from the life of the Buddha and various Buddhist
divinities, with Jataka tales. Magnificent murals attract the
tourists.
Timings: 9 am to 5.30 pm (Monday Closed)
About 30 km away from Aurangabad. Ellora represents the
epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture. Caves are known for their
Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock cut temples and monasteries. The 34
"caves" – actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of
the Charanandri hills –, were built between the 5th century and
10th century. While all caves are beautifully embellished, the
masterpiece of Ellora is ‘Kailasa Temple’ i.e. cave 16,
multistoried temple complex, it is carved out of single rock from
top to bottom.
Timings : 9 am to 5.30 pm (Tuesday Closed)
Grishneshwar, a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the sacred abodes of great Lord Shiva. The temple is located near Ellora Caves, just half km from Caves. The present structure is an 18th century temple that presents outstanding architecture and carving
A hill station 25 km from Aurangabad, is another tourist spot. Mhaismal original called "Maheshmal". An ancient temple of Girijamata is in the village and an exact replica of Lord Balaji temple at Tirupat is located at the top of hill. It is a small but beautiful hill station situated on the way to Ellora caves. It can also be a trekking path for the youngsters from Khuldabad. Khuladabad: Its a holy town by all means for Hindu & Muslim both streams. Walled town lying at a distance of 3 km. from Ellora The last Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb was buried here. His simple tomb remains an eloquent testament to the staunch faith and spartan lifestyle of this pious Muslim ruler. For Hindu’s the city is known as Ratnapur, the Bhadra Hanuman Temple is situated in outskirts of town.Nearby a Bani Begum Garden is an elegant garden. The garden is a stands as a fine specimen of the architecture. The dargah of Zar Zari Zar Baksh, Shaikh Burhan ud-din Gharib Chisti & Shaikh Zain-ud-din Shirazi are also there.
It is a hill near on the way to Ellora Caves, near Khuldabad. This place is situated near Daulatabad fort and is accessible by road. Saint Eknath Maharaj carried his 'Tapyasya' at this very location travelling daily by foot from Daulatabad fort. 'Datta' have showered blessings on Eknath Maharaj on the exact location where the Datta Mandir is located. At Shuli Bhanjan one can enjoy a cool breeze all round the year and is rapidly developing as one of the picnic spots. Aurangabad Nasik highway can be seen from Shuli bhanjan. Nice Datta Mandir (Temple) is recently built. The temple has abundant space for caring rituals.On the way to Shuli Bhanjan, one comes across Pariyon Ka Talab (Lake of fairy tale princess). One can spend some time here before starting their climb on to the mountains.