Top 20 Must Visit Places in Dehradun

Dehradun, located in beautiful Doon Valley in foothills of the Himalaya, is the capital city of Uttarakhand, providing gateway to some well known travel stations of India, including Mussoorie, Nanital, Rishikesh and Haridwar. 

Popular among tourists and travelers for its pleasant climate, this city is bordered by two holy rivers of India - The Ganga and the Yamuna. 

During rainy days, this beautiful valley enjoys very heavy rains and during winters the climate becomes ice cold. During summers, the climate stays normal. 

Being a suitable destination to visit through out the year, this city has become a preferred destination for all kind of tourists like family, couples, foreigners, group travels, corporate holidays and travelers including solo travelers like me :) 

Being a part of the Princely Garhwal State the local customs of the Garhwali people have influenced the culture in the city. 

Read : 

Dehradun - City on its Pathway from Ancient to Modern

देहरादून - अतीत से वर्तमान की पगडंडी पर बसा एक शहर

Local beauty can be enjoyed anytime of the day. But in order to enjoy all the sight-seeing destinations in Dehradun, you must stay for 3-4 days. 

Being a mobile photographer, I prefer capturing my travels in my cellphone only. Unfortunately I lost my phone in my travel and with that, almost all the images. Some are here, which I was able to save, as had shared with friends. 

Here, I am listing the top 20 must visit places in Dehradun, that I visited myself, with some other local attractions which are optional. If you are planning your trip to Dehradun, then you must visit these places : 

1. Sahastradhara, Dehradun

Sahastra Dhara, the name means - Thousand Fold Spring; got its name due to the waterfalls it has along with the water dripping from limestone stalactites in the caves and its waterfalls.

Being, comprised of waterfalls, caves and steppe farming lands and Baldi River, it provides a totally marvelous and rejuvenating experience to tourists. 

Owing to the presence of sulphur in the water of this spring, it is believed to have medicinal value. 

With its medicinal properties and beautiful views, Sahastradhara enjoys plenty of attraction. 

Just 14 km from the city, it is the must visit places in Dehradun. 

2. Tiger Falls, Dehradun

Tiger Falls, situated amidst a picturesque setting of dense forests at the foothills of the Himalayas, this 50 meters high waterfalls is located 1400 meters above sea level. 

The pond created by fall, makes a wonderful picnic destination for outing with friends and family. 

3. Robber’s Cave, Dehradun

Robbers cave is a 600 meters long river cave, which is locally known as Gucchupani. According to the local story, during British Era, the robbers used to hide in these caves after loot, hence owing its present name - Robber's Cave. 

Divided into two main parts with its highest fall being 10 meters long, Robber's Cave is famous for its unique natural phenomenon known as the disappearing stream, which suddenly disappears from the sight and appears again after few metres.

Located at a distance of 8 km from Dehradun, it is a must visit destination in Dehradun. 

4. Tapovan

Tapovan, according to the Hindu epic Mahabharatha, is the place where Guru Dronacharya performed his penance. The place is located on the banks of the River Ganges and is considered to be a major pilgrim spot. It is also known for its amazing meadows known as Nandavan which are trekked by various pilgrims and trekkers.

5. Mindrolling Monastery

Founded in 1965, this re-established facility of the original Mindrolling Monastery and was established by Khochhen Rinpoche. It is located in Clement Town area of Dehradun and is locally known as Tibetan Monastry. 
Originally it was established in 1676, by Rigzin Tendak Lingpa. The name of the monastery, Mindroling in Tibetan language means Place of Perfect Emancipation.
The Monastery houses the Ngagyur Nyingma College which is one of the largest Buddhist learning centers in India. 
The well maintained gardens and a 60 meters high stupa and contains various rooms which are decorated with murals and house various relics and a 35 meters high statue of Lord Buddha in Gold.

The Great Stupa, inaugurated on 28th October 2002 is one of the major attractions here. Being 185 ft tall and 100 sq. ft in width, these dimensions make it the world's largest stupa.

6. Tapkeshawar Temple

Tapkeshawar Mahadev Temple, located at the banks of the Nandi River,  is considered to be the oldest Shiva temple in Uttarakhand. 
The Temple is located within a cave which is characterized by naturally dripping water over the Shiva lingam placed here. The dripping water is the reason behind the name of this temple. Water drops ( Tapak in Hindi ), naturally on Shivlainga.
According to old legend, lord Shiva made milk flow here for Ashwasthama, son of Guru Dronacharya. 
The cool sulphur springs located around the temple are believed to have therapeutic value. Hence, these springs are ideal points for tourists to take a dip while visiting the temple.
Every year, the shivratri festival is organized here, that attracts a lot of devotees.  

7. Sai Durbar Temple

Sai Durbar Temple, located at a distance of around 8 km from the Clock Tower, is situated on the Rajpur Road. Built with marble stones, the chief idol is established in the core of this temple. The interiors of this temple are adorned with several beautiful paintings, which are made using different colours.

8. Laxman Siddh Temple

Laxman Siddh Temple, located at a distance of 12 km from Dehradun, is known for its scenic beauty. This temple is the cremation site of the Saint-Swami Laxman Siddh, which is visited by large number of tourists every year.

According to a popular belief, it is said that the temple is constructed on the same place where Laxman underwent repentance for killing the demon king Ravana. Thousands of devotees visit this temple during the annual Laxman Siddh Fair, which is also a major attraction. Tourists visiting the temple can reach the here only on foot.

9. Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park, spread over a massive 820 sq kilometers of land, it falls in a region shared by 3 districts, Dehradun, Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal. The reserve consists of subtropical and tropical moist broadleaf forests that house a plethora of wildlife, birds and fish species. 
It is also a major habitat of the Asian elephant and the Bengal Tiger in India.

10. Forest Research Institute

The Forest Research Institute, established in 1906, as the British Imperial Forestry Service; is a premier research institute. 
Spread over an area of around 2000 acres, the institute contains a museum for forestry with six main sections that are Pathology Museum, Social Forestry Museum, Silviculture Museum, Timber Museum, Non-Wood Forest Products Museum and Entomology Museum.

The main attraction of this institute is the building itself, which has been constructed in Greco-Roman colonial style. 

In addition, the place also houses a Botanical Garden, which is a popular picnic spot among travellers. Besides, inside the estate, there is Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy that trains probationer officers of the Indian Forest Service.

11. Lacchiwalla : 

The verdant forests of Lachhiwala lies along the Haridwar-Rishikesh Road at a distance of just 17 km from Dehradun and 30 minutes drive from Haridwar. Being an important picnic spot, people come here along with family and friends to spend some quality time, away from the frenetic rat race of the city life. 

12. Mall Road, Dehradun 

Mall Road in Dehradun is one of the busiest shopping centres and is located in the heart of the city. It is a perfect place to talk a walk with your loved ones. 

Shopping at Mall Road can be a memorable experience for the whole family. It is a one stop place for shoppers and exhibits a wide range of products such as electronics items, ornaments, second hand books, handicrafts and readymade garments. 
Though the main attraction in this place are the woollens items like Tibetan carpets, blankets and Garwahli shawls, other products like wooden bangles, traditional jewellery, dry fruits and traditional embroidered garments are easily available. 

13. Clock Tower 

Clock Tower, located on the Rajpur road, is one of the most prominent attractions of the destination. Encircled by the commercial centre of the city, the Clock Tower is one of the most renowned landmarks of the city that was constructed before independence by the British. A beautiful tourist attraction, this tower has six faces.

At present, this clock tower is not functional but it is said that previously the chime of this clock was audible even far away from the commercial centre of the destination. Tourists visiting the Clock Tower can also head towards the important institutions, schools, hotels, shopping complex and tourist spots located in the vicinity.

14. Indian Military Academy

Indian Military Academy, located in Dehradun, became functional from 1st October 1932. It is situated at a distance of around 8 km from the main city, on Dehradun-Chakrata Road. Initially, it started with a batch of 40 Cadets. The first commandant of this academy was Brigadier L.P. Collins.

In order to establish Indian Military Academy, the government acquired the former Railway College of Dehradun. Popularly known as Chetwode Building, the academy was named after Field Marshal Sir Philip Chetwode. He was the Commander-in-Chief of India at the time of establishment of the Indian Military Academy. In addition, he was the one who inaugurated this academy.

15. Malsi Deer Park 

Malsi Deer Park, located at a distance of 10 km from Dehradun, is one of the major tourist attractions in the city. Situated on the foothills of the Shivalik mountain range, this park is a Zoological Garden.

Apart from Deers, tourists visiting the park can also spot beautiful peacocks. In addition, this reservoir is home to Nilgai, which is also known as Antelope. This place is an ideal picnic spot, where the park authorities have even installed several slides for children to play.

At present, there are several attractions located within this academy that attract travellers. Museum, War Memorial, Shooting Demonstration Room and 18-holes FRIMS Golf Course are some of the attractions located within the Indian Military Academy.

16. Paltan Bazaar

Looking for local stuff, Paltan Bazaar is here for your. It is the main local market in Dehra Dun, is permanently filled with the fragrances of Basmati rice and spices, for which it is well known.
These woollen garments are made by the local tribes. Among the woollen garments abundantly available in the bazaar are sweaters, cardigans and shawls woven by the Nepalese women. The market is also famous for woollen carpets.

Other attractions in the market are the products made of bamboo and cane. 
Local paintings, brass statues, gift items and ornaments are also available in the market. The Paltan Bazaar is the right place to buy some mementoes on your visit to Uttarakhand.

The other nearby markets in Dehra Dun are Rajpur Road, Ashley Hall area, Sahakari Bazaar, Mall Road and Connaught Place. Dehra Dun, which is famous for Doon schools, is easily accessible by all modes of transport. October to April is the best season to visit the place.

17. Sri Ram Rai Gurudwara 

Sri Ram Rai Gurudwara, constructed in early 17th century, established by Guru Sri Ram Rai Ji, the 7th Sikh Guru, is one of the oldest gurudwaras in this valley.
It is said that Guru Ram Rai was casted away for becoming a Sikh Guru and was forced to leave his native place. 

After being moved out from his home town, he settled in Dehradun, where he constructed this famous gurudwara. 

18. Chandrabani

Chandrabani is located at a distance of around 7 km from Dehradun. This temple is also the site of the popular Gautam Kund, where devotees take a dip in the holy water.

According to ancient mythology, it is believed that the place was the resident of Maharishi Gautam, his mate and Anjani, his daughter. In addition, it is also believed by many that Chandrabani is the spot where the daughter of heaven, Maa Ganga, manifested herself.

19. Asan Barrage Water Sport Resort

Developed by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam at the Asan barrage, the water sports facility was opened in 1994. Located at the Dhalipur Lake the Asan Barrage Water Sport Resort offers various types of water sports facilities like boating, kayaking, canoeing and is also known as a shutterbug’s delight for its various migratory birds.

20. Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology

Previously known as the Institute of Himalayan Geology, the facility is one of the best centers of Himalayan Geology in the country. The best attraction here is the museum that displays the diverse geographic locations of India and visitors often get to know a few stunning facts about the geology of different regions in India.

Other Places : Chetwoode Hall, Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill), Lakha Mandal Temple, Santala Devi Temple

How To Reach Dehradun

Want to know how to go to Dehradun? There are a lot of options for sightseeing in Dehradun. Hotels in Dehradun are also quite easy to find, the pre-booking facility is available for most hotels in this place and you should book in advance as it is a popular sightseeing spot. HolidayIQ provides you with a detailed guide about how to reach Dehradun.

By Bus: Dehradun trip by bus is scenic experience. You can choose to go for the Dehradun trip by bus by doing pre-bookings from any of the major travel websites. 

By Train: You can board a train to Dehradun from any part of the country. 
Book you tickets on a Dehradun train through IRCTC website. Get off at the Dehradun railway station from where other transport options are available.

Train No. 12017 - Dehradun Shtbdi

Train No. 12055 - Dehradun Janshtbdi

Train No. 13009 - Doon Express

Train No. 14041 - Mussoorie Express

Train No. 14113 - Sangam Express Slip

By Flight: You can reach Dehradun by flight as well. The Jolly Grand Terminal also known as the Dehradun airport is a domestic terminal located in the foothills of the Himalayas. There are a number of flights to Dehradun connecting major metro cities.

By Cab/Car: Dehradun is one of the most popular many hill stations in India. Most commonly travellers access Dehradun by road in order to experience the angelic beauty of the Himalayan Ranges. Travel to Dehradun by car through the hairpins and mountain roads.

Post By -
Alok Upadhayay 

Dehradun - City on its Pathway from Ancient to Modern

Dehradun, capital city of Uttarakhand capital and center of Garhwal, a city about which the famous Beatles Musical Band's member George Harrison's had written and sung a song in 1969, -

Dehradun Dehradun

Many roads can take you there, many different ways

One direction takes you years, another takes you days

Dehra Dehra Dun

Written in 1969, for the song, everyone can have their meaning and significance.

Well a lot has changed since then in Dehradun. 

There is much to see here, which is:

• Robber's Caves
• Sahasra Dhaara 
• Mindrolling Monestry
• Lacchiwala
• Sri Raam Rai Gurudwara 
• Tapovan
• Rajaji National Park 
• Tapkeshwar Temple 
• Kalanga Memorial
• Chandra Baani
• Lakshman Siddh 
• Forest Research Institute
• Santola Devi Temple
• Wadia Institute
• Malsi Deer Park

Read it here: Must Visit Places in Delhi 

देहरादून - अतीत से वर्तमान की पगडंडी पर बसा एक शहर

देहरादून, उत्तराखंड की राजधानी और गढ़वाल का केंद्र, एक ऐसा शहर जिसके  सुप्रसिद्ध म्यूजिकल बंद बीटल्स के सदस्य जॉर्ज हैरिसन ने 1969 में एक गीत लिखा था और उसे गाया भी था - 

Dehra Dehra Dun

Many roads can take you there, many different ways

One direction takes you years, another takes you days

Dehra Dehra Dun

1969 में लिखे गए इस गीत के लिए, सबके अपने अपने अर्थ और मायने  हो सकते हैं। 

ख़ैर तब से अब तक देहरादून में काफी कुछ बदल चुका है।  1900 में पहली बार यह शहर बाकी देश से रेल मार्ग के ज़रिये जुड़ा।  तब पहली बार हरिद्वार से देहरादून के लिए रेलगाड़ी चली थी।  फोन की घंटी को चहचहाने में अगले 1 साल और लगे, यानी 1901, जब यहाँ टेलीफोन सेवा प्रारम्भ हुई।  

शिवालिक श्रेणी और हिमालय से घिरी हुई इस ख़ूबसूरत दून घाटी के देहरादून नाम होने के पीछे भी एक कथा है। कहा जाता है कि श्री राम राय जी के पुत्र गुरु श्री हरराय जी जब इस  घाटी में आये तो उनके शिष्यों ने उनके लिए यहाँ कैंप (camp) लगाया था, जिसे डेरा भी कहा जाता है। 

वक़्त के साथ डेरा हुआ देहरा और फिर वक़्त ने ही इसमें दून शब्द भी जोड़ दिया और फिर इस घाटी का नाम पड़ा देहरादून।  

पहाड़ों की ढलानों पर मिलते हैं आप को ख़ूबसूरत गाँव। गाँव जिनमे आप को नज़र आएगी बहुसांस्कृतिक झलक। गाँव - शहर - मेट्रो-शहर के बीच वाले स्थानों पर बसे इस शहर की छटा में मिलती है आप को नेपाल, हिमाचल, तिब्बत और पंजाब की संस्कृति की झलक, बड़े तरतीब से एक दुसरे से सामंजस्य बिठाये।  

परंपरागत पोशाकों में मशहूर है ऊनी कम्बल (लाबा), जो अभी भी ऊपर के गांवों में पहना जाता है। स्त्रियां पूरे बांह की कमीज़ और जाकेट (अंगरा) के साथ साडी बड़ी खूबसूरती से पहनती हैं। साथ ही युवतियों में घाघरा का प्रचलन भी है।  

यहाँ देखने के लिए बहुत कुछ है, जो है :   

• रॉबर्स केव ( Robbers Caves )
• सहस्र धारा ( Sahasra Dhaara), 
• मोनेस्ट्री ( Mindrolling Monestry), 
• लच्छीवाला ( Lacchiwala), 
• श्री राम राय गुरुद्वारा ( Sri Raam Rai Gurudwara), 
• तपोवन (Tapovan), 
• राजाजी नेशनल पार्क ( Rajaji National Park ), 
• टपकेश्वर मंदिर ( Tapkeshwar Temple ), 
• कलंगा स्मारक ( Kalanga Memorial), 
• चंद्रबाणी (Chandra Baani), 
• लक्ष्मण सिद्ध (Lakshman Siddh), 
• वन अनुसंधान संस्थान ( Forest Research Institute),  
• संतोला देवी मंदिर (Santola Devi Temple ), 
• वाडिया संस्थान ( Wadia Institute), तथा 
• मालसी डियर पार्क (Malsi Deer Park)

 कुछ हम देख पाए, कुछ अगली बार के लिए रह गए।

Corridors of Forest Research Institute

प 

Sahastra Dhaara 

View from Maa Santala Devi Temple 

पर्यटन के अतिरिक्त, देहरादून अपने शैक्षणिक संस्थानों के लिए भी जाना जाता है, जिनमे मशहूर हैं, दून एजुकेशन और वेल्हम्स स्कूल जहाँ से पढ़ कर निकले लोगों का राजनीति से ले कर अकादमिक तथा बॉलीवुड तक में बोल बाला है।

2000 में उत्तराखंड के बनने के बाद निश्चय ही इस शहर में बहुत कुछ बदला, जिसे हम विकास का नाम दे सकते हैं। पर, 2011 में आये गढ़वाली गायक नरेन्द्र सिंह नेगी का लिखा एक गीत, जिसे मैंने अपने चंडीगढ़ के प्रवास के दौरान अपने रूममेट से सुना था, (बोल मुझे याद नहीं, अर्थ है ); 'मेरे को पहाड़ी पहाड़ी ना बोलो, मैं देहरादून वाला हूँ ', काफी कुछ कह जाता है।  

यहाँ के लोग खुद को पहाड़ी कहे जाने को ले कर बहुत संवेदनशील हैं। ये गाना उसी और संकेत करता है। ऐसा मेरे कई कॉलेज के मित्र जो गढ़वाल से हैं, उन्होंने ही बताया।  

देहरादून के विकसित होने का इतिहास सालों पुराना है, जिसका अपना ही महत्व है, परंतु इससे अधिक महत्व इस बात है कि, यह खूबसूरत घाटी सदियों पुराने  इतिहास को नहीं ढो रही है बल्कि यह एक आधुनिक शहर हो चुका है।  

यहां  की चका चौन्ध, संकल्पना, भौतिक विकास , यातायात, संचार की सुविधाएं इस बात को चीख चीख कर कहना चाहती हैं की यह हमारे ही विकास की कहानी  है।  

भले ही तथाकथित रूप में आधुनिक शहरों में शुमार होते हों, लेकिन मूल्य और परम्पराओं की जकड़न अभी भी हमें नए और पुराने के द्वन्द के बीच फंसाये हुए है।  

पहाड़ों को आर-पार जोड़ते यातायात, संचारक्रांति, इंफ्रास्ट्रक्चर के साथ साथ इस शहर की राजनितिक आबोहवा और सामाजिक तथा आर्थिक जीवन भी बहुत बदला है।  पिछले कुछ वर्षों में यहाँ मल्टीप्लेक्स, शॉपिंग मॉल्स, कैफ़े हाउस इत्यादि बहुतायत में खुले हैं पर अभी भी बड़े शहरों का रंग चढ़ने में वक़्त है।  

- आलोक कुमार उपाध्याय 

ग्वालियर : जिसकी रूह में बसता है संगीत

ग्वालियर के मशहूर शायर, निदा फ़ाज़ली लिखते है, "कभी किसी को मुकम्मल जहाँ नहीं मिलता।" परंतु ग्वालियर में 2 दिन गुज़ारने के बाद, इस  बात पर यकीं नहीं होता।  

सूर्य की पहली किरण से अंतिम किरण तक जो एक अनूठा अनुपम दृश्य आँखों  के सामने रहा है वो कभी अतीत के भूले बिसरे प्रसंगों की याद दिलाता है तो कभी आज के बहुमुखी स्वरुप की।  

शामें हमें हमेशा से ही पसंद रही हैं, परंतु यहां की शाम उन शामों में से है, जिनका  प्रारूप अपने अंतर्मन में लिए, उनका इंतज़ार किया है और उनकी तलाश की है।  

माँ के किस्सों के ज़रिये, ग्वालियर से हमारा बचपन जुड़ा हुआ है। माँ के बचपन के कुछ साल झाँसी और ग्वालियर में बीते थे और वो हमें यहां के किस्से सुनाती थीं बचपन में।  आज वो सब सजीव लग रहे थे। कुछ वर्ष पहले, यहाँ की एक कंपनी का नौकरी के लिए प्रस्ताव आया था, तब दिल्ली के चक्कर में हमने मना कर दिया और आज खुद पर गुस्सा आ रहा था कि, ये गलती क्यों की।  

ग्वालियर घराने का संगीत हो या तानसेन संगीत समारोह, सचिन के शतक का साक्षी कैप्टेन रूप सिंह स्टेडियम हो या ग्वालियर का प्राचीन किला, हिन्दी  या मराठी रंगमंच का सृजन हो या ग्वालियर का अंतरराष्ट्रीय व्यापार मेला , महाराज बाड़े का विशाल परिदृश्य हो या ग्वालियर की तंग संकरी गलियां, जलविलास पैलेस संग्रहालय हो या तानसेन की जन्म और साधना स्थली बेहात में उनकी राग रागिनियों से टेढ़ा पड़ा प्राचीन शिव मंदिर, यहाँ सब कुछ नूतन और पुरातन का अनूठा संगम है।  नए बनते शॉपिंग मॉल्स और कमर्शियल कॉम्पलेक्स के साथ आप यहाँ की मशहूर टोपी बाज़ार और दही मंडी का लुफ्त ले सकते है, जो आप को अनायास ही अतीत से जोड़ देंगे।  

कहते हैं, वर्तमान के पृष्ठों पर भविष्य की कथायें होती है अतीत के स्याही से लिखी।  

थोड़ा अतीत में जाएँ तो, हम पाते हैं कि,  ग्वालियर का अतीत स्वर्णिम रहा है।ये अनूठा शहर सिंधिया रियासत की राजधानी हुआ करता था और इसका नगर नियोजन ( city planning ) सामरिक दृष्टि (war point of view) से किया गया था।

मानसिंह तोमर और मृगनैनी की प्रेम कथाओं से रूपायित यहाँ के महल और ग्वालियर का जिब्राल्टर कहा जाने वाला यहाँ का विशाल किला जिसकी विशाल प्राचीर मौन साक्षी  हैं,यहाँ के अच्छे बुरे, हर घटना चक्र के। 

मशहूर जलविलास पैलेस का रूपांकन ( designing ) एक फ़्रांसिसी द्वारा किया गया था, गाइड ने बताया।  निसंदेह ये पैलेस, तत्कालीन विकास की अंतरराष्ट्रीय समग्रता का एक जीवंत उदाहरण है।  मैंने यूरोप को अभी तक सिर्फ तस्वीरों में या टीवी पर ही देखा है, पर अतिशयोक्ति ना होगी अगर मैं कहूँ कि, महाराज बाड़े और आस पास के क्षेत्र का नज़ारा मुझे काफी हद तक यूरोप की याद दिला रहा था। 

अन्य मशहूर पर्यटन स्थलों में यहां हैं, ऐतिहासिक दाताबंदीछोड़ साहिब गुरुद्वारा, मान मंदिर और गुज़री महल - जिसकी स्थापत्य कला की प्रसंशा किये बिना आप नहीं रह पाएंगे, प्राचीन भित्ति चित्र - जिनका रंग अत्यधिक मनमोहक है, मशहूर ग्वालियर का किला, सिंधिया स्कूल और अनेक प्राचीन भवन और इमारतें।   

मैं यहाँ सड़क मार्ग से आया, पर ट्रेन की सुविधा भी पर्याप्त उपलब्ध है।  पर हाँ, शहर घूमने के लिए, टेम्पो से बेहतर कुछ नहीं यहाँ।  कोई दो राय नहीं की होटल की टैक्सी सेवा ( सर्विस) या Ola Uber etc, आप को आराम से मिल सकता है यहां, पर ग्वालियर की रंगीनियों को आप कैब या टैक्सी से शायद उतना ना देख पायें, जितना लुफ्त उनका आप टेम्पो से सवारी करते हुए ले सकते है।  और हां, किराया काफी किफायती है और बॉडी मसाज फ्री फ्री फ्री।  पर है मजेदार।  

संगीत सम्राट तानसेन और बैजू बावरा की भूमि ग्वालियर की आत्मा में बसता है संगीत। यहाँ की फ़िज़ा में, हवा में, टोपी बाज़ार की चहल पहल से ले कर मॉल से निकलते युवाओं के फ़ैशन में, टेम्पो वाले की बेबाक़ी में, पत्थरों की कलाकारी में, जलसों से ले कर देर रात की खामोशी में, परिंदों की सुबह की करलव से ले शाम की उनकी उड़ान में ...... ऐसी कोई जगह और क्षण नहीं जिसमें आप को लय, सुर और ताल ना मिले। कहीं सुना था, ग्वालियर में बच्चे भी सुर में रोते हैं और पत्थर भी ताल में लुढ़कते हैं , आज कह सकता हूँ, हां ये सच है।  

ये खूबसूरत शहर अनायास ही आप का मन मोह ही लेता है।  

रात में मन्दारे की माता की पहाड़ी से शहर नज़ारा अद्भुत था।  यूँ लग रहा था मानो, आसमान के सितारे ज़मीं पर आ बिखरे हो और टिमटिमाते हुए, नादान बच्चों की तरह, अठखेलियां कर रहे हों। 

मंदार माता की पहाड़ी पर खड़े हो शहर को देखते हुए अनायास ही मेरे मुँह से निकल जाता है।  

"एक शहर, जहाँ नवीन और प्राचीन का परस्पर मेल हो रहा है, अनुपम, अद्भुत है ये नज़ारा। "  

 

- आलोक उपाध्याय 

Gwalior - City With Music in its Soul

Nida Fazali, the great poet of Gwalior had written, "कभी किसी को मुकम्मल जहाँ  नहीं मिलता,...( No one gets everything in the world completely), but after spending 2 days in this city I find my conscious is denying to accept it.  

From the very first moment of dawn till the last moment of dusk and the night ahead, the beauty, the vividness that I am seeing here, is spectacular. It reminds me of a lot of moments and things of some other timeline. 

Evenings, I have always loved them, for their novelty, beauty, and vividness but the evenings of Gwalior are spectacular. Its one of those evenings I had drawn in my stories and have searched for them and waited for them to be true. 

I have been here for the last two days, seeing the city, the forts, the sculptures and feeling like I should stay here for the rest of my life. Looking for a weekend getaway from Delhi NCR, Don't forget to come here. 

Read the details of my trip here.  

By-
Alok Kumar Upadhayay 

How to Get Cheapest Air Tickets for you Journey

Being a frequent traveler, I prefer the journeys by train when its less then 10-12 hours, but in long distances I prefer to travel by air to save the precious time. 

In last couple of years, I have been to various places and to some places multiple times. One day I realized that, the Air tickets to same cities have sometimes been very cost effective and some times I have paid higher than average price. The Question was WHY !!

The answer was hidden in the date stamps on the tickets. Now the question was, when and how to book my flights in most cost effective way. I started some research and analysis on the change in Air fares. The conclusion was, I had got best deals on all those bookings that had been made atleast 60-70 days in advance or earlier. 

Here, based on my travel experiences, I am sharing some tips on How to Get Cheapest Price on Your Flights...

Air Fare Pricing - How it works : 

Simple basic rule of economics, supply and demand, accompanied with need and surge pricing model. 

On average, you can buy your air tickets 11 months before. But its not like, you will be getting any early bird deal if you book 11 months before. 

There is a pattern in pricing, that is : Staring off with high prices, coming down slowly till few weeks before the date and steep increase in last 14 days. 

So, what happens when with Air fares when you book your flight: 

Before 11 - 7 months : 

These booking can be know as early birds bookings, however other than any special offers, there are no benefits in booking these tickets. Generally the prices are higher in these days. You can only expect to get the cheap air tickets if there is some promotional offer running. 

The only benefit of booking tickets in this duration is that, you can get full full choice of flight options and better seat selection.

Booking before 3 to 6 months 
Want to plan your journey with peaceful mind, get all thing done on time and without trouble. Then you must plan and book your air tickets in this duration. You can easily get more flight options, good seat selection options and comparatively cheaper deals than in  "early birds bookings" period. 

Booking between approximately 3 weeks - 3 months

This duration is the best time frame to get the cheapest deals ( other than offers). Just keep an eye on the fares during these 90 days, as they fluctuate alot. Also, you can find decent offers on air fares easily during these days. I call it, "relaxed zone"
The benefit of booking during these days is :
- You have your journey well planned and with minimal chances of cancellation.
- The fare are at best possible price with or without lucrative deals.

Booking before 14-20 days ( 2-3 weeks ) 

In cases of popular destinations, in this time frame, there are slim chances of getting a good deals on air fares. The flights get expensive, the choice of seats are less and you have all chances to get worried about making amendments in your travel plan. 

Between 0-13 days ( last 2 weeks ) 

You have all your rights to get frustrated while searching for air tickets at reasonable air fares. If you are booking your tickets within 7 days of departure, you need to pay more than what you have had paid during  "relaxed zone" time period. Also, you’ll probably have limited choices for flight times and seats.

Try Your Luck ( on the day of travel ) 
It has always been and interesting experience, while booking air travel tickets directly at air port on the day of travel and just before time of travel.
It has always been a luck here in terms of tickets availability and air fares .
Sometime, you can easily grab a ticket at 60-70% of normal price and some time you need to pay for your need of 11th hour.
If you are lucky, you may find the Aviation companies selling tickets on highly discounted prices just before the time of departure. This happens if the flight has significant number of seats vacant or the flight has been a longer route like ( I got it twice ) NY to Del to Mumbai.

Summary : 

Booking early gives a good deal, but booking very early like a year out will not get you a good deal. 

The best time to book a ticket is 30-60 days before the date of journey. 

You can try your luck, but in general, the lesser the time gap, the higher the price

Safar - The Journey to Shimla - Jakhu Temple in Images

Nestled on the Jakhoo Hill, the top most hill of Shimla, Jakhu temple of Lord Hanuman, is a beautiful temple situated in the lap of cedar trees, offering a lot to nature photographers. With beautiful desgin & architecture, filled with natural beauty, flowers, monkeys playing ( naughty though :P), the wonderfully maintained ancient temple attracts you like a magnet.
Here are some of the images that captured at Jakhoo Temple:
You can read the details about Jakhoo Temple, Shimla, by clicking here. 

 

- Alok Kumar Upadhayay
- Safar The Journey

Safar - The Journey To Shimla - Jakhu Temple of Lord Hanuman

“One place where you can enjoy holiness and divine blessings, peacefully surrounded by beautiful nature...., ”I will say this, if I had to explain the beauty of Jakhu ( Jakhoo) temple of lord Hanuman in Shimla. 

Nestled on the top most hill of Shimla, Jakhu temple of Lord Hanuman, is a beautiful temple situated in the lap of cedar trees. With beautiful desgin & architecture the temple attracts you like a magnet.

The Story of Jakhu Temple : 

It is said that, the hill is here even before the time of Lord Rama. 

On the way to bring Sanjivani Buti, Lord Hanuman had steped here to take momentary rest and bless Saint YAKSH ( यक्ष ). In the name of Saint YAKHS, the hill was named यक्ष , then which with passes of time, turned to Jakhoo. 

यक्ष  - यख - जख - जाखू  

( In some places of India, य is read as ज , thats how it transformed from यख to जख ) 

It is also said that, when lord Hanuman landed on the top, the impact was so strong that, half of the hill went into the Earth.  All the story in detail has been inscribed there on marble stone. 

With 108 feet tall statue of Lord Hanuman built with every details will leave you in awe. It is visible from almost everywhere in Shimla. The temple has aproxx 75 stairs, with Hanuman Chalisa written on it. 

How to reach : 

Situated on the highest peak of Jakhoo Hill, it is connected to The Ridge, via beautiful steep path and can be reached by walking or by car. If you are new to driving, you need to be extremely careful at sharp curves and narrow roads. You can also hire a cab costing somewhere between Rs.250 to Rs.300. Once up there,you will be welcomed by scores of monkeys.... alot of monkeys.

Beware of Monkeys : 

The moment you will step out of car, you will feel as if you have entered into The Monkey Kingdom. Monkeys and monkeys and monkeys everywhere, so naughty that can snatch anything from you including your wallet, purse, goggles and even specs. 

If you are not careful with monkeys, the experience can be a little bitter. 

TIP : Do carry some eatables ( hidden ) for scenarios if monkeys snatch something. Offer it as exchange, not always but works most of the time. 

However, Jakhu temple gives a beautiful view of the valley. This well maintained, clean, colorful, full of beautiful flowers, amazing and ancient temple is a must visit if you are visiting Shimla. 

- Alok Kumar Upadhayay

- Safar - The Journey