India State

ABOUT INDIAN STATES 

India comprises of 28 states and seven union territories. There are several changes have occurred in the state boundaries since 1947, which provides the present shapes and contours of the Indian states. Goa with an area of 3702 sq. km is the smallest State in India. Rajasthan with an area of 342,239 sq km is the largest state in India. In November 2000, India gained three new states - Chattisgarh was carved out of Madhya Pradesh , Uttaranchal out of Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand out of Bihar.Here is a List Of States and we provide about the Culture of Indian States, Economy, Education, Tourism Places, Festival Of the States and more.

No	Indian States	Capital	Population	Area(sq. km)
1	Andhra Pradesh	Hyderabad	76,210,007	2,75,069
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Itanagar	1,097,968	83,743
3	Assam	Dispur	26,638,407	78,438
4	Bihar	Patna	82,878,796	94,163
5	Chhattisgarh	Raipur	20,795,956	1,36,034
6	Goa	Panaji	1,400,000	3,702
7	Gujarat	Gandhinagar	50,671,017	1,96,024
8	Haryana	Chandigarh	21,082,989	44,212
9	Himachal Pradesh	Shimla	6,077,900	55,673
10	Jammu and Kashmir	Srinagar	10,143,700	222,236
11	Jharkhand	Ranchi	26,909,428	74,677
12	Karnataka	Bangalore	52,850,562	191,976
13	Kerala	Thiruvananthapuram	31,841,374	38,863
14	Madhya Pradesh	Bhopal	60,385,118	3,08,000
15	Maharashtra	Mumbai	96,752,247	3,07,713
16	Manipur	Imphal	2,293,896	22,327
17	Meghalaya	Shillong	2,306,069	22,720
18	Mizoram	Aizawl	888,573	21,081
19	Nagaland	Kohima	1,988,636	16,579
20	Orissa	Bhubaneswar	36,706,920	155,820
21	Punjab	Chandigarh	24,358,999	50,362
22	Rajasthan	Jaipur	56,473,122	3,42,239
23	Sikkim	Gangtok	540,493	7,096
24	Tamil Nadu	Chennai	62,405,679	1,30,058
25	Tripura	Agartala	3,199,203	10,491.69
26	Uttaranchal	Dehradun	8,489,349	53,484
27	Uttar Pradesh	Lucknow	166,052,859	2,40,928
28	West Bengal	Kolkata	80,176,197	88,752

ABOUT ANDRA PRADESH

Sanskrit writings from the 7th century BC describe the Andhra people as Aryans from the north who migrated south of the Vindhya Range and mixed with Dravidians. They are mentioned again at the time of the death of the great Mauryan King Ashoka, in 232 BC. This date has been held to be the beginning of the Andhra historical record. Various dynasties have ruled the area, including the Andhra (or Satavahana), Reddys, Shakas, Ikshvakas, Eastern Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagar, the Qutb Shahis, and the Nizams (princes) of Hyderabad.
During the 17th century, the British acquired the Coastal Andhra region along the Bay of Bengal, then known as the Northern Circars, from the Nizams, which became part of the British Madras Presidency. The Nizams retained control of the interior provinces as the princely state of Hyderabad, acknowledging British rule in return for local autonomy.
The Andhra (or Telugu) were at the forefront of Indian nationalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Notable leaders include 'Andhra Kesari' (Andhra's Lion) Tanguturi Prakasam, 'Andhra Ratna' (Andhra's jewel) Duggirala Gopalakrishnayya and Dr.Bhogaraju Pattabhi Sitaramayya, the founder of Andhra Bank.
India became independent from the United Kingdom in 1947. The Muslim Nizam of Hyderabad wanted to retain his independence from India, but his state was forcibly integrated into India in 1948 as Hyderabad state.
Demands for a separate state for Telugu speakers culminated by a 58-day fast-unto-death by Potti Sreeramulu (He was venerated as Amarajeevi - the eternally alive one after his death) led to the formation of Andhra State on October 1, 1953 from the 11 northern districts of Madras state. Kurnool was the first capital of the Andhra state with the high court established at Guntur. Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu was the first chief minister of this state. Andhra Pradesh became the first linguistically-based state in India, which paved the way for the establishment of other linguistic states. On November 1, 1956, in accordance with the recommendations of the State Reorganization Commission Hyderabad state was partitioned along linguistic lines, and nine districts, including the city of Hyderabad, were added to Andhra Pradesh. Hyderabad became the new capital of the state.
Andhra Pradesh had a row of Congress governments till 1982. Kasu Bramhananda Reddy held the record for the longest serving chief minister which was broken by Nara Chandrababu Naidu. P.V. Narasimha Rao also served as the chief minister for the state, who later went on to become the Prime Minister of India. Among the notable chief ministers of the state are Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy, Kasu Bramhananda Reddy, Dr.Marri Chenna Reddy , Kotla Vijaya Bhasker Reddy , N T Rama Rao and Nara Chandrababu Naidu.

The beginning of Multi-Party Politics: 1982 saw the rise of NT Rama Rao (or NTR) as the chief minister of the state for the first time introducing a formidable second political party to Andhra politics and thus breaking the virtually-single party monopoly on Andhra politics. Nadendla Bhaskar Rao attempted a hijack when NTR was away to the United States for a medical treatment. After coming back, NTR successfully convinced the governor to dissolve the Assembly and call for a fresh election. NTR won by a large majority. His government's policies included investment in education and rural development and in holding corrupt government offices accountable.
The next assembly elections ended the 7-year rule of NTR with the congress being returned to power and Dr.Marri Chenna Reddy at the helm. He was replaced by N. Janardhan Reddy who was in turn replaced by Kotla Vijaya Bhasker Reddy.
The next Assembly saw NTR becoming the chief minister again, but he was soon thrown out of power by his finance minister and son-in-law N. Chandrababu Naidu. Naidu won a second term before he was defeated by the Congress-led coalition in the May 2004 polls.
Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy of the Indian National Congress (INC) is the current chief minister of the states. Rajasekhara Reddy fought the 2004 Assembly elections in an alliance with a new party called Telangana Rashtra Samithi (or TRS), which hopes to form a separate state called Telangana.

Politics

Andhra Pradesh has a Legislative Assembly of 294 seats. The state has 60 members in the Indian national parliament: 18 in the Rajya Sabha (upper house) and 42 in the Lok Sabha (lower house).

Famous Persons

Politics

·  Alluri Sitaramaraju (1897-1923), led Rampa Rebellion against British occupation

·  P.V. Narasimha Rao, former Prime Minister of India

·  Neelam Sanjiva Reddy Former President of India

Sports

·  Mohammed Azharuddin - Cricket (Captian of Indian Cricket Teame in 90's)

·  V. V. S. Laxman - Cricket

·  Sania Mirza - Tennis

·  P.Gopichand - Badminton

·  Karnam Malleswari - Weightlifting

·  P.Harikrishna - Chess

·  Koneru Humpy - Chess

About andra pradesh culture

Telugu is the state's official language. It is known for its mellifluous nature and has also been called 'Italian of the East'. A Muslim, Urdu-speaking minority lives mostly in Hyderabad. Among the many tribal languages, Banjara, Koyi, and Gondi have the greatest number of speakers.
The state has a rich cultural heritage. The great composers of carnatic music Annamacharya, Tyagaraja and many others chose Telugu as their language of composition, thus enriching the language.
Nannayya, Tikkana, and Yerrapragada form the trinity who translated the great epic Mahabharatha into Telugu. Modern writers include Sri Sri, Jnanpith Award winners Sri Viswanatha Satyanarayana and Dr. C. Narayana Reddy.
Kuchipudi is the state's classical dance form.
Bapu's paintings, Nanduri Subbarao's Yenki Paatalu (Songs on/by a washerwoman called Yenki), mischievous Budugu (a character by Mullapudi), Annamayya's songs, Aavakaaya (a variant of mango pickle in which the kernel of mango is retained), Atla taddi (a seasonal festival predominantly for teenage girls), banks of river Godavari, Dudu basavanna (The ceremonial ox decorated for door-to-door exhibition during the harvest festival Sankranti) have long defined Telugu culture.
Andhras have shown a strong cultural interest in film for the past 40 years. The state produces about 200 films per year. The state has seen some notable artists in the form of Chittor Nagayya, NT Rama Rao (former chief minister), Akkineni Nageswara Rao (a.k.a. "ANR", Dadasaheb phalke winner), S.V.Ranga Rao, Ghantasala, Dr. K. Viswanath, S P Balasubrahmanyam, Savithri, Jamuna, Sarada, Sowcar Janaki, Suryakantham, Jaggayya, Krishna, Jayasudha and Jayaprada. Yet, while Telugu film is a very talented and profitable industry, it has yet to gain notice in the rest of India.
Andhra Pradesh has several museums, including the Salar Jung Museum, which features a varied collection of sculptures, paintings, and religious artifacts, and the Archaeological Museum, which features Buddhist and Hindu sculptures and other antiques; both museums are located in Hyderabad.
Festivals
Sankranthi in January.
Ugadi or the Telugu New Year in March/April.
Vinayaka Chavithi in August.
Dasara in October.
Deepavali in November.
Bonalu in Sravanam.

About andra pradesh Economy

Agriculture has been the chief source of income for the state's economy. Two important rivers of India, the Godavari and Krishna, flow through the state. Rice, tobacco, cotton, mirchi, and sugarcane are the local crops. The state has also started to focus on the fields of information technology and biotechnology.

Hyderabad, the capital of Andhra Pradesh, is the fifth largest cosmopolitan city in India, rich in culture, enduring history and industrial growth. It is unique in being one of the few cities where tradition and technology co-exist. With a dynamic leadership, the state is steering the nation to new dimensions in the fields of Information Technology, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, Business Management, Construction, etc., to emerge as a land of immense business opportunities.

Tourism In Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh is the home of many religious pilgrim centers. Tirupati, the abode of Lord Venkateswara, has the richest and most visited Hindu temple in India. Srisailam, the abode of Sri Mallikarjuna, is one of the twelve Jyothirlingams in India and Yadagirigutta, the abode of an avatara of Vishnu, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha. Puttaparthi hosts the ashram of popular guru Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The Ramappa temple at Warangal is famous for some fine temple carvings. The state has numerous Buddhist centers at Amaravati, Bhattiprolu, Nagarjuna Konda, and Phanigiri.The one-million-year old limestone caves at Borra, picturesque Araku Valley, hill resorts of Horsley Hills, Godavari racing through a narrow gorge at Papi Kondalu, waterfalls and rich bio-diversity at Talakona, the beaches of Vizag are some of the natural attractions of the state.

Charminar, Golconda Fort, Chandragiri Fort, and Falaknuma Palace are some of the monuments in the state.

About andra pradesh education

1. Andhra Pradesh is also the home of many colleges and universities, including
2. Indian School of Business, Hyderabad
3. Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Technology in Hyderabad
4. National Institute of Technology, Warangal
5. Andhra University in Visakhapatnam(Vizag
6. University of Hyderabad in Hyderabad
7. Osmania University in Hyderabad
8. Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University in Hyderabad
9. Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in Hyderabad
10. CVR College Of Engineering And Technology In Ibrahimpatnam
11. IIIT in Hyderabad
12. Acharya Nagarjuna University in Guntur
13. NTR UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES in Vijayawada
14. Sri Venkateswara University in Tirupati
15. Kakatiya University in Warangal
16. Dr.B R Ambedkar Open University in Hyderabad

Sri Krishnadevaraya University in Anantapur

Districts Of Andhra Pradesh

Adilabad, Anantapur, Chittoor, Cuddapah, East Godavari, Guntur, Hyderabad, Karimnagar,

Khammam,Krishna,Kurnool, Mahbubnagar, Medak, Nalgonda, Nellore, Nizamabad, Prakasam
Rangareddy, Srikakulam, Visakhapatnam, Vizayanagaram, Warangal, West Godavari,

Andra pradesh festivals 

1. Festivals
2. Sankranthi in January
3. Ugadi or the Telugu New Year in March/April.
4. Vinayaka Chavithi in August.
5. Dasara in October.
6. Deepavali in November.
7. Bonalu in Sravanam.
8. Cuisine

Andhra food is very spicy and there is extensive use of green and red chillies in every dish. A typical meal in a well to do andhra home would have

1. Rice and Ghee
2. Appadam or Vadiyalu
3. Dry vegetable curry
4. Gravy vegetable curry
5. One pickle freshly made from vegetables and green chilli.
6. One preserved pickle
7. Pappu Charu or Rasam
8. Curd or Buttermilk

Andhra is famous for its Pickles, especailly Gongura and Aavakaaya. Preserved pickles are made from a variety of vegetables like brinjal, tomato, bitter gourd, Ginger and lemon. Other specailities include

1. Ulava Charu
2. Hyderabadi Biryani
3. Mudda Pappu

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ARUNACHAL PRADESH

ARUNACHAL PRADESH HISTORY

Tribal groups migrated from Tibet during the pre-historic period is considered as the first inhabits of this region. Thai-Burmese tribal groups joined them later.

Except for the northwestern parts of the state, little is known about the history of Arunachal Pradesh, although the Apatani tribe had legendary knowledge of the history. Recorded history was only available in the Ahom chronicles during the 16th century. Tribal groups namely Monpa and Sherdukpen are keeping historical records of existence of local chiefdoms in the northwest. Northwestern parts of this area were ruled by kings of Monpa kingdom of Monyul between 500 B.C. and 600 A.D. This region then came under the loose control of Tibet, especially in the Northern areas. Ahom and the Assamese controlled the remaining parts of the state until the annexation of India by the British in 1858.

Recent excavations at Siang hills in West Siang shed new light on the ancient history of Arunachal Pradesh. Paintings of the Hindu gods and altars remained untouched for many years. A notable heritage sites like, Bhismaknagar and Tawang monastery in the Tawang district gives proof to existence of Hindu and Budhist tribal peoples.

British administrator, Sir Henry McMahon, drew up the 550-mile McMahon Line as the border between India and China in 1913-14 during a conference in Shimla which also discussed the Tibetan and Chinese borders. The Simla Agreement was signed only by the Tibetans and British. China did'nt signed the agreement and they rejected the line in 1947.

Arunachal Pradesh State is formed in 1987 after taking into security consideration in the east and Sino-Indian tensions but was not recognized by China.

Politics

Arunachal Pradesh is dominated by the Arunachal Congress, which is headed by Gegong Apang. Other opposition parties include the Arunachal Congress (Mithi), Congress (Dolo) and the Peoples Party of Arunachal. 

ECONOMY OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH 

 Agriculture is the primary source of the economy of the State. They cultivate rice, maize, millet, wheat, pulses, sugarcane, ginger and oilseeds. Forest-products are the secondary source in the sector of the economy. Arunachal is also ideal for horticulture and fruit orchards.

                States major industries are sawmills and plywood (both of them are illegal in the state). Rice mills, fruit preservation units and handloom handicrafts contributes their share to the economy of the state.

CLIMATE OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Arunachal Pradesh is a state of having regions with different levels of elevation namely Upper Himalayas, Middle Himalayas, Sub Himalayas and Sea-level region in respect of their level of elevation. The Climate of each region depends on its elevation. Areas with very high elevation get a cold climate. Middle Himalayas gets a temperate climate, where fruits like apples, oranges are grown. Areas at the sub-Himalayan and sea-level elevation experience a typical sub-continental climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

The state receives heavy rainfall of 2,000 to 4,000 mm annually, most of it falling between May and September.

DEMOGRAPHICS OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Among the total population of the state about 65% are tribal notably Adi, Nishi and Monpa with Tibetan or of Thai-Burmese origin, who had a heritage of a diverse and rich culture, language and beliefs and the remaining 35% of people are immigrants, including immigrants from the neighboring states of India and BangladeshThe literacy of the State rose to 54.74% from 41.59% in 1991.About 50% of state population follow the Donyi-Polo religion. 42% follow Hinduism and Buddhism and the remainder follows Christianity and Islam

 GEOGRAPHY OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Much of Arunachal Pradesh is covered by the Himalayas except parts of Lohit, Changlang and Tirap, which are covered by the Patkai.

Districts

Arunachal Pradesh is divided into fifteen districts, each administered by a district collector who is appointed by the State Government. The Indian army has considerable control along the Tibetan border over the territory due to the concern about Chinese intentions. You can enter the northern areas and areas near the Indo-Burmese border and Nagaland only with special permits, where Naga-Christian militant groups have been alleged of harassing the local people.

Districts of Arunachal Pradesh:

1. Changlang
2. East Kameng
3. East Siang
4. Lohit
5. Lower Dibang Valley
6. Lower Subansiri
7. Papumpare
8. Tawang
9. Tirap
10. Upper Dibang Valley
11. Upper Subansiri
12. Upper Siang
13. West Kameng
14. West Siang 

Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh

Right at the top of north-eastern India is the state of Arunachal Pradesh whish is also called the `Land of the Dawn-lit- Mountains.The state is bordered with China with which it shares a long border all the way from the east to over the northern boundaries and down to its north- western edge where it merges with Tibet. To its west is Bhutan and on its southern end it touches Assam, Nagaland and Burma before sweeping up to Calcutta. , Arunachal, the land of the rising sun, is the remotest and one of the loveliest regions, yet most scantily populated states in the entire North East. All this has added to the allure of this mysterious land.
Close to 80 per cent of the state is under a dense blanket of forest cover, which varies from the sub-tropical to the alpine in the upper regions of the northwest. This vast canopy of rain forest and the remoteness of the land has helped preserve its bio diversity and earthly splendour. In short Arunachal Pradesh can be considered paradise for nature lovers and people for people interested in diverse ethnicity, culture and Buddhism.
Hill Stations Tour: The lush green valleys and the snow capped mountains make Aruncahal Pradesh a perfect option to spend the best vacation of your life. Ziro, Pasighat and Along are some of the most popular visited hill stations of this state.
Wildlife Tour: The state has a blend of incredible fauna and flora. The state of Arunachal Pradesh has its share of national sanctuaries and wild life parks. The breathtaking view of the Brahmaputra river is an added attraction. Itanagar wildlife sanctuary, Pakhui wildlife sanctuary, Eagle nest wildlife sanctuary, Namdapha national park, Sessa Orchid sanctuary and Mouling national park are some of the most popular parks in the state.
Popular spots in Arunachal Pradesh
Itanagar: It is the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. The capital has many interesting places to visit. There are some prime attractions like Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, The Buddhist Temple, Ganga Lake (Gyaker Sinyi), The State Museum and Polo Park which has attracted thousands of tourists over the years.
Ita Fort and Gekar Sinyi (Ganga lake)- Ruins of Ita Fort can be seen near Itanagar. Ganga Lake situated in the foothills of the Himalayas is a unique sight of the capital, Itanagar. The lake locally known as Gekar Sinyi
Alon: this place has a very famous temple called Malinithan temple which also has historical significance. The Legendary Akashi Ganga, a point from which one gets an unusual over view of the Brahmaputra and its tributaries.
Tawang: Home to the Monpa tribe and an important centre for the Mahayana Buddhists sect. The city is famous for the oldest Buddhist monastery or Gompa locally called as the 'Galden Namgyal Lhatse' overlooking the vale of Tawang. Tourists can also undertake a nice trekking expedition when they choose to visit this place.
Tipi- It is often considered Asia's largest Orchidarium, the Orchid Research Centre is located here in the West Kameng district. The Orchid center on he bank of river Bharali, surrounded by evergreen forest has more than 500 species of orchids.
Ziro/ Zero: This spot is surrounded by snow peaked mountains from all sides. The modest rivers Subansiri, Nishi, Apatani, Dafla, and Miri add up to the charm of the place.
Some of the famous monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh are the Tawang Monastery, Bomdila Monastery and the Urgelling Monastery
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HISTORY OF ASSAM

Ancient Assam

Before the arrival of Mongolians from north of the Himalayas, the entire area was a part of ancient India. The region that comprises Assam and the adjoining areas was called Prakjyotisha in ancient times, as mentioned in the Indian epic of Mahabharata. The land was populated by kiratas and chinas. Prakjyotisha Pura was the capital of ancient Kamarupa, according to Purana.

Medieval Assam

Medieval Assam was known as Kamarupa or Kamata, and was ruled by many dynasties. Chief among them was the Varman Dynasty. During the rule of the greatest of the Varman kings, Bhaskarvarman, a contemporary of Harshavardhana of Kanauj, the Chinese traveler Xuanzang visited the region, and recorded his travels. The other dynasties that ruled the region were the Kacharis, the Chutias etc. that belonged to the Indo-Tibetan groups.
Two later kingdoms left the biggest impact in the region. The Ahoms, a Tai group, ruled eastern Assam for 600 years; and the Koch, a Tibeto-Burmese/Dravidian group that ruled western Assam and northern Bengal. The Koch kingdom later split into two. The western kingdom became a vassal of the Moghuls whereas the eastern kingdom became an Ahom satellite state.
In spite of numerous invasions from the west, mostly by Muslim rulers, no western power could establish its rule in Assam until the advent of the British. The most successful invader was Mir Jhumla, a governor of Aurangzeb, who briefly occupied Gargaon the then capital of the Ahoms (1662-1663). He found it difficult to control the people, who carried on guerilla attacks on his forces and forced his army to leave the region. The last attempt by the Moghuls under the command of Raja Ram Singh resulted in the victory for the Ahoms at Saraighat (1671) under the Ahom general Lachit Borphukan.

British conquest
Ahom palace intrigue (and political turmoil resulting from the Moamoria rebellion) aided the expansionist Burmese ruler of Ava to invade Assam and install a puppet king in 1821. With the Burmese having reached the doorsteps of the East India Company's borders, the First Anglo-Burmese War ensued, in which Assam was one of the sectors. The war ended with the Treaty of Yandaboo in 1826, and the East India Company took control of the region.

Under British Administration, Assam was made a part of the British India province called the Bengal Presidency. Sometime about 1905-1912, Assam was separated and erected as a separate province of Assam.At the time of independence of India, it consisted of the original Ahom kingdom, the present-day Arunachal Pradesh (North East Frontier Agency), Naga Hills, original Kachari kingdom, Lushai Hills, and Garo, Khasi and Jaintia Hills. Of the Assam province on the eve of Independence, Sylhet choose to join Pakistan in a referendum; and the two princely states Manipur and Tripura became Group C

Post independence

After the independence from British rule in 1947, Assam spawned four more states to become one of the seven sister states in the 1960s and 1970s. The new states were Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram and Meghalaya. The capital of Assam, which was in Shillong, had to be moved to Dispur, now a part of an expanding Guwahati.
When the leaders of Assam tried to establish Assamese as the official language, the Cachar district, which is populated by a predominantly dominant Bengali speaking people, Wanted the right to study Bengali in school, college and other religious institutions. Because not only Assamese is a comparatively new language with doubtful literary works but also as analysts feel it does not have anything substantial to offer to readers and students in any way. But the establishment tries to overlook the local resaoning and military fired hundred of rounds of bullets to inncoecnt people who assembled near the railway station for a peaceful meeting. More than 11 persons lost their life and women consisted a significant number. Miss. Kamala Bhattacharjee was the first to embrace the bullet. Barak Valeey and Bengalis all over the world still rememeber those innocents who lost their lives for their language.
In the 1980s the Brahmaputra valley saw a six-year Assam Agitation that began non-violently but became increasingly violent. The movement tried to force the government to identify and deport foreigners who, the natives maintained, are illegally inundating the land from neighboring Bangladesh and changing the demographics. Critics called it a xenophobic reaction of a racist people. The agitation ended after an accord between the leaders of the agitation and the Union Government. Most of the accord remains unimplemented today, a cause for a simmering discontent.
This was followed by demands for greater autonomy especially by the Bodos in the later 1980s and 1990s. The period also saw the growth of armed secessionist groups like United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB). The union government responded by deploying the Indian army to control the situation in November 1990, leading to claims of human rights violations. The Indian army deployment has now been institutionalized under a Unified Command. Worsening inter-ethnic relationships also marked this period.
The 2000s saw inter-ethnic killings, especially in the Karbi and Cachar hills (e.g the Hmar-Dimasa conflict).

Culture of Assam

Assam is a one of the most beautiful states in the country. Its green ecology and cold climate make it an ideal tourist attraction and much needed time destination for tourists where they can just lie back and revel in the beauty of nature. Assam is a multiethnic society with different cultures. Around forty five different languages are spoken by different communities in Assam. It has rich folk music and traditions that gives it a unique and distinctive flavour. Today, the people in Assam identified broadly as Non-Tribals or Plains People. The people of the plains generally live in the plains part of the state and the Tribals live I the live in the hills mostly. Among the tribal groups; major among them are the Boro-Kacharis, the Deori, the Misings, the Dimassas, the Karbis, the Lalungs, the Rabhas etc.
People of Assam have a reputation for being very warm and friendly. They celebrate some of the many common festivals celebrated throughoutt India and they have many of their own. An example is the Bihu festival which is celebrated all over the state irrespective of religion caste or creed. It is an agricultural festival. Music is an important aspect of Assamese culture. Dhaol, Marcus, Taal, Pepa , Gogona are some of the various instruments used during the performance. Dance, music, woodwork, pottery, sitalpati or the art of mat making have survived through centuries and is very important part of the culture and lifestyle of Assam.
                    The state of Assam is the gateway to the north eastern part of the country. This land of earthly beauty has fopund reference even in the great Hindu epic Mahabharata as "Pragiyotisha" and "Kamarupa" in the first millennium. Assam gets its name from the Ahom kingdom, which flourished from 1228 to 1826. It became a British province after 1838 and the Indian state after 1947 which came to be known as Assam. It is bordered by Bhutan and Arunachal in the north, Nagaland and Manipur in the east; Bangladesh , Meghalaya , Tripura and Mizoram in the south and India in the west. Assam has a geographical area of 78,529 square kilometers and total population of around 25 millions. Assam bears a testimony of rich cultural heritage through its temples, monuments, and the Brahmaputra River which known to have a majestic presence in the state.

The state of Assam has drawn tourists fro all over the world with its rich diversity of flora and fauna. The climate is one of the key factors that has led to the evolution of Assam to the of green state. It has mild winters and warm summers. Assam also some very interesting species of wildlife like the one horned rhinoceros and other species of animals which are in the danger of extinction.
One of the major draws in the state is the wildlife tours and the Kaziranga Park is always a big hit with the visitors. Some of the other famous parks include 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), Pani Dihing Wildlife Sanctuary and Barandi Game Reserve.
Tourist Spots in Assam
Guwahati
Guwahati is one of Assam's most urban areas. Falling in the category of the biggest city in North-East India, it is one of the major city in India. The traveler's delights are Umananda temple, Kamakhya Temple, Assam Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Assam State Museum.
Tawang: The city is pleasant and nestles a huge monastery - the Tawang Monastery. No Assam tour is complete without a visit to this great monastery.
Majuli
It constitutes one of the largest freshwater island in South Asia on the Brahmaputra River thus assigning immaculate beauty to the state of Assam.
Silchar: Flowing to the extreme east of this city is the river Barak. The unmatched view of sunrise in the exotic natural environs is marvelous. Bhuban hill,Sri Sri Kancha Kanti Devi Temple, Khaspur, Maniharan Tunnel and temple of Goddess Lakshmi Devi are must see for Assam travelers.
Jatinga This is the best place where you can unearth the mystery of the bird suicides. It is strange but useful from research point of view.
Tezpur Tezpur is one of the small towns steeped in history and culture. There is no dearth of places it offers including Usha Pahar, Agnigarh, Mahabhairav Temple, etc.
Sibsagar Sibsagar constitutes the seat of the Ahom kingdom. You can always go on for Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, Sivadol, and other places.
Hajo Falling in the category of small towns, A confluence of three religion, Hajo is located on the northern bank of Brahmaputra . It is a revered centre of pilgrimage for Hindus and Muslims alike it has many temples the most famous being Hayagriva-Madhab Temple. Poa Mecca is a revered pilgrimage for Muslims.
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park If you wish to unearth beauty, it is in bounty in Dibru Saikhowa National Park, which is situated in Tinsukia district.
Dibrugarh This place is one of the magnificent business hubs in upper Assam. This place is well known to serve as a gateway to Nagaland. Full of temples, ruins of palaces, etc, it is one of the major attractions considering Assam travel.

GEOGRAPHY OF ASSAM

T-shaped, the state consists of the northern Brahmaputra valley, the middle Karbi and Cachar hills and the southern Barak Valley. It experiences heavy rainfall between March and September, with very high humidity in the summer months. The temperatures are generally mild, never extreme during any season.
Assam is very rich in vegetation, forests and wildlife. Lumber was once a lucrative business, until it was declared illegal by the Supreme Court of India. The region also has a number of reserved forests, and one of them, Kaziranga, is the home of the rare Indian Rhinoceros. The state produces a lot of Bamboo, although the bamboo industry is still nascent. The wildlife, forests and flora, rivers and waterways, have great natural beauty, providing growth in tourism.
High rainfall, deforestation, and other factors have resulted in annual floods that cause widespread loss of life, livelihood and property. An earthquake prone region, Assam has experienced two large earthquakes: 1897 (8.1 on the Richter scale) and 1950 (8.6).
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History of Bihar

Ancient Bihar
Bihar has a very rich history. It was called Magadha in ancient days. Its capital Patna, known as Pataliputra during the old days, was the center of the Mauryan empire, which ruled the Indian subcontinent between 325 BC-185 BC. Emperor Ashoka was the most famous ruler of this dynasty. Bihar remained an important place of power, culture and education during the next one thousand years. Nalanda and Vikramshila Universities were the world class learning centres.

Religions Originated
Bihar is also the birthplace of many religions, including Buddhism and Jainism. The word "Bihar" has its origin in the Sanskrit word "Vihara", meaning Buddhist Monasteries. Buddha attained the Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, a town located in the modern day district of Gaya. Buddha started spreading his teaching after attaining the Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya. Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, was born in Vaishali, When we speak of Bihar we are remembered of ancient India when Buddhism was evolving into what now is an universal religion.The Word "Bihar" has been coined from "Vihara" meaning Buddhist monastries. At one time in the epoch of history these "viharas" were all strewn over the landscape of Bihar, around villages and cities alike. Patna its capital city today, Patliputra in those times was home to one of the greatest monarchs in the history of the world who ruled over much of the Indian - Subcontinent and extended as far as Iran and Afghanistan to the West.

Medieval
With the advent of the foreign aggression and eventual foreign subjugation of India, the position of Bihar was also adversely affected. Muhammad Bin Bakhtiar Khilji, a General of Muhammad Ghori captured Bihar in 12th century. In between, Bihar saw a brief period of glory for six years during the rule of Sher Shah Suri, who was from Sasaram and built the longest road of the Indian subcontinent, the Grand Trunk Road, which starts from Calcutta and ends at Peshawar, Pakistan. During 1557-1576, Akbar, the Mughal emperor, annexed Bihar and Bengal to his empire and made Bihar a part of Bengal. With the decline of Mughals, Bihar passed under the control of Nawabs of Bengal. one of the important state in india.

Modern
After the Battle of Buxar (1765), the British East India Company got the diwani rights (rights to administer and collect revenue, or tax administration / collection) for Bihar, Bengal and Orissa. From this point onwards, Bihar remained a part the Bengal Presidency of the British Raj until 1912, when Bihar was carved out as a separate province. In 1935, certain portions of Bihar were reorganised into the separate state of Orissa. Again, in 2000, 18 administrative districts of Bihar were separated to form the state of Jharkhand.

Babu Kunwar Singh of Sasaram and his army, as well as countless other persons from Bihar, contributed to the India's First War of Independence (1857), also called Sepoy Mutiny by some historians.

After his return from the South Africa, Mahatma Gandhi started the freedom movement in India by his satyagraha in the Champaran district of Bihar against the British , who were forcing the local farmers to plant indigo which was very harmful to the local soil. This movement by Mahatma Gandhi received the spontaneous support from a cross section of people, including Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who ultimately became the first President of India.

Timelines

1. 560-480 BCE: Buddha
2. Before 325 BCE: Nanda clan in Magadha, Licchavis in Vaishali
3. 325-185 BCE: Maurya Dynasty
4. 250 BCE: 3rd Buddhist Council
5. 185 BCE-80 CE: Sunga Dynasty
6. 80 - 240: Regional kings
7. 240 - 600: Gupta Dynasty
8. 600 - 650: Harsha Vardhana
9. 750 - 1200: Pala Dynasty
10. 1200: Muhammad of Ghori's army, destroys the universities at Nalanda and Vikramshila
11. 1200-1250: Decline of Buddhism
12. 1250-1526: Ruled by Delhi Sultanate (Muslim Turks - Tughluqs, Sayyids, Lodis)
13. 1526-1540: Babur defeats last Delhi sultan, establishes Mughal Empire
14. 1540-1555: Suri dynasty captures empire from Mughals (including Shershah Suri who built the Grand Trunk Road)
15. 1526-1757: Mughal dynasty resumes
16. 1757-1857: British East India Company rule
17. 1857: Revolt of 1857
18. 1857-1947: British Raj rule
19. 1912: Province of Bihar & Orissa separated from Bengal
20. 1935: Bihar and Orissa become separate provinces
21. 1947: Indian Independence; Bihar becomes a state
22. 2000: Bihar divided into two states - north part remains "Bihar", southern becomes Jharkhand 

Economy of Bihar 
The economy is mainly based on the agricultural activities. The vast swath of the extremely fertile land makes this very easy. Despite a number of rivers and good and fertile soil, irrigation facilities are very poor and the agriculture is mainly dependent upon the vagaries of the nature. There have been some attempts to industrialize the state also - a oil refinery in Barauni, a scooter plant in Fatuha, and some agriculture based industries like sugar, vegetable oil etc. But Bihar has not seen success in its industrialization.

Tourism in Bihar 

Bihar is full of tourist attractions. Apart from Patna, the capital city, there are many interesting and spiritual places to visit in Bihar.
Sonepur Tourism
The Sonepur Mela held around November is the largest cattle fair in Asia. It is 25 km from Patna. People from all over the country flock here to sell their livestock. Agro basex exhibitions are also held here. People from far and wide visit this mela. Sonepur has a temple of Hariharnath that is greatly revered by the Hindus who also take a holy dip at the confluence of Ganga and Gandak.


Bodhgaya Tourism
Bodhgaya is where the Buddha attained enlightenment and gave the world a great religion like Buddhism. It is very near the capital city of Patna. At a distance of around 125 km one can easily drive down from Patna. The Mahabodhi Temple is where Buddha attained enlightenment. It has a Peepal tree that is said to have been grown from the branches of the famed tree. The town houses, an Archaeological Museum and monasteries built by people of many Buddhist countries are the main Tourist places in Gaya.

Nalanda Tourism
At 90 km from Patna, Nalanda is again a days trip from Patna. Nalanda University was one of the greatest centers of Buddhist learning in ancient times and scholars from far and wide came here. Important attractions of Nalanda are the ruins of the Nalanda University, the Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall, the Surya Mandir, the Nalanda museum, and the Nav Nalanda Vihar.

Vaishali Tourism
Vaishali is an important spiritual place for both Buddhists and Jains. Vaishali is at a distance of 55 km from Patna. Named after King Visala of Ramayana, Vaishali has the distinction of being the capital of one of the first republics in the world run by the Lichchavis. It is here that Lord Buddha preached his last sermon and announced his approaching Nirvana. Lord Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankara, was born here in Kundligrama (Vaishali) in 599 B.C. Tourist attractions are the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, the Ashokan pillars, and many Buddhist and Jain structures.

Sasaram Tourism
Sasaram houses the grand and beautiful mausoleum of Sher Shah, the man known for building the Grand Trunk Road across the whole of North India, that included Pakistan at that time. The mausoleum is located in a beautiful lake and looks like a floating structure. Sasaram is 148 km from Patna.


Rajgir Tourism
At a distance of 102 km off Patna, Rajgir is a well-known pilgrimage destination of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism alike. Before Pataliputra (Patna), Rajgir or Rajgriha was the capital of Magadh. The Swarna Gufa, Griddhakuta Parvat, hot springs, and the Vishwa Shanti Stupa are some of the tourist attractions here.

Gaya Tourism
Gaya is a Hindu pilgrimage center. Gaya too is easily accessible from Patna at a distance of only 112 km. Gaya houses the Vishnupad (Vishnu footprints) Temple, built by Rani Ahilya Bai of Indore in the 18th century.

GEOGRAPHY OF BIHAR

T-shaped, the state consists of the northern Brahmaputra valley, the middle Karbi and Cachar hills and the southern Barak Valley. It experiences heavy rainfall between March and September, with very high humidity in the summer months. The temperatures are generally mild, never extreme during any season.
Assam is very rich in vegetation, forests and wildlife. Lumber was once a lucrative business, until it was declared illegal by the Supreme Court of India. The region also has a number of reserved forests, and one of them, Kaziranga, is the home of the rare Indian Rhinoceros. The state produces a lot of Bamboo, although the bamboo industry is still nascent. The wildlife, forests and flora, rivers and waterways, have great natural beauty, providing growth in tourism.
High rainfall, deforestation, and other factors have resulted in annual floods that cause widespread loss of life, livelihood and property. An earthquake prone region, Assam has experienced two large earthquakes: 1897 (8.1 on the Richter scale) and 1950 (8.6).
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HISTORY OF THE CHHATTISGARH

The foundation of Chhattisgarh dates back to thousands of years. Recently, anthropologists have found evidences of some of the initial human habitations in the rocks and caves of this fabulous land. Chhattisgarh has also been mentioned in the tradition of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. In these legends, the region was recognized as Dakshina Kosala, a place where Lord Rama spent some time of his banish period. The history of Chhattisgarh stretches back to the 4th century AD. The kingdoms, like that of the Sarabhpurias, Panduvanshi, Somvanshi, Kalchuri, and Nagvanshi, reined the land during the 6th-12th centuries. Earlier it was named as South Kosala. In the medieval period, Chhattisgarh came to be known as Gondwana. Later it became part of the realm of the Kalchuris, who dominated the region until the late-18th century AD.
The Muslim narrators of the 14th century AD, have explained in detail about the dynasties, which ruled over the county. During 16th century, Chhattisgarh was influenced by the Mughals and then, by the Marathas. By the year 1758, the whole region came under the province of the Marathas, who cruelly ransacked its natural resources. In the beginning of 19th century, the British came and included most of the region into the Central Province. Past 1854, the British managed the region like a deputy commissionership with its control center at Raipur. Chhattisgarh took active part in the rebellion of 1857, when Vir Narayan Singh (a landlord of Sonakhan) stood up to challenge the biasness of the British rule. In 1904, the British restructured the region, wherein the estates of Surguja were added while Sambalpur was transferred to Orissa. In 1924, there was a demand to make a separate state by the Raipur Congress Unit at the meeting of the Raipur District Congress. Without any result of the protest, Chhattisgarh got independence from the British like the entire country, but it remained as the part of Madhya Pradesh. It was realized that this region was culturally and historically dissimilar from M.P. After independence, in 1955, the demand for a separate state reappeared in the Nagpur Assembly though it didn’t executed. At last, on 1st November 2000, Chhattisgarh was constituted as the 26th state of India.

Economy of Chhattisgarh
The economic growth of Chhattisgarh is at great pace. The per capita income is around 250 USD as of 2001. But it was ignorant when it was a part of Madhya Pradesh. Only small percentage of population lives in urban areas. Chhattisgarh's gross state domestic product for 2004 is estimated at 12 billion USD in current prices. After partition, this mineral-rich state produces 30% of the output of the old Madhya Pradesh state. The state has enormous potential to graduate into the league of advanced states provided it gets a far sighted political leadership and adequate planning especially in the area of higher studies as well as technical education. The state's economy is further enhanced by the presence of the Bhilai Steel Plant, S.E.C.Railway Zone, BALCO Aluminium Plant (Korba), and NTPC Korba (National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd) and S.E.C.L. (South Eastern Coalfields Limited). The southern area Chattisgarh consists of iron ore available where NMDC is excavating to meet the iron demand in India and as well sending to countries like Japan. NMDC is located in Dantewara district. Recently ESSAR has started transporting iron ore through pipe lines to Vizag. The state is also launching an influential plan to become bio fuel self-sufficient by 2015 by planting crops of jatropha.

Culture of Chhattisgarh In Chhattisgarh many religious sects like Satnami Panth, Kabirpanth, Ramnami Samaj, and others are operating. Champaran town of this state has religious importance as it is the birth place of the Saint Vallabhacharya. Champaran is observed as a big holy place for Gujarati community. People from all of Gujarat, Mumbai etc. come to visit this place. The Oriya culture is prominent in the eastern parts of Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh has a very rich Cultural tradition. People of this state have its unique style of dance, cuisine, and music. Tourists can find decorative pieces carved on wood, Bamboo furniture, Clay pieces, idols carved on wood etc. Panthi, Raut Nacha "Karma" and Soowa dance styles are very trendy in the region. Raut Nacha, the folk dance of cowherds, is a traditional folk dance of yadavs/yaduvanshis as symbol of worship to Krishna at the time of 'dev udhni ekadashi' (awakening of Gods after brief rest) according to the Hindu calendar. Pandavani a musical recitation of the epic Mahabharata, Teejan Bai, the Pandavani artist was awarded Padma Bhushan in 2003, for her contribution to Pandavani. Chhattisgarh has rich traditional folk songs which include sohar, bihav & Pathoni songs. Sohar songs are sung in the occasion of child birth. Bihav songs are related to marriage celebration. The main parts of Bihav songs are Chulmati, Telmati, Maymouri, Nahdouri, Parghani, Bhadoni and other songs related to Bhanver, Vidai songs. Pathoni songs are related to Gouna that is departure of bride to bridegroom home. The women of Chhattisgarh have a good position within India. The proportion of women in the population is second highest among states in India. Further, the female-male ratio is in support of women in rural population. This State has 9th rank in largest state in India. In village society, classical doctrines of Hinduism is dominant probably because more than 95% of residents of Chhattisgarh are either not part of Hindu society or are included as low caste within Hindu caste hierarchy because of their industry related job occupations. Rural women are not wealthy but they are more independent, hard working, and socially more enthusiastic and command more power just like women in North-East India. Most of the old temples/shrines here are related to 'women power' (e.g., Shabari, Mahamaya, Danteshwari) and existence of these temples gives insight into historical and current social fabric of this state. There is general social belief in witchcraft in Chhattisgarh; which is similar to such belief in other parts of the world. Women are supposed to have access to supernatural forces, and accused of witchcraft and called 'Tonhi' often to settle personal scores. They are barbarically mistreated. It is mainly due to the existence of backwardness of the society in Chhattisgarh. Currently, Chhattisgarh is one of the richest states that have surplus power. This is an added advantage for industrialists making project and investments decisions.

Tourism in Chhattisgarh
The state of Chattisgarh is located in the heart of India and a fast upcoming tourist destination in India. It is also referred to as "Dakshin Kosala". The newly formed state which was carved out of Madhya Pradesh in 2000 shares borders with The newly formed state shares borders with Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, U.P., Orissa and Andhra Pradesh. Also the birthplace of several empires and kingdoms of India with the Mauryas being the most prominent, Chhattisgarh has a very rich historical and cultural heritage and its history, archaeology, art and culture and tribal life are worth discovering on your Tours to Chhattisgarh.. The state has also been blessed with rich mineral and forest wealth.

Chhattisgarh is a nature lover and adventure enthusiast's paradise. With about 44% of its area under forests, Chhattisgarh is one of the richest bio-diversity regions in the country and the state has a great potential for the development of eco-tourism in the region.The wildlife sanctuaries of Barnawapara, Sita nadi and Sanjay Gandhi National Park provide the opportunity to spend long and indolent hours in the tranquil peace watching the animals in their natural habitat.

Raipur is considered to be the capital of the site and has also developed into a commercial and financial hub of Chhattisgarh; the city has the only airport in Chattisgarh. Bastar is a southern district that is predominantly forested and inhabited by tribal populations, and hold many of Chhattisgarh's tourist attractions.

Chattisgarh also has a rich history with many place that host important archeological monuments. Bhoramdeo, Rajim, Sirpur, Tala, Malhar and Sheorinarayan are prime sites for heritage tourism. Festivals like Dusshera at Bastar, Madai at Dantewada and Narainpur, Bhoramdeo, Raut Nacha, Chakradhar Samaroh and Rajim are being marketed for global exposure.

The major tourist destinations in Chhattisgarh that you can visit on your tour to Chhattisgarh include Raipur, Bastar, Amarkantak, Banjari Baba, Bhoramdev, Champaranya, Chitrakoota and Dudhadharimath.

Chitrakote falls on the Indravati River and Tiratgarh waterfall near Jagdalpur, are spectacular sights.

The 11th-century Bhoramdeo temple is called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh because of its erotic sculpture, and is approachable from Raipur. The famous Danteswari Temple is in the southernmost district, Dantewada.
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History of Gujarat

Gujarat is privileged with prosperous heritage of historical records among the states of Indian sub-continent. Gujrat is very ancient state and dates back to pre-historic age. It can be reviewed into three periods- ancient, medieval and modern periods. The name of the state is derived from Gujjaratta (Gurjar Rashtra), which means the land of the Gujjars. It is believed that a tribe of Gujjars traveled to India around the 5th century. The word Gujarat gained currency during Chalukya period (942-1299 AD). Earlier, parts of Gujarat were known as Anarta, Lata and Saurashtra. The pre-history of Gujrat begins with the first appearance of the early man on banks of Sabarmati. Proto-historic period linked the gulf between pre-history and history. This period was from2500 BC to 500 BC. During this period, there was Harappan culture and Yadav had dominated the historical account. Reviewing literature from Vedas, Puranas, Buddha and Jain literature, It can be said that Lord Krishna had established dynastic rule of Yadavs at Dwarka around 1000 BC. Maurya, Indo-Greek, Kahatrapas, Gupta, Maitrak & Chalukya period was up to 1297 AD. Mauryan rule in Gujarat made real political history. With the decline of Mauryan power and Saurashtra coming under the sway of Samprati Mauryas of Ujjain, there was Greek attack into Gujarat lead by Dernetrious. Saka rulers dominated for nearly 400 years from the start of first century in Gujarat's history. In medieval Period, sultans of Delhi & Gujarat and Muslim period ruled till 1758 AD. Before Muslims finally entrenched themselves into Gujarat in 1298 AD, the Muslims had only an occasional contact with this part of India. It was only after the overcome of Karnadeva Vaghela at the hands of Alauddin Khilji, Muslim rule continued for nearly 400 years either under Delhi's viceroyalty or under Muslim Sultanate. Muslime rule declined after the the assassination of Skinder Shah. The defeat of Bahadur Shah, the last sultan marked the start of the Mughal rule, which lasted for almost 185 years. Modern Period started with the dominance of the Marathas and British Rule upto 1947 AD. Chatrapati Shivaji, the great Maratha ruler who attacked, marked the entry of Marathas in Gujarat. Gujarat has leading role in the freedom struggle especially after Mahatma Gandhi's taking over the leadership of the freedom movement. India achieved independence on 15th August 1947 and a bilingual state of Gujarat and Maharashtra were formed. On 1st May 1960, separate state of Gujarat was formed. Today, the state has once again taken the lead in industry, commerce and culture for which it was known for thousands of centuries.
Culturally, there are four groups of people who came to populate this land at different time and now form the majority here. These are Meghvals, Ahirs, Rabaris and Jats. The Patel of Gujarat are wealthy and landlords. The Ahirs came with Lord Krishna from Gokul in Uttar Pradesh. Most of the communities of Ahirs established their business by selling ghee and milk and are now spread all over the state. 

ECONOMY OF GUJRAT

Gujarat support government financially through its art and craft. Statistical records of CMIEindicate that Gujarat ranked third among all the states of India in 2004, approximately same as Punjab and Maharashtra, at Rs. 15,800. Major Agricultural produce of the state include cotton, peanuts, dates, and sugarcane, milk & milk products.
Industrial products include cement, and petrol. Surat is a center of the global diamond trade. Gujarat has first rank countrywide in gas-based thermal electricity generation with national market share of over 18% and second nationwide in nuclear electricity generation with national market share of over 16%.

Tourism in Gujarat

There are numerous tourist places which attract tourists to visit again and again. Jami Masjid is located at Malan, Palanpur Taluka in Banaskantha (Gujarat). It was built during the Sultanate period, the Mosque stands with its stately structure on a high pedestal with 260 pillars supporting 15 domes. Sidi Said Mosque was constructed in 1572-73. The mosque is a symbol of Indo-Islamic architecture. The mosque has ravishingly beautiful twin windows carved out from white stone. The stone is carved out in the shape of a tree with entangled boughs of palm leaves. Eight windows have squire grid pattern. Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum was originally constructed as a school for the Maharaja's childern Maharaja Fateh Singh. Museum has become a centre of attraction for tourists these days. Buddhist Cave Monastery was constructed in about 300 A.D. in Uparkot.
                   There is a meandering staircase to an upper chamber. The Khapara Kodhia cave and Baba Pyara Cave are complex yet fascinating structures with beautiful carvings of Buddhist sculptures. Gujarat has the most ancient holy places. Palitana Temples is a complex of Jain temples situated 51 km south west of Bhavnagar. There are 863 temples from base to the peak of the Shatrunjaya hill, where the Palitana temples are located. Dwarkanath Temple is located at Dwarka and is one of the important temples dedicated to lord Krishna. The Somnath Temple located in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval in Saurashtra, on the western coast of Gujarat, India is one of the twelve Jyotirlings (golden lingas) symbols of the God Shiva. The Swaminarayan Temple in Kalupur, Ahmedabad is the first built Swaminarayan Temple in the world. The Modhera Sun Temple is famous for its rare position as specifically and uniquely designed for the worship of the Sun, Lord Surya.Gujarat provides excellent educational facilities for students to develop their talent and make bright future. Gujarat has 13 universities and 4 agricultural universities. Gujarat also has an Indian Institute of Management, at Ahmedabad, National Institute of Design, at Ahmedabad and a National Institute of Technology at Surat.
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HISTORY OF HIMACHAL PRADESH

Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful state located in the Punjab region of north-west India. It is stretched over 55,780 square kilometres and is surrounded by Jammu and Kashmir on north, Punjab on west and south-west, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh on south, Uttarakhand on south-east and by Tibet on the east. Its name indicate region of snowy mountains and is considered as aDeva Bhoomi (the land of the gods). Himachal Pradesh is divided into 12 districts namely, Kangra, Hamirpur, Mandi, Bilaspur, Una, Chamba, Lahul and Spiti, Sirmaur, Kinnaur, Kullu, Solan and Shimla. The state capital is Shimla which was previously British India's summer capital under the name Simla. If we look at the history of this state, the Aryan has great influence in this state dates back to the period before the Rigveda. After the Anglo Gorkha war, the British colonial government was dominant. It was originally in Punjab, except Siba State of Punjab Hills, under the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh till 1857. In 1950 Himachal was declared as the union territory but after State of Himachal Pradesh Act 1971, Himchal emerged as the 18th state of Indian Union. Himachal Pradesh has one of the uppermost per capita incomes of states in India. Due to the plenty of perennial rivers, Himachal also sells hydro electricity to other states such as Delhi, Punjab & Rajasthan. The wealth of the state is highly dependent upon three sources i.e. hydroelectric power, tourism and agriculture.
In this state, majority of people (approximately 70%) are Hindus. The major communities are of Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. Tribes such as the Koilis, Halis, Dagis, Dhaugris, Dasa, Khasas, Kinnars and Kirats populated the region from pre-histotic era. During the Vedic period, several small republics, known as "Janapada" existed which were later overpowered by the Gupta Empire. After a brief period of dominance by king Harshavardhana, the region was divided into several local powers headed by chieftains, including some Rajput prinicipalities. Mahmud Ghaznavi conquered Kangra in early 10th century. Timur and Sikander Lodi also marched through the lower hills of the state and captured a number of forts and fought many battles. The Gorkhas combined their military power and began to expand their territory. Gradually the Gorkhas annexed Sirmour and Shimla. With the leadership of Amar Singh Thapa, Gorkhas laid siege to Kangra. They defeated Sansar Chand, the ruler of kangra, in 1806 with the help of many provincial chiefs. After the defeat, the Gorkhas began to expand towards the south of the state. However,Raja Ram Singh,Raja of Siba State recapture the fort of Siba from the army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Samvat 1846. This led in the Anglo-Sikh war. They came into direct conflict with the British along the tarai region after which the British barred them from the provinces of the Satluj. Thus the British government dominated the region. The revolt of 1857 resulted due to the building up of political, social, economic, religious and military accusations against the British government.
Climate- Himachal Pradesh is a hilly state therefore there is great difference in the climatic conditions of Himachal. The climate varies from hot and sub-humid tropical in the southern tracts to cold, alpine and glacial in the northern and eastern mountain ranges with more elevation. In Dharamsala region, there is very heavy rainfall, as well as in Lahaul and Spiti are cold and almost rainless. Himachal Pradesh has mainly three seasons; hot weather season, cold weather season and rainy season. Summer lasts from mid April till the end of June and most parts become very hot (except in alpine zone which experience mild summer) with the average temperature ranging from 28 °C (82 °F) to 32 °C (90 °F). Winter lasts from late November till mid March. Snowfall is common in alpine tracts.
In the Himalayan subtropical broadleaf forests, the plant life is dominated by sal, sisham, chir pine, dry deciduous and moist broad-leafed forests. The temperate region grows oaks, deodar, blue pine, fir and spruce. In the topmost region, trees are sturdy with a vast network of roots. Alders, birches, rhododendrons and moist alpine scrubs are there as the regional vegetation. The rhododendrons can be seen along the hillsides around Shimla from March to May. Himachal Pradesh is popular for a variety of animals. There are around 1200 bird and 359 animal species in the state. This includes the leopards, ghoral, snow leopard, musk deer (the state animal) and Western Tragopan (the state bird). It has 12 major national parks and sanctuaries. The Great Himalayan National Park in Kullu district was created to conserve the flora and fauna of the main Himalayan range, while the Pin Valley National Park to conserve the flora and fauna of the cold desert.

Culture of Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh has a rich tradition of handicrafts. These craft items are woolen and pashmina shawls, carpets, silver and metal ware, embroidered chappals, grass shoes, Kangra and Gompa style paintings, wood work, horse-hair bangles, wooden and metal utensils and various other domestic things. Pashmina shawl is one of the products which is popular not only in Himachal but all over the country. But lacks of market facilities, these artistic and elegant handicrafts were not sold very much. Though, the demand for handicrafts has increased within and outside the country. Anglo-Indian architecture church in Shimla.Himachal was one of the few states that had remained largely undamaged by external customs, largely due to its difficult territory. The condition of state changed drastically with the technological advancements. It is a multireligional, multicultural as well as multilingual state like other Indian states. Most commonly spoken languages include Hindi, Punjabi, Pahari, Dogri, Kangri and Kinnauri. Himachali caps are also famous art work of the people. Due to extreme cold winters, there is necessity of wool weaving. Shawls of Kullu are famous for unique patterns and lively colors. Typical local music and dance reveals the cultural distinctiveness of the state. These dances are performed during local festivals and other special occasions.
The eatables used by Himachal Pradesh people are lentil, broth, rice, vegetables and bread. non vegetarian items are more preferred. Some of the specialities of Himachal include Pateer, Chouck, Bhagjery, Patrode, Beduan and chutney. Many well-known people came from Himachal. English author Rudyard Kipling, Indian film personalities Dalip Singh Rana, Anupam Kher, Preity Zinta, Amrish Puri and Prem Chopra, economist and former vice-president of World Bank Shahid Javed Burki, Satyananda Stokes who introduced apple in the region, writer Idries Shah, ornithologist Allan Octavian Hume, former general of Pakistan Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq and current President of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai are the famous entity related to Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh is also attracted tourist for adventure sports. A lot of people visit Himachal in the winters too, for exploring the several opportunities the state offers for winter sports.

Economy of Himachal Pradesh
Though Uttaranchal has good natural resources but it is powerless to utilize because it’s economic condition is on unstable ground. The Tarai region of the state alone could possibly produce enough food for the whole state, but large-scale farming has not become large enough. With few resources and a rough terrain, hydroelectric energy, and tourism are the only advantageous industries in the state. This state enhances economic condition through tourism which is the main earning. The government is working incessantly to improve infrastructure and make tourism even more viable. The people of Uttaranchal struggled for a decade to fulfill their dream of self-governance. Rainforests and alpine forests cover a great portion of the state's Himalayan region. These regions are home to exotic and endangered species. Plant life, animal life, and an enjoyable climate, are at the heart of Uttaranchal tourism. It is estimated that about 75% of the state lives on subsistence agriculture, and 70% of the state population is below the poverty line. 

Himachal Pradesh Tourism Situated in North India, Himachal Pradesh (Abode of Snow) is surrounded by Jammu & Kashmir on the north; Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh to the south. The state is mostly covered by the low Shivalik hill range towards the south and the dramatically high trans-Himalayan ranges as you go north. This can be described as one of the most beautiful places to visit in India. With its chilled climate and beautiful locales it can be described a trekkers paradise. The climate of the state ranges from cool to snow laden depending on location and geography. Its one of those few places in the world that still has large parts of land untouched by commercialization and have been preserved in its earthly splendour.
Some of the key spots where you can under take excavations are places like Shimla, Kulu, Manali, and Leh. Shimla is the capital city of Himachal which is a beautiful and serene hill station. The Kullu valley can be a fascinating trekking expedition , with lush green forests and Beas River running through it. In Kullu you have a famous temple called the Raghunath Temple famous for its history and carvings. From Manali, the trip along the spectacular mountain road to Leh via Rohtang, Keylong, Pang is sure to take your breath away and the route is across the second highest vehicular pass in the world at a height over 5500 m.
Here is a list of some of top tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh
Shimla: The name for this hill station has been derived from Godess Shyamala wich known to be an incarnation of Goddess Kali. Shimla is a tranquil place with a wonderful climate. It is the only urbanized city of the state and has many luxurious villas and other accommodation facilities to suit various budgets and the preferences of travelers. There are number of temples, parks, and valleys to tour here apart from trekking trips. It is known as "Destination for all seasons". Christ Church is one of the oldest churches in the state and is a famous landmark in Shimla. Himachal State Museum & Library has a good collection of ancient historical sculptures, Kufri is a popular trekking spot for avid trekkers.
Kullu Valley: The town of Kullu draws thousands of visitors every year in view its unspolit earthy beauty. It can be a paradise for couples especially who choose this place for their honey moon. Though Kullu in its sense a small town it has a lot of life and the people here are very lively and friendly. Temples, apple orchards, gardens, and the festivals make it a worthwhile place of visit as well. Take a tour of the handicraft textile in the region making shawls, caps, and other woolen accessories. Dushera is celebrated infull spirit at Kullu
Dharamshala: This place over the years has developed symbolic importance for Bhuddhist followers and is a well visited place in Himachal Pradesh. Built in the backdrop of the Dhauladhar ranges, his holiness the Dalai Lama has taken up refuge in Dharamshala after leaving Tibet. Little Lhasa is the place that the world knows today as the residence of the Dalai Lama. You can also make plans to visit the Kangra Valley along with Dharamshala. In Kangra Valley, there were 80 hill resorts constructed in the 17th century.
Manali: This is located in the Kullu Valley and can be found at the foothills of the Himalayan Ranges. Not very far from Manali you have the Rohtang Pass which is a must visit for all nature lovers. The place boasts of incredible greenery with dew soaked leaves. It takes another dimension during the winter when it snows where the peaks with covers of snow and chunks of glaciers that can be found in the streams along with the dry trees which all appeal so vividly to the human eye.
Chamba: This is very popular place in Himachal that developed a lot of historical significance over many years. Surrounded by the majestic Shivalik Ranges in the small hamlet of Chamba, it is known for the many famous temples of Lord Shiva that have been visited for centuries. The architectural style is bound to leave a deep impact on the visiting travelers.
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HISTORY OF KERALA

Kerala ranks among the top travel destinations of the world. The natural beuaty of kerala and its unique culture attracts people as much as its medicinal therapies. Kerala is a very green state and is known for its ecotourism and spice tourism. The hilly Western Ghats on one side and the Arabian Sea on the other, coupled with lagoons, backwaters and the rich vegetation makes Kerala Tourism grow every day.
When you travel to Kerala look out for the sandy beaches of Kovalam, blue Lagoons at Veli, Hill stations at Ponmudi and Munnar, backwaters of Kollam and Alappuzha, greenland plantations in the highranges, wildlife, high mountain peaks, picturesque valleys, magnificent forts and intricately decorated temples.
Kerala is famous for its art, poets and musicians, its traditional dance forms, and its distinctive architecture. Craft workers in Kerala continue the ancient arts of woodcarving and wall-painting. For ages, the rich and vibrant culture of Kerala has intrigued people worldwide: the songs and dances of the people, their ballads, their rituals and their intellectual pursuits. Truly, the real treasures of Kerala lie in the cultural heritage of its people. Kerala has its own typical art forms which reflect the life and outlook of the people viz. Kathakali, Theyyam, Koodiyattam.

Recently UNESCO brought to light, a less known art form - Koodiyattom - and declared it as one among the "Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity". It is for the first time in the history of UNESCO that select art forms across the world have been given this recognition as part of its effort to safeguard expressions of oral heritage and traditional culture which are in danger of disappearing due to the efforts of globalization.
Kerala Dance Kathakali Kathakali is the classical dance-drama of Kerala, which dates from the 17th century and is rooted in Hindu mythology. Kathakali has a unique combination of literature, music, painting, acting and dance.
Kerala Art Theyyam Theyyam is one of the most outstanding folk arts of Kerala and has its origin in the northern parts of the state. Also called Thirayattam, (because every thira or village performed this ritualistic art at the village temple) this primitive ritualistic art demands long hours preparation before the performance. The Theyyam (a form or shape) represents a mythological, devine or heroic character.
Kerala Classical Dances Classical dances are based fully or partly on the principles and techniques embodied in the ancient Hindu scriptures and technical texts on dance and allied arts. The earliest of these known scripts is Bharatha's Natya Shastra believed to have been written around the second century B.C.
Kerala Martial Arts The martial arts of Kerala - Kalaripayattu - consists of a series of intricate movements that train the body and mind. The discipline is continually practiced and complemented by Kerala's famous ayurvedic and nature cure techniques. These are believed to have traveled to eastern China, where they inspired the evolution of other martial art forms. 'Verumkai' is the final and most difficult of lessons taught in the kalari. The others are Maithozhil - combat through kicks, Kolathiri - combat using sticks and Angathiri - the use of metal weapons.
Kerala Music As in the rest of South India, Carnatic music is the popular classical form of music, but Kerala's own contribution is the sopana style that is slow in tempo and is rather emotional. Kerala's folk music, on the other hand, is neither sophisticated nor refined, but it displays a strong sense of rhythm and rhyme. The theme is usually devotional, as in Sarpa pattu, Bhadrakali pattu and Ayyappan Pattu. The most famous of Kerala's music composers is Swati Thirunal, the Maharaja of Travancore in the early 19th century. Other contemporary composers were Irayimman Thampi and Shadkala Govinda Marar.

 Tourism in Kerala
Many tourists travel across the world to India only for the green and soothing destination called Kerala. With undisturbed beauty of green and moist foliage and the lure of ayurveda, Kerala is an international holiday destination. Kerala in India still remains calm and serene though it is supposed to have the highest density of population. One wonders where they are tucked away as you roam the green belt of Kerala.
You can spot a tourist place in each and every district in Kerala. In other ways we can say the entire state is a tourist destination. The main tourism attractions in Kerala are the Kerala Backwaters, the Waterfalls, the Spice gardens, Kerala Wildlife, Kerala Ayurveda and the Kerala beaches.
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala                       more on Kerala tourism Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) is the capital of Kerala. The main attractions of the city are Shri Padmanabha Temple, Sri Chitra Art Gallery which has a large section devoted to the paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, works of Rabindranath Tagore, Jamimi Roy, K. K. Hebar. The gallery's collection also includes paintings from Indonesia, China, and Japan. Nearby tourist places to Trivandrum are Veli, Shankhumuggam and Kovalam, which is considered as the finest beach in the world and provides ingredients for an ideal holiday. Besides swimming, there are opportunities for surfing and water skiing.
Veli, Kerala Within hailing distance of the capital city Thiruvananthapuram, is the Veli - Akkulam lagoon with a delightful waterfront park that is increasingly becoming popular among the natives and tourists alike.
Only a narrow sandbar separates the lagoon from the sea. You can opt for rides in motor-driven safari launches, power boats, pedal boats or row boats. Kayaks and hovercraft attract the brave-hearted. A floating bridge and a floating restaurant add to the overall excitement. The eastern end of the lake is flanked by two scenic hillocks coming through as a perfect hiking ground.
Periyar (Thekkady), Kerala  At Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary you can see the natural habitat of elephants, the tiger, deer, wild pigs, and tigers.
                                                                          

Munnar, Kerala  Munnar is located in the eastern part of the state of Kerala, in Idukki district that borders Tamilnadu State. It is famous for tea gardens and spices. The weather in Munnar is pleasant. Summers (April-June) are mild, while winters (November-February) are cool. It experiences heavy southwestern monsoon rains in June-August.
                                                                              

Alappuzha, Kerala  The sweeping network of canals, honey-combing the town of Alleppey (Alappuzha) has earned for the place its sobriquet - "The Venice of the East." Small, low-slung country boats are the taxis of this water land.
It is a heart-warming sight to see them carry a motley assemblage of cycles, goats, fisherwomen with cane baskets, school children, toddy-tappers with their knives and pots, duennas in white with gold earrings, Syrian Christian priests and a bare-chested boatman apiece.
Silent Valley National Park, Kerala  The Silent Valley National Park is situated in the Palghat (Palakkad) district. The park is surrounded by the Attappadi Reserve Forests in the east, and the forests of the Palghat and Nilambur divisions in the west and south. In the North, the park is an extension of the Nilgiri Forests.
The park has a strong wild life population with a variety of animals such as elephant, tiger, lion-tailed macaque, gaur, wild pig, panther and sambar. Some other species of wildlife have also been recorded here including 15 species of invertebrates, two fishes, and two amphibians. Parambikulam, Choolanur Peacock Sanctuary, Attappadi or Mountain Valley, and JP Smriti Vanam are the other tourist places in the vicinity of the park.
Bolgatty Palace (Cochin), Kerala  Bolgatty Palace is one of the oldest existing Dutch Palaces outside Holland. A Dutch trader built this mansion in 1744. The palace was leased to the British in 1909 and it served as their residency till 1947 when the British Rule came to an end in India. The Bolgatty Island is a short but inspiring boat ride away from Kochi.
Kottayam, Kerala  Tourist places in and near Kottayam are:-
Peermed, an inviting hill resort at an altitude of 1066 meters. Vaikom Temple, associated with the legendry Parasurama. This temple also depicts the typical Kerala temple culture.
Kumarakom , Kerala  Kumarakom, where you could sail the backwaters in rented houseboats that are simply furnished with a living room, a bedroom and a bath, together with a raised central platform creating a private sit-out for the passengers. Sections of the curved roof of wood or plaited palm open out to provide shade and allow uninterrupted views. Boat trains - formed by joining two or more houseboats together - make for a convenient mode of sightseeing when the company is large. You could even take a canoe out into the quiet lagoons and spend time angling. Make sure you sample Karimeen and fresh Toddy - the favorite fresh-water food and the local wine.
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MADHYA PRADESH HISTORY 

Madhya Pradesh is located in the central part of India. It is spread across 443,450sq km. In this state, there are numerous hills, plateaus, plains, rivers, forest. Madhya Pradesh can be divided into six parts. These are the Northern Plains, the Hilly Region of the Vindhyas, the Narmada Valley, the Malwa Plateau, the Plains of Chhattisgarh, the mountainous region of Bastar. Madhya Pradesh is regarded as a hub of the historical cross currents from the North, South, East and the West, which can be attributed to its strategic positioning. The Bhimbetka Caves in Madhya Pradesh that house some paintings that can be traced back to the Paleolithic age. These caves served as the abode of the early human beings. Madhya Pradesh has a rich and exciting history. Madhya Pradesh flourished under the Gupta rule and was subsequently incorporated within the empire carved out by Harshavardhana. With the subsequent ebbing of the imperial power, Madhya Pradesh became disorganized and was widespread with unimportant squabbles and battles between small principalities contending for ascendancy. The history of Madhya Pradesh is noticeable by a short spell of constructive activity under the Chandels during the 10th and the 11th centuries. Another milestone in the Madhya Pradesh history is the series of the Chandels by the Pratihara and the Gaharwar Rajput dynasties. They set high standards for themselves as far as the code of chivalry was concerned and squandered away their paltry resources on a luxurious feudal lifestyle. The influential Muslim power broke through the last bastion of resistance to take control. A majority of the smaller kingdoms in Madhya Pradesh were actually the lands donated as gifts by the Emperor at Delhi to those who had provided valuable services. The climate of Madhya Pradesh is normal. The temperature starts rising in Madhya Pradesh from March onwards but it differs from region to region. In summer, maximum temperature goes up to around 42.5oC in northern MP at places like Gwalior. It is 40o-42.5oC in places like Bhopal, Sagar, Rewa, Bilaspur and Raigarh, to name a few. In other places, it ranges from 35o-400C. The monsoon begins in end-June/July and last till end-August. The temperature remains more or less the same till September-October. Temperature drops in the arrival of winter. Winter reaches its peak in the month of December in some places, and in January, in others.
The Monuments in Madhya Pradesh are the major source of historical facts and also attract tourists to Madhya Pradesh. These Monuments in Madhya Pradesh, India have been established in various ages dating as early as the first century A.D. Several Dynasties contributed to these monuments including forts, palaces, temples (of Hindus and Jains), mosques, tombs, churches, stupas, tanks, reservoirs, and caves cut out of rocks. These monuments in Madhya Pradesh are maintained by various governmental as well as non governmental bodies like Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums, and Archeological Survey of India. Approximately, 335 Monuments in Madhya Pradesh are preserved by the Department of Archaeology of the State Government of Madhya Pradesh while the Archaeological Survey of India is maintaining about 282 of them. The lakes and gardens in Madhya Pradesh are tempting. The rugged terrain of Madhya Pradesh cut across by the waters of the Narmada and populated by deciduous vegetation supports a large number of lakes and waterfalls, increasing the scenic beauty of the place. The lakes and gardens in Madhya Pradesh in India are a combination of controlled wilderness and landscape architecture. These are widely visited by tourists on a tour to Madhya Pradesh.
Madhya Pradesh is well connected to the other cities in India. A good network of railways and road connects all parts of Madhya Pradesh flawlessly. The Khajoraho temples, the marble rock at Jabalpur, the Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Panna National Parks, Manu, Panchmarhi are some of the most visited places in Madhya Pradesh. Wildlife in Madhya Pradesh is also a major attraction for the tourists. Kanha National Park is famous Wildlife park in Madhya Pradesh. Kanha's rolling grasslands, sal and bamboo forests and meandering streams offer a dramatic natural splendor for the visitors. Bandhavgarh National Park is another leading name in Wildlife. Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh is identified for its highest density of tiger population within India. Tourists can also see a large range of natives birds and animals at this place. In Wildlife in Madhya Pradesh, Panna National Park is also well-known The Ken River passing through this park adds to its charming beauty. The predominant species like Chinkara, the Chital and the Indian gazelle are found. Other species found here include Sambar, Nilgai, Blackbuck, Sloth Bear, Chausingha or four-horned Antelope, Leopard, striped Hyaena, common Langur, Tiger, Jackal, Wild Boar, Jungle Cat, Crocodile and others. Holy Places in Madhya Pradesh are not merely the edifies built up of stone, but they are the reminders of the rich cultural past of this state. They are at the same time also suggestive of the religious harmony among the different sects. Ujjain is primarily known for the magnificent temples devoted to the various Hindu deities and Bhopal houses several impressive mosques. These holy places also have sprawling lawns and gardens that are well maintained. 

Culture of Madhya

PradeshMadhya Pradesh has its distinctive culture. Madhya Pradesh culture represents unfathomable influence of tribal communities. In fact, its culture reflects the superb past which was also very famous during the Mauryan and Mughal empires. Attractive monuments and architectures are indication to this reality. The cultural traditions of Madhya Pradesh basically reflect the combination of tribal lifestyles and rich historical past. The Cultural Centers of Madhya Pradesh are also good places to see the tradition and culture of this region from close quarters. Amongst the Cultural Centers in Madhya Pradesh, Bharat Bhavan in Bhopal is famous. It is a multi-arts complex that provides interactive closeness to the verbal, the performing and the visual arts. In fact, Bharat Bhavan is an innovative means in pursuit of classic and traditional culture of the state, besides extensive involvement in the new cultural upsurge. Numerous festivals, music & dance performances are held where people can view traditional lifestyles and taste the delicious cuisine. Festivals in Madhya Pradesh form a vital part of the culture. The popular celebrations of MP are Holi and Dusshera. Kalidas Samaroh and Tansen Samaroh are also celebrated with enthusiasm. This state has a rich legacy of musicians which again compose an indivisible part of the culture of Madhya Pradesh. Folk songs and songs from Indian classical music are famous with the natives here. The folk song called ‘Relo’ sung by tribal children is very famous. Basically, the Muria and the Sing Maria tribes are related with this type of song. Musicians play some the important instruments which are flute, harmonium and bansi. The renowned dance forms of this state are stilt dance, Phag and Lota. The local people of Madhya Pradesh speak Hindi and Marathi. Tribal languages are also used. These are Bhili and Gondi. Another attractive part of Madhya Pradesh culture is textiles and rural handworks. People like to eat hot and spicy food here. Wheat, mutton, fish and rice are their main food ingredient. The specialty dish of this region is Bafla which is dipped in rich ghee and is taken with daal. In breakfast, poha is liked by people. Locals also consume sweet ladoo. Milk based food is also preferred. In Madhya Pradesh, many fairs and festivals are held throughout the year. The long-established religious festivals of the Hindus, Muslims and other communities are celebrated in Madhya Pradesh very enthusiastically as in the rest of India. The tribal festivals in Jhabua and Bastar are known for its joyful festivities, drinking bouts and striking entertainment like cock fighting, candid dancing, etc. Among the cultural festivals of Madhya Pradesh, the Khajuraho Festival of Dances and the Tansen Music Festival in Gwalior are important celebrations of Indian classical dance and music.
The arts and crafts of Madhya Pradesh depict the tribal art form blend seamlessly into the tradition of the people residing in Madhya Pradesh. The arts and crafts of Madhya Pradesh have gained a market throughout India. People can find a great variety of arts and crafts in Madhya Pradesh. The arts and crafts give an impression, reveal hereditary skills and reflect craftsmanship of the local people. These arts and crafts includes bamboo work, carpet weaving, dolls & toys, metalwork, ornaments & jewellery, paintings, papier mache, pottery, stone-carving, textile weaving and printing and woodcarving. Crafting bamboo articles is a favorite activity of the tribes. The Gond, Baiga, Korku and Basor tribes make elegant bamboo articles. This craft form is encouraged by the government of the state and earns huge profits for the government as well as help in enriching the tribals. Gwalior is a carpet-weaving centre in India. Dhurrie weaving is mainly done by the women of the tribe. The dolls made out of small cloth pieces are produced in Gwalior and are recognized world wide. These crafts are exported in huge volumes. Dhokra works are mainly hollow-cast process of bending irons and making oil lamps, tools and statues. Attractive silver jewelry is also made in Madhya Pradesh and is among the beautiful handicrafts of Madhya Pradesh. The famous Maheshwari Sari of Madhya Pradesh has gained recognition throughout the world.
Madhya Pradesh is also well known for diverse sport activities. Cosco Cricket is one of the famed sports in Madhya Pradesh. It is mostly played in sagar Division/District. Apart from Cosco Cricket, People in Madhya Pradesh are also involved in sports like Football, Basket-Ball, Volley-Ball, Cycling, Swimming, Tracking, Badminton, Table-Tennis. Some traditional games are Gulli Danda, Pittu, Gadha Paddh.
Overall, the state of Madhya Pradesh possesses of a natural beauty that is quite varied in nature. Winding rivers, amazing mountain ranges, miles and miles of thick forests offer an exclusive abode for wildlife.
Tourism in Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh, situated in the centre of India, is often called the heart of India. It is surrounded by Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan. It is a state that has some very scenic spots with a rich eco system and a thriving natural wild life. The place has a rich history with many landmarks places for the eager tourists to learn about and experience. Be it the Kajuraho temple or the Sanchi Stupa or the Bhimbetka caves- the ancestors of this state have left behind a rich legacy that can often be described the pride of the nation.
Temples
Madhya Pradesh has several temples that are revered for both as a place of worship and also for their architectural marvel. Among them the temples of Kajuraho are very popular. The erotic carvings on the temple have drawn the attention and admiration of the world. Twenty two temples have survived the passage of time and proper care is taken by the appointed committees to ensure these architectural wonders continue to stand the test of time. Other main attractions include Omkareshwar Temple, Neelkanteswara Temple, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Orcha Temple, Sanchi Stupas, Teli Ka Mandir, Satianusuya Temple, Badeganeshji Ka Mandir, Deogarh Temple and Bhojeshwar Temple. Then there is Ujjain which is also the venue of the popular Kumbha Mela that is conducted every year.
Wildlife
The state is teeming with rich biodiversity with vast acres of land with a thick cover of dense forests and natural wildlife. Madhya Pradesh has 9 National Parks and 25 Wildlife Sanctuaries, spread over an area of 10,862 sq. kms. The Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park are popular wildlife spots in the state.
Forts & Monuments
Madhya Pradesh has been ruled by several rulers over the centuries. While they have gone we can still get a glimpse of their era by looking at the monuments they have left behind. Some of the popular forts and monuments are Gwalior Fort, Bandhavgarh Fort, Chanderi Fort, Madan Mohan Fort, Sanchi Stupas, Khajuraho Temples, Jehangir Mahal, Jahaz Mahal, Hathi Mahal, Dil Ka Mahal, Raj Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Man Mandir Palace, Jai Vilas Palace, Lal Baag Palace and George Castle.
Tourist visiting Madhya Pradesh can also visit Amarkantak which is the meeting point of the Vindhya and the Satpura mountain ranges. Blessed by Mother Nature, Amarkantak offers lofty mountain ranges, breathtaking waterfalls and beautiful valleys. This is perfect for tourists who love trekking.
Places Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh and can be described as a mix of the old and the new. It is a city that has its commercial merits and yet retains its scenic beauty and old world charm. Twenty eight kilometers from Bhopal, is Bhojpur, a place that is a must-visit for its magnificent Shiva temple and Cyclopean dam. Chanderi is another place that is a hot spot for its hand woven sarees and other shopping accessories. Some of the other places that tourists can check out is Panna, Orchha, Omkareshwar, Mandu, Jabalpur, Shivpuri, Sanchi, Pench
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HISTORY OF MAHARASHTRA

Ancient Maharashtra
The region Vidharba and Marathwada which is now called as Maharashtra .DhandaKaranya is the epic name of Maharashtra. The name Maharashtra first appeared in a 7th century inscription and in a Chinese traveler's account.

Pre medieval history
In 246 B.C.E Maharashtra is one of the places under Mauryan Empire mentioned in The Nasik Gazetteer.Then the eastern region of Maharashtra was conquered by the Vakatakas (250 AD-525 AD), who were the rulers of the state. Later, in 753, Rashtrakutas ruled the region. Rashtrakutas were then defeated in 973 by the Chalukayas, who ruled parts of Maharashtra until 1189, when they lost to Yadavas of Deogiri.Thus Maharashtra was under continuous wars and conquests of various dynasties.

Islamic Invasion The first Muslim emperors who invaded Maharashtra in the 13th century were Ala-ud-din Khalji and by Muhammad bin Tughluq. When the Tughlaq dynasty fell in 1347, the Bahamani Sultanate overpowered the region. They ruled it for the next 150 years. After the Break up of Bahamani Sultans In the sixteenth century, regional Muslim powers like Nizamshahi, Adilshahi, and Qutubshahi established their rule in the Deccan region. They basically served the Mughal Empire.

Maratha Empire
During the 17th century there was a sudden rise in power of the Maraths who were the Marathi speaking Hindu warriors of the region. The Marathas emerged as a strong power under Shivaji who ruled from 1646 to 1680. Shivaji constantly battled with the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and Adil Shah of Bijapur. In 1680 Shivaji's son Sambhaji Bhosale became the ruler of the Maratha kingdom. He was captured, tortured and brutally put to death by Aurangzeb. Then Sambhaji's son, Shahu Bhosale declared himself to be the legitimate heir to the Bhosale throne. In 1714, Shahu's chief minister (Peshwa) Balaji Vishwanath came to power. Thus Maratha Empire came to an end.

Peshawas
After the fall of Maratha Empire the Peshawas came to throne and ruled during the period 1712 to 1818. Balaji Vishwanath (1712-1721), Bajirao Peshwa (1721-1740), Nanasaheb Peshwa (1740-1761), 'Thorale' Madhaorao Peshwa (1761-1772), Narayanrao Peshwa (1772-1773), 'Sawai' Madhaorao Peshwa (1774-1795) and 'Second' Bajirao Peshwa - 1795 to 1802 were the other important peshawa rulers of Maharashtra.

British Rule
The fall of Ahmednagar fort in 1803 marked the end of Indian rule in Deccan Region. In 1804, General Wellesly proclaimed the Deccan in a state of chaos, established military rule. The Peshwas remained as puppet rulers.At the beginning of the 20th century, the struggle for independence took shape led by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and the moderates like Justice Mahadev Govind Ranade, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, Pherozeshah Mehta and Dadabhai Naoroji. In 1942, the Quit India Movement was called by Mahatma Gandhi which was marked by a non-violent civil disobedience movement and strikes.

Maharashtra at Present
The present state was formed in 1960 with Bombay as the capital, when the Marathi and Gujarati linguistic areas of former Bombay state were separated under the Bombay reorganization Act. Yashwantrao Chavan became the first Chief Minister of Maharashtra.Maharashtra became the main channel of cultural exchange between southern to northern India.

Mumabi is the economic hub of India. It is one of the busiest and most populated cities in India. Mumbai has an assortment of people from various communities. Since the metropolitan is observing modern trends, here people enjoy participating in all festivals irrespective of caste, creed and color. The cultural heritage of Bombay presents a combination of old and new. Marathi is recognized as the official language of the Mumbai city of India. Apart from Marathi, there are many other languages like Hindi and English are widely spoken and understood in Bombay.

Tourism in Maharashtra Maharashtra is situated the north centre of Indian peninsula is bordered by the states of Karnataka, Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra, which derives its name from the Goddess Mumba Devi. The coastal strip along the Arabian Sea, flanked by the hills called Western Ghats on the east is a culturally distinct region called Konkan. Commercially, Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur are the best-developed cities. A visit to Maharashtra will be an enigma for lot of tourist where they would get the opportunity to experience a range of emotions. From the breathtakingly fast life of Mumbai to the more serene interiors the state of Maharashtra should be on every travelers go to list.
The main tourists' attractions are:

Cities of Maharashtra Caves Forts Hill stations Wild Life Parks Temples and Cities The state has numerous small and large cities. Mumbai is the financial hub of India and is also the film capital of India whose film industry is called Bollywood. Life in Mumbai moves at breakneck speed and is still a city of people who have a lot of heart. The city has many iconic landmarks few of which include colonial buildings like the Gateway of India or Victoria Terminus. Other interesting venues include the Nehru Planetarium, Taraporewala Acquarium , Jijamata Udyan, and the Nehru Science Centre. The city has also the commercial aspect of life to it with world class infrastructures like the Taj Mahal and the Oberois that offer great hospitality. Mumbai city has many popular venues for clubbing with a night-life which is very popular with many college students, working youngsters and high profile page three celebrities. The other important cities are Pune, Amravati, Aurangabad, Chandrapur, Jalgaon, Khandala, Kolhlapur, Nagpur, Nashik, Solapur, and Thane. Caves and Forts: There are about 350 forts and hundreds of prehistoric caves in Maharashtra. The remnants of such caves and forts are remarkable evidence of the brave Maratha warriors. Caves of Aurangabad, Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta and Pitalkhora, and forts of Bassein, Daulatabad, Gavilgad, Ghodbunder, Murud - Janjira, Murud - Harnai, Panhala, Raigad, Sinhagad, and Vijaydurg - Sindhudurg must be visited while in a trip to Maharashtra. The Ajantha and Ellora caves in particular are one of the best and most frequented sites and have been there for ages. Hill Stations There are also hill stations like Amboli, Bhandardara, Chikhaldara Hills, Jawhar, Khandala, Lonavala and Karla, Mahabaleshwar, Malshej Ghat, Matheran, Panchgani, Panhala,Toranmal that could be visited during the summer Pilgrimage There are many popular centers of pilgrimage that include Karavir Kshetra, Bhimashankar, Kunkeshwar, Jyotiba, Ghrishneshwar, Pandharpur, Tuljapur, Nashik, ShirdiSidhivinayak Temple, Alandi, Trimbakeshwar, Ashtavinayak Yatra. Culture of Mumbai

Being the land of opportunities, lot of people come to Mumabi in search of jobs. Hence finding accommodation is a very expensive affair compared to the other places in India. Hence its common for people to traveling large distance in order to get to their workplace. And with Mumabi being a very fast paced city you can many times see people hurriedly going about their business. The city is collected well by train and is the most widely used form of transport. In fact rail system is so busy it is actually closed only for a few hours in a day.
Mumbai being a perfect example of a multicultural city celebrated festivals of all religions. One of the most popular festivals in Mumbai is Ganesh Chathurthi. It was popularized by freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Thilak and ever since then the festival is celebrated with great pomp and splendour. There are huge processions with big deities of Lord Ganesha accompanied by singing, dancing and chanting of the famous Ganesha slogan ‘Ganapathi Bappa Moriya’
Music is another very wide cultural fusion here in Bombay. You can be exposed to Indian classical music or marathi folk songs. Then there also other choices that range from jazz, hip hop, pop to the famous music of Bollwood or the Bombay film industry which is the largest film industry in India.
Bollwood is Indias famous film Industry. Bollwood films are characterized by exotic and colourful song and dance routines. Bollywood has always produced many films with high production values and now the films have even started getting noticed globally. Films like Sholay, Hum Apke Hain Kaun, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and many more are some over the evergreen Bollwood classics. Some of the famous Bollwood icons are Amithab Bachan, Sharukh Khan, Rajes Khanna, Aamir Khan Hema Malini, Madhuri Dixit, Aishwarya Rai etc.
Bombay food offers the tourist a lot of choices. Being a fast city, fast food stalls are very popular in Mumbai. One of the most famous take away food items is Vada Pav which is basically a battata sandwiched bread. Other famous items include dabeli , pani puri and bhel puri etc. there are alsomany restaurants that offer a variety of cuisine sand cater to a wide clientele. The tea stalls of the city are very famous where people converge for a cup of tea and conversation with friends. Many of these cafes have been around for many decades and have their own history attached to them.
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HISTORY OF MANIPUR

Manipur has a rich culture that shines in every aspect. It includes martial arts, dance, theater and sculpture. Manipur factually means "A jeweled land." Manipur is located in the northeastern part of India. The capital of this state is Imphal. Manipur is surrounded by Nagaland to the north, Mizoram to the south and Assam to the west; it also borders the country of Myanmar to the east. The border of Manipur is quite sensitive. Foreigners who want to enter Manipur must possess a Restricted Area Permit, which can be obtained from the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office in the "metros" (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata) or certain other state government offices. The prime ethnic groups of this state are the Meiteis, who live in the state's valley region. Their language, Meiteilon (also known as Manipuri), is also the lingua franca in the state, and was recognized as one of India's national languages in 1992. The Kukis and Nagas reside in the hills of the state. The Kukis too have their own monarchy like the Chahsat, Aisan, Jampi, etc. and were close to the Meitei kings in the plain. Leaders of the manipur Naga consider that one day they will unite and can dominate the other Naga.
Manipur became involved in the disputes between Thailand and Burma, and Manipur took advantage of a Burmese incursion of Thailand to raid deep into its western frontier. In 1891, Manipur came under British rule as a significant state. During the Second World War, Manipur faced severe battles between the Japanese and Allied forces. The Japanese were beaten back before they could enter Imphal, and this was the turning points of the battle. After the War, the Manipur Constitution Act, 1947, established a democratic form of government with the Maharaja as the Executive Head and an elected legislature. In 1949, King Prabodhchandra was summoned to Shillong, capital of the Indian province of Assam. He signed a Treaty of Accession, merging the kingdom into India. The legislative assembly was dissolved on the integration of the state with the republic of India in October 1949. Manipur was a union territory from 1956 and later became a developed state in 1972. Maharaja Bhagyachandra, king of Manipur from 1759–98, is a renowned personality in Manipur. He was the originator of the Ras Lila dance. He is also credited with spreading Vaishnavism in Manipur after his grandfather Pamheiba Rajah made Hinduism the official religion and for creating a unified Manipur.
Climate- The climate of Manipur is largely influenced by the geography of this hilly region. Manipur is situated at an elevation of 790 meters above the sea level; the state of It is jammed between hills from all sides. The maximum temperature recorded in the summer months of Manipur is 32 degree Celsius. In winter the mercury often falls to sub zero temperature making it chilly in the wintertime. Snowfall sometimes occurs in some hilly regions due to the Western Disturbance. The coldest month in Manipur is January and July experiences the maximum summer temperature. The perfect time to visit Manipur is from the months of October till February, when the weather remains bright and sunny without the scorch of the sun. The hilly state is wet in rains from the months of May and continues till the middle of October.
Major languages of Manipur are Manipuri, English and Hindi. Meiteilon, the official language of Manipur, has a long history.. English Language is widely spreading as a common language of communication here. There are 29 different dialects spoken in Manipur. 

Culture of Manipur Manipur people are a culturally passionate. They celebrate many festivals and perform many cultural shows in theatres. Theatre in Manipur can be broadly divided, based on their texts, into religious and secular. Gouralila, Sanjenba and Udukhol are seasonal performances commanding spiritual devotions among the audience. Though audience deeply appreciates the religious genre, the torch of theatre is being held up by the secular ones. Among the latter also Shumang lila commands a very wide rustic popularity among the audience though the stage drama still doesn't lack its serene and dignified position mostly because of its community based themes and styles.
Festivals celebrated in Manipur include Ningol Chakouba, Yaoshang, Ramjan ID, Kut, Gan-ngai, Chumpha, Christmas, Cheiraoba, Kang and Heikru Hidongba. Most of these festivals are usually celebrated on the basis of lunar calendar. A social festival of the Meiteis where the women (Ningol) are invited (Chakouba) to a feast at their parental house along with their children. Along with the feast, gifts are given for them as well as the children. This fiesta unites the family relations between the girls married away and the parents. It is held every year mostly during the month of November. Sometimes it falls in October.
Important feature of Yaoshang festival is the Thabal Chongba (Dancing in the Moonlight). The boys from various places will come to the site of the festival and dance with the girls by holding on to their hands and moving in circles. It is celebrated for five days starting from the full moon of Phalguna (February/March). Another community comprising of the Kukis, the Nagas, the Tangkhuls, the Marings in Manipur are all Christians and rejoice Christmas for two days with prayers, reading of gospels, eating, singing of hymns, lectures on Christ, sports etc. It is usually observed on December 24 and 25.The Kuki is the second largest people in population of Manipur. Gaan-Ngai is the best festival of the Zeliangrong people. It is celebrated in five days and is usually performed on the 13th day of the Meitei month of Wakching as per the Meitei Calendar of the lunar year. This festival symbolizes the beginning of the harvest season and is celebrated with folk songs and cultural dance contributing to Almighty (Tingkao Ragwang). The Manipuri Muslims observed Ramjan ID in the very spirits of joy and festivities as in other Muslim world. To celebrate Cheiraoching Kaba, the people of Manipur clean and decorate their houses and make a sumptuous variety of dishes to buffet upon after offering the food to the deity on this day. After the feast, people climb the nearest hill tops (Cheiraoching Kaba) because it is believed that it would shine them to greater heights in their sophisticated life. It is observed during the month of April. Ras Lila is an important classical form of Manipuri dance which is based on the theme of Lord Krishna and his beloved, Radha love story and the devotion of the Gopis towards Lord Krishna. This elegant and slow movement of the dance is one of the most highly praised classical dances of India. The costume of this dance is that depicts exquisiteness of the art.
Tourism in ManipurCultural celebration and greenery of this state is an attraction of tourists. The stunning and seasonal Siroi Lily at Ukhrul (district), Sangai (Brow antlered deer) and the floating islands at Loktak Lake are great attractions Manipur. Polo game is gift of Manipur. Major tourist aplaces are Keibul Lamjao National Park, Sangai at Keibul Lamjao National ParkKeibul Lamjao National Park. In Loktak Lake, most of the people of Manipur get their share of fish meat. Shree Govindajee temple is the premiere temple in Manipur and it adjoins the palaces of the former rulers of the state. Other places for tourists are war cemeteries. These war centuries are formed in honor the memories of the British and Indian soldiers who died during the Second World War. "Lai Haraoba” is held each year. In the month of May, men and women, dressed in colorful traditional costumes, sing and dance in honor of the Lord at the Moirang. Bird's eye view of Floating Cafe' on Loktak Lake from Sendra Hill48 km from Imphal, lies the largest fresh water lake in the North East India, the Loktak Lake, a veritable miniature inland sea.
Manipur is traditionally and historically wealthy state. In the field of Art and Culture, the State is best represented by its classical and folk dance forms.

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History of Punjab

History of Punjab is very versatile, as it had been subjected to different invasions. History speaks volumes of valour, courage and bravery of the people of Punjab. Early studies prove that Punjab included much of the present region of Pakistan. The history of Punjab has undergone turbulent changes as a result of many invasions.Punjab has its earliest reference in the Indus Valley civilization. Rig-veda, one of the early texts has references to the province of Punjab. Kambojas, Kaikeyas, Madras, Pauravas, Yandheyas were referred to as brave clans of Punjab.One of the earliest invasions was that of Persia in the year 558 BC by king Cyrus. Persian invasion had introduced several changes in the socio-economic arena. Alexander with his huge army from Greece invaded the province of Punjab. Although Alexander was a great warrior, he found it difficult to combat with Punjab warriors. In the year 322 BC, Mauryan Empire under ChandraGupta Maurya established its hold over this region. Buddhism prevailed under Asoka’s rule. The Mauryan Empire was succeeded by Sakas in 125 BC. Sakas were prominent rulers of the province having a great impact on the social set-up of the society.
                Many dynasties followed the Sakas, but did not rise to importance. In 45 CE Kushanas came to power in Punjab. Muslim invasions followed the Kushana dynasty. These invasions brought in a lot of unrest among the people. The Mid 9^th century saw the rule of Hindu Shahi dynasty. In 1206, Quitb-ud-din Aibak formed the Sultanate of Delhi which extended up to Punjab. After the Slave dynasty many invasions followed. People were unhappy and there was religious turmoil until Sikhism evolved. Guru Nanak Sahib preached oneness putting an en   d to many discords.Maharaja Ranjit Singh an ardent follower of Sikhism proved to be a promising leader in all aspects. At the request of people of Lahore, he invaded Lahore. Ranjit Singh’s kingdom extended from Sutlej in the east to Peshawar in the west. His successors governed Punjab until the British laid its hands on it in the year 1848. Punjab proved very alluring to the British.British rule brought in lot of unrest in the province among religious sects. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919 was the ultimatum. People rose against the British governance. Prominent freedom fighters included Bhagat Singh, Lala Lajpat Rai, Udham Singh. When India achieved freedom from the British, Punjab was formally partitioned . Though large areas has been partitioned into Pakistan, Punjab has emerged as the “Golden State of India” over the years.Punjab despite its turbulent history has emerged as true winner in all arenas.
Culture of Punjab

Punjab the “Golden State” of India has a rich and vivacious culture. Versatility is the keyword of its legacy. Vibrant are the colours of Punjabi culture. Rich cultural heritage of Punjab can be classified under: Artsand Crafts, Music and Dance, Festivals, Cuisine and Attire.
Arts and Crafts:Punjabis are renowned for their utmost interest in arts and crafts. Women used to weave wollen attire for everybody in the family. “Phulkari” is recognized worldwide for its intricate work. Shawls in silk are carefully hand-woven using traditional motifs as designs. Other famous crafts of the region include lacquer work, wooden work, Calico painting, paper mache` and many more. Wooden furniture is beautifully crafted by artisans with exquisite craftsmanship. Venetian lanterns known as “Fanoos” by Muslim artisans are a great display of craftsmanship.
Music and Dance:Music and Dance is the vein of Punjabi culture. Punjabis give importance to music and dance, never neglected at any occasion. Traditional music and dance has been engrained in its folk form. “Bhangra” is one of the most famous dance forms of Punjab. With the loud drumming of the dholak, people dance with zeal to the tunes of the music. “Giddha” is another important variant of dance practiced by Punjabi women. Bolis are lyrically sung and danced by women. Other popular dance forms are Jhumar, Dhankara and Gatka. Irrespective of age or religion, Punjabis love to dance and enjoy themselves to mark festivity. Folk music is the soul of Punjabi culture. Folk music comprises of simple musical instruments like dholak and dhol drum. Punjabi music relates to the zestful people of Punjab. Bhangra is a popular music form of Punjab. Boliyas are sung and music is played in tune with the lyrics.
Festivals:Festivals of Punjab mark fervour and happiness. Every festival is marked with music bringing the family together. Some of the major festivals are Lohri, Baisakhi, Holla Muhalla, Guru Nanak Jayanthi and Maghi. Lohri is celebrated as harvest festival on the solar equinox when the sun moves to Uttarayan position, by burning huge bonfires. Baisakhi is another important festival marked with the birth of Khalsa. This is celebrated in the month of April, as three days celebration. Holla Mohalla (Holi) is celebrated with great fervour using colours to mark the onset of spring season. Guru Nanak Jayanthi: birthday of Guru Nanak Sahib is celebrated on Karthik Purnima, with utmost devotion by the whole Sikh community.
Cuisine:Punjab is renowned worldwide for its extensive range of delicacies. Cuisine deals with generous spread of chaats, stuffed paranthas, vegetarian and non-veg dishes and desserts. Makki ki roti and Sarson di saag are trademarks of Punjabi cuisine. Dishes are flavoured using extensive spread of spices. Rotis made of wheat flour, corn flour, bajra are a true delicacy of Punjab. Punjabi cuisine is extensive and lavish. Extensive use of butter and ghee make the dishes rich in taste and calories too. Lassi is an all time favourite.
Attire:The traditional attire of people is Kurta-pyjama with turban for men. Women prefer Patiala suits as part of their traditional attire. However, the younger generation prefers trendy attire as per the fashion scenario. The NRI population has been a major influece regarding attire of the Punjabis.

Economy of Punjab
Punjab’s economy is mainly agrarian. The economy of Punjab has shown a growing trend post-independence.The state is working towards high industrial output as a measure of progressive changes taken by the Government. Punjab’s economy is influenced by Agriculture, Industries and Power on a large scale.
Agriculture: Punjab is widely acknowledged as the “Granary of India”. Since the land is fertile and free from physical handicaps, agriculture is very profitable in the state. Agriculture is carried out using tube and canal irrigation. Punjab receives scanty rainfall, but rivers in the region provide respite. Cultivation is either Rabi (Spring harvest) or Kharif (Autumn harvest) based. Punjab is India’s largest producer of barley. Major crops include wheat, rice, sugarcane and cotton. Fodder crops like jowar and bajra are cultivated to a large extent. Oilseed production has a prominent role to play in the state's economy.
Industries: Punjab is not self sufficient in its availability of minerals. Industries are mainly agro based. Industrial growth in recent years has been a major contributor to the state’s economy. Excellent connectivity by road, rail and air has paved way for industrial progression. Prime industries are Cotton textile, Sugar, Dairy, Sports goods, Hosiery and Engineering goods. As Punjab is a major producer of cotton in the country, Cotton textile industry has reached massivegrowth. Sugar industries in the state are mainly run by the co-operative sectors in the state. Dairy and its products are produced on a large scale. Most of the dairy consumption is by the household sector. Fodder industry has gained importance due to large presence of livestock. Oilseeds for fodder have great demand. Jalandhar is renowned for the production and export of Sports goods.Engineered goods like Bicycles, Tractors are manufactured on a large scale. Hosiery in particular, is contributing towards a great input of foreign exchange.
Power: Punjab is not only self-sufficient but because of its surplus power production, provides power to its neighbouring states also. The state has both Thermal and Hydro-Electric power projects as its sources. Punjab is home to major rivers like Sutlej, which provides the back up. Major power projects are Bhakra-Nangal power project, Guru Nanak Power project and Ropar Power project.  

Tourism in Punjab Punjab, the land of five rivers and integrated cultural history, is a treasure trove for an avid tourist. The state of Punjab shares its borders on the west with Pakistan, on the north with Jammu and Kashmir, on the northeast with Himachal Pradesh and on the south with Haryana and Rajasthan. Sutlej and Beas are the main rivers of the state. Punjab can be geographically divided into two regions: the low hills of Shivalik in the north and the plain between Sutlej and Ghaggar rivers. Punjab tourism thus has plenty to offer tourists from all across the world.
Punjab has many places that will be interesting destination for the tourist. On the iconic landmarks of Punjab is the Golden temple of Amritsar which is considered to be the holiest of all the pilgrimages of Sikhism and houses Akal Takht, the supreme governing body of Sikhism.
Wagah Border: is the only open land point between India and Pakistan. The Changing of Guards and the ceremonial lowering of the flags ceremony at sundown are great tourist attractions and attracts great crowds.
Ludhiana: will prove to be a shoppers delight has a number of fine shopping malls which is famous for its hosiery and woolen goods and other products from the city.
Jallianwala Bagh: is a place of historical significance. It is a memorial site for those who served for the cause of freedom of the country. There are still some bullet holes on the walls of this scenic ancient garden.
Jalandhar: is famous for being a center of sports, particularly hockey, in India and is a leading center for the production of sports goods in the world.
Chandigarh: This city has a unique status which serves as a capital for two cities Punjab and Haryana. The city is divided into various sectors, making navigation very easy. The city provides for a smooth stop over point from New Delhi to the interiors of Punjab. Bus, train and roads are the easy way to travel around in the state of Punjab.
Sukhna Lake:
Spread over three square kilometers on the northern border of the city, it is a beautiful man-made lake. This place can serve as a nice get away from the rigours of life. It is also a favoured spot for ardent bird watchers as sizeable population of a variety of birds drop in here during the winter months from Central Asia and Siberia.
Patiala is famous for its healthy food, loving people, wonderful parandaas, exciting Patiala peg and footwear. The people are very warm and welcoming and like to have a lot of fun with their near and like to celebrate the spirit of life.
Punjabi wedding traditions and ceremonies are also wonderful to attend. With a strong reflection of Punjabi culture, it also attracts many tourists from all over the world. Apart from that, Punjab also gives you magnificent places and breathtaking views to enjoy a wide variety of places and activities thus making itself as one of the major hubs of Indian tourism
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HISTORY OF RAJASTHAN

About Rajasthan Rajasthan is one of the driest regions in India even though the whole of it is not desert. Apart from the hills of the Aravali range, temperature in most other parts of the state reaches the 40°C mark during the summer months. Winters are mild in Rajasthan with the temperatures ranging between 22°C and 8°C.
Festivals of Rajasthan
Rajasthan has all the usual Hindu and Muslim festivals, some celebrated with special local fervor as well as a number of festivals of its own. The exact dates, determined by the lunar calendar have specific religious significance. Major festivals in the state are Camel Festival at Bikaner in January, Nagaur Fair in January - February; Desert Festival of Jaisalmer in February; Elephant Festival Jaipur; Gangaur Festival celebrated all over the state in March - April; Mewar Festival in Udaipur; Urs in Ajmer Sharif; Teej in the months of August; Marwar Festival at Jodhpur in October; and Camel and Cattle Fair of Pushkar in November.

TO MORE ABOUT RAJASTHAN CLICK HERE
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HISTORY OF TAMIL NADU

Tamilnadu is a picturesque land known for its beauty spread so lavishly. It is a window to the modern South India as much as it is a wide open archive of ancient legacies. It is the land that has seen the rise and fall of many an ancient kingdom viz., the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Cheras, the Pallavas and many others, each leaving behind incredible cultural treasures. The states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka merge in a lovely cluster of hills called the Nilgiris or Blue Mountains.
The music and dance of Tamil Nadu originated in the temples. Different groups of people were appointed to sing divine songs in the temples. Officers called Thevara Nayakams or leaders of the world of music, arranged the private worship of kings and group singing. Tamilnadu has produced some great musicians like the Indian musical maestro of the 18th century, Tyagaraja. The main instruments used are the violin, wooden flute, veena, gottuvadayam, mridangam, nagaswaram and ghatam. Bharat Natyam is probably the best known and one of the most respected classical dances of India and is Tamilnadu's gift to Indian culture.
Pongal festival, Jallikattu-Bull fight in January; Chitthiraj festival, Mamallapuram dance festival, Chidambaram dance festival, Mahamagam festival in Kumbakonam, Arubathimoovar festival at Chennai, Summer festival in Ooty; Kanthuri festival, Kavaddi festival on Palani Hills, Velankanni festival, Navarathri, Karthigai Deepam or Festival of Lights, Music festival in Chennai during December are the major festivals.

Tourism in Tamil NaduChennai, (formerly known as Madras) is the state's capital. Chennai is the largest city in South India and the fourth largest city in the country. It is located on the Coromandel Coast. Fort St. George & St. Mary's Church, Gandhi Mandapam, Anna Square, Kapaleeswara Temple, Light House, Marina Beach & Aquarium, Parthasarathy Temple, SanThome Cathedral, Snake Park, Theosophical Society, Valluvar Kottam, Ripon Buildings and War Memorial Fort Museum and Govt. Museum & Art Gallery are the prime Tourist attractions.
Rameswaram Rameshwaram is a temple town and a sacred place for Hindus. According to the Ramayana, this is the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva, to absolve himself of the sin of killing Ravana. Every nook and corner of Rameswaram, is steeped in episodes from the Ramayana. Rameswaram is the Varanasi of the south, and is a major pilgrimage centre for Vaishnavites and Shaivites. The important place to visit are Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agnitheertham and Gandamadana Parvatham .
Kodaikanal Located atop the Pali Hills, Kodaikanal is an idyllic retreat. Apart from being a much sought after tourist resort, it is also famous for its well known educational institutions. Other natural attractions are a star-shaped lake, Bryant Park -- famous for its rare collection of flowers, graftings and hybrids -- the venue of great horticultural shows, held every year in Mayand, Kurinji Andavar temple -- dedicated to Lord Murugan - provides view of the lofty hills. Some of the popular picnic spots in the resort are the Green Valley View, Pillar Rocks, and Bear Shola Falls. It is also famous for its amazing orchid collection at the Shenbaganur Museum, the rare bloom of the highly elusive Kurinji flower, which blossoms only once in 12 years and a Soalar Physical Laboratory, which is the only one in the country of its category.
Kanchipuram Kanchipuram, the Golden City of a thousand temples, and one of the seven sacred cities of India, is 71 km from Madras. It was the capital of the Pallavas, the Cholas and the Rayas of Vijayanagar. Handwoven silk fabrics of the city, especially Kanjeevaram Sarees are famous. The main attractions of the city are Sakkiswarar Temple and Vaikuntha Perumal Temple.
Kanyakumari At the southernmost tip of India, where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet, lies Kanyakumari, an important pilgrimage destination. The Kumari Amman temple, here, is dedicated to Parvati as Devi - Kanya - the virgin goddess who did penance to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva. Two rocks reach out of the ocean, south-east of the Kumari Amman temple. One of these is Sri Padaparai, where the footprints of the virgin goddess are to be seen. On this rock, Swami Vivekananda is said to have sat in deep meditation; and here stands the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, built in 1970. Vattakottai (Circular Fort), Suchindram (13km), Udayagiri Fort (34 km) are the other tourist sites near Kanyakumari.
Mahabalipuram World famous for its shore temples, Mahabalipuram was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram. 58 kilometers from Madras on the Bay of Bengal, this tiny sea side village of Mahabalipuram, is set in a boulder strewn landscape. Tourists are drawn to this place by its miles of unspoiled beach and rock-cut art. Mahabalipuram art is divided into four categories: open air bas relief, structured temples, man-made caves and rathas. The famous Arjuna's Penance and the Krishna Mandapa, adorn massive rocks near the centre of the village.
Tanjavur or Tanjore The rice bowl of Tamil Nadu, Tanjavur, is a bustling country town, 55 km east of Trichy. Thanjavur rose to glory, during the later Chola reign, between the 10th and 14th centuries, and became a centre of learning and culture. It is well known for its traditional handicrafts - art plates, bell metal castings, silk carpets, pith work, bronze icons, and classical Indian musical instruments and most of all for the gold plated Tanjore paintings of gods and goddesses. Sri Brihadisvara Temple and Tanjavur Palace are the two important must to visit places.
Dhanushkodi Dhanushkodi, at the eastern end of the island, is located 8 km away from Rameswaram. It was completely washed away by the sea, in the 1964 cyclone. The only surviving relic of the past is the Kothandaramaswamy temple.
Trichy Tiruchirapalli, more commonly referred to as Trichy, lies 320 km to the south of Chennai, on the banks of the Cauvery. The Rock Fort Temple, Srirangam (Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple), Jambukeshwara temple and St. John's Church are the main site worth for visiting.
Madurai Madurai is one of the oldest cities of south India. It has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage. Madurai's history dates back to over 2000 years ago, when it was the capital of the Pandyan kings. The main attraction of the city is the Meenakshi Amman Temple. About a kilometer away from the temple is the Tirumalai Nayak Palace, Gandhi Museum [provides some of the little - known facts about Mahatma Gandhi]. It has the blood-stained dhoti worn by Mahatma Gandhi, at the time of his assassination and Mariamman Teppakkulam Tank. Madurai also became the cultural centre of the Tamil people.
Ooty Ooty, the queen of hill stations, is at the junction of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. It was founded by the British, in the early part of the 19th century, to serve as the summer headquarters for the government of Madras. Before that the area was inhabited by some tribal people namely Todas. It spreads over 36 square miles, and the temperature ranges from 25 degree Celsius in summers, to near freezing temperatures in winters, stands 7,349 feet above sea level in the Nilgiris. The most popular attractions of Ooty are the Ooty lake, the Botanical Gardens, Charing Cross, Ootacmund Club and Ooty races.
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History of Tripura

The history of Tripura is divides into two distinct periods. The first is traditional, legendary period described in the Rajamala, a chronicle of the supposed early kings (maharajas) of Tripura, and the second period since about 1431–62, the supremacy of the great king Dharma Manikya. The Rajamala, written in Bengali verse, was written by the Brahmans in the court of Dharma Manikya. The State of Tripura was considered as a generous state and the last king ruled in this state was Maharaja Birbikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur. After his death in 1947, a Council under the leadership of his widowed wife Maharani Kanchan Prabha Devi took over the charge of the administration on behalf of minor prince Kirit Bikram. The kingdom came to an end on 9th Sept, 1947 and Tripura was combined with the Indian Union as a part 'C' State, administered by the Chief Commissioner. Tripura became a Union Territory on 1st November 1956.
The territorial council was formed on 15th August 1959, which was later dissolved and a Legislative Assembly with a council of ministers was formed in July, 1963. Tripura became an independent state in 1972. On 1st September 1970, Tripura was divided into 3 (three) districts, namely, North Tripura, South Tripura and West Tripura. Later the fourth district called Dhalai was created which started functioning from 16th April,1995.
Historical facts signify that all though Tripura was occupied by force of arms in 1761, Political agents were not appointed in the State till 1871. It was an independent administrative unit under the Maharaja even during the British rule in India though this independence was qualified, being subject to the recognition of the British, as the paramount power, of each successive ruler.
Culture of TripuraTripura has affluent cultural tradition which include19 different tribal communities, Bengali and Manipuri communities. Each community performed unique dance forms which are famous in the country. The main folk dances are Hozagiri dance of Reang community, Garia , Jhum, Maimita, Masak Sumani and Lebang boomani dances of Tripuri community, Bizu dance of Chakma community, Cheraw and Welcome dances of Lusai community, Hai-Hak dance of Malsum community, Wangala dance of Garo Community, Sangraiaka, Chimithang, Padisha and abhangma dances of Mog community, Garia dances of Kalai and Jamatia communities, Gajan, Dhamail, Sari and Rabindra dances of Bengali community and Basanta Rash and Pung chalam dances of Manipuri community. It is to note that each community has its own traditional musical instruments. The important musical instruments are' Khamb( Drum)', Bamboo flute, 'Lebang,', 'Sarinda', 'Do- Tara', and 'Khengrong', etc.
Many famous musicians such as Sachin Dev Barman and Rahul Dev Barman belonged to this state. There are exceptional variety of handicrafts using bamboo and cane made by different ethnic groups gain reputation throughout the country. The most well-known handicraft products are Room Divider, Decorated wall panels, Attractive furniture of cane , different decorative pieces using Bamboo roots, Bamboo Dining table mats, Floor mats and various other gift items. The talented artisans produce superb objects of crafts from simple material like cane, bamboo & wood. Three different cultures Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam have joined together to give shape and content to a exceptional tradition that found fluent expression through great work of art & crafts which are made out of very simple materials like cane, bamboo, clay, wood, palm leaf etc. Ass the time passed, the demographic character of the state has been changed.
In each period of history, Tripura has revealed extraordinary inner strength of assimilation of synthesis, while retaining her own traditional heritage. Manipuri and Bengali artisans who came afterward to settle in this state produced highly traditional unique tribal motifs through their skills. Cane & Bamboo products leave a distinct impression on customer. Today highly skilled artisans are involved in producing of a wide range of more than 200 exquisite products. Presently, more than10, 000 skilled artisans are busy in production of various handicrafts in the state. Though there is a need to organize the industry in order to build up a proper production base capable of fulfilling the market requirements and to introduce the modern techniques. The state government has already taken effective steps to grow, both in domestic as well as international markets by identifying the potential of the industry. Handicrafts made in Tripura are also being exported to various countries.
For interior decoration Tripura Handicrafts offer a wide range of false ceilings, paneling, plaques, Pot containers (Planters) etc. made of Gossamer thin bamboo mattress. The household items have blended utility with artistic beauty. Panels and partitions provide another wide range of utility items made out of solid bamboo pasted on plywood. Lamp shades made of fine strips of cane & bamboo adds beauty to the living room. Furniture of Tripura once fashionable to royal palaces still has its distinction and exquisite workmanship. Varieities of baskets and baskets with divisions are being used for making gift packages with some traditional artistic touches by the consumers. There is huge demand of mat and mat articles, bamboo chatai in the market. There are different types of roll mats weaved in multicolored designs which are familiar for making door & window screen, and also have various uses for room decoration. Ladies bags, Hand fans, Portfolio bag (for seminar) are the most popular items. Bamboo and cane Ornaments are also very traditional and beautiful in nature. These are unique to this state as Bamboo and cane ornaments are not available in the country and whole world.
 Tourism in Tripura
Located in the northeast of India, the small state of Tripura is surrounded on the north, west and south by Bangladesh, with Assam and Mizoram to its east. The state consists of low hills, going up to about 3000 feet, and plains, where most of the population lives.
A tour to Tripura is sure to be a very exciting prospect because of its ethnic cultural diversity, its earthly beauty, places of worship, museums and palaces. Tourist attractions have increased by many folds over past few years.
Popular tourist spots
Agartala: This is the capital of the state and is on the banks of the Haora river. The city is famous for its people, temples and palaces. Some of the interesting places to visit include Benuban Bihar, Gedu Mian Mosque, Kunjaban Palace, Jagannath Temple, Sukanta Academy, Laxminarayan Temple, Portuguese Church and Puratan Agartala.
Pilak: Dating back to 8th and 9th centuries it is a treasure house of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures. Beautiful images of terracotta plaques and sealings give a fascinating glimpse into history.
Deotamura: This site is remarkable for the rock cut reliquary having antediluvian idols of Shiva, Ganesh, Vishnu, Kartikeya, Mahishasur Mardini Durga and other gods and goddesses carved out of stone. The large images carved on vertical rocks are immensely beautiful.
Jampui Hill: It is home of eternal springs, beautiful land scapes. The hill ranges shelters Mizo and Reango tribes. The place has many varieties of orchids and is a pleasure to visit.
Neermahal Palace: This water - palace built on RudraSagar Lake is a royal Palace with influence of Hindu and Mughal architecture.
Ujjayanta Palace: Built by Radhakishore Manikya Bahadur in190, this Mughal and Indo Greek styled palace is located in the heart of city.
Wildlife of Tripura
The state of Tripura is blessed with exotic wild life and national parks. Some of the popular parks are Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and Gondacherra Wild Life Sanctuary
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History of Uttaranchal

Uttaranchal finds mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as Kedarkhand, Manakhand and Himavat. The Kushanas, Kudinas, Kanishka, Samudra, Gupta, the Pauravas, Katuris, Palas, the Chandras and Pawaras and the British have ruled in turns. It is often called the Land of the Gods (Dev Bhoomi) because of its various holy places and shrines. The hilly regions of Uttaranchal offer unspoilt landscapes to the tourist -pilgrim. The present state of Uttaranchal was earlier a part of the United Province of Agra and Awadh, which came into existence in 1902. In 1935, the name of the state was shortened to the United Province. In January 1950, the United Province was renamed, as Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal remained a part of Uttar Pradesh before it came into being on 9 November 2000, the 27th state of India.
The traditional name of Garhwal was Uttarakhand and some archeologists found evidence which shows that it was part of the Mauryan Empire. The history of Uttaranchal began in the 15th century, when Emperor Ajai Pal merged the 52 principalities into his unified kingdom. Srinagar was the capital of Garhwal during that time. Medieval history of Kumaon carved the history of Katyuri Dynasty. Brijnath, a small town near Almora, was the capital during Katyuri Dynasty. At that time, it was also a major center for arts.
Nainital one of the most beautiful cities of the state, depicts the history of Uttaranchal. According to ancient belief, When Goddess Parvati died, parts of her corpse fell on Earth. Nainital was the place where one her eyes fell and formed a large crater, which is now known as Naini Lake. There are many temples, monuments and places situated in Uttaranchal which reflect the rich history of uttaranchal.
Culture of UttaranchalUttaranchal has a cultured and colourful society. The religious, social and cultural urges of the people of Uttaranchal find an expression in various fairs and festivals, which are in turn closely linked to the social and economic activities of the region. Known as Garhwali or Kumaoni, the people of Uttaranchal take pride in their origin, separating themselves with the rest of the people of India by the term “pahari”, meaning the “people of the mountains”. Almost 90% of the population of Uttaranchal is Hindus, with some of the major centers of Hinduism in India being located in the Uttaranchal.
Kumbh Mela and the Ardh Kumbh Mela which are held in Haridwar after an interval of 6 and 12 years are one of the most important Uttaranchal fairs and are famous the world over. Besides these, a number of other fairs are held in the state as well.
The main language used in Uttaranchal is the language of Garhwali and is widely used in its colloquial form almost all around the state of Uttaranchal. Almost each part of the state has a special dialect of the language of Garhwali, a trait which can be best illuminated by the various songs and verses of the locals Folk songs form an integral part of the colorful culture of Uttaranchal. Chhopati are love songs sung as questions and answers between men and women. Chounphula and Jhumeila are sung from the time of Basant Panchami that stretches till Sankranti or Baisakhi. Basanti folk songs in Uttaranchal are sung to welcome the Spring season. Mangal songs are marriage songs. Jaggar are devotional songs to God. Bajuband are conversational songs between men and women in the shepherds’ community. Khuded are songs sung when a wife parts with her husband. The Chhura folk songs of Uttaranchal, which are very popular amongst shepherds, are meant to teach trade tricks to a shepherd.
Another interesting part of the culture of Uttaranchal is its folk dances. The Bhotiya dance is performed by the Bhotia community during death ceremonies. The Barada Nati folk dance is performed by men and women attired in colorful costumes during special occasions and religious festivals. The Pandava dance, performed during Dussehra and Deepawali, portrays tales from Mahabharata. The Langvir is an acrobatic folk dance of Uttaranchal performed by men.
Kumaonese culture is strongly patriarchal and based on the foundation that men are superior to women. Women are given due respect and they are allowed to work right beside men in fields and forests, but men are dominating. Society is based on the large extended family with the eldest male as its head.
Polygamy is generally accepted but polyandry is strictly prohibited. Another practice viewed as old-fashioned in most of India still finds general approval in Kumaon. In direct violation of the law, the practice of child marriage still persists.

Economy of UttaranchalUttaranchal’s 90 per cent of the population depends on agriculture. The net cultivated area in the State is 12,61,915 hectares. The State is rich in mineral depositys like limestone, rock phosphate, dolomite, magnesite, copper greyphyte, soap stone, gypsum, etc. Most of the industries in the state are forest-based. The State has excellent potential for hydropower generation. There are a number of hydro-electric projects on the rivers Yamuna, Bhagirathi, Ganga, Ramganga and Sharda, generating electricity. Out of 15,669 villages, 12,315 villages have been electrified. It is estimated that about 75% of the state lives on subsistence agriculture, and 70% of the state population is below the poverty line.
The state of Uttaranchal has tremendous potential of developing tourism industry due to the beautiful landscape, religious places, trekking trails, national parks, mountain peaks and historical and archeological sites. Most of the rural population is engaged in agriculture. Doon Valley, Nainital district, Udham Singh Nagar and Haridwar districts produce large quantities of food grains. The state has immense potential for the development of horticulture crops. Apple, orange, malta, pear, grapes, peach, plum, appricot, litchi, mango, guava are widely produced fruits. The region also promises a good future to the developing herbal pharmaceutical industry owing to the abundance of medicinal plants. Due to its water resources, the state has the capacity to generate many mega watts of power. There are 17 hydro-electric projects and various power projects including Tehri Dam, which has recently been constructed in the Tehri-Garhwal region.
Uttaranchal is a beautiful place lying in the lap of the mighty Himalayas. It comprised of two regions, the western half known as Garhwal and the eastern region going by the name of Kumaon, the two having different chieftains in history and different lingual and cultural influences due to proximity and neighbourhood of different cultures. Inseparable and complementary nature of their geography, economy, culture, language and traditions, however, have formed strong bondages between the two regions. The place is bless with nature, you can find so many gorgeous landscaping, enchanting rivers, magnificent countryside, exotic hill stations a and honest and hospitable people.
Location - Uttaranchal became the 28th state of the Republic of India on November 9, 2000. Uttaranchal is attached with China in the north and Nepal to the east, and it shares it boundaries with Himachal Pradesh in the west and Uttar Pradesh in the south. In past this state was a part of Uttar Pradesh. The region is traditionally referred to as Uttarakhand in old literature and scriptures which derives from the Sanskrit for North Country.
The provisional capital of Uttaranchal is Dehra Dun which is also a rail-head and the largest city in the region. The small hamlet of Gairsen has been mooted as the future capital owing to its geographic centrality but controversies and lack of resources have led Dehra Dun to be the provisional capital. The High Court of the state is in Nainital. Uttaranchal is a region of outstanding natural beauty. Most of the northern parts of the state are part of Greater Himalaya ranges, covered by the high Himalayan peaks and glaciers, while the lower foothills were densely forested till denuded by the British log merchants and forest contractors after independence. Recent efforts in forestation, however, have been successful in restoring the situation to some extent. The unique Himalayan ecosystem plays host to a large number of animals (including bharal, snow leopards, leopards and tigers), plants and rare herbs. Two of India's mightiest rivers, the Ganga and the Yamuna take birth in the glaciers of Uttaranchal, and are fed by myriad lakes, glacial melts and streams in the region.
Tourism industry is the back bone of Uttaranchal's economy. Corbett National Park and Tiger Reserve and the nearby hill-stations like Nainital and Bhimtal and several other hill-stations such as Mussoorie, Almora and Ranikhet being among the most frequented destinations of India.
To this region also belong some of the holiest Hindu shrines, and for almost 2000 years now, pilgrims have been visiting the temples at Haridwar, Badrinath, Kedarnath and Jageshwar in the hope of salvation and purification from sin. Rishikesh near Haridwar has the major spiritual and yoga centers of India. Gangotri and Yamunotri, the sources of the Ganges and Yamuna also fall in this region and are revered by many. Besides these most popular pilgrim centers, the state has an abundance of temples and shrines, references to most of which can be found in Hindu scriptures and legends. The architecture of most of these temples is typical of the region and slightly different from other parts of India, the ancient temples at Jageshwar being the most popular for their architectural importance.
Recent developments in the region include initiatives by the state government to capitalise on the burgeoning tourist trade as well as tax incentives to lure high-tech industry to the state. The state also has big-dam projects, controversial and often criticised in India, such as the very large Tehri dam on the Bhagirathi-Bhilangana rivers, conceived in 1953 and about to to reach completion. 

Tourism and adventure Sports activities in UttaranchalA picturesque state, with a breathtaking panoramic view of Himalayas, Uttaranchal promises its tourists a visit full of fun and unforgettable moments. The tourism industry is a major contributor to the economy of Uttaranchal, with the Corbett National Park and Tiger Reserve and the nearby hill-stations of Nainital and Bhimtal and several other hill-stations like Mussoorie, Almora and Ranikhet being among the most frequented destinations of India.
Tourists from different parts of world visit Uttaranchal to enjoy sports like Skiing and Trekking.The slopes of Garhwal and Kumaon covered with seasonal snow become the perfect place for skiing in the winters. The main sites for skiing in Uttaranchal are Auli, Dayara Bugyal, Mundali and Munsyari.
River Rafting, also called White water rafting,is very popular in Uttaranchal. Uttaranchal is comprised of two regions, the western half known as Garhwal and eastern half as Kumaon The Ganga and its tributaries such as Bhagirathi, Alakananda and Mandakini, offer one of the most popular and daring river rafting expeditions in the country. Jungle Safaris are quite popular in this state
Uttaranchal is gifted with thick forests and jungles across the state. Jim Corbett National Park, Rajaji National Park and Nandadevi Wildlife Sanctuary are the three largest sanctuaries of Uttaranchal. Uttaranchal with its many snow covered peaks is an excellent destination for trekkers. Golf is also a major tourist attraction in Uttaranchal. The golf course around Upat in Ranikhet, is a 9 hole golf course. It is set amidst the fruit orchards of Ranikhet and has a splendid view.
Uttaranchal’s land blessed with magnificent glaciers, majestic snow-clad mountains, gigantic and ecstatic peaks, valley of flowers, skiing slopes and dense forests, this Abode of Gods includes many shrines and places of pilgrimage. Char-dhams, the four most sacred and revered Hindu temples: Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri are nestled in the Mighty Mountains and pilgrims have been visiting these temples for the past 2000 years now.
Rishikesh near Haridwar has many spiritual and yoga centers. Gangotri and Yamunotri, the sources of the Ganges and Yamuna also fall in this region and are revered by many. Besides these most popular pilgrim centers, the state has an abundance of temples and shrines, references to most of which can be found in Hindu scriptures and legends. The architecture of most of these temples is typical of the region and slightly different from other parts of India, the ancient temples at Jageshwar being the most popular for their architectural importance.
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History of Uttar Pradesh

History of Uttar Pradesh describes the lifestyle of the present people. It starts with the arrival of Aryans hordes from Central Asian region around 2000 B.C when Aryans settled along the Doab of Ganges and Ghagra. This settlement, which was predominantly rural in nature, was named "Madhyadesh" i.e. 'Central Country'. Various Vedic era monarchies ruled in Uttar Pradesh. The most famous was Kosala that was ruled by King Dasaratha and his successor Ram. They later became the character of epic called Ramayana. Another epic, Mahabharata, also describes about kings who ruled in and around modern Uttar Pradesh and were participant in the war of succession between Kaurvas and Pandavas. In the middle of 1st millennium B.C, there was a dominance of Lord Buddha and Buddhism. In that period, Magadh dynasty ruled in Uttar Pradesh. After that Nanda dynasty and o Mauryan ruled. In the post-Christ era, Kannauj became the center of power. Various rulers ruled from this city but it was during the supremacy of Harshavardhana that the city raised to its peak. In Medieval period, of Muslim rule is dominated in Uttar Pradesh. The era saw the ruin and dishonor of Rajput rule in Uttar Pradesh and their influence was largely confined to the pockets surrounding the Rajputana strongholds of Rajasthan. During the reign of Mughal, Emperor Akbar touched the height of success. He made Fatehpur Sikri as his capital cities. In the Mogul reign, emperor constructed the magnificent monuments in Uttar Pradesh. The era also observed as the development of unique art, crafts and culinary traditions of Uttar Pradesh.
Modern History signifies the capture of British in Uttar Pradesh. During this era, the Muslim rule weakened and was later confined to the Doab region. Other martial tribes dominated in the rest of the areas. Oudh was ruled by the Shiite Nawabs, Rohilkhand by Afghans, Bundelkhand by the Marathas and Benaras by its own king, while Nepal controlled Kumaon and Gadhwal. The 'Divani' of Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Oudh later passed to British. It occurred in 1764 when the British East India Company forces, in the historic Battle of Buxar, overpowered the combined army of Nawab Suja-ud-Daula, Mir Kasim and Mogul Emperor Shah Alam. Revolt of 1857 occurred at that time. Some of the major protagonist Nana Saheb, Tantya Tope, Rani of Jhansi, Maharaja of Benaras and Begum Hazrat Mahal were the resident of Uttar Pradesh. A Sepoy named Mangal Pandey is said to have initiated this revolt in Uttar Pradesh when he opened fired on a British Sergeant in the Merrut Cantonment.
Culture of Uttar PradeshIn Uttar Pradesh, two epics, 'Ramayana' and 'Mahabharata' are valuable and reveals affluent tradition of the state.. From the epic age, the region of Uttar Pradesh followed several cultures. The two most noteworthy were the Buddha and Mahavira, the 24th Jain Tirthankar. Vast literature and many relics of art and architecture encompass valued cultural inheritance of the state of Uttar Pradesh. In this state variety of fairs and festivals are celebrated. In every part of state whether it is the village or the town, people have distinct culture and they celebrate many traditional ceremony with great enthusiasm. Uttar Pradesh never fades its deep-rooted culture. All Indian festivals are celebrated in this state with traditional jolliness and passion. Uttar Pradesh is famous for the Kathak dance style which is the most admired classical dance form in India. Today, foreign countries have also learned this elegant dance form to perfection. The typical songs and dances reflect traits of local Uttar Pradesh culture. Folk tradition of the region includes songs called rasiya, which celebrate the divine love of Radha and Shri Krishna. These songs are accompanied by large drums known as bumb and are performed at many festivals. Other folk dances or folk theater forms include Khayal, Naqal - (mimicry), Nautanki, Qawwali, Ramlila which includes enacting the entire Ramayana and Raslila Swang.
Unique handicrafts made by people of this state give fame to UP all over world. Skilled and efficient artisans of Lucknow are famous for making the Chickankari Embroidery. In Uttar Pradesh large number of Brass and Copper items is made. There are thousands of establishments. The varied Culture of Uttar Pradesh is reflected from these backgrounds. Mirzapur and Bhadohi cities are known for carpets. Metal ware, especially brass artifacts of Moradabad are famous all around world. Pilibhit is recognized for its wood flutes and wood chappal (Khadaoo). Flutes are exported to Europe, America and other conteries. Saharanpur is famousr for all over India and abroad for wood carving items produced. banarasi saris and silk of Varanasi is famous and used in marriage in the state.

Tourist Places of Uttar Pradesh

There are numerous tourist attractions in the land of Uttar Pradesh. Taj Mahal is a beautiful architecture and famous all over the world. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife. It is as much as a symbol of India. As we all know that it is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Visitors can visit Varanasi which is the oldest city in the world. It has two major religions, Hinduism and Buddhism. The charm of city is its very old temples. Hindu monks worship along the ghats of the holy river Ganges. Sarnath is near to Varanasi where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Ashoka the great built a Stupa here in 234 BC. Lucknow is famous for music and Urdu poetry. Remnants of Nawabi Palaces, Imamabaras and the exquisite traditional handicrafts are main attraction of this city. Kushinagar is situated about 51kms from Gorakhpur where Lord Buddha passed away. Tourist can see the Nirvana Temple housing the statue of "Reclining Buddha" and a number of Stupas. It is one of the major centers of Buddhist pilgrimage. Dudhwa is one of the finest tiger reserves of India and one of the important tourist attractions in Uttar Pradesh. People may also come across a variety of other fauna, namely: Leopard, Swamp deer, Hispid hare, Bengal Florican etc. ========================================================================

Tourism in West BengalImportant tourist centers are Calcutta, Digha ( Midnapore), Bakkhali Sea Resort, Sagar Island and Sundarbans (South 24 Parganas), Bandel, Tarakeswar, Kamarpukar (Hooghly) and Gadiara (Howrah), Shantiniketan and Bakreshwar (Birbhum), Durgapur (Burdwan), Mukutmanipur and Vishnupur(Bankura), Ayodhya hills (Purulia), Murshidabad, Gour and Pandua (Malda), Darjeeling, Mirik, Kalimpong, Sandakfu and Falut and Kurseong ( Darjeeling), Jaldapara and Dooars (Jalpaiguri).
Places to visit in and around Calcutta Shahid Minar: located in the heart of Esplanade. The panoramic view of the city from the top of the monument is really captivating. With 218 steps, this 52 meters high monument consists of a combination of Egyptian base, Syrian column and Turkish copula.
Belur Math : Headquarter of Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, founded by Swami Vivekananda. It's an architectural amalgam of the church-mosque-temple, signifying the message of universal brotherhood.
Birla Planetarium : It is the largest planetarium in South-East Asia and the 2nd largest planetarium in the world. Located at the top end of Chowringhee, the only planetarium in the country, whose dome houses a collection of projectors and optical equipments.
Rabindra Sadan, Nandan, Academy of Fine Arts, Victoria Memorial Museum, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum, Eden Garden
Tagore House: The world famous poet Rabindranath Tagore was born and died in this house. It is the headquarter of Rabindra bharati University, a famous center for the study of the Indian Arts. There is a museum too in memory of the great Tagore family.
National Library : India's largest library; contains huge collection of rare books and manuscripts.
Fort William: This fort was built in the period 1696-1702 by the British East India. In 1756 the fort was taken by the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-dullah. In 1757 East India Company regained their power and demolished this fort and later reconstructed it.
Netaji Bhawan: where Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose lived and worked. His personal belongings are on exhibition here.
Indian Museum : the oldest museum in India and one of the most comprehensive museums in Asia; the archaeology and numismatic sections contain the most valueable collections.
Nehru Children's Museum :It is a great entertaining place for the children, located at Chowringhee Road (now it is Jawaharlal Nehru Road). The stories of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata have been depicted nicely with the help of the animated dolls. Some science models are also on exhiibition; must see for the kids.
Ashutosh Museum : maintained by the University of Calcutta; housed lot of exhibits on the folk art of Bengal.
Floating Museum: world's first floating museum , located at the "Man-o-War" jetty.
Botanical Garden : The garden was founded in 1787 by the East India Company and formerly known as Royal Botanic Garden. Spread over more than 270 acres and more than 1700 plant species can be found. It is famous for its huge collection of bamboos, orchids, palms and the plants of screw pine genus. The Central National Herbarium of the Botanical Survey of India is here and has around 2500000 dried plants in its collection.
Bishnupur : Its famous for its Terracotta temples and horses. The town is surrounded by old forts and has 15 temples. The Dhrupad school of Indian Classical music was founded here during 16/17th century under the royal patronage.
Zoological Garden : laid in 1876, extending over an area of 16 hectares, it has considerably large collection of animals. White tiger, tigon ( a hybrid between tiger and lion), the reptiles, Royal Bengal. During winter, the migratory birds comes from all over the world are the special attractions. Digha Beach- It's a romantic holiday beach on the Bay of Bengal, 183 km from Calcutta. It houses Asia's biggest marine aquarium. Digha offers an enchanting view of the sunrise and sunset. The sea is calm and shallow for about a mile from the beach, making it quite safe for swimmers.
Darjeeling : Darjeeling, centre of India's most celebrated tea growing district. Outside the monsoon season (June to September), the views across the snowy peak of Kanchenjunga and other mountains down to the swollen rivers in the valley are, simply magnificent. There is a toy train, which you can take a ride from Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling through the steep mountainsides.
Sundarban : Sunderbans National Park & Tiger Reserve
Located in the Ganga delta in West Bengal, boarders the Hooghly in the west and Teulia river in the east, Sunderbans was declared a National Park in 1984. It houses the magnificent Royal Bengal tiger, the park holding more tigers than any other tiger reserve. More than 400 tigers were recorded during the mid-1980s. Crocodiles and the Gangetic dolphin are to be found aplenty in the Raimgangal river. The Sajnakhali sanctuary, famous for its rich avian population, is considered as a part of the Sunderbans National Park.
Malda : It is famous for its mangoes. Gaur- ancient capital, remains of Muslim rule, and houses numerous ruins of mosques.
Shantiniketan : Perhaps the only university of this kind in the world, was the brain child of the great genius Rabindranath Tagore. This open air International University has emerged as a universal centre of excellence for scholars and students of Oriental culture. Despite a distinct slant towards humanities and performing arts, the university also has an excellent faculty for post graduate and research studies in science. There's a deer and bird sanctuary nearby.
Jaldapara (Jalpaiguri) : This reserve forest was founded in 1941 mainly for the protection of the great Indian rhinoceros. Located 121 km. from Siliguri and 12 km. from Ha(n)samara and covers an area of 100 sq. km. It gives home to various animals like rhinos, swamp deer, sambar, tiger, leopard, wild elephant, peocock, jungle fowl, quail, pig, hog deer, barking deer etc. Elephant safari is available for visitors. There are 33 rhinos in this sanctuary, as per the cencus count in 1992.
Diamond Harbor : 48 km. from Calcutta; a nice picnic spot. The light house and the ruins of the ancient Portuguese fort are the special attractions.
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HISTORY OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR

The state of Jammu & Kashmir is a region of widely varying people and geography. The state has been blessed with breath taking beauty and some eye popping visuals that will surely linger in every tourist for many years after they have visited this state. Nature has lavishly endowed Kashmir with some very certain distinctive favors which don't find too many parallels among many alpine lands of the world. It is the land of snow clad mountains that shares a common boundary with Afghanistan, China and Pakistan, Jammu and Kashmir is the northernmost state of the Indian Union. Known for its extravagant natural beauty this land formed a major caravan route in the ancient times.The history of the state speaks of the empires of valiant kings, the placid lakes, the greenery of the forests and the amazing rivers. In the 9th century Raja Jamboolochan founded Jammu. In 1832, Jammu was merged with Kashmir by Gulab Singh. Dogras, Pahadis, Gujjars and Gaddis are some of the tribes found in this state.The various religious and cultural groups which have settled in the mountain regions of Jammu & Kashmir have made it the cultural heart of the country.The Mauryan emperor Ashoka is said to have established Srinagar. During these times the place was a great center of learning for Buddhism. Monks as far as east and Central Asia made it a point to visit this place and imbibe the teachings of what this place had to offer.

Hari Singh was the last ruler of Kashmir. With India winning its independence in 1947 the land was divided into two parts - India and Pakistan. Most of the princely states of India were united to form the Indian Union. Kashmir was an independent state ruled by Raja Hari Singh. He decided to join India due to great similarity in culture and other social aspects. The "instrument of accession" was signed between Lord Mountbatten and Raja Hari Singh in terms of defenseAround the middle of 12th century Muslims rulers began to invade Kashmir. During Muslim rule Kashmir had a composite culture which was laid by Hinduism, Islam and Buddhism. Muslim rulers like Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin were tolerant to other religions in their territory of Jammu. But rulers like Sultan Sikandar Butshikan of Kashmir (AD 1389-1413) were ruthless towards people coming from different communities in their territory and were made to convert to Islam forcibly.However more trouble was in store over the years. Azad Kashmir, the area which Pakistan gained during its campaign in 1948, continues to remain with Pakistan. The situation took a very serious turn when China took occupation of Aksai Chin region. The situation came to head in 1963 when a Sino-Pak agreement defined the Chinese border with Pakistani Kashmir and ceded Indian-claimed territory to China.Kashmir can be hailed as a tourist's paradise with its beautiful snow capped mountains. The tourism industry flourished during the seventies and eighties. But that was deeply affected when the State of J&K started facing terror attacks. Influx of militants with questionable agendas resulted in many violent episodes that resulted in bloodshed and loss of innocent lives. Now governments of both countries are taking efforts by engaging in peace talks which can make us be optimistic about the future.

India and Pakistan fought over Kashmir again in 1965. A UN cease-fire took effect in September, 1965. Prime Minister Lal Bhadur Shastri of India and President Ayub Khan of Pakistan signed the Tashkent agreement on 1st January 1966. They resolved to try to end the dispute by peaceful means.

The Culture of Jammu and Kashmir can be termed to be as rich as is the heritage of the state.It is a comprehensive mingling of three distinct regions Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh.There is a wealth of ancient language, literature, art, craft and music in the state. Its culture is a blend of Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim cultures. Apart from variations in demographics cultural diversions of its elements make the state a truly remarkable phenomenon. Music, dance, cuisine, lifestyle, festivals all these only highlight the diversities prevalent in these provinces but at same time exist in perfect harmony with each other.
Music and Dance FormsThe mask dance is a popular danceform that is vividly performed in the Hemis monastery in Ladakh. It is known to represent the Mahayana Buddhist tradition of the victory of good over evil. Hafiza dance is another popular dance which can be seen especially a a o lot of weddings. Bacha is danceform which is performed during harvest season by the young boys. Ruf and Wuegi-Nachan are popular folk dances of the state. Dogri and Roul are the folk dances that are performed by the women. The most popular Kashmiri folk music is Rabab. Popular folk instruments are sitar, dukra and nagara.
Rabab is one of the many popular styles of folk music in Kashmir. Some of the frequently used musical instruments are the nagara, dukra and sitar. Another salient instrument that is an integral part of the music is the santoor. It is the famous musical instrument of one hundred strings beat with sticks. Hafiz Nagma is grounded on the classical music of Kashmir- the Sofiyiana Kalam. The danseuse is called `Hafiza`. The salient instrument employed in Hafiz Nagma is the Santoor. Songs of Habab Khatun too are composed depicting the sadness of the famous Kashmiri princess of the same name.

Lifestyle

The pilgrimage centres like the one at Hari Parbat where monuments of all three religions with a temple, mosque and gurudwara co-exist, are the living signs of the communal harmony of the people of the State. The people of Jammu and kashmir all get together celebrate and enjoy festivals like Durga Puja, Eid-ul-Zuha, Holi and Diwali with same fervor and enthusiasm. Even though the state as of late has been suffered from terrorist atrocities over the years the spirit of the kashmiri people has always been warm and friendly. The men and women have interesting clothing styles here in Jammu and Kashmir. While the men wear skullcaps, shalwars, churidar pyjamas, and gurgabi (lace less shoes), the women look pretty in their long colourful dresses with several ornaments like earrings, necklaces, bangles and nose rings. You will notice a common woolen outfit in J&K that is decorated with floral motifs and heavy embroidery. It is called Phiran.

Cuisine

Kashmiris are big love non-vegetarian particularly those made from meat and lamb. Polao is a favourite among Kashmiri veggies. Some of the very famous dishes of the Kasmiri cuisine includes ( Rista), Minced lamb patties( Shami kabab), Lamb koftas ( Kashmiri Gustaba), spicy lamb steaks( Pasande kabob). The aroma of saffron makes it a hot favourite and an important ingredient in many a classic recipes. However, different religious communities have evolved their own definitive methods and styles of cooking over the years. Muslims usually avoid asafetida and curds and Kashmiri Pandits abstain from using onions and garlic in their meals. Phirni is a popular dessert of Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir is India's northernmost state, sharing international borders with Pakistan and Tibet, with Himachal Pradesh to its south. This beautiful land is nestled amid the foothills of the magnificent snow capped Himalayas, Karakoram, and Ladakh, Hindu Kush, and Pir Panjal mountain ranges. The home of the rugged Dogras, Jammu and Kashmir is dotted with most beautiful mountain peaks, massive glaciers, splendid monasteries, blue lakes, rivers, forests, verdant meadows and tall pine trees.

The state of Jammu and Kashmir is a tourist's delight. The natural beauty of the Kashmir valley has been a byword for centuries. Mughal emperors often used Jammu and Kashmir as a retreat to get away from the summers of their capital and built some fabulous gardens in the beautiful valley.

Jammu & Kashmir - Tourist Destinations

Srinagar: It the capital of the well loved tourist destination. Some of the locales here is sure to overwhelm even some of the most seasoned tourists. The lakes and gardens accompanied by the wonderful climate will surely brighten up every ones day. The attractions include the Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi. The exotic boat houses on the lakes of Srinagar also attract tourists in large numbers.

Jammu : Jammu is considered to be the winter capital of the state and follows Kashmir in the list of Kashmir. Many tourists who come here visit the well known Mata Vaishno Devi shrine which is locate on a hill. Other interesting places include Peer Budhan Ali Shah and Raghunath Temple. The Raghunath temple which was built for Lord Ram is the largest temple in North India. The Sheesh Mahal of Jammu is regarded the most stunning site of the place. Once the residence of Dogra kings, the Mahal also houses a museum. From the place, a commanding view is available of river Tawi on one side and the city on the other.

Pahalgam : Thousands of devotes throng Pahalgam every year during the annual Amarnath yatra. Pahalgam is a beautiful place which is situated at the confluence of Seshnag lake and Lidder river. Apart from the celebrations the place is also popular retreat for other tourists activities like fishing, golf, horse riding and other trekking activities.

Leh - Ladakh : Leh a popular and important centre for followers of Bhuddism in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. This place is so beautiful and is lapped in the snow-covered fringes of the Himalayas. The place has been a centre of Tibeto-Buddhist culture for many years now.. Located at altitudes over 3,505 metres above sea level, the prime attractions in Leh are Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Gompa, Sankar Gompa, Shanti Stupa and Soma Gompa.

Gulmarg : It is located at a distance of 56 kms from Srinagar is one of the most frequented hill resorts in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for out door spots like skiing and heliskiing while many competitions are also held in winters. Other attractions of the place are green golf courses, biosphere reserves and the Alpather Lake. The place receives receive abundant snow fall during the winters that will make it a popular option for all snow lovers.

Zanskar : The Zanskar region is another region that is seeped in Buddhist traditions. There are nine monasteries in Zanskar whose architecture is very impressive. The largest of the monasteries is called Karsha. The people of Zanskar are also very religious and known for their hospitality.

Staying in one of the beautiful and exquisite Houseboats on the lakes of Jammu and Kashmir would definitely be a lifetime experience. The state is easily accessible with a number of trains and flights available at regular intervals. It is in true sense the 'Heaven on Earth' and is worth paying a visit to the earthly paradise.

ECONOMY OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Jammu and Kashmir is one of the few states that has been able to avoid the full onslaught of commercialization over the last few decades. The state has been able to preserve its earthly splendour but one of the down sides also is the state has a significant percentage of unemployed youth due to lack of job opportunities. However in recent times, several consumer goods manufacturing companies have shown their interests to set up their units in this region. The economy of Jammu & Kashmir is largely dependent on farming and animal husbandry. Prior to the terrorist strikes since 1989 Jammu and Kashmir had a flourishing tourist industry. The numbers have dwindled since then but the figures have been improving in the last few years and things are indeed looking optimistic.

Agriculture

The majority of the people of Jammu and Kashmir practice agriculture of different styles some of which includes - terraced slopes with each crop being adapted to local conditions. Rice, the staple crop, is planted in May and harvested in late September. Corn, millet, pulses (legumes such as peas, beans, and lentils), cotton, and tobacco are-with rice-the main summer crops, while wheat and barley are the chief spring crops. Many temperate fruits and vegetables are grown in areas adjacent to urban markets or in well-watered areas with rich organic

Animal Husbandry

A good percentage of the local inhabitants of Jammu and Kashmir depend on animal husbandry for their livelihood. Animals like sheep, cow, goat, and hen are kept for commercial purposes. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has taken several steps to improve the economic sector of animal husbandry.

According to the official statistics the animal husbandry sector produces about three seventy million eggs, thirty lakh tones cow dung, forty lakh kilogram meat and sixteen lakh manure of the poultry animals.

Natural resources

The state of Jammu and Kashmir is blessed with good natural resources and is an important source of revenue for the state. The types of wood available from Kashmir include fir pine, spruce, deodar, chir, kali, etc. are of great economic value. The woods are useful for Match Industry, Sports goods industries, Sentonin Factory etc. Kasmiri wood is also a popular choice for making cricket bats which happens to be the most widely viewed sport in India.

Education

Education in the state of Jammu and Kashmir is relatively strong. The literacy rates of the state are comparable to the national average. The two major institutes of higher education are the University of Kashmir at Srinagar and the University of Jammu, both founded in 1969. In addition, agricultural schools have been established in Srinagar (1982) and Jammu (1999). A specialized institute of medical sciences was founded in Srinagar in 198