About Pondicherry: Pondicherry, recently renamed as Puducherry, is a town tucked away on the Eastern seaboard of India. Among its diverse attractions are, a coastline of 32 kms, palm-fringed beaches, backwaters, fishing villages, beach resorts, the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, the international city of Auroville, the French Boulevard town with its French heritage, and so on.
A remarkable degree of French influence in Pondicherry exists to this date. Pondicherry was designed based on the French (originally Dutch) grid pattern and features neat sectors and perpendicular streets. The town is divided into two sections: the French Quarter (Ville Blanche or 'White town') and the Indian quarter (Ville Noire or 'Black Town'). Many streets still retain their French names, and French style villas are a common sight.

Duration of the trip: It was a three days and three night’s trip from Bangalore. We started from Madiwala, Bangalore at 11 pm on Friday and reached back to Bangalore on Monday midnight.

Transportation: We traveled by bus from Bangalore to Pondicherry and vice-versa. We board Sea Bird Tourists bus from Madiwala at 11:00pm and reached Pondicherry next morning around 6:30 am. For coming back, we board the Sea Bird Tourists bus from Pondicherry at 4:00 pm, Monday and reached Bangalore at around 11:30 pm.
For going to Pondicherry, we opted for an AC sleeper coach bus which cost Rs 650/- per head and for coming back, we booked A/C semi sleeper, costs per head Rs 500/- per head.

Details of the Trip:
Day1: After reaching to Pondicherry bus stand in the morning, we hired an auto for Rs 70/- to reach the hotel, Hotel Ram International. We were three people, and we booked and Standard double bed room at Rs. 1200 and for the extra person, we took an extra bed at Rs 250/-.
The hotel was very clean and service was quite good. Though the hotel was not very near to any beach, but ‘Gandhi Beach’, the main beach of Pondicherry was at 5 minutes distance in auto.
Upon reaching to the hotel, we had our breakfast and took a small nap. In the evening, we hired an auto and went to Chunnambar Boat House. From our hotel to the boat house, the auto fare was Rs 180/- each way. The auto driver offered us to wait until we come back without any charge.
From the Chunnamber boat house, one can hire boats for long and short back water trips or can go to nearby island, ‘Paradise Island’. There are two separate ticket counters also, one for taking ticket to go inside the boat house, and another is the ticket counter to boats.

Boat House and Ticket details for Entrance

Boating Ticket Tariff

Inside the boat house there a small restaurant and kids play area also available. We bought tickets for motor boat and went to Paradise Island. The beach is quite good, but if one compare with beaches of Goa or Andaman or Kerala, he has to be disappointed.

Paradise Island

We spent over two hours over there and came back to main Pondicherry land. In the evening, we planned to spend some time at Gandhi Beach but due to rain, we had to drop our plan.

Day 2: We woke up early at 4:30 am and reached to Gandhi Beach as we didn’t want to miss the sun rise. If anything in Pondicherry is not to be missed, then that is Sunrise @ Gandhi Beach. Divine, Godly, Out of the world are very small words to explain the feeling over there. The beach was full of people but no sounds other than of waves were there. We enjoyed every bit of this. The cleanliness, the discipline maintained over there is not something, which can be seen in India. The promenade called Goubert Avenue is one of the best promenades I have ever seen.

Sun Rise @ Gandhi Beach

Gourbert Avenue Promenade, street along the Gandhi Beach

We also visited the graceful and majestic French War Memorial, which stands tall as one of the architectural wonders of Pondicherry. Situated in the Goubert Avenue promenade, the French War Memorial was constructed in honor of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the altar of the World War I.

French War Memorial

 Statue of Dupleix is a 3 meter high statue built to honor Francois Dupleix, who governed Pondicherry until1754. This was commissioned in 1870.

Statue of Dupleix

We then returned to hotel, got ready, took breakfast and started to explore Pondicherry. We again hired an auto in Rs 1100/- (yes that’s the amount; auto is the best option to travel in and around Pondicherry). The places we visited throughout the day were,
Prithyankara Devi Temple, also called as Atharvan Kali Devi Temple, which is 72 feet in height and 500 years old in age. It is situated near Auroville. This Deity is the powerful goddess of Mantra, Tantra and Yantra.

Prithyankara Devi Temple

Auroville or City of Dawn is an "experimental" township in Viluppuram distrirct near Pondicherry. It was founded in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa (also known as "The Mother") and designed by architect Roger Anger. As stated in Alfassa's first public message about the township, "Auroville is meant to be a universal town where men and women from all countries are able to live in peace and progressive harmony, above all creeds, all politics and all nationalities. The purpose of Auroville is to realize human unity."

Aurovilla and shops of crafts made in Aurovilla

In the middle of the town is the Matrimandir, which has been acclaimed as "an outstanding and original architectural achievement." It was conceived by "The Mother" as "a symbol of the Divine's answer to man's inspiration for perfection." Silence is maintained inside the Matrimandir to ensure the tranquility of the space and entire area surrounding the Matrimandir is called peace area. Inside the Matrimandir, a spiraling ramp leads upwards to an air-conditioned chamber of polished white marble referred to as "a place to find one's consciousness." The surface of the dome has 56 kg of Gold, which was sandwiched between as thin sheets. At its centre is a 70 cm crystal ball in a gold mount, which glows with a single ray of sunlight that is directed on the globe from the top of the structure. According to Mother, this represents "a symbol of future realization."
Matrimandir is equipped with a solar power plant and is surrounded by manicured gardens. When there is no sun or after the sunset, the sunray on the globe is replaced by a beam from a solar-powered light.
Radiating from this center are four "zones" of the City Area: the "Residential Zone", "Industrial Zone", "Cultural (& Educational) Zone" and "International Zone". Around the City or the urban area, lies a Green Belt, which is an environment research and resource area and includes farms and foretastes, a botanical garden, seed bank, medicinal and herbal plants, water catchment bunds, and some communities.
To see the Matri mandir from inside one had to book from appointment from days ago. However we were  not aware of the same and we couldn't visit the Matrimandir. However, there is a view point to see it from where we saw the Matri Mandir. From the information center of Auroville, busses are available to go to the view point. The place also can be reached by walk. The view point is situated at around 2 km distance from the Aurovilla.

Matri Mandir and way to Matri Mandir from Aurovilla

Auro Beach or Aurovilla Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Pondicherry. I was told this is the best beach but I kind of didn’t like this place. There are many hotels and huts available near this beach. Anyone who wants to stay at a walking distance from beach, hotels near Auro beach are best for them,

Auro Beach

C.S. Perrotet established Botanical Gardens, a beautiful tourist attraction in Pondicherry in 1826. During earlier times, the garden used to enclose a good collection of exotic and rare plants but now due to lack of maintenance there is nothing much to see and frankly speaking, I felt visiting this place is purely waste of time.
The botanical garden houses an aquarium. Aquarium displays many sea living organisms, including a variety of fish flora. It also exhibits various methods of fishing adopted in coastal areas.
Entry fee for botanical garden is Rs 5/- per head and camera is Rs 10/.

Fossil of a tree @ Botanical Garden

Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus is one of the best churches I have ever visited. Sacred Heart Church situated on the south boulevard of Pondicherry is an oriental specimen of Gothic architecture. It contains rare stained glass panels depicting events from the life of Christ and saints of the Catholic church. Construction of the church was completed in 1902. In recent years, it has become one of the famous pilgrimage spots for Christians.
This 100 years-old historical church is 50 mts. long 48 mts. wide and 18 mts. high with Latin rite cross shape in arial view is in Gothic style. 24 main columns hold the structure. The biblical verse from 2 Chronicles 7:16 is written above the entrance door in Latin "sanctificavi locum istum, ut sit nomen meum ibi" which means "I have consecrated this house, that my name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will be there forever." Inside the church, we can see glass pictures of 28 saints who were related to the devotion of Sacred Heart of Jesus.
This 100-year-old church has been led by twenty parish priests. The Grotto for Our Lady of Lourdes, Parish Hall, Adoration chapel and the new parish community hall were some of the development of this church in the last 50 years. After 2005, that is after the arrival of the present Parish Priest Rev.Fr.Thomas, the church has been fully renovated both in and out.
Statues for the four evangelists have been erected beneath which four lamp posts describing the life of four evangelists and the inviting Jesus, and the twelve apostles on the front facade have also been erected. The Grotto for Sacred Heart of Jesus facing the City Railway Station are new additions, and church has been illuminated in and out with chandeliers, focus and flood lights.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Church

After visiting all this places we decided to take lunch and went into a pizza shop called Café Xtasi. The pizzas were just awesome here and double in size than the normal Regular Pizzas.

Pizza @ Cafe Xtasi

Post lunch we visited the Sri Aurobindo Ashram, located on Rue de la Marine, is a spiritual community established by Sri Aurobindo on the 24 November 1926 (Siddhi Day). At the time, there were few disciples staying with Sri Aurobindo. Sri Aurobindo subsequently decided to withdraw from public view for continuing his spiritual work and handed over the responsibility of the Sadhaks (spiritual aspirants) and the Ashram to his spiritual collaborator The Mother, Mirra Alfassa. The Ashram till date houses a library with biographies, photographs of Shri Aurobindo, The Mother, and many other spiritual books.
The samadhi or the place where the mortal remains of Aurobindo and The Mother are kept in the central courtyard under a frangipani tree and are covered daily with flowers and surrounded by supplicating devotees.
The ashram is open to all from 8 am - 12 noon and again from 2 pm - 6 pm. Children under 3 years old are not allowed into the ashram.
There is no entry fee, and photography is not allowed inside the ashram.

Entrance of the Ashram

Samadhi of Shri Aurobindo and The Mother, Picture Courtesy: Google Image

The Pondicherry Museum housing some of the superb collection of sculpture is located in the Bharathi Park. This museum has an excellent gallery with sculptures and has the remains of archaeological findings from the Arikamedu Roman settlement. One can go through the history and legendary French colonial details in the section of the museum.
 There is also a very good collection of snail shells brought from the Pondicherry region. Bronze sculptures of god and goddess, a wide gathering of temple lamps, handicrafts and art are also here. Some specimens of Chola and Pallava art from Pondicherry and Karaikal are displayed in the sculpture gallery.

Pondicherry Museum

The Place Du Gouvernement is a brilliant example of town planning in Pondicherry. Comprising the 18th century Palais Du Gouvernement-now the Raj Nivas (not open to the public)-and the old tribunals-now housing the Legislative Assembly-along with a neat three-sided line-up of other handsome buildings. At the centre, surrounded by a well-tended garden, stands the Water Monument, sculpted to commemorate the introduction of good drinking water for the population. Some exquisitely carved monolithic pillars, brought to Pondicherry from the Gingee Fort after its capture in 1751, adorn the place.

Raj Niwas

After visiting we came back to our hotel. In the evening again we went to Gandhi Beach and spent some time there but the picture of the beach in morning and the same in evening are just poll apart. The beach was fully crowded and was as dirty as people can make it.

Day 3: We went to beach again for seeing sun rise or to tell the truth is to erase the worst picture about the beach we saw last evening. At an end of the beach, there is fishing harbor, we visited the place too.

Fishing Harbor

Then we had our breakfast in the famous Café Casa in the Gandhi Beach and returned to our hotel. Later in the day we visited Paradise Beach again and spent half the day in sea. It was a real fun. But all fun come to an end and so was our trip.
After taking bath in the sea, we took bath in the bathrooms available in the beach, though I hardly found any difference in the sea water and in the bathroom water. We came back to main land of Pondicherry, took our lunch and started for Bangalore around 4:00 pm.

About IFC: Located 40km from the heart of Bangalore and spread over 50 acres of land, Innovative Film City is an entertainment paradise with world-class facilities. It houses 27 different facilities ranging from, Amphitheatre, Retail High Street, Food Courts, Theme Restaurants, Entertainment District with India's first Dinosaur Park, Haunted Mansion, Cartoon City with India's biggest Roller Coaster, Aqua Kingdom, Miniature city, Ripley's Enchanted Mirror Maze, Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum, Funplex within 4D- Theatre, Louis Tussaud's Wax Museum, Go-Karting, Mini Golf, Innovative Wannado City, Adventure Sports, Roller Skates, Fossil Museum, Fossil Hunt, Double Decker Carrousel, etc.

Transportation: We hired a cab from City Cab by calling 4343 4343. It took approximately 3:00 hours to reach Innovative Film City from Marathahalli, Bangalore in a rate of Rs 800/ each way. We were four people.
Other than the hired cab services or personal cars, BMTC has arranged bus services from KR Market and Kempgowda Bus Stop to Innovation Film City and vice versa.

Details of the Trip: Innovative Film City is a perfect outing place for weekends. The place has been designed keeping the likings and interest of people of different age group in mind. The entire film city segregated in multiple sections like Main Street, Wild Wild West, Cartoon City, Gardens and Amphitheater.

Main Street

Teddy Museum is entire city for teddies of different kinds like, cricketer teddy, musician teddy, Indian Priest, Formula1 Racer, Disco Dancer, Wild teddy, golf player, film director, teddy at a nightclub, teddy wearing khadi, dandiya playing teddy and many more which is not imaginable at all for a teddy.


Innovative Talkies: This place will remind one about the old village talkies with a rustic setting, equipped with a bullock cart & ticket counter. When we went inside it was picturing the movie, "Sholay".

Innovative Toddler’s Den is a play area with an adorable snakes & ladder's floor with a collection of rides straight from the neighborhood park. It also has a classroom, movie show, a tiger family and another play area. It has an enclosure not too far from the play area with psychedelic coloured balls for the kids to hop, skip and jump!


Mining: Another attraction just by the main street on Innovative Film City. A dark lane will take you to a mine themed sandy place, detail decorated by mining accessories like yellow colored light-fitted helmet, shovel and shaft driven wooden path to carry sand filled bucket. My wife, a girl of eastern coalfield area and had never seen a real mine, was very exited about this place.
There is also a treasure hunt game inside the mine. Once can use to shovels and dig to get the treasures.

Innovative Wannado City is a miniature city replica of Bangalore armed with all the settings and props you may need to do a role play. It is a very interesting and fun layout of a regular city with its basic public amenities.
The city has its own Hospital, Police Station, Radio Station, TV Station, High Court, Fire Station, Archaeological Cave.
In the TV station, you can actually read news or conduct an interview and burn the event in a CD in a very minimal amount.
Similarly, in the Radio station, you can sing song or recite something, which will be played in the Film City.

Wild Wild West is entirely designed to make it look like the barren land of the Americas. The deserted setting, stubble and horses of the place will definitely make you think twice if you are in Bangalore.


Other than the Main Street, Wild Wild West, there are some other attractions of IFC like,
Mirror Maze is a complete dark room, beautifully decorated with red arches and mirrors. As easy it is to go inside of the maze, more difficult it is to come out of the same. The surprising corners, dead ends and continuous circles and your reflection in the mirror will keep confusing you till you get exhausted.


Walking through this Dino park, will remind you about your childhood memory of Jurassic Park and surely will make you feel you are actually in the Jurassic Park, surrounded by several dinosaurs.


Fossil Museum is very aptly placed adjacent to the Dino Park, with a collection of remains and relics from the prehistoric era. From the tiniest detail of preserving claws to having a collection of the dinosaur heads, this museum is a fascinating walk down the Jurassic era with over 219 dinosaur species fossils.
There are incredible stories about the extinction of this species coupled with actual fossil remains of their skulls and other body parts which is sure to give you a whole lot of information for a day.


There is another treasure hunt outside this museum as well and there are attractive gifts also.
Haunted Mansion: The dimly lit, dingy, old, dirty but huge mansion will definitely touch the nerve of yours. The place has everything starting from Skeletons, ghosts, half beard man, zombies and many more. The sound effect of this place adds the more horror to the place.

The Cartoon City is the place where not only children, but elders also can enjoy forgetting their age. Roller Coaster, Dashing Cars, Carousel, Star Wars, Shark Attack, Bungee Jumping will definitely take you to your old childhood days.
Velocity, Go Carting track will bring the F1 Racer out of you. You have to play Rs 100/- for four laps.
Exhausted, tired and hungry, we decided to take lunch, and some rest for sometime before going further.

There is a food court in the IFC campus with various options from North India to South India. Furthermore who is not interested in traditional foods, they have options like Mc. Donald's and Cafe Coffee Day.
Our next destination was, Aqua Kingdom, the place I liked most in IFC. There is a pool with artificial waves and real sand bed beach, which will surely feel you at sea-beach for sometime. Other than the wave pool, you can't resist yourself from sliding through the huge water slides.
You won't even realize when the time flew in the dance floor with the DJ playing in DJ Tower. Kids Pool, Woonden Benches, Beach chairs, Lazy River will definitely wash way all your tiredness.

Make sure to carry an extra set of dress so that you don't miss the fun of water kingdom.
Ripley's Believe it or Not, Mr Robert Ripley's ghost of 63 years personally welcomes you to his humble abode where he has, over the years, created a collection of the freakiest of human and in-human phenomena. There are only 9 locations outside of North America which exhibits his collection and Innovative Film City is one of them – the only one in India! For the fans of Star Wars (and even people who have vaguely heard of it), nutty Darth Vader and Boba Fett greet you at the entrance – made completely of nuts & bolts! What starts with randomly assorted Believe it or Not facts, slowly grows into a very interesting expedition of nature & science. We travel through the underwater area where a host of 'shark-ing' facts come to the fore – from Megalodon shark to a metalo-maniac shark's remains.
All of us like to believe we are different in some ways. But this section of Human Oddities has a totally new take on the matter. A human unicorn, 1400lbs man and 8'11" man are only some of the people out here to prove to you exactly how different can difference be!
If humans shocked you with their mere existence, the next section of man made wonders is sure to wow you out! We proudly boast of a collection of beautiful artifacts to creative machines ahead of their times. Chinese Camel Bone Carving, Sinatra's painting of only butterflies, multipurpose Foglomobile made out on only roadside war debris, Humbug Major's Candy Machines are only to name a few!
The next section would creep you out unless ofcourse, at some point in time, you have fantasized about witnessing a Roman execution at the Colosseum! The torture chamber is full of ancient torture techniques – electric chairs, premature burial, liar's hell et al. It will actually leave you wondering how it was humanly possible to come up with the concept of having 14 spikes in a coffin to pierce you when you are buried alive in it. Come here to find out why, when and how!
And you can end this very fascinating tour with a little illusion room with puzzles, which play mind games with you and a miniature gallery proving that if not good, very interesting things come in small packages.
With every display, there is a frame with the details about the item. You must not miss to read them as they contain the most absurd facts!

Louis Tussaud Wax Museums Louis Tussaud was the great-grandson of Madam Marie Tussaud. He created his first wax museum in Blackpool, Lancashire. There are less than ten of his wax museums around the world and the only one in India is at Innovative Film City.
The collection at the museum cuts across reality and fiction! It is possible that you would have never imagined what Mona Lisa would look like in real-life – but we at the museum give your imagination a life like visual of her.
You can read with Shakespeare, sing with the Beatles, have a drink with Humphrey Bogart or even woo your favorite Disney Princess. Each wax statue has been created in the time-honoured Louis Tussad craftsmanship.


Gardens and Amphitheater are situated in a section which is a picture-perfect place for photo session. This place is decorated with a super miniature city. Furthermore, there is an amphitheater, which can be hired for arranging some events.

Last but not the least, in the list is Funplex. After completing the enjoying all the attractions, one must visit this place. Star war, Drum king, space ride is some of the attractions; you will definitely enjoy as much as your kids will. There is also a three lane blowing zone and a cricket net.
This section is not covered under the package, so make sure save enough cash to enjoy in this section as they don't accept cards. For the skating lovers, there is a zone where they can put there skating wheels, "Roller Skates." None of us is fond of skating, so we didn't go through this section. This section is also not covered under the package.
The park closes at around 7:00 p.m. Hence We had to put a full stop in our tour and head towards home.

Disclaimer: We went on this trip in Jan’2012 and there are chances that the rates and timing might have changed. Please check with cab service providers and Innovative Film City admin about current timings and rates. I have tried to provide as much information as I can regarding Innovative Film City. You can refer the link Innovative Film City for further details or to contact me @ dutshilpi@gmail.com or comment on the blog.

About Gujrat: Gujarat – The Land of the Legends, stands bordered by Pakistan and Rajasthan in the north east, Madhya Pradesh in the east, and Maharashtra and the Union territories of Diu, Daman, Dadra and Nagar Haveli in the south. The Arabian Sea borders the state both to the west and the south west.
The State took its name from the Gujjars, who ruled the area during the 700’s and 800’s. Stone Age settlements around Sabarmati and Mahi rivers indicate the same time as that of the Indus Valley Civilization while Harappan centres are also found at Lothal, Rampur, Amri and other places.
Rock Inscriptions in the Girnar Hills show that the Maurya Emperor Ashoka, extended his domain into Gujarat in about 250 BC. With it’s fall, the control of the region came under the Sakas or Scythians.
The state has witnessed many great historical events starting from the age of Sultan Allauddin Khilji to establishment of British East India Company to freedom movement by Gandhiji, Sardar Ballavbhai Patel, Morarji Desai.
The great sons of our nation like Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Morarji Desai, K.M. Munshi, Narhari Parikh, Mahadev Desai, Mohanlal Pandya, Bhulabhai Desai and Ravi Shankar Vyas all hailed from Gujarat. Gujarat was also the site of some of the most popular revolts, including the Satyagrahas in Kheda, Bardoli, Borsad and the Salt Satyagraha. Strategically located on the West Coast of India, Gujarat is also a Gateway to the rich land-locked Northern and Center Vicinity of the country. Gujarat spearheads the Indian march for the “Global Economic Super Power” status with access to all Major Port based Countries like UK, Australia, China, Japan, Korea and Gulf Countries, etc.

Duration of the Trip: This was a trip of 7 days and 7 nights from Rajasthan to Gujrat and from there back to Asansol.

Transportation: We travelled Gujrat by car as I as I already have told in Rajasthan post. For returning back to Asansol we had board “Garba Express" (12937), at11:25 pm on Saturday night from Ahmadabad and reached Asansol railway station at 10:10 am on Monday morning. Ticket cost Rs 514/- for Sleeper classes, Rs 1390/- for 3 tiers AC and Rs 1906/- for 2 tiers AC for each.

Details of the Trip:
Day 1: We started from Mount Abu for Porbandar by 7:30 in the morning.
On the way we visited Ambaji, one among the 51 ancient Shakti piths. The Great Miracle of this Holy Place is that there is no idol or picture in the Nij Mandir the Temple of Shri Arasuri Mata Ambaji, but a simple cave like Gokh in the inner wall, in which A Gold Plated Holy Shakti Visa Shree Yantra having kurma back convex shape and 51 Bij letters therein, connected with that of the original Yantras of Nepal and Ujjain Shakti Piths, is also ritually installed in such a way it can be visible for devotion. The worship of this Visa Shree Yantra is done only after tying a bandage on the eyes.
We reached Ambaji by 9:30 am and offered puja there and again started for Porbandar. We reached the Ambaji 9:30 offering puja there n started for porbandar. Though the way was long but the natural beauty of Araballi range throughout the path made the journey worth. Finally we reached Porbandar around 9:30 pm and checked into
“Hotel Silver Palace”
Silver complex, S. T. Road
Porbandar: 360575
Gujarat
Ph.: + 91-286-2252591
       + 91-286-2249991
       + 91-286-2251393
Email id: odedrab@yahoo.in
            Silverpalace77@hotmail.com
            h_silverpalace@yahoo.com
Day 2: We started for local site-seeing of Porbandar around 7 in the morning. The places we visited throughout the day were,
Sudama Mandir, a beautiful shrine dedicated to Sudama, the best friend and devotee of Lord Krishna. The temple, located in the center of the Porbandar city, is said to be the only temple in India dedicated to this ardent devotee of Lord Krishna. The Sudama Mandir at Porbandar, constructed between 1902 and 1907, holds a great historic and religious significance. The temple has a maze within its complex. According to common belief among the devotees, if a person crosses this maze all his sins are forgiven. A large number of devotees, especially the newly wed Rajasthani Ksahtriya couples, flock to the place every year.
Kirti Mandir, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and Sudama, holds great historical and religious importance. The place has emerged as one of the major tourist attractions of Porbandar.
The Kirti Mandir is situated close to the ancient Haveli belonging to the Gandhi family. Also known as the “Temple of Peace”, the Kirti Mandir is counted amongst the popular monuments of the nation.
In the year 1950 Shri Nanji Kalidas and Shri Puru Shotam Mistry, in reverence to Mahatma Gandhi, renovated the building, adding a new dimension to the place. This building has three stories. A symbol of Swastik, in one of the rooms in the ground floor of the building, demarcates the actual place where Gandhi took birth. It is said that Mahatma Gandhi lived here till the age of twelve. The upper story of the temple which houses Gandhi’s room and a Gandhian library is connected by a wooden staircase. There is also a big prayer room, a nursery and a spire. The spire has a vast collection of pictures depicting the life of Mahatma Gandhi. It also has various pictures of his wife Kasturba Gandhi. The walls of the temple are decorated with 79 Diyas (lamps). These Diyas symbolize the age of the great leader at the time of his death. Navi Khadi, the birthplace of Kasturba Gandhi, is located just beside the Kirti Mandir.

Tara Mandir is one of the popular tourist destinations of Porbandar. There is an overhead round screen inside the Tara Mandir planetarium with celestial bodies depicted on it. The scientific projection of these stars and planets, with the help of special effects, adds to the interest of the viewers. The Tara Mandir Planetarium is said to be built by the donations of Shri Nanjibhai. It not only interests the children but also catches the interest and attention of all age groups. The tourists visiting Porbandar should never miss to visit the planetarium.
Bharat Mandir, is the mirror of Indian tradition Pictures, sculptures and symbols and portraying Indian culture and religion have been exhibited in this place.
Chowpati, a white sand beach of Porbandar. The magnificent view of the sea, with an exotic ambiance, brings in a lot many tourists and residents to the beach.
The Huzoor Palace at Porbandar was built by Natwar Shah. This sprawling structure resembling a European mansion is located at the end of the beach. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and water fountains, the palace faces the Arabian Sea. The neo- classical pillars and the porticoes with a semicircular design, the terraces with beautiful rails and the slopping timber roof add to the grandeur of the building.
The porticoes and pillars, of this magnificent palace built in the European style, mark the entrance of the palace from different sides. The large windows and wings of the palace, interconnected with the front and back yard, give a panoramic view of the sea.
The architecture, beauty, and the picturesque view of the sea attract a large number of tourists to the Huzoor Palace. Being located on the sea side it is visited by both residents and visitors of Porbandar.
After visiting all the major places of Porbandar, we started for Dwarka by 9:30 am and reached there in an hour or so. The major attractions of Dwarka are,
Dwarkadheesh Temple, the temple of Jagat Mandir, with the presiding deity of Shri Krishna known as Dwarkadheesh, is an imposing edifice and a superb architectural monument. The temple consists of a shrine that is supported by 60 pillars made of granite and sandstone. Photography is not allowed inside the Temple.

After visiting the famous Dwarkadheesh temple, we started for another famous temple of Lord Krishna in Bet Dwarka. The only way to reach Bet Island is by boat or rather say steamer from Okha Port. We reached there by 12:15. But unfortunately the temple was closed by the time we reached.
Hence we decided to take bhog and wait till the temple door opens in the afternoon. But one person in temple suggested us to visit some places like, Hanuman Garh, Kam dev temple in the re opening of The Temple door.
Though Hanuman Garh is not very famous, but as per legend this is the place where Hanuman met his son Makardhavaj who is part reptile and part Vanara. The story of Makardhwaja's birth is said to be that when Hanuman extinguished his burning tail in the ocean, a drop of his sweat fell into the waters, eventually becoming Makardhwaja, who perceives Hanuman as his father. There is a statue of Hanuman which is said to be sinking inside the ground, ans will completely go inside the the end of Kaliyug.

Kamdev Temple is also not a very famous place but according to mythology 108 famous saint completed their Tapashya.


The is also a very beautiful sea beach

After visitng all those great places, again we came back to the Bet Dwarka temple by 3:45 and waited for the temple to resume at 5 pm.
Bet Dwarka, also known as Bet Shankhodhara, is famous for its temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and is of great importance in the ancient Hindu tradition. It and other coastal sites have ample antiquities, mainly potsherds, suggesting maritime trade and commerce with the Mediterranean countries around the Christian era. This flourishing harbor and religious capital is believed to have submerged under the sea after the Krishna left dwarka for vaikunth.
Photography is not allowed inside the Temple.
By 5:45 we again took a boat to reach back Okha port.
Upon reaching there, we started for another round of Dwarka visit.
The places we visited in our second innings of the day are,
Gopi Talaw, has a strong connection with the stories of Lord Krishna's childhood abound with youthful pranks and romance. As a young boy he used to dance the raas with the Gopis in Vrindavana. When he moved to Dwarka, the Gopis could not bear the separation and came to visit him. They united with their Krishna at the Gopi talav, 20 km north of Dwarka on the night of Sharad Purnima and once again danced the raas with him. Legend says that, unable to part from Krishna, the Gopis offered their lives to the soil of this land and merged with their beloved. It is said that they turned into yellow clay, known as Gopi Chandan. Even today the soil of the Gopi talav is extremely smooth and yellow in color.


Rukmini Mandir, stands 2 km away from Dwarka City. The local explanation given for this distance is an old legend. They say, once Lord Krishna and his wife Rukmini went to the sage Durvasha to invite him for dinner at Dwarka. He agreed on the condition that Krishna & Rukmini would have to pull his chariot instead of any animal. The couple happily obliged. While pulling the chariot, Rukmini became thirsty so Lord Krishna prodded his toe into the earth to draw a spring of the holy Ganga water. Rukmini took a sip without offering Durvasha. Annoyed by her impoliteness he cursed Rukmini that she would be separated from her beloved husband. Hence Rukmini temple is located 2 kms away from Dwarka's Jagat Mandir. Maybe 2500 years old, but its domed mandapa and stepped sanctuary cannot be older than the 12th century in its present form.
The exterior of the Rukmini Temple is richly carved. It has a panel of sculpted naratharas and a panel of sculpted gajatharas at the base. The traditional spire of the main shrine contrasts strongly with the hemispherical dome of the pavilion. The garbhagriha has a recessed seat on which the present image of Rukmini, wife of Lord Krishna, was consecrated. The usual sculptures of god and goddesses, along with male and female figures, are seen on the exterior of the shrine.

Nageshwar Jyothirlinga Temple is located on the route between Dwarka city and Beyt Dwarka Island on the coast of Saurashtra in Gujarat is this important Lord Shiva Temple. It is enshrined by one of the 12 swayambhu (self-existent) jyothirlingas in the world, in an underground sanctum. A 25 m tall statue of a sitting Lord Shiva and a large garden with a pond are major attractions of this rather serene place. Some archaeological excavations claim five earlier cities at the site.
Finally we reached Dwarka at 8:30 pm check and in,
Hotel Dwarka Residency 
Near Iscon Gate
Dwarka 361335
Gujarat
Ph.: + 91-2892-235032
Email: info@dwarkaresidency.com
Day 3: We started for Somnath Temple around 8:30 in the morning. We reached Somnath around 1 pm. The places we visited there are,
Somnath Temple is one of the very ancient temples and stands as a famous landmark in Indian history. The temple is located about 79 kilometers from Junagadh in the Prabhas Kshetra near Veraval. Study of history reveals that the Somnath Temple was invaded by the different conquerors who came to India whereby some looted its wealth and others destroyed some parts of it. Many legends are attached to the Somnath Temple regarding its origin and existence. This town, unaffected by the modern luxuries and concrete jungles, still holds its historical, mythological and religious appeal to masses of Hindu devotees. Placed at the extreme southwest Arabian Coast in Sourashtra, Somnath town encloses a serene beach, few streets and a bus stand. It is believed that Somnath is located at a place where the holy River Saraswathy flows into the Sea.
This sacred temple town vibrant with ‘Shiv Bhajan’ is visited by millions of tourists every year..
Time of Darshan: 6.00am to 9.00pm; Timing for Aarti : 7.00 am, 12.00 Noon and 7.00 pm
Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
Veraval Beach, situated just about 5 km from the Somnath Temple is an amazing beach and great place to relax and refresh your body, mind and soul. Though not recommended for swimming but it offers some active patches where you can enjoy a camel ride and light snacks.
Triveni Sangam Ghat in Somnath is at the confluence of three holy riversKapila, Hiranya and a mystical River Saraswati (also known as GuptaSaraswati) from where the rivers flow to the ultimate destination of Sea.This is a sacred place to take bath and it is believed that the bath in thewaters at this Ghat offers relief from all curses and ills happened.It is considered to be a Moksha theertha. It is also a sacred place to payhomage to ancestors and offer Pitru tarpana. In Chaitra and Bhadrapadamonths of Hindu calendar huge crowds are seen here. The ghat has beennamed after Morarji Desai former Prime minister of India who was also thechairman of Shri Somnath Trust for several years. The Ghat has goodarrangements for bathing and changing of clothes.
Bhaluka Tirtha (Bhalka Teerth) is a holy tirth (pond) in Somnath along Prabhas-Veraval highway. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Krishna was hit by an arrow shot by a hunter known as Jara. Lord Krishna was sitting under a Banyan tree in meditation when the hunter mistook the legs as a dear and shot at.
This tirtha is placed at the confluence of three holy rivers including the river Hiran. There is a small temple built under the Banyan tree on the bank of the tirtha with a majestic white idol of Lord Krishna. The pink colored foot of the Krishna and an image of the hunter Jara with folded hands are also seen in the temple.
Photography is not allowed inside the temple.
Kamnath Mahadev Temple: It is said that, this was the place where Rathi Devi wife of Manmatha also known as Kamadev did severe penance to get back the life to her husband.Earlier Manmatha who had disturbed Lord Shiva from his penance became a victim to his wrath and got converted into ashes. Pleased with Rathi Devi’s prayers and penance, Lord Shiva blessed her husband life back without physical body and fulfilled her desire. Thenceforth the Lord Shiva at thisplace came to be known as Kamnath Mahadev.
Panch Pandava Gufa is a temple situated near Lalghati in Somnath. This is a marvelous temple founded by the late Baba Narayandas in the year 1949. This temple is dedicated to five Pandava brothers. This temple, located at an elevated place, offers a beautiful view of surrounding holy city. Imposing idols of five Pandava brothers are enshrined. The idols of Lord Shiva, Lord Rama and Goddess Durga are also installed in this grand modern temple. The temple is built in a scenic environment and the ambiance offers a calm and cool spiritual atmosphere. A Sanskrit college is established in the compound of this temple.
Suraj Mandir, also popularly known as Sun Temple, in Somnath is also an ancient temple dating back to the origin of Somnath temple. This temple is situated at the north of the Triveni Ghat, the confluence of three holy rivers. The temple was set up to offer prayers to Sun God.
The temple architecture is amazing with many images of elephants, lions and other birds and animals. This temple also was attacked many a times by Muslim foreign invaders. But later it was renovated to present structure. The temple is a rare specimen of worshiping to nature and is praise worthy symbols of Hindu cultural heritage.
Once finished visiting all the above places, we started for Ahmedabad. We checked in to a well mentained Dharmasala at Chotila, Surendranagar. We took our dinner at a dhaba in front of the dharamshala.

Day 4: There is a famous Chamunda Mata Temple, situated at top of hills of Chotila but as we didn’t had ample of time in our hand and moreover to visit that temple one has to cross 800 stairs by no other way to reach there is available , we decided to skip the place. We started for Ahmedabad by 8 am. On the way we visited,

Divya Saraswati Temple, the temple of goddess Sawaswati. The peace full surrounding and the beautiful architecture of the temple is worth of spending sometime in the place.
Finally we reached Ahmedabad by 11:30 am and checked in to
Hotel Kingsway
G.P.O Road,
Near Relief Cinema,
Ahmedabad – 380001
The places we visited in Ahmedabad are
Adalaj Step well is five storied high, or rather rather five- storied under the ground step well. There are three entrances leading to the stepped corridors which in turn have an octagonal opening on the top. As one steps down each storied, is confronted with some of the most beautifully crafted flower motifs, elephants, peacocks and fishes adorning the walls reminding one of the carved temples of ancient India. But even before one begin appreciating the intricate carvings on the walls, what catches attention first are the erect pillars, 16 in all standing in perfect symmetry and supporting the whole magnificent structure. Even these flaunt some exquisite designs of flowers, and other frenzied motifs.

Akshardham Temple was built in the dedication of Lord Swaminarayan, in 1992; is one of the most magnificent edifices of modern India. It measures 240 feet in length, 131 feet in width and 108 feet in height. It is 3 storied building. In the first floor there is a seven feet long idol of Lord Swaminarayan, the chief deity at the Akshardham temple. Top floor is enriched with vanis of Swami Narayan. Underground floor is a museum of different things which were used by the Lord. Within the complex of Akshardham, lies a beautiful garden known as Sahajanand Van. The temple is open 9:30 am to 6:30 pm on Monday to Friday and is closed on Sunday.
Photography is strictly prohibited here.
Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram, also known as Gandhi Ashram, Harijan Ashram, or Satyagraha is located at the bank of River Sabarmati, hence named so. This was one of the residences of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. This ashram is now a national monument established by the Government of India due to its significance for the Indian independence movement in the form of the Dandi March in 1930.
The ashram now has a museum, Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalay. In 1963 the museum building was erected (designed by architect Charles Correa), and memorial activities were then started here.One of the important activities undertaken is the establishment of a Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya. Initially started in 'Hriday Kunj,' Gandhi's own cottage in the Ashram, the Sangrahalaya has now shifted to its own well-designed and well-furnished building which was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru, Prime Minister of India, on 10 May 1963.
The places to visit inside Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram are,
Magan Niwas - Magan Gandhi - A Soul of ashram also introduced different design of charkhas.
Upasana Mandir - Prayer Ground Where ashramite listened to bhajans-hymns and reading from Holy Gita, Quran & Bible.
Hriday Kunj - Like heart in a body this centrally located abode supplied energy to the entire place. Vinoba-Mira Kutir - One hut where Vinoba Bhave & Ms. Madeleine, British admiral's daughter stayed. Nandini - This was the guest house of Ashram.
Udyog Mandir - A Temple of industry symbolizing self reliance & dignity of labour.
Somnath Chattralaya - It is cluster of rooms occupied by ashramities who forsook family affairs and shared Ashram.
Teacher's Niwas - Bapu's associates stayed at teacher's chali
Gandhi in Ahmedabad - The Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya (Museum) was opened in 1963. This gallery exhibits major events of Gandhiji's life from 1915 to 1930 in Ahmedabad.
Painting Gallery - Eight life size paintings have been displayed.
My life is my message - Events which were turning points in Gandhiji's and which ultimately changed the history of India are depicted through oil painting and photographs.
Library & Archives - Archive preserves legacy of eternal Gandhi in 34,000 manuscripts, 150 felicitations, 6,000 photo negatives, 200 files of photostats etc. And Library has 35,000 books including 4,500 books from Mahadevbhai Desai's personal collection and books on Gandhian thought. It is a valuable resource for researchers.

The place will take you to freedom fighting movement days. We returned to our hotel with a heavy heart after visiting the place.
Day 5: We started for another round of Ahmedabad site-seeing. The places we visited during the day were Swami Narayan Temple, situated in Kalupur, is the first and foremost Swaminarayan temple. Being the most prominent temple, it is always thronged by people. People come from different parts of the country and congregate here in this temple to seek the blessings of the deity. Dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan, the temple boasts of its exquisite wooden carvings. The structural design of the Ahmedabad Swaminarayan temple is mesmerizing. The interiors and exteriors of the temple have been adorned with the typical Gujarati designs that depict different aspects of the Gujarati culture and lifestyle. The architectural style of the temple is commendable and truly has an unbeatable charm. Standing royally behind the huge gates across the Relief road, the Swaminarayan temple of Ahmedabad has beautifully decorated domes and galleries.
Jain Temple, built in the year 1850 AD, the Hathee Singh Temple is dedicated to the 15th Theerthankara of Jains, Dharmnath. This temple is named after Sri Hathee Singh, a rich jain merchant of yesteryears, who had under took the great task of such an amazing construction. Famed for its brilliant structural designs, this two-storied white marble structure provides a delightful experience to the beholder. Elaborate porches on three sides are a specialty of this temple. A lovely dome on the front porch gives a peculiar appeal to this architectural splendor. Other two porches displays prolifically carved patterns.
Another unique aspect of the temple is its tiled courtyard, which is encircled by daunting row of pergolas with 52 shrines. Each shrine shows remarkable designs and fine carvings and all of them encompass an image of a Tirthankara. One of the prettiest Jain shrines in India, Hathisingh Temple follows the usual architectural pattern of the Diwara Jain Temples of Rajasthan.
Asaram Bapu set up his first ashram at Ahmedabad, known as the Sant Shri Asaramji Ashram, in the year 1997 in the riverbank of Sabarmati. Presently, the Ahmedabad ashram is the main Bapu Asaram Ashram in India. It comprises of an ayurvedic clinic, gaushalas (cow sheds) and a sadhana (prayer) hall. One of the unique features of the Sant Shri Asaramji Ashram of Ahmedabad is its Maun Mandir (temple of silence). Individuals coming here for the purpose of meditation are locked inside and provided with only with food and water. The time you spend inside the Mandir is for you to discover yourself.
Photography is not allowed.
Bhadrakali Temple, situated inside the famous Bhadra Fort, was constructed during the rule of Aazam Khan. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Bhadrakali, worshiped by its devotee to acquire prosperity and wealth. Being one of the cogent deity in Hindu pantheon, the Bhadrakali Temple is visited by hordes of devout from across the country throughout the year. During the Navaratri Festival, which is considered as the major festival of the city, the Bhadrakali Temple is thoroughly decorated. The nine days festival is celebrated with great pomp and show in the temple premises. During this period, the Bhadrakali Temple witnesses thousands of tourists thronging in the temple to worship, dance in colorful outfits and enjoy the festival. Ahmedabad Bhadrakali Temple is worth visiting during this festival of song and dance. The Bhadrakali Temple is one of the oldest temples of the city that still survived the ravages of time. The temple is as old as the city of Ahmedabad.
ISKCON is the abbreviation for International Society for Krishna Consciousness. This temple depicts Lord Krishna with his beloved lover Radha, who is regarded as the epitome of true love. Also called as the Hare Krishna Temple, ISKCON temple situates in a vast area with lovely trees, which gives a serene and tranquil environ to the devotees.
Temple has much spacious interiors compared to its exterior portions. Huge halls decorated with beautiful chandeliers attribute the devoutness of the shrine. Prayer sessions in the temple provide a soothing feeling to the devotees as the entire ambiance would be filled with the chanting of hymns and Keertans. Janmashtami and Nand Mahotsav are the two auspicious days in the temple, which witnesses’ great participation of devotees.

Photoghraphy is not allowed inside the temple.
A very ancient temple, located in the Jamalpur area of Ahmedabad, Jagananth Temple has the chief deity worshipped as Lord Jagannath. Others coming in line are Balaram and Subhadra. The focal point of this temple is the ratha yatra. Every year in the months of June/July a substantial procession is taken out, in the lines of the Puri Jagannath Temple. Chariots carrying the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra are the principal attractions of the procession, beginning in the morning. The chariots are garlanded, beautified with elephants, gymnasts, acrobats, saints and devotees, all joining in as part of the huge festivity.

Kankaria Lake, an artificial lake dates back to the time of Sultans, is a crowd puller in recent times. It was constructed by Sultan Qutab-ud-Din in 1451 AD. Formerly known as Hauj-e-Qutub, this lake was the bathing ghat of late Sultans and their queens. Mughal Emperor Jahangir and his empress wife Noor Jahan frequently visited the lake.
Nagina Wadi, an island garden set in the midst of the lake is just picturesque that adds the bewitching beauty of the lake. One of the banks is connected to this island by virtue of a pathway. Another interesting pass time in the lakeside is the boating facilities. Adventurous lots and fun lovers can engage themselves with this water sport. The lake witnesses large crowd in weekends, especially in the evenings of weekends. One would not get a better place to watch sunset than Kankaria Lake in Ahmedabad. Children can enjoy the facilities in the children’s park and the adjoining zoo.
A toy train facility is available to take rounds around the lake. Ticket cost is Rs. 25/- for each. Other than the toy train, entry ticket for the lake is Rs. 10/- and the children park is also Rs. 10/-

Day 6: It was the last day of our trip. We went to city market to shop famous articles of Ahmedabad like sarees, badam, lehenga etc.
We had board our train, “Garbha Express” at 11:25 of night from Ahmedabad station and reached Asansol on next to next day i.e., on day 8 by 11:10 in morning. With this a great travel came to an end.

Disclaimer: We went for this trip on Oct’ 2011. There are chances that rates and timing have changed. Please check with hotel, travel agent and Indian Railway about current timings and rates.
I have tried to provide as much details as I could for the trip. For any further clarification please feel free to contact me @ snigdha.asan@gmail.com or Shilpi @ dutshilpi@gmail.com or comment on the blog.

Your feedback is always appreciated.