Avatar in India
INDIA PILGRIMAGE PATH

India. visit the Avatars' places

The pre-Dravidian aborigines were the original inhabitants of India. Then Dravidian people became the prominent race. Rama and Sita were Dravidian and very dark skin, as were Krishna and Radha. Although present mythology colors them blue, they were, in fact, very dark. Rama and Krishnas' advents were centuries before the foreigners from the north descended. Starting around 1800 BCE, these invaders were known as the Aryans, who were lighter skinned, semi-nomadic agricultural people originating from central Asia, possibly present-day Uzbekistan. They came into contact with the existing Indus Valley Civilization and spread East to the Varanasi / Kashi area.

The Aryan invasion had a significant impact on Indian society, marking the beginning of the Vedic Period from 1,000 BCE. Hinduism, which had its roots in the Brahmin class, gradually expanded, making it more accessible to people of lower castes. The Vedas, the religious texts of Hinduism, were written during this time, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna were incorporated into Hinduism as avatars of Vishnu. After the Vedic period, between 500 BCE and 300 AD, Hinduism underwent further development resulting in a Hindu synthesis, with the composition of epics and the first Puranas.

The advent of Buddhism around 650 BCE, after the Aryans had already settled in India, beame the dominant religion of India. About 200 years after Buddhas' passing, Buddhism gained prominence as the significant religion in India. Over time, the decline of Buddhism, partly due to invasions by the Mughals, allowed Hinduism to resurface and become the dominant religion in the region. Presently, India's religious majority follows Hinduism (around 80%), followed by Islam (15%), and other religions such as Christianity, Sikhism, and others (5%).

THE THREE ASPECTS OF GOD: BRAHMA (the source and creator of all). VISHNU ( the preserver) and SHIVA (the destroyer) . Periodically VISHNU descends to earth as the Avatar.

Fly to Varanasi

VARANASI COOLS DOWN IN NOVEMBER. GANGES FLOODS IN MONSOON.

Around 5,000 years BCE, during the ancient period, the region of Varanasi (also known as Kashi or Benares) and its surroundings were part of the ancient civilization that flourished in the Indian subcontinent... much of our knowledge about this time comes from archeology. The region around Varanasi is mentioned in ancient Indian texts like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, which provide mythical and historical narratives of the area's past. Varanasi is considered to be the place of Lord Shiva's residence and the setting for several significant events in Hindu mythology. By around 500 BCE, the region around Varanasi witnessed the rise of several powerful kingdoms and urban centers. The Mahajanapadas (great kingdoms) emerged during this time, and some of them, like the Kingdom of Kashi (Varanasi), became influential in shaping the cultural and political landscape of ancient India.

The River Ganges starts in the Himalayas from the melting snow. It flows by Rishikesh, Hardwar and winds its' way all the way down to Varansi, civilization sprang up on its Northern Banks, perhaps since 11 thousand BC. Regarded as the spiritual capital of India. A major religious hub in India, it is the holiest of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and Jainism, among the estimated 23,000 temples in Varanasi.,

The most prominant Temples : Kashi Vishwanaath Temple of Shiva is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Sankat Mochan Hunuman Temple. .. The Durga Temple. Varanasi/Benaras/Kashi is an educational and musical centre, many prominent Indian philosophers, poets, writers, and musicians live or have lived in the city, and it was the place where the Benares Gharana form of Hindustani classical music was developed. One of Asia's largest residential universities is Banaras Hindu University... Varanasi has been shaped by Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist influences due to a combinion of factors: the city’s mythological links to the widely revered deity of Shiva, its proximity to the site of Sarnath where the Buddha delivered his sermons, and being located on the banks of the Ganges linked to ancient trade and commerce routes.

The Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvarti, the origins of Varanasi are unclear. Ganges River in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth.

Arts and Crafts of Varanasi. Baranasi Silk. Varanasi is also famous for its silk weaving. Varanasi saris are adorned with intricate designs and zari embellishments making it popular during traditional functions and weddings. Earlier, the embroidery on sarees were often done with threads of pure gold. Across the world, designers and brides flock to the region for its silk saris, known as “Banarasi saris,” which literally means “saris from Varanasi.”

Kabir, the mystic poet and saint (1398–1518) was born in Varanasi. His writings influenced Hinduism's Bhakti movement, and his verses are found in Sikhism's scripture Guru Granth Sahib, the Satguru Granth Sahib of Saint Garib Das, and Kabir Sagar of Dharamdas.

Ganges Arti takes place every evening. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma created the ghat to welcome Lord Shiva. Most Varanasi ghats were rebuilt after 1,700 when the city was part of the Maratha Empire. Ganga Aarti at started in 1991, assimilating finer aspects of Ganga Aarti on Har Ki Paidi in Haridwar.

VARANASI HOTELS: NEAR RAILWAY STATION:

Hotel Four Element TC

VARANASI, NEAR ASSI GHAT

Assi Ghat is at the southern end of the city and is the last of the major bathing ghats still to have it’s clay bank. Today it remains one of the most spiritual ghats, with the Panchatirth and Haridwar pilgrimages both requiring a stop here. Bathing here is deemed very auspicious (but the Ganges is very polluted now), as ancient texts describe Assi as a small river that flowed here into the Ganga.Easy to reach by car. Assi Ghat is the easiest ghat to get a boat. Ganga Mahal Ghat is located at the northern extent of Assi Ghat.

'Via Varanasi' ELEVATOR! Near Assi ghat. Can access by car. The 5 rooms, one room per floor, are large with a sitting area. There's a lift so no worries for seniors. Easy walking distance to Assi Ghat. In the heart of all the action, can be noisy until night. Breakfast is provided in the cafe next door. Higher floor has a view of the Ganges. Hotel is right on the main road, easy access.

Hotel Rivera Palace: ELEVATOR: Being a little inside, there is a short walk to the hotel from the road, which can be a problem with luggage, but the hotel sends someone to help. Availability of lift made it comfortable for older people. Breakfast and food was good. The hotel is in narrow street like colony. This hotel is located near some beautiful ghats. Offers rooms that are accessible by elevator. Affordable rate. The hotel has a good restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi

The 85 Ghats of Banaras

The ghats on the great Ganga riverfront at Banaras are unquestionably the city’s most iconic and celebrated image. For thousands of years these ghats have been the centre for religion, culture and commerce, offering an unrivaled panorama for visitors to the city. You can very easily walk the entire length of the ghats without interruption, but I would also recommend taking a boat ride on the Ganga to fully appreciate the ghats from a little further away. kevinstandagehotography

HOTELS ON GHATS - WITH ELEVATORS:

Hotel Sita TC

Hotel Alka: Situated near Dashashwamedh Ghat, Hotel Alka offers some rooms accessible by elevator. The hotel features a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Access to the hotel is limited to walking through narrow lanes as cars cannot reach it. We booked a Heritage room (Room 102), which had a spacious shared balcony, perfect for my dad who has difficulty climbing stairs. The room had satisfactory amenities and hot water.

Hotel Jukaso Hard to get to. Elevator. great location and so you can forgive it some of its inadequacies, you need to book restaurant to get table. Evening entertainment excellent and bonus. Views from rooms of river wonderful, other rooms have views of courtyard.

MORE VARANASI ELEVATOR HOTELS

Buddhas' Sarnath

Drive 18 min (9.5 km) via Varanasi Cantt Overbridge from Varanasi.

The story of The Buddha.650 BC. Sarnath remained abandoned until 1834 when Alexader Cunningham excavated the site. Buddha was born in Lumbini, (now Nepal) into a royal Hindu family. He renounced his birthright, followed established religious teachers, and then achieved enlightenment after striking out on his own. He was awakened to who He was while meditating under a Bodi tree located in Ceylon. He returned to India and established His ashram in Sarnath. The area was known as a deer park. The teachings delivered by the Buddha at Sarnath revolved around the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the Middle Way. These teachings form the core principles of Buddhism and have had a profound impact on the development and spread of the religion.

Buddhism expanded in India in the centuries after the death of the Buddha, particularly after receiving the royal support of the Maura Empire. It spread even beyond India to Central Asia and China. The consolidation of monastic organisations made Buddhism the centre of religious and intellectual life in India. The decline of Buddhism in India coincides with the Islamic invasions that occurred in the late 12th century.

Lion Capital of Ashoka: is now the National Emblem of India, is an important archaeological artifact found at Sarnath. Presently one can visit the archeological museum and walk around the Stupa. There are numerous Buddhist Temples in Sarnath. No written records about Gautama were found from his lifetime or from the one or two centuries thereafter. A complete picture of the life of Siddhartha Gautama are a variety of different, and sometimes conflicting, traditional biographies from a later date . The Chaukhandi Stupa commemorates the spot where the Buddha met up with his first five disciples. The Sarnath Archeological Museum houses the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, which miraculously survived its 45-foot drop to the ground, and became the State Emblem of India and national symbol on the flag of India. The museum also houses the original 5th-century CE sandstone sculpture of Buddha Preaching his First Sermon.

Countries in which Buddhism is a major religion have established temples and monasteries in Sarnath ("Lord of the Deer") surrounding Buddhas place in Sarnath, the holiest Buddhist site in the world.

The modern Mulagandha Kuty Vihara is a temple constructed by the Maha Bodi Society. Dharmapala was a Sri Lankan Buddhist monk who was instrumental in the revival of Buddhism in India after it had been virtually extinct in that country for seven centuries.The temple contains a gilded replica of a 5th-century CE sculpture of Buddha Preaching his First Sermon. Its interior walls are extensively decorated with frescoes by Japanese artist Kosetsu Nosu, depicting important events in the life of the Buddha... A standing Buddha statue is located on the grounds of the Thai temple and monastery at Sarnath... Anagarika Dharmapala Museum, located on Dharmapala Road...

Hindu Synthesis and Decline of Buddhism: The period between 500 BCE to 300 AD indeed saw the composition of epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, and the Puranic literature, which contributed to the development of Hinduism. The decline of Buddhism as a dominant religious force in India during this period allowed Hinduism to gain more prominence.

Temples of Cambodia, China, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, and Vietnam.

THE 5 AVATAR ADVENTS IN INDIA

SARNATH HOTELS: WITH ELEVATORS

Hotel The Fern Residency TC Easy reach, main road. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Very near the Buddha stupa. The rooms were largE. AC, large beds. The bathroom with excellent fixtures, separate shower & bathtub areas. Hot water. Hotel is very calm and soothing. Cilantro Restaurant serves Indian, Western and Chinese. (lots of weddings and events). Good room service. A nice modern hotel .

Hotel Buddha: Easy reach in Sarnath, rooms that are accessible by elevator. The hotel also has a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Deva Inn: This hotel is located in Sarnath and offers rooms that are accessible by elevator. The hotel also has a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi.

AVATAR ADVENTS IN INDIA___________________________________

FROM SARNATH AFTERNOON TRAIN TO FAIZABAD. WHICH IS 8 KM FROM AYODHYA .DRIVE IS ABOUT 4+ HOURS. THERE ARE NICE HOTELS IN FAIZABAD.

Ramas' Ayodhya

FROM SARNATH AFTERNOON TRAIN TO FAIZABAD. WHICH IS 8 KM FROM AYODHYA .DRIVE IS ABOUT 4+ HOURS. THERE ARE NICE HOTELS IN FAIZABAD.

According to the Ramayana, Rama was born in Ayodhya as the eldest son of King Dasharatha and Queen Kaushalya. His birthplace is traditionally marked as the Rama Janmabhoomi, which became a prominent pilgrimage site for Hindus. Rama grew up as a noble prince in Ayodhya. He received training in various arts, archery, and statecraft. He was admired for his virtues, compassion, and righteousness from a young age. Due to a series of events and intrigues, Rama was exiled from Ayodhya for 14 years by his father, King Dasharatha. After completing his 14-year exile, Rama returned to Ayodhya along with his wife Sita and younger brother Lakshmana. His return is celebrated as Diwali, the Festival of Lights, in India. Upon his return, Rama was crowned as the king of Ayodhya. His reign is considered the golden era of righteousness and prosperity, known as "Ram Rajya," where justice and welfare prevailed throughout the kingdom.

The entire life story of Rama, Sita and their companions allegorically discusses duties, rights and social responsibilities of an individual. It illustrates dharma and dharmic living through model characters. The legendary city of Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Rama and setting of the great epic Ramayana. As the birthplace of Rama, Ayodhya has been regarded as the first of the seven most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Topographical indications in both Buddhist and Jain texts suggest that Saketa is the same as the present-day Ayodhya. The city remained deserted until King Vikrama of Ujjain came searching for it, and re-established it. He cut down the forests that had covered the ancient ruins, erected the Ramgar fort, and built 360 temples. It is believed that a temple stood at the supposed birth spot of Rama, which was demolished by the orders of the Mughal emperor Babur and a mosque erected in its place.

In 1992, the dispute over the spot led to the demolition of the mosque by Hindu mobs, who aimed to rebuild a grand temple of Rama at the site. A five-judge full bench of the Supreme Court heard the title cases 2019 and ruled that the land belonged to the government and ordered it to be handed over to a trust to build a Hindu temple. It also ordered the government to give an alternative 5 acres of land to build a mosque in lieu of the demolished Babri Mosque . The construction of Ram Mandir commenced in August 2020. Hopefully, soon, The Ram Temple work will be complete. Ist Floor work is about to complete.

Sri Ram Janma Bhoomi Temple. The experience of this place was serene. Ram janam bhoomi is sacred place for Hindus as it's the birth place of lord Rama..Try to visit it first in the morning and later visit Kanak Bhawan then Hanuman Garhi.

Saryu River On the bank, one of the well maintained and super clean ghats of Ram Ki Pairi..Boating on the Saryu is a way to spend some wonderful time.

Lord Hanuman's Abode. temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It holds high religious significance for devotees and is one of the most visited temples. Devotees believe that Lord Hanuman lived in this temple, guarding the Lord Ram's residence.

Kanak Bhawan Temple is one of the finest and famous temples in Ayodhya and is a must visit. It is believed that this Bhawan was gifted to Devi Sita by Kaikei immediately after her marriage to Lord Ram. This is private palace of Devi Sita and Lord Rama. Vikramaditya got it renovated.

AYODHYA HOTELS:

Sri Ram lala Dharmshala Top location. Offer facilities for disabled. Wheelchair accesible. No internet. 500 m from the centre of Ayodhya. Soundproof rooms have balconies. Sun Terrace. Garden. Outdoor fireplace. AC and Heat.Private bathrooms. Room service. Coffee Shop. Tour desk, ATM. Offer Lucknow airport shuttle.

Janki Mahal Trust is a good Dharmshala with AC/non AC rooms offered at very reasonable tariff. Manas Bhawan Trust also offers AC room suits.

MANY FAIZABAD HOTELS:

Hotel Krinoscco Has lift/elevator. Right in the middle of Faizabad, very close to Ayodhya, Nice place to stay Ayodhya. Near to main temple. Nice place with very pleasing staff. Food quality is par excellence. Very good Rooms , great ambiance and 24 hours hot water. They help you with knowing Ayodhya so you can enjoy the city. 2 km away from mandir.

Kohinoor Palace Kohinoor Palace, temples are very close to the hotel. Far from Ram Mandir. Anew hotel. No lift or elevator.! Location is easy to access from the city. Food is excellent do not have a dining room so breakfast is served in your room. Food is tasty though. Railway station close by. This is a popular wedding destination.

THE 5 AVATAR ADVENTS IN INDIA

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AYODYA TO LUCKNOWL 2+ hour drive. Important not to drive this at night.

LUCKNOW HOTELS: ...AND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Clarks Avade TC Near Hazratganj, the shopping district of Lucknow. 15 KM from the Lucknow Airport and 4 KM from the Lucknow Railway

Renaissance Lucknow Hotel Set in a sleek tower, this upscale hotel is an 8-minute walk from Ambedkar Memorial Park and 3 km from the Hazratganj shopping area.

Radisson Lucknow City Center TC

Avatar in India
Pilgrimage path cont'd.

Train Lucknow to Agra

TRAIN FROM LUCKNOW TO AGRA (Cantt Station). 6+ HR.

KANPUR HOTEL: HOTEL MMK wheelchair accessible. .5 Km from KANPUR train station.

There is the Lucknow Expressway from Lucknow to Agra. Drive time 5 hours.

There are non-stop flights from Lucknow to Agra. 1.5 hrs. or Delhi. to Pune: 2 hrs. :

Taj Mahal is normally open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day except Friday. During the full moon, the monument keeps its gates open for night viewing from 8:30 PM to 12:30 AM, plus two days after and before the full moon, totalling five days.

The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, in the memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal who died in 1631. Mumtaz was known for her exceptional beauty, and the emperor was known to be mad about her, crestfallen by her sudden death. Work on the Taj began in 1632, but it wasn’t until 1653 that the whole monument was finished. Soon after the Taj was built Shah Jahan was overthrown by his son Aurangazeb, who held him prisoner in the Agra Fort, where he spent the rest of his years yearning for the Taj. Shah Jahan, after his death in 1666, was buried beside his beloved Mumtaz in the Taj Mahal.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983 for being the “jewel of Muslim art in India

BUDGET HOTEL NEAR AGRA CANTT RAILWAY STATION

Avalon Taj 10 minutes walk to the Agra cantt railway station. Hotel provided free pick up from the station. Fine services at budget rates. The large rooms are AC. Guests safety seriously and provide facilities like fire safety, first aid and round the clock security. 24-hour helpdesk. Room Service. Good WiFi, ATM close to the hotel. Centralized location close to monument and Bazar. Restaurant, Chinese food is awesome. Great Value for money. Some traffic noise from the street. elevator??

AGRA BUDGET HOTEL NEAR Taj Mahal:

Hotel Orange hotel with a mid ranged budget located in the Rakabganj, neighborhood in Agra, just 2.3 km from Agra Cantonment. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. delicious food available in cafeteria . Every room comes with a flat-screen TV. well maintained property with a nice view. Staff very polite and co-operative. Restaurant also cheap and best quality, room service good. near Taj Mahal's west side gate (10-15 mins drive). hotel is really safe for female travelers. Has a lift. Elevator.

Coral House Homestay. 1.3 km from Taj Mahal. Offering a sun terrace and views of the garden, The Coral House Homestay by the Taj is located in Agra, 700 metres from Taj Mahal.

AGRA 5 Star HOTELS NEAR Taj Mahal:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Agra

Taj Hotel & Convention Centre, Agra

Radisson Hotel Agra

Howard Plaza The Fern - An Ecotel Hotel, Agra

The Oberoi Amarvilas Just 600 metres from the Taj Mahal, The Oberoi Amarvilas Agra boasts luxurious 5-star accommodation. This property houses 4 dining options.

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Side trip Agra to Keoladeo Birds

DRIVE TO BHARATPUR An hours drive from Agra or Vindravan.....

Keoladeo National Park is recognised as one of the world’s most important bird breeding and feeding grounds. It originated in as a royal hunting reserve during the 1850s and was a game reserve for Maharajas and the British. In 1982, Keoladeo was declared a national park and then later listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The park is home to over 370 species of birds and animals such as the basking python, painted storks, deer, nilgai and more. Noted Indian ornithologist and naturalist Salim Ali used his influence to garner government support to create Keoladeo National Park. It was also known as the breeding ground for the rare and elusive to spot Siberian crane. Keoladeo National Park offers well-defined treks which can be covered on either foot, or cycle rickshaws. In fact, the park management has trained the rickshaw pullers in bird watching and they make for extremely knowledgeable guides. Near HOTEL: in Bharatpur: ...... HOTEL UDAIVILAS PALACE

or Gir Forest Tigers

Five hour drive from Agra... Hotels in Sawaii Madhopur

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PRE BOOK CAR & DRIVER FROM AGRA - 70 Km to VRINDAVAN etc. - & ON TO DELHI.

Krishna and Radhas' Vrindavan

FROM AGRA - 70 Km Drive to VRINDAVAN

Lord Krishna was the son of Vasudeva and Devaki but, when his maternal uncle Kamsa, the wicked king of Mathura, tried to kill him, he was smuggled across the Yamuna River to Gokula and raised by the leader of the cowherds, Nanda and his wife Yashoda. As a young child they all traveled to Vrindavan where Krishna grew up. He may have become awakened to his role in nearby Gokul. Gokul is a very popular place to visit. Where the baby Krishna lived until he was 3. Then returned as an adult for a brief while.

The child Krishna was adored for his mischievous pranks; he also performed many miracles and slew demons. As a youth, the cowherd Krishna became renowned as a lover, the sound of his flute prompting the gopis (wives and daughters of the cowherds) to leave their homes to dance ecstatically with him in the moonlight. His favourite among them was the beautiful Radha. At length, Krishna and his brother returned to Mathura to kill the wicked Kamsa. Afterward, feeling the kingdom unsafe, Krishna led the Yadavas to the western coast of Kathiawar and established his court at Dvaraka (modern Dwarka, Gujarat). He married the princess Rukmini and took other wives as well.

After the Mahabarata War He ruled as the King of Dwarka. He married Rukmini and other wives. He is said to have ruled Dwarka as king for 37 years. While resting in the forest he was mistaken for a deer and was shot. He died. There are many conflicting stories about what happened to his body. There is small temple by the river mouth in Veraval where local people believe he was taken from the river and laid in the temple. It is unknown what happened to Lord Krishnas' body after that. Many theories.

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KING KRISHNA in DWARKA

THE 5 AVATAR ADVENTS IN INDIA

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The best season to visit Vrindavan and Mathura is the winter season. The best months to visit are September, October, November, December, February and March.

The stories of Krishna and Radha and the gopis took place in Vrindavan.

VRINDAVAN has a very mesmerizing aura which you can feel once you enter through the gigantic gates and plethora of temples running by your side and the heavenly hymns. This is where Lord Krishna lived for 14 years of his life with Radha. Vrindavan is a holy place with lots of beautiful temples. Clean and most of the well known temples are situated at road side, not far from each other. Temple opening and closing time must be known for better planning. i went to Sewa Kunj after hearing the stories of the place which intrigued me. At last, Darshan of Shri Yamuna ji was enchanting. In Vrindavan visit Prem mandir, Iskon temple, Bake bihari temple, gopeshwar mahadev temple and mata vaishnav devil temple. It was awesome trip and with a booked car it was easy. Rickshas are needed on some narrow streets. .. the chaos, the crowd, the faith. It's a really crowded place, how anything functions is beyond me. But everything works. Vrindavan seems to be revolving around Bihariji Temple. At noon when this temple is closed, shops are closed and much less action in town. In the evening it opens around 5 pm and all the town seems to be in action. Bankey Bihari ji temple- visit first in morning. For premandir visit in evening around 6pm to enjoy its lights.

The town is split into the ancient religious area and relatively modern area. The religious ancient area is the place where most temples are present, including the famous Banke Bihari Temple. Holi is one of the major pilgrimage destinations for Hindus, specially for devotees of Krishna. March 25, 2024 Holi will be celbrated again. The town is so colorful at the time of holi.

Krishna temple is the main attraction. Visiting Banke Bihari Temple, you must stay away from monkeys, be very aware of monkeys here.. They are notorious, please put your spects in pockets and hold your bag tightly. I lost my spectacles. Monkey jumped on my shoulder, snatched the spectacles, and jumped back in a flash. This is true in Mathura as well. The bazaar area is quite complex.

VRINDAVAN HOTELS

Nidhivan Sarovar Portico - Best Western Vrindavan

MVT Guesthouse & Restaurant - Hotel Santosh Dham - The VrindWoods Hotel

Kridha Residency Boutique Hotel -

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'The Ghats of Mathura' Edwin Lord Weeks, artist, painter and explorer, 1849 – 1903. Born in Boston. He made many voyages to the East, and was distinguished as a painter of oriental scenes.

Krishnas' Mathura - Dwarka

DRIVE TO MATHURA FROM VRINDAVAN : 20 min (9.6 km) via Bhuteshwar Rd/

MATHURA - Where Lord Krishna was born, in his parents jail cell, then smuglled away.
Taken away across the river to Gokula. The birth place of Lord Krishna is much celebrated, attracting pilgrimage on a large scale. Here Yamuna’s cultural heritage is enacted in public life as a living tradition through many festivals. The landscape of ghats includes temples and shrines facing the river.

Krishna left Vrindavan as a young man, for Mathura. During his stay in Mathura, Krishna befriended the Yadava prince, Ugrasena, and his son Kamsa, who was the tyrannical king of Mathura at that time. Krishna's purpose was to eventually remove the oppressive rule of Kamsa. In a wrestling match, Krishna, along with his brother Balarama, defeated Kamsa and dethroned him, (or perhaps killed him) thus freeing the kingdom from his rule.
After establishing peace in Mathura, Krishna received a request from a sage named Durvasa to find a suitable location for him to perform his penance. Krishna selected a barren island called Shankhodhara, off the western coast of present-day Gujarat, and with his divine powers, he built the magnificent city of Dwarka there. (The city is now underwater).

KRISHNA in DWARKA
One of the significant events in Krishna's life was his marriage to Rukmini, the princess of Vidarbha and a devoted follower of Krishna. Other Marriages: Krishna had several other wives, most notably with Satyabhama and several princesses who were captives of the demon Narakasura, whom Krishna defeated.
Krishna became a revered king and ruler in Dwarka, where he governed with righteousness and love, through his wisdom, valor, and divine powers. Krishna's time in Dwarka was filled with various adventures, divine deeds, and a harmonious rule, making his presence a cherished memory in Hindu mythology and inspiring devotion among countless followers.

KRISHNA in DWARKA

Many religious sites in Mathura, Krishna is considered as the reincarnation of Lord Vishnu. Mathura plays a major role in history too, since it has been connected to the well-known courageous queen named Rani Laxmi Bai, who fought against the British in the 1857 rebellion. Mathura is not only home to many Hindu temples but also is a favourite destination among the Buddhists for once being a major Buddhist site. Experience an amazing feeling of love and dedication. Holi is the most popular festival in Mathura and millions of people all around the world come to Mathura just to enjoy the great joy and enthusiasm of this colourful festival. The temples of Mathura do not allow mobile phones and cameras. Monkeys here.. They are notorious, please put your spects in pockets and hold your bag tightly.

Kurukshetra War: Krishna acted as a charioteer and advisor to Arjuna, one of the Pandava princes, during the Kurukshetra War. The war was fought between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, who were cousins and engaged in a fierce battle over the throne of Hastinapura. Krishna played a pivotal role in guiding Arjuna and the Pandavas to victory, despite his vow not to participate in the actual fighting. After the war, Krishna returned to Dwaraka, the splendid city he ruled, and resumed his duties as the king. Dwaraka became a thriving kingdom under his guidance.
According to an ancient text related to Krishna's life, Krishna was accidentally shot by an arrow (from a hunter named Jara) while meditating under a tree in the forest of Prabhasa. He then left his mortal form Shree Krishna Janmabhoomi Temple 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Dwarkadhish Temple 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9.30 PM. Gita Mandir 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Jugal Kishore Temple 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Kesava Deo Temple 5:00 AM to 9:30 PM. Bhuteshwar Temple 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 AM to 10:30 PM. Chamunda Devi Temple 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

MATHURA HOTELS

Centrum Hotel by Brijwasi - The Lalita Grand - Brijwasi Lands Inn

Hotel Spiti- Hotel Goverdhan Palace with elevator.. Hotel Wingston. closest to vishram ghat.

THE 5 AVATAR ADVENTS IN INDIA

Mathura to Delhi - on to Dwarka

CAR & DRIVER TO DELHI. RETURN CAR. 'Red Fox Hotel' in aerocity. Sleep! Rest!

TRAVELING TO DWARKA :

JAMNAGAR, GUJURAT AIRPORT is the domestic airport closest to Dwarka. It is situated at a distance of 137 km from this holy city. One can get frequent flights for different destinations from here. Drive from Jamnagar to Dwarka is 2.5 hrs.

JAMNAGAR See the making of the finest Bandhani fabric, loosely woven silk called Georgette or cotton known as Maimal. The Bandhani-making art in Jamnagar has been able to provide a livelihood for at least 50,000 people. Bandhani is a traditional art form used in making tie dye fabricl. It has given worldwide recognition to the city. The men here dye the cloth and women tie them, the most difficult and fine job of handwork done. Bandhani making is as old as 5,000 years and has been in function since the Mahabharata era. Bandhani was made by both the Muslims and Hindus in the city. Done by hand with no involvement of machines. "Most of the actors in TV serials wear Bandhani,"

There are two Jain temples, the Shantinath and Adinath temple, entirely covered with mirror, gold leaf, murals and mosaics. Chandi Bazaar, in the Old City, is a market known for Bandhani sarees and silver jewellery.

VERAVAL, GUJURAT AIRPORT is the nearest domestic airport in Gujurat, somewhat close to Dwarka It is situated at a distance of 230 km from this holy city. One can get frequent flights to Mumbai from here. Drive from Veraval to Dwarka is 4 hrs.

TRAVELING TO DWARKA

RETURN CAR & DRIVER TO DELHI. 'Red Fox Hotel' in aerocity. Sleep! Rest!

Fly to Pune. Drive to Meherabad

HOTELS IN PUNE:

HOTEL SAGAR PLAZA. The room was very spacious and the service was great. The people that work there are very sweet and helpful. The food at the restaurant was really good. The hotel is close to a shopping centre, mg road and east road. Elevator. walking distance from Main Road and East Street. Railway station is nearby. Value for money. It’s their staff who make the big difference. Location is great (next to SBS mall). Breakfast buffet is good. Overall value for money.

HOTEL SHREE PANCHRATNA Good service of the staff. Tasty food. Definitely a wonderful experience and we have enjoyed everything, right from starters to the main course. Excellent service, very lively venue - rooftop, great menu choices. Very close to Pune Platform no. 6. Just 5-7 min walk after coming out of station. The hotel is in a lane so less traffic noise.

MANY MANY 5 STAR HOTELS IN PUNE. Radison Blue, Hyatt Regency, Conrad Hilton, Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton etc.

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Meher Baba and his gopis.

Drive to Ahmednagar from Pune. 2hrs (now Ahilya Nagar.).

Meher Baba Samadhi - Meherabad

To visit: Avatar Meher Baba Samadhi Tomb Shrine. Fly from Delhi to Pune. Pune, is a 2 hour drive from Meherabad (Ahmednagar or now called Ahilya Nagar). There are a few new hotels in Ahmednagar with restaurants. The car ride from town to Meherabad is 15 minutes. There is a pilgrim guest house in Meherabad available for people genuinly interested in Meher Baba, only with prior reservations through the Trust Office.

The Samadhi can be visited directly from either Pune or Ahmednagar. You need to hire a car with a driver who knows how to drive to the parking up the hill, near the Samadhi. Open to everyone from 7 am to 7 pm.

Information about Meher Baba: https://avatarmeherbabatrust.org/

THE 5 AVATAR ADVENTS IN INDIA

Avatar in India