- Historical Sites: The region is dotted with historical marvels, including the iconic Taj Mahal, magnificent forts, palaces, and ancient temples that speak of India’s rich past.
- Diverse Cultures: North Indian culture is a mosaic of different traditions, influenced by various dynasties and empires that ruled the area, from the ancient Mauryas to the Mughals.
kashmir
There are many legends on Kashmir. According to Hindu mythology, Kashmir was created by Kashyap Rishi (Nilmat Purana & Rajtarangini). Emperor Ashok ruled this state in 3rd century B.C. and introduced Buddhism in this valley. Later Kushan king Kanishka ruled this state. In the 6th century Kashmir came under the control of Huns and regained freedom in 530 AD. Thereafter Gupta dynasty ruled this state until the period of Vikramaditya. After the decline of Vikramaditya, Lalitaditya ruled this state in 697-738 A.D. He was a famous builder. Muslims came to this area during 13th century A.D. Famous Muslim ruler Zain-ul-Abedin was a noted patron of music and dance. He ruled this state in 1420-70 and his successor ruled till 1586. Kashmir passed into the hands of Mughals in the period of Akbar. Mughal rulers were strong in this region prior to 1752, when Afgan ruler Ahmed-Shah Abdali took control of this state. Within a month of partition of India into India and Pakistan in August 1947 Pakistan sent the raiders, later to be identified as Pakistan’s own troops, into Kashmir valley. But after October 24 1947 Kashmir valley’s accession to India, the Indian army went into action. The Indian army pushed back the raiders until the UN-enforced cease fire stopped fighting on January 1, 1949 when two-thirds of the state was cleared of the invaders.
Jaipur
One of the best planned cities of India, Jaipur is the capital city of the state of Rajasthan. Its features of beautiful Architecture, Town Planning, Arts and Crafts, Culture, tourism have endowed it with uniqueness in India’s urban character. Jaipur being capital of Rajasthan and one of the important cities of Golden Triangle is the focus of the socio-economic and political center of the State. Jaipur is an expression of the astronomical skills, living traditions, unique urban form and exemplary foresighted city planning of an 18th century city from India.
Must visit places in jaipur
Hawal Mahal
Hawa Mahal, also known as “Palace of Breeze”, was built in 1799 as an extension to the Royal City Palace of Jaipur
Amber palace
The most prominent “Amber Place” in India is the Amer Fort, also known as the Amber Fort or Amber Palace, a historic hilltop fortress located in Amer, a city near Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Key Features of Amer Fort
- Location: Situated on a hill overlooking Ma Lake, it is a prominent landmark in Jaipur.
- Architecture: The fort features a mix of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.
- Construction: Built primarily from pale yellow and pink sandstone, with intricate carvings and delicate marble inlays.
- Sections: The fort is divided into six main sections, each with its own courtyard, including the public audience hall and the private quarters for royal women.
- Shish Mahal: A notable feature is the Shish Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), a hall covered with mirror mosaics.
- Historical Significance: It served as the capital of the Rajput dynasty before Jaipur became the new capital.
