Chandigarh - A Melting Pot of Tradition And Modernity
Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab, is famous for its affluent but quiet, laid back attitude ideal for a solitaire tourist that has much more to offer beyond its modern town frolic. You will be amazed to know that Chandigarh is the first city to initiate the concept of town planning in India. Designed by Le Corbusier, Chandigarh is strategically segregated into 61 sectors. The pollution free air, the wide tree-lined boulevards and avenues, the cool ambiance of Sukhna Lake and the plush interiors belying the dull exteriors contribute to making Chandigarh a haven for fun-loving tourists. Adding a cherry on top of the cake, the trendy city now has found a new way to celebrate life, reflected in its bustling shopping areas, spilling restaurants and spanking new malls. Visit any restaurant in the downtown (Sector 17) and savour on a traditional Punjabi menu in a luxurious ambience, an experience of a lifetime. For a terrific weekend action, drive to the outskirts of the city; at a newly opened mall (Fun Republic) with a multiplex at Mani Majra or to the picturesque Morni hills on Panchkula Road. The latter also houses a bird sanctuary and you can relax amidst lush forests and euphony of colourful birds.
Kurukshetra - The Land of Holy Legends
The green land that you can see today, once turned red with the blood of one of the mightest clans of Hindu mythology, the 'Kauravas'. But it is only here that the lotus of self-enlightment bloomed in the heart of valiant 'Arjuna', it is here that Lord Krishna preached about the goals of human life and 'Karma'. Welcome to the chapters of Kurukshetra (Land of Kauravas) that tell the tales of blood and blade and of course modern day politics. The town is dotted with numerous sacred shrines and is a revered place for Hindu pilgrimage. Visit the famous Brahma Sarover, a sacred water tank caressing the cradle of civilization. A holy bath during new moon is said to bring salvation form all sins. Besides you can also enjoy the radiant Deep Daan ceremony, a bustling sphere of devotion when earthen lamps carrying flowers and coconuts are floated on the shimmering waters and the whole ambience reverberates with spiritual hymes and prayers.
The Extraordinary People And Their Unique Lifestyle
Have you ever tried a wallnut? Isn't it amazing to meet people who carry a tough air around themselves, but are as soft as butter from inside? And to savour the butter of brotherhood, you need to come to Haryana. Interestingly, the people of Haryana are still conservative and continue to practise old routine and customs as a matter of community. You will see men in white 'Kurtas' taking their cows to the fields or women churning out butter from milk. Step inside their mansion and you will be amazed to see opulent motifs and premium furniture embellishing their homes, that endorse their treasures of millions. The best part is that, they are simple, hardworking and extrovert by nature. But surely they know how to enjoy life.
Moments of Merriment
Since the heart of Haryana traces its roots to agriculture, every moment of frolic is woven around this particular pursuit that brings smile on every face. To get a better insight, visit the popular Surajkund Crafts Mela, held in the month of February at a distance of 8 km from the national capital at Delhi. Affording some of the best handlooms and handicrafts of the country, the Mela is colourful and rich in experience. Wander around the bustling stalls that shine with the brilliance of mirror encasing embroidery, delicate lace work, folk motifs on terracotta forms, metal and cane-ware, the tinkle of bangles, shimmer of iridescent silks and the jingle of toys and trinkets. Offering a crowd of people who come from every corner of the country, in colourful dresses and carrying curious traditions, the Mela is indeed a keleidoscope of myriad cultures.
Adventure on The Rocks
The valiant sands of Haryana encourages adventure enthusiasts with an open heart. With the opening of an Adventure Club in November 1991 by the Tourism Department, the pleasure boomed to an extent such that there is always an adventure campaign going on at any part of this rustic state. Come, be a part of it. Get into a rubber dinghy and feel the adrenaline speeding down your spine while on white water river-rafting on Yamuna, near Hathinkkund. Brave a sheer rock-face while fighting to gain a foot hold in a bid to rock climb at Damdama Lake. Enjoy a memorable boat cruise at Morni Hills near Chandigarh. Drive to Surajkund or Badkhal Lake to kayak past amidst many adventure enthusiasts. Get a feel of rural Haryana with a whiff of the countryside aroma at Sohna on a bicycle. Relax by camp fires with a glass of chilled beer, listening to the sounds of silence under the vast canopy of Haryana sky. No doubt, there is so much to do, things that you will love to do again and again. |
