NAMASTE
A TRAVEL NEWSLETTER FROM INDIA

July 2017

AHMEDABAD DECLARED INDIA’S FIRST HERITAGE CITY BY UNESCO INDIAN RAILWAYS STARTS KHAJURAHO-BHOPAL TRAIN AIR INDIA LAUNCHES DELHI-WASHINGTON DIRECT FLIGHT; FIFTH DESTINATION IN UNITED STATES
 

TREE OF LIFE RESORTS LAUNCH THEIR VARANASI RESORT

 
More than 600 year-old Walled City of Ahmedabad founded by Ahmed Shah has been declared India’s first World Heritage City,
Indian Railways has announced to operate most awaited train Bhopal /Khajuraho and Khajuraho /Bhopal from 13th July'17.		 Air India has launched direct non-stop flights three times a week from July 7 between New Delhi and Washington DC Tree of Life Resorts & Spa, promoted by Himmat Anand has opened their resort property in Varanasi.
       

Dear Partners,
Namaste from India!


The antiquity of Hampi can be traced to the Treta Yuga, the second of the four yugas or eons of Indian chronology. In the Ramayana, an Indian epic narrating the deeds and adventures of Rama, Hampi and its surrounding areas are identified with the kingdom of Kishkindha. This region was the realm of the Vanara (mythological half-man, half-monkey) brothers Vali and Sugriva and the birthplace of Hanuman, all of whom played a prominent role in the epic.

Travel back in time to the glorious days of the 14th century Vijayanagara Empire. Let the stone monuments at Hampi tell you the story of what was once described as “the best provided city in the world”.

This month we bring to you Hampi, Karnataka , as the destination of the month!

Regards,
Sanjeev Joshi
 

AHMEDABAD DECLARED INDIA’S FIRST HERITAGE CITY BY UNESCO

More than 600 year-old Walled City of Ahmedabad founded by Ahmed Shah has been declared India’s first World Heritage City, recognising heritage value of the walled city’s unique heritage.
The 5.5 km walled city area with an approximate population of four lakh living in century old wooden residences in around 600 pols or neighbourhoods is regarded as living heritage and the UNESCO had preferred Ahmedabad’s entry over Delhi and Mumbai, country’s two main metro cities.
Ahmedabad’s nomination received huge support from around 20 countries, which lauded the peaceful co-existence of dominant Hindu, Islamic and Jain communities in the Walled City area. Besides it architectural marvels of wooden havelis, the world community also stressed on the fact that the city was the epicentre of non-violent freedom struggle that led to country’s independence from colonial rulers in 1947.

INDIAN RAILWAYS STARTS KHAJURAHO-BHOPAL TRAIN

Indian Railways has announced to operate most awaited train Bhopal /Khajuraho and Khajuraho /Bhopal from 13th July'17.
The Train schedule is as follows:
Train No. 22163 'Bhopal to Khajuraho’
Timing: Departure from Bhopal at 06.50am, Arrival at Khajuraho at 01.30pm.

Train No. 22164 ' Khajuraho to Bhopal"
Timing: Departure from Khajuraho at 04.15pm, arrival at Bhopal at 11.55pm
Route: Khajuraho / Chhatarpur /Tikamgarh / Lalitpur/Beena / Vidisha ( Sanchi ) / Bhopal.
Coaches available in train One AC CHAIR CAR + 09 SLEEPER CLASS COACHES.
 

AIR CANADA TO LAUNCH DIRECT MUMBAI-TORONTO SERVICE ON JULY 2

Air Canada inaugurates new, non-stop Toronto–Mumbai service on July 2, the only non-stop flight from Canada to India’s financial hub. The four-times weekly service will be operated with Air Canada’s most modern aircraft, the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The aircraft feature 29 International Business Class lie-flat seat suites, 21 Premium Economy and 247 Economy Class seats, with upgraded in-flight entertainment at every seat throughout the aircraft. With the new Toronto–Mumbai route, Air Canada now offers three Boeing 787 Dreamliner routes between Canada and India, including year-round daily Toronto–Delhi service and seasonal Vancouver–Delhi service, which resumes in October and will be expanded to up to five times weekly this winter from three-times weekly last winter.
GoAir launches 3 daily direct Ahmedabad-Delhi flights

JET AIRWAYS EXPANDS CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN EMERGING INDIAN CITIES ENHANCES DOMESTIC SERVICES BY 96 NEW, NON-STOP WEEKLY FLIGHTS

Jet Airways, has announced the expansion of its domestic network during this monsoon by introducing 14 new direct, non-stop flights to emerging cities in India. This augmentation of domestic services between these cities is a result of the rising demand for aviation services between these fast-growing cities, reflecting their economic progress.
The airline has been witnessing steady growth in guest traffic, primarily in northern India, especially between cities such as Jaipur, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Udaipur and Indore. The new flights will deepen Jet Airways’ domestic footprint, helping it support and facilitate travel aspirations of its guests from these regions.
In an industry first, Jet Airways has introduced direct, return non-stop flights from Indore to Ahmedabad and Jaipur. Likewise, the airline has also commenced new, direct non-stop flights between Delhi and Indore, Lucknow, Jaipur as well as connecting Jaipur with Udaipur and Lucknow.
The airline has also introduced 11 direct, one-stop through flights between Delhi and Silchar, Dehradun and Jaipur, Chandigarh and Dehradun, Chandigarh and Lucknow, and between Indore and Lucknow, in yet another maiden initiative.
Jet Airways has increased capacity on key routes via additional frequencies, that include 2nd flight between Bengaluru and Guwahati, a 3rd frequency between Delhi and Indore, a 7th daily frequency between Delhi and Lucknow, as well as, Delhi and Jaipur, together with a 2nd daily flight between Delhi and Udaipur.

INDIA TO HOST 8TH EDITION OF THEATRE OLYMPICS ‘THE BIGGEST THEATRE CELEBRATION OF THE WORLD’ FROM FEBRUARY 17 – APRIL 08, 2018

Dr Mahesh Sharma, Minister of Culture and Tourism, announced that the 8th edition of the greatest carnival of Theatre in the World would take place in India for the first time ever from February 17– April 08, 2018 simultaneously in various cities across the country. Addressing a Press Conference here in the presence of Mr. Ratan Thiyam, Chairperson, NSD Society and Prof. Waman Kendre, Director, National School of Drama, the Minister said that there will be 500 plays & 700 ambience performances from across the world and allied activities like exhibitions, seminars, symposia, interactive discussions and workshops with well-known academicians, authors, actors, designers and directors will be held. He said that the leading luminaries of world theatre would take part.
In a development that puts India firmly among the top nations on the world theatre map, the country is all set to host the next edition of the prestigious Theatre Olympics. Established in 1993, the Theatre Olympics is the foremost international theatre festival, presenting the finest productions of well-known theatre practitioners from around the world.
The Theatre Olympics, being held in India for the first time, is being organised by the National School of Drama, under the aegis of Ministry of Culture. The country’s tryst with the biggest celebration of theatre in the world will take place from February 17 until April 08, 2018 and will be held in 15 cities across India.
 


 

 

 

 

Travel with time

In today’s world where man and machine are synonyms due to fast growing technology, a holiday has become must for us to relax and rejuvenate. The tourism industry therefore has become one of the fast growing industries and is changing its dimensions every minute. We at TIME understand the changing time and demands of travelers and therefore aim to provide all our clients with an experience, which is unparalleled. TIME was established in 1998 with the sole aim of providing quality services viz a viz value for money. The Indian sub-continent being one of the most challenging destinations requires lot of expertise and dedication, therefore we at TIME ensure to provide all our Travel Partners services which not only make their clients happy but gives us a repeat value.

Our motto, “The Company that cares”, says it all.

 

 

 

 
 

AIR INDIA LAUNCHES DELHI-WASHINGTON DIRECT FLIGHT; FIFTH DESTINATION IN UNITED STATES

Air India has launched direct non-stop flights three times a week from July 7 between New Delhi and Washington DC in America, making it the fifth gateway after New York (JFK), Newark, Los Angeles, Chicago and San Francisco.

INTRODUCTION OF NEW FLIGHTS BY AIR INDIA CONNECTING FOUR STATE CAPITALS

Effective 5th July 2017, Air India has commenced Daily Operations with ATR-72 connecting four State Capitals. The flights are Jaipur-Lucknow-Jaipur, Lucknow-Dehradun-Lucknow, Lucknow-Bhopal-Lucknow.
AI direct flight connecting Delhi-Copenhagen from Sept 16

JET AIRWAYS EXPANDS CODESHARES TO EUROPE WITH AIR FRANCE, KLM ROYAL DUTCH AIRLINES AND DELTA AIR LINES ON KEY SECTORS
Jet Airways has announced codeshare enhancements with Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
Under the expanded scope, the carriers will expand choice and connectivity options for guests flying between India and Europe. In the first instance, Air France and Delta are code-sharing on Jet Airways’ current service between Mumbai and Paris. Additionally, Air France, together with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Delta Air Lines, will also codeshare on Jet Airways’ newly announced flight between Chennai and Paris, scheduled to begin October 29, 2017, as also KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Delta Air Lines will codeshare on Jet Airways’ daily flight between Bengaluru and Amsterdam commencing October 29, 2017.
Additionally, Delta Air Lines will codeshare on Jet Airways’ third frequency between Mumbai and London.
Athens, Barcelona, Bilbao, Budapest, Dublin, Krakow, Leeds, Lisbon, London Heathrow, Lyon, Nice and Warsaw will now be seamlessly connected on code-shared flights.
Jet Airways also codeshares on Air France services connecting Mumbai and Paris as well as KLM’s newly-announced thrice-a-week service between Mumbai and Amsterdam, beginning October 29, 2017. All these new flights are already open for sale.

INNER LINE PERMITS MADE ONLINE FOR TOURISTS TO ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently launched e-Inner Line Permit (eILP) to make entry to the state paperless and hassle-free for domestic visitors. Inner Line Permit is an official travel document issued by the central government to allow inward travel of an Indian citizen into a protected/restricted area for a limited period. Khandu optimistically expressed that with this step there would be a significant increase in the number of visitors to the state as they can now get ILPs from their homes without having to go to the designated offices physically. Visitors can apply and obtain the mandatory inner line permit online at www.arunachalilp.com. Special Secretary Information Technology, Prince Dhawan, explained that after fulfilling all criteria online, visitors would receive the ILP with unique identity number and codes in soft copy in their emails, which can be displayed on their mobile handsets or tabs at the entry gates for verification. However, ILPs can also be obtained at entry gates and other designated places (like Guwahati airport) physically on payment of fees.
 



 

TREE OF LIFE RESORTS LAUNCH THEIR VARANASI RESORT

Tree of Life Resorts & Spa, promoted by Himmat Anand has opened their resort property in Varanasi. The 18-room resort is being set up on the outskirts of the city with typical Banarasi architectural design. Each Junior Suite allows you the luxury of space and privacy. High ceiling, teak wood carved furniture, hand painted Shiva on the wall, a separate living area with comfortable sofa and a large flat screen television; very spacious and well-lit suite 150 sq. ft bathroom with a style so unique you would not have seen elsewhere. And added to all of this, is your large private sit-out overlooking the gardens, the ‘kund’ (religious pond) and the open spaces around. Ann Tripti - the multi-cuisine restaurant derives its name from two Sanskrit words – ‘Ann’ which means food and ‘Tripti’ which means satisfaction – Ann Tripti. It offers Indian and Continental options, along with some special local Banarasi signature dishes.

ROYAL ORCHID HOTELS ADDS ONE MORE HOTEL TO ITS PORTFOLIO

Royal Orchid Hotels announces the opening of another hotel under its brand ‘Regenta’ in Dehradun, Uttarakhand expanding to 44th hotels. Regenta LP Vilas is one of the luxurious and best hotels in Dehradun with spacious rooms and lush green lawns.
The hotel comprises of 74 well-furnished rooms overlooking a picturesque view of the forest welcoming every guest to experience the tranquility of nature and luxury put together. The rooms are thoughtfully designed ensuring comfort to the needs of every guest; while, providing the best modern amenities such as a spacious bed, work-tables and sofa, separate shower with the basic toiletries, etc. for a remarkable leisure experience. This hotel also features a multi cuisine restaurant and a bar. The hotel is also, first of its kind to offer luxurious and spacious venue to host any kind of event. With around eight different unique venues, guest can host conferences, meetings, and exhibitions to weddings, parties, shows, and much more.

FERN HOTELS & RESORTS’ 31ST HOTEL OPENS IN PUNE

Fern Hotels & Resorts has recently announced the opening of its 31st hotel, namely, Amanora The Fern in Magarpatta, Pune, Maharashtra.
City Corporation Limited owns the 26-key property, which is spread over 4.5 acres with a capacity to cater 3000 people. It also has a squash court, a tennis court, a gym, a spa, a library and a huge indoor swimming pool. It also has an amphitheater.

 

Time Recommends

Tour of the month

Hampi

Myths & Legends from the Ramayana

After the abduction of Sita by Ravana, Rama and his brother Lakshmana arrive in Kishkindha in search of Sita. During their wanderings, they meet up with Hanuman at Rishimukha hill. Hanuman explains to them the state of affairs in the kingdom stressing upon the rivalry between King Vali and his estranged brother Sugriva. Rama expresses a desire to meet with Sugriva to hear his side of the story. Hanuman accordingly arranges a meeting between them.

During the course of their conversation, Sugriva informs Rama that he had seen Ravana transport Sita through the air in the Pushpaka Vimana. He also shows Rama some Jewellery that Sita had dropped during the flight, which he had found and hidden away. On seeing the jewels, Rama confirmed that it was indeed Sita’s, and decided to help Sugriva overthrow his brother Vali in exchange for his support in rescuing Sita.

Legends

Pampa to Hampi…

Goddess Pampa, daughter of Lord Brahma, was once performing penance on top of the Hemakuta Hill. Kamadeva – the God of love, observed her and Lord Shiva who was in meditation nearby and schemed to bring both of them together. Shiva was furious at being disturbed and opened his third eye in wrath, reducing Kama to ashes. However, Kama’s ploy worked. Shiva, pleased with Pampa’s devotion, eventually marries her. From this time on, Pampa came to be identified with Parvati, Shiva’s consort, while Lord Shiva himself began to be called Pampapati or Pampa’s Lord. Hampi, a derivation from goddess Pampa, was also known as Pampakshetra.

Hare and the Hound!

Local legend has it that Harihara I and Bukka I, two local chieftains from the Anegundi region were on a hunting expedition in the nearby hills. They sighted a large hare and set their hunting dogs on the animal. However, the hare picked up its courage and turned around and started chasing the hunting dogs. On their return, they reported this incident to their guru, Vidyaranya, who went back with them to the place of the incident. The guru informed them that the place was sacred, and advised them to establish the capital of their new kingdom there. The seed of an empire was sown. Over the next 200 plus years (1336 AD – 1565 AD), Hampi was the capital for the four dynasties that ruled the Vijayanagara Empire.

 

 

History

The discovery of stone artefacts, pottery shards and rock paintings indicate that Hampi has been inhabited since pre-historic times.
The Hampi region’s historical antiquity can be pushed back to the Mauryan period (322BCE – 182 BCE) as evidenced by the rocks edicts of King Asoka discovered in the area. The presence of inscribed Buddhist panels, comparable to that of the Amravati School belonging to the 1st and 2nd centuries CE from the time of the Satavahanas (271 BCE- 220CE), give us some more definitive clues of its pre-Vijayanagara history.
Many dynasties ruled over this region, the most prominent among them being the Chalukyas of Badami (5 – 6th century), the Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta (7 – 8th century), the Chalukyas of Kalyana (9 – 11th century), the Hoysalas of Belur and Halebidu (11 – 13th century) and the Yadavas of Devagiri (13th century).
Towards the late 13th century and the beginning of the 14th century, the area was invaded by the Delhi Sultanate who were, however, unable to retain the area for long. This led to a ‘power vacuum’ into which slipped two brothers – Harihara I and Bukka I – who seeded the Vijayanagara Empire that ruled the area with Hampi as its capital.
Three major dynasties ruled over the Vijayanagara Empire: Sangama (1336 – 1485), Saluva (1485 – 1505) and Tuluva (1505 – 1570).

The most famous kings of this vast empire were Devaraya II and Krishna Devaraya of the Tuluva dynasty. The reign of Krishna Devaraya is known as the golden period of the Vijayanagara Empire and is chronicled in great detail.
Domingo Paes, a Portuguese horse trader, who visited Hampi during its prime wrote “The size of this city I do not write here because it cannot all be seen from any one spot, but I climbed a hill whence I could see a great part of it. I could not see it all because it lies between several ranges of hills. What I saw from thence seemed to me as large as Rome, and very beautiful to the sight; there are many groves of trees within it, in the gardens of the houses, and many conduits of water which flow into the midst of it, and in places there are lakes and the king has close to his palace a palm-grove and other rich fruit-bearing trees. Below the Moorish quarter is a little river, and on this side are many orchards and gardens with many fruit-trees, for the most part mangoes and areca-palms and jack-trees, and also many lime and orange trees, growing so closely one to another that it appears like a thick forest; and there are also white grapes. All the water which is in the city comes from the two tanks of which I have spoken, outside the first enclosing wall.”

Geography

The landscape in & around Hampi falls under Eastern Dharwar craton, which is believed to be 3.4 to 2.0 billion years old and highlights the major early pre-Cambrian events in the craton. It consists of granite & greenstone terrain – One of the oldest exposed surfaces on earth.
Due to continuous erosion, at first underground, and later by exposure to sun, wind & rain, the surface of the monoliths cracked, split and eventually weathered into spherical shapes creating rounded and detached boulders, some perched in precarious positions giving the impression that they are about to roll over while some have devolved into random shapes and forms of sculptural merit!

Flora & Fauna

Dry deciduous scrub and southern thorn forests characterize the district. Apart from them, other animals found in these areas include leopards, wild boars, jackals, hyenas, porcupines, star tortoises, pangolins, mongooses and monitor lizards.
There are around 230 species of birds recorded in the area with the Grey Francolin, Barred Buttonquail, Common Kestrel and White – throated Kingfisher; being among the most commonly sighted ones.
Small streams crisscross the boulder-strewn landscape and irrigation canals where historically mangoes, Areca- palms, jackfruit, lime and orange trees were cultivated. Today one can find rice fields, banana farms and sugarcane fields here. These splashes of cultivation add to the surreal feel of the landscape.
The Sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) is a nocturnal insectivorous bear species found in the Indian Subcontinent. Sloth bears feed on termites, relying on their sense of smell to locate prey. They use their sickle-shaped claws to reach the termites and suck them up through their muzzle. They have a distinctive white coloured V shaped mark on their chest that contrasts with their black fur. Hampi’s surroundings are prime habitat for the Sloth Bear.

People

Hampi is a world heritage site and not a living city anymore. The towns close to it are Hospete, Kamalapura, Anegundi and Ballari – which is also the district Hampi is in. Many communities living here have had historical ties with the region while many have arrived here over time in search of livelihoods.

Gypsy Queens


Hampi region is also home to the Lambanis, a gipsy tribe, now living in settlements called Tandas. Said to hail from Rajasthan, the Lambani women are indeed a colourful lot. Specialist tailors create their intricately designed and crafted dresses with an emphasis on mirror-work for them. Decked up and decorated with heavy anklets, large nose-rings, braided hair, colourful necklaces and trademark jewellery, they stand out in Hampi’s rugged landscape. Adding to this, the tattoos on their arms, ankles, legs, and interestingly on their foreheads, are created using traditional tools on reaching marriageable age.
 



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