Maharaja Express Runs Its First Course of the Season Today - Indian Luxury Trains

Maharaja Express Runs Its First Course of the Season Today - Indian Luxury Trains

Premium luxury train, the Maharaja Express, runs its first journey today. The train, which starts in only a few hours from now, will embark on a total of 38 journeys this season, within the 2012-13 season spanning over the next 7 months. The train has already garnered some rave reviews by international guests at travel forums worldwide. The train was 1st Runner up in the Conde Nast readers choice travel award 2011 and winner of CNBC travel award 2010 under category of "Best Luxury train".

Top 4 Mandals You Must Visit This Ganesh Mahotsava

Ganesh Mahotsava is probably the biggest festival of western India, particularly in the states of Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka. The festival itself is quite a spectacle, with colors flying all around and the traditional submerging of the sacred idol of Lord Ganesha. If you happen to be in Mumbai this time of the year, here are four Mandals (associations) you must visit to soak in the true festive spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi.

1-    Lalbaugcha Raja

Lalbaugcha Raja Mandal

The busiest Ganpati Mandal in Mumbai, Lalbaugcha Raja Mandal is located in Parel. The Mandal was started by a group of fisherman way back in 1934 and today, the Mandal is visited by millions of people over the course of 3 days during the Ganesh festival!

2-    Khetwadicha Ganraj

Khetwadicha Ganraj Mandal

Started in 1959, the Khetwadicha Mandal boasts of the most spectacular of all Ganesha idols set up during the Mahotsava. Decked up in pure gold and diamonds, the idol installed in 2000 was declared the tallest ever built in the history of the festival, at a massive 40 feet. The best way to reach Khetwadicha Ganraj Mandal is through the Marine Lines Station on the Western Railway line.

3-    Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganesh Mandal

Tambdi Jogeshwari Ganesh Mandal

The Tambdi Jogeshwari Trust is the organizer of this Mandal near the famous Jogeshwari Temple. The idol of Lord Ganesh is carried on a palanquin made of actual silver against the backdrop of a Lezim troupe that performs on the day of immersion. The site is also historical for hosting freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak’s public speeches.

4-    GSB Ganpati Seva Mandal

GSB Ganpati Seva Mandal

Every year, the Ganpati idol at the GSB Ganpati Seva Mandal is adorned in jewelry worth millions as devotees present their offerings to the scale of their body weights. One of the richest Mandals in Mumbai.

P.S. – Ganpati is the other name of Lord Ganesha.

Udaipur: Travel Tips for Rajasthan Tours

Udaipur, also known as the city of lakes is home to some beautiful lakes which include LakePichola, Fatah Sagar Lake, Udai Sagar and Swaroop Sagar. The city is a popular destination among tourists owing to its royal attractions reflecting the glory of erstwhile kings of Rajasthan. Udaipur was founded by Rana Udai Singh as the capital city of Mewar in 1559. Legend says that while hunting in the foothills of Aravali hills, Rana Udai Singh came upon a hermit who guided him to build his fort on the same place, assuring that it will be well-protected from enemies.

Attractions in Udaipur 

Udaipur is a renowned destination owing to its lakes, palaces, temples and culture which attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists. Some of the famous attractions in Udaipur are as follows:

City Palace 

City Palace in Udaipur

Among the major attractions in Udaipur, City Palace deserves a special mention. The palace was built by Maharaja Udai Singh as the site of his new capital, Udaipur. The palace is a beautiful palatial structure standing on the east bank of Lake Pichola. The palace displays a unique blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, European and Chinese architecture. The City Place houses many big and small palaces, museums and gardens which include Amar Vilas, Badi Mahal, Durbar hall, Krishna Vilas, Manak Mahal, Mor Chowk, Zenana Mahal, Rang Bhawan and Sheesh Mahal etc.

Lake Palace

Lake Palace in Udaipur

One of the most astonishing palaces in the world, Lake Palace is a landmark of Udaipur. Once the abode of the royal family of Udaipur, the lake palace has now been converted into a luxury heritage hotel. The palace was built by Maharaja Jagat Singh in 1743 and was named after him as Jag Niwas. Set amidst Lake Pichola, the palace is a sheer poetry in white marble.

Saheliyon Ki Badi

Saheliyon Ki Bari :The Most Beautiful Gardens in Udaipur

Saheliyon ki Badi is a famous garden which was designed by Maharana Pratap in honor of 48 maid attendants who accompanied a princess to Udaipur as a part of her dowry. The garden is dotted with lotus pools, marble pavilions and elephant shaped fountains. There is also a small  museum inside the garden.

Cultural Fairs and Festivals in Udaipur

Celebrates fairs and festivals,Udaipur

The city of Udaipur celebrates all fairs and festivals with utmost zeal. The Mewar festival is celebrated to welcome the arrival of spring season. It coincides with the famous Gangaur festival in Udaipur. The women dress up in their best clothes and participate in this festival. They gather to dress the idols of Isar (Lord Shiva) and Gangaur (Goddess Parvati) and carry them in a traditional possession to different parts of the city. The events also showcases many cultural programs such as songs, dances etc. The festival concludes with an amazing fireworks display.

Things to do in Udaipur
The entertainment and leisure activities in Udaipur are according to the ethnic and imperial charm of Rajasthan state. Horse-riding in Udaipur is a perfect way of escaping from the hustle-bustle of this royal city. The highlight of horse-riding is a thrilling overnight safari to Jaismand along with a lifetime experience in a Luxurious safari camp near the Jaismand Lake. Camel safari is a common activity which you will find nearly in every state of Rajasthan. The camel safari will acquire your one whole day. The safari offers you an opportunity to meet the tribal people on your palace on wheels journey.