India is a dream destination for art and culture lovers. Right from religious shrines to architectural wonders, the country is home to all. But how would it be if cultural excursion in India gets a touch of royalty. Operated by Rajasthan Tourism and Development Corporation (RTDC) and the Indian Railways, Royal Rajasthan on Wheels Train offers such experience to the travelers. Its journey spanning over 8 days and 7 nights encompasses two culturally potent destinations in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh- Khajuraho and Varanasi respectively. In this blog post, I will highlight the cultural significance of these two destinations that attract travelers from all around the world.
Varanasi
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| Ganga Aarti, Varanasi. Ganga Aarti Ceremony, Varanasi. |
Fondly known as the ‘spiritual capital of India’, Varanasi is largely visited for its bathing Ghats flanked by river Ganges and number of Hindu temples which include Tulsi Manas, Sankat Mochan, Bharat Mata and Kashi Vishwanath temple- famous as jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The sacred Ghats such as Manikarnika, Dasashwamedh and Panch-Ganga are believed to have the divine power of providing salvation. Being a spectator to evening Ganga aarti will give a perfect closure to your cultural tour in Varanasi.
Khajuraho
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| World Map India Madhya Pradesh Khajuraho |
“A sensuous poetry in stones,” this is probably the best explanation for Khajuraho Group of Monuments, recognized as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Built by Chandela dynasty between 950 A.D. and 1050 A.D., these temples are dedicated to lord Shiva, Vishnu and Jain Tirthnkras. These temples are outstanding examples of Indo-Aryan architecture and depict images of Hindu deities, mythological characters & animals and erotic figures exhibiting Kamasutra positions. An evening son-et-lumiere in the compounds of western temple complex will mark the crescendo of the day
