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    Honeymoon, Family Tour
   
Hyderabad – Warangal – Vijaywada  ( 06 Night - 07 Days )
Hyderabad : ( 2 Nights ) – Warangal : ( 2 Nights ) – Vijaywada : ( 2 Nights )

Day 1 : Hyderabad
Arrive at Hyderabad Railway Station / Airport. Transfer to Hotel. After fresh up, proceed for city tour. Visit Charminar, Salarjung Museum, Jama Mashjid, Snow World etc. evening visit Lumbini Garden to enjoy Laser Show. Back to hotel & stay overnight at Hyderabad.
     
Day 2 : Hyderabad – Ramoji Film City – Hyderabad
After breakfast, proceed your way to visit Ramoji Film City. Full day excursion. Evening back to hotel & stay overnight at Hyderabad.
     
Day 3 : Hyderabad – Warangal
After breakfast, proceed your way to Warangal. On your way visit Kolanupaka. It is said that this village is the Birthplace of “Renukacharya”, the great Veer Shaiva Saint, believed to be bourn from the “Swayambaghu Linga”. This village was the Capital of Kalyani Chalukyas in the 11th Century. Kolanupaka Temple is famous as The Jain Temple of Mahaveera. 2000 Year old, having 1.5 Meter high image of Lord Mahaveera. Having Darshan at Kolanupaka, proceed your way to Warangal. If you want to purchase Brassware, you can visit Pembarti, which is famous for Brassware Material. On arrival at Warangal late afternoon, check in your hotel. Evening is free for personal activity. Stay overnight at Warangal.
     
Day 4 : Warangal
After fresh up, proceed for full day local sightseeing. Visit Thousand Pillar Temple, one of the finest example of Kakatiya Architecture & Sculpture. Built in 1163, in Chalukyan Style by Rudra Deva. After having Darshan, proceed to visit, Warangal Fort. One of the Kirti Toranas of Kakatiya Dynasty, Warangal Fort has famous Stone gateways about 30 Feet high & still Standing, a masterpiece carved in a single rock. Proceed your way to visit Bhadra Kali Temple. This Temple is located on the banks of Lake Bhadrakali & having a stone statue of Goddess Kali. Then start your way to Planetarium & Musical Garden, which is near to Bhadrakali Temple. You can enjoy Light & Sound Show with Water Fountains in the garden. Evening is free for personal activity. Stay overnight at Warangal.
     
Day 5 : Warangal – Vijayawada
Early morning check out from hotel & start your journey to Vijayawada. Enroute visit 1000 year old & Historic Khammam Fort situated on Stambhadri Hill. Tall Stones were used as Pillar to build the Ceiling & Mandapas of the Temple. This fort was an important seat of administration in 13th Century under the great Kakatiyas of Warangal. After spending 2 Hrs, proceed your way to Vijayawada. On arrival, transfer to Hotel. Evening is free for personal activity. Stay overnight at Vijayawada.
     
Day 6 : Vijayawada
After breakfast, proceed for local sightseeing. Visit Kanaka Durga Temple located on Indrakeeladri Hill, overlooking Vijayawada City as well as River Krishna. The another Temple is Marakata Rajrajeshwari , which is built in Stone symbolizing Srichakra – the adobe of the Goddess. After Darshan, proceed to Magalagiri, 12 Kms. from Vijayawada towards Guntur District, to visit Lord Narasimha Temple. Also visit Hinkar Thirtha, a famous Jain Temple. Visit Undavelli Caves. These are Double Storied Caves used like Rest House; build by Buddhist Monks in the 7th Century. After visiting the caves, proceed to Kondapalli Fort. Built in the 7th century by Krishna deva Raya, this fort was a Business Center. The British Rulers used this fort as a Military Training Center. Evening visit the Rajiv Gandhi Park. Vijayawada Municipal Corporation has created this park. The park is having impressive Horticulture Network & a mini Zoo & Water Fountains. Back to your hotel & stay overnight at Vijayawada.
     
Day 7 : Vijayawada – Hometown
After breakfast, proceed to Airport / Railway Station to board Flight / Train for Hometown.
     

Hyderabad
Hyderabad is the fifth largest city in India with an ancient civilisation and culture. Hyderabad and Secunderbad are twin cities, seperated by Hussain sagar which is a man made lake. Hyderabad occupies a unique position on the map of India. With its confluence of cultures and traditions, the city is often described as a link between the north and the south, and a meeting place of the east and the west. The city is nearly 400 years old and is noted for its natural beauty, mosques and minarets, bazaars and bridges, hills and lakes. The name itself brings up visions of a vibrant city of minarets and modern high - rise buildings. A natural and sophisticated blend of old and new, an old "Nawabi" culture with a new pro-active approach and hospitality.

The teeming bazaars of the old city, in the midst of which stands the 400-year-old Charminar, the modern shopping complexes and ultra-modern malls in the newer areas of the city add to the charm of Hyderabad.

The Golconda Fort, capital of the kingdom by that name, is today very much part of the city, as is Cyberabad (means Cyber City), a new local area created to keep pace with the zooming Information Technology & Tourism sector.

Pearls, bangles, silks, computer software, handicrafts and above all a delectable cuisine add to the splendour of this great city.

General Information

Area: 259 sq. miles

Population : 38,41,396

Rain Fall: 89 cm ( June to Sept )

Climate: Max.Min.
               Summer400C220C
                Winter220C13.80C

Tourist Seasons : June to February

STD Code : 040

Access

Air: Indian Airlines has flights connecting Hyderabad with all major cities in India. The nearest airport Begumpet airport is situated on the main road between Begumpet and Parade grounds (Secunderabad), roughly 5 Km from Secunderabad Railway Station. 

Rail: The world"s second largest railway under one management the Indian Railways carries more than ten million people every day. Main railway stations are Begumpet Station, Hyderabad Station and Secunderabad Station.

Bus: The AP State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) has a busy district service that connects Hyderabad to every city, town and almost all villages.

PLACE OF INTEREST

Andhra Pradesh State Museum 
A visit to the Andhra Pradesh State Museum is a delight for art lovers. Located in the picturesque Public Gardens, the museum boasts of one of the richest repositories of antiques and art objects in the country. Built in 1920 by the Nizam VII, the museum building itself is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The museum contains a Buddist gallery, Brahmanical & Jain gallery, Arms & Armour gallery Numissmatics gallery, Ajanta gallery & more. Adjacent to the State Museum is the Contempary Art Museum. 

Birla Mandir 
This shimmering ethereal temple of Lord Venkateshwara, built in sculpted white marble, floats on the city skyline, on Kala Pahad. The idol in the temple is a replica of the one at Tirupati. 

Birla Planetarium / Birla Science Museum 
Birla Planetarium is India"s most modern planetarium and first of its kind in the country. It is equipped with advanced technology from Japan and is built on Naubat Pahad adjacent to Kala Pahad. And the Science Museum stands tribute to the advancement achieved by science and technology. 

Charminar 
Charminar is as much the signature of Hyderabad as Taj Mahal is of Agra or Eiffel Tower is of Paris. Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah, the founder of Hyderabad, built Charminar in 1591 at the centre of the original city layout. It is believed to have been built as a charm to ward off a deadly epidemic raging at that time. Four graceful minarets soar to a height of 48.7m. Charminar has 45 prayer spaces and a mosque in it. 

Golconda Fort 
Golconda is one of the famous forts of India. The name originates from the Telugu words "Golla Konda" meaning "Shepherd"s Hill". The origins of the fort can be traced back to the Yadava dynasty of Deogiri, and the Kakatiyas of Warangal. Golconda was originally a mud fort, which passed to the Bahmani dynasty and later to the Qutb Shahis, who held it from 1518 to 1687 A.D. The first three Qutb Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years. The fort is famous for its acoustics, palaces, factories, ingenious water supply system and the famous Fateh Rahben gun, one of the cannons used in the last siege of Golconda by Aurangzeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell. 

Hi-tec City 
One of the modern monuments of trade & technology, it embodies the new-found attitude of Hyderabad & finds a place of pride today. Situated on the outskirts of the city, it is the nucleus of Cyberabad, the IT destination in these parts of the world. 

Hyderabad Botanical Gardens 
The first Botanical Gardens in Andhra Pradesh, spread over 120 acres when completed, will have 19 sections (Vanams). Already open to public is the first phase, with the completion of 5 sections. The sections include medicinal plants, timber trees, fruit trees, ornamental plants, aquatic plants, bamboos and so on. The Park has been designed to have large water bodies, rolling meadows, natural forests, rich grasslands and exquisite rock formations - all providing visitors an unforgettable experience. 

Laad Bazaar 
This is the famous, colourful shopping centre of the Old City. It is tucked away in one of the streets leading off from Charminar. Bridal wear, pearls & the traditional Hyderabadi glass & stone studded bangles are sold here. 

Legislative Assembly 
Built in 1913, the building was originally the Hyderabad State Town Hall. The architecture is a synthesis of Rajasthani and Persian styles, with an all white, aesthetic look. Located adjoining the picturesque Public Gardens, a massive statue of Mahatma Gandhi in a sitting posture is erected at the entrance park to the Assembly. 

Lumbini Park 
This beautiful entertainment park is situated on the shores of Hussainsagar lake. The landscaping here is a visual treat. A musically synchronized water fountain and a floral clock are major attractions here. Lumbini Park jetty is a major point for pleasure boating. 

Mecca Masjid 
A hundred yards southwest of the Charminar is the Mecca Masjid, so named because the bricks were brought from Mecca to build the central arch. The Qutb Shahis never finished the building of the mosque, which was completed by Aurangzeb in 1694. Mecca Masjid is poetry in stone, with a hall measuring 67m & soaring to a height of 54m. Fifteen graceful arches - five to each of the three sides, support the roof. Towards the southern end of the mosque lie the graves in marble of Nizam Ali Khan & the families of the Asaf Jahi dynasty. 

Nehru Zoological Park 
Spanning 300 lush green acres, the Nehru Zoological Park is a must for nature lovers. The biggest Zoo in India, it has over 250 species of animals and birds, most of which are kept in conditions as close to their natural habitats as possible. This is the first zoo to create moated enclosures for animals. The Lion Safari Park, Natural History Museum and Children"s Train are the added attractions. APTDC runs its "Pongali" restaurant and an ice-cream parlour here. 

NTR Gardens 
A leisure and entertainment centre adjoining the Hussainsagar lake, the NTR Gardens house a memorial (Samadhi) of Late N.T. Rama Rao, one of the most charismatic Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh. The sprawling NTR Gardens, set up on an area of 36 acres, offers a serene atmosphere and yet provides recreation facilities such as a Machan tree, Japanese Garden, Car Cafe, Souvenir shops, Fruit Restaurant and Children"s Playing area. A monorail system takes the visitors around the garden. 

Osmania University 
Established in 1918, it is one of the oldest universities in India. Named after Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, the university buildings are splendid, especially the Arts College building which is a perfect example of Indo - Saracenic architecture. 

Qutb Shahi Tombs 
The tombs of the legendary Qutb Shahi kings lie to the north of Golconda, about a kilometre away from Banjara Darwaza of the Golconda Fort. Planned and built by the Qutb Shahis themselves, these tombs are said to be the oldest historical monuments in Hyderabad. They form a large group and stand on a raised platform. The tombs are built in Persian, Pathan and Hindu architectural styles using grey granite, with stucco ornamentation, the only one of its kind in the world where an entire dynasty has been buried at one place. 

Ramoji Film City 
A dream world created for the celluloid on a sprawling 1000 acres, with every imaginable set and location, Ramoji Film City on the outskirts of Hyderabad offers facilities to produce any kind of movie. Apart from sets, there are hotels where artistes and technicians can stay. Visitors too can go round in conducted tours. (040-23235777) 

Salar Jung Museum 
This museum houses one of the biggest one-man collections of antiques and artifacts in the world by Mir Yousuf Ali Khan Salar Jung III. The objects d"art include Persian carpets, Moghal miniatures, Chinese porcelain, Japanese lacquer ware, famous sculptures including the Veiled Rebecca and Marguerite and Mephistopheles, a superb collection of jade, daggers belonging to Queen Noor Jahan and the Emperors Jahangir and Shah Jahan, Aurangzeb"s sword and many other fabulous items. APTDC has a "Pongali" snack bar here. 

Shilparamam 
The Arts & Crafts VillageThe latest attraction at Madhapur beyond Jubliee Hills in Hyderabad is the 30-acre village, which houses arts & crafts of the country. India is an ocean of various arts & crafts but the talents of most of the artisans & artists goes unrecognized. To encourage them & give the necessary boost to their art, the crafts village hosts annual bazaars, where artists & artisans from all over the country exhibit their talents. 

The Nizam"s Museum 
Located in the stately Purani Haveli, the palace acquired in the year 1750, by the second Nizam, is now converted as a museum with a fascinating collection. The museum showcases the gifts & mementos presented to the last Nizam on the occasion of Silver Jubilee Celebration in 1937. A 1930 Rolls Royce, Packard & a Mark V Jaguar are among the vintage cars displayed. There is an interesting collection of models made in silver of all the prominent buildings of the city & citations in Urdu about H.E.H Mir Osman Ali Khan, gold burnished wooden throne used for the Silver Jubilee Celebrations, gold tiffin box inlaid with diamonds, gold model of Jubilee Pavilion and a silver filigree elephant with mahout are some of the notable items on display. The museum is open between 10.30 am & 05.00 pm on all days except Friday. Location: 2 Kms from Charminar & 1 Km from Salar Jung Museum. Ph:040-24521029.

Excursions

Anupu
To avoid submersion of the outstanding structures in the valley, a rare feat of reconstruction and relocation of the remains was taken up, using the original raw material. Anupu, four kms from the dam site, was chosen for relocation of a Buddhist University, the ruins of which were found during the special excavations. The painstaking reconstruction using a technique adopted for the first time in the country ensured that serenity of the seat of learning was preserved. The transplanting was done along the lines of those at Abu Simbel (Aswan Dam Project) in Egypt. 

Ettipotala
Eight kms from Nagarjunasagar is the Ethipothala waterfall. Ethipothala in Telugu means to "lift and pour" and the impressive picnic spot has the hill stream Chandravanka cascading down 22 metres to join the mainstream Krishna river. The waterfall has created a beautiful lagoon below. After sunset, the waterfalls are illuminated by dynamic lighting. A crocodile breeding centre has been located here by the Forests Department. APTDC has "Pongali" restaurant here with two rooms attached. 

Nagarjunakonda
As the area was threatened with submergence by the reservoir the Archaeological Survey team made determined efforts to virtually transplant nine monuments from the valley onto Nagarjunakonda (the Hill of Nagarjuna) where they stand now in almost the original form in which they were found. While most of the monuments were relocated at Nagarjunakonda, the hill that now forms an Island in the middle of the reservoir. A museum at Nagarjunakonda contains Buddhadatu or relics excavated from the valley. The museum at Nagarjunakonda is a structure modelled along the lines of a "Vihara" and contains a number of precious artefacts of all cultural periods through which the valley passed. Carved limestone and stone slabs, inscriptions and sculptures dating to the third and fourth century AD constitute a majority of the exhibits, arranged methodically in five galleries. The sculpture at Nagarjunakonda brings out the mastery of the Satavahanas and the Ikshvakus. The themes are mainly from episodes involving the Buddha but the outstanding example of the sculpture of that age is the life-like depiction of the Enlightened One. The Buddha images, be they in the "sthanaka" (standing) or "asana" (sitting) position, beautifully portray a serene oval face with a moderately-built body and rounded shoulders. The right hand is held up in the symbolic gesture of "abhaya" (protection) or "pravachana" (preaching). One can transport oneself into that glorious age through a model of the submerged valley, exhibited in one of the galleries at the museum. The Nagarjunakonda island is approachable by motor launch. 

Nagarjunasagar 
Sriparvata, Vijayapuri, Nagarjunakonda - call it by any name but it remains today the modern day Nagarjunasagar - an engineering marvel, largest masonry dam and one of the largest man-made reservoirs. Nagarjunasagar, a massive irrigation project on the River Krishna, about 150 kms from Hyderabad, has a rich and interesting past. It was a valley in the Nallamalai range of the Eastern Ghats with civilizations dating back to thousands of years. Recorded history, however, assigns the first signs to the later Satavahanas and subsequently the Ikshvakus in the third century. Archaeologists assert that the fertile Krishna Valley hummed with life in the third millennium BC, the Neolithic age and then the Megalithic age around 1500 BC. The tallest masonry dam in the world, Nagarjunasagar stands about 124 metres high, creating one of the largest man-made lake with a capacity of 11, 472 million cubic metres. The water spread of the reservoir is about 380 sq.kms. The main canals - Jawaharlal (on the right) and Lal Bahadur (on the left) carry water to two regions of the State - parts of Coastal Andhra and Telangana. The canal system under this magnificent hydro-electric project is over 40,000 kms cumulatively. Jawaharlal Nehru called Nagarjunasagar a "modern temple". The Sriparvata and Vijayapuri of yore were really temples where the famous savant and Buddhist disciple Acharya Nagarjuna preached the message of Tathagatha during the lifetime of the Lord Himself. With a decision being taken to build a dam at the site, large-scale excavations were carried out during a special project to retrieve most of what could be. The special project, under the stewardship of R. Subramanyam, went on for six years from 1954 to unearth a cultural sequence from the early stone age to medieval times. 

Tiger Sanctuary
The largest wildlife sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh lies between Nagarjunasagar and upstream Srisailam. Spread over 3,500 sq.kms., it encompasses thickly wooded hills in five districts - Nalgonda, Kurnool, Mahboobnagar, Guntur and Prakasam.


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Vijayawada
Once known as the political as well as publishing capital of Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada is a vital rail and road link between the North and the South and is now known as "the city that never sleeps. A major business centre, it is the hub of commercial activity in the coastal area. The Prakasam Barrage, the Kanakadurga Temple, the St. Mary"s Church and the Moghalrajapuram Caves are some of the attractions in the city. The number of canals criss-crossing the city gives it a Venetian look. The city has heavy industries like the Thermal Power Station, Milk Products Factory, Jawahar Auto Nagar, Sugar Factory and Cement Manufacturing Units. The newly constructed Bus Station Complex is the biggest in Asia. Vijayawada, is located at the head of the Krishna delta, 70 km from the sea. Earlier known as Bezwada it was an important centre of the Vishnukundin rulers in the 5C -6C and the headquarters of the Early Chalukyas of Badami. The present name is derived from the presiding deity, Kanakdurga also called Vijaya. The city, a major railway Junction is picturesquely surrounded by hills on three sides, with the swiftly flowing waters of the Krishna river on the south. Today it is a thriving business centre and a convenient base from which to visit varied historical sites.

General Information

Population: 845,300

Best time to Visit: September To February

Climate :Max.Min.
               Summer410C290C
                Winter300C200C

STD Code : 0866

Access

Vijayawada is an important link in connecting the three regions of Andhra Pradesh and is a major transit point. Two National Highways, the National Highway 5 from Chennai to Calcutta and the National Highway 9 from Machilipatnam to Hyderabad pass through the city connecting it to other parts of the country. It is connected to other areas of the state, by state highways and district roads.

Air: The airport located at Gannavaram, about 20-km, from the city connects Vijayawada to Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam. It"s about a 30-minute flight from Hyderabad. NEPC Airlines flies to Chennai and Visakhapatanam on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. 

Rail: Vijaywada is on the main Chennai to Kolkatta and Chennai to Delhi lines and all express trains stop here. Situated along the Chennai- Howrah and Chennai-Delhi rail route, this is the largest railway junction of the South Central Railway. The quickest train from Vijayawada to Chennai is the Coromandel Express. 

Road: Good motorable roads connect Vijayawada with all the places within the state and also with the major cities in India. Transport by road from Vijayawada to all the places of Buddhist interest is available in the form of Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) buses. 

PLACE OF INTEREST

Amaravati
This Small town is situated around 68kms from Vijayawada on the south bank of the Krishna river. Amaravati is considered the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage center in South India. It is best known for the Great Stupa or Maha Chaitya, believed to have been 32 meters in height and 32 meters diameter, was larger than one at Sanchi, Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh. The dome was faced with intricately carved marble slabs. The origins of the stupa go back to the 3rd or 2nd centuries BC. The excavations by Col. Colin Mackenzie in 1797 recovered the magnificent railings, sculptured friezes. Almost all these excavated items are placed at the museum of Madras and Kolkata. It is locally known as "Deepaladinne" or "Hillock of lamps". The Archaeological Museum on site contains panels, chakras and caskets containing relics, broken railings and sculptures of the Bodhi tree. Galleries containing pottery, coins, bangles and terracotta. It opens from 0900 to 1700 except Fridays. Amaravathi is also well known for the Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple. The temple built in 10C to 11C by the eastern Chalukyas was largely renovated in 18C by a local chief Venkatadri Nayudu and the presiding deity is Lord Shiva

Bhavani Island 
Perhaps one of the largest Islands on a river, Bhavani Island is located on Krishna River close to the city. AP Tourism is converting this 133-acre island into an attractive tourist spot and a River Front Resort. Journey to the island by boat is very pleasant. 

Buddhist sites 
Amaravati, Bhattiprolu, Goli, Guntupalli, Ghantasala and Chinna Ganjam are some important Buddhist sites near Vijayawada. Many stupas and viharas were built during the Satavahana and Salivahana dynasties. 

Gandhi Stupa
The tall Gandhi Stupa situated on Gandhi Hill, was erected in 1968, in memory of Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the nation. Gandhi"s teachings are inscribed on stone slabs. There is also a memorial Library, a planetarium on the hill. A toy train skirts the hill. 

Ghantasala
Situated around 90km from Vijayawada, Ghantasala was once a flourishing Indo-Roman trade as well as an important religious centre. The Buddhist relics and the Hindu structures at the place reveal its past glory. Carved limestone columns belonging to pillared halls associated with 2C-3C Buddhist monastic establishments have been discovered. The ruined Maha Chaitya or stupa that was excavated here is of a unique design. A cube of solid bricks is set in the centre, inscribed with 12 constellations of zodiac. Some of the carved slabs have found their way to museums in Paris. 

Gunadala Matha Shrine 
In 1925, Rf. Arlati, the then Rector of St. Joseph"s Orphanage at Gundala, installed a statue of Our Lady and later a church was built and consecrated in 1971, now popularly known as St. Mary"s church. Since then the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes became an annual event here, attended by hundreds of people. The church is situated on a hillock on the eastern side of the city. 

Hamsala Devi
An important religious centre in the district, situated at about 85-km from Vijayawada. 5-km away from this place the Krishna joins the Bay of Bengal. It is considered as a sacred place of pilgrimage being the confluence of the Krishna and the sea. The Shrine of Venugopalaswami, constructed during the rule of the Chola Kings, is an important place of worship. A festival celebrated in honour of this deity for eight days from Magha Suddha Navami to Bahula Padyami (January- February) attracts thousands of pilgrims even from other states. 

Hazrathbal Mosque
A holy relic of Prophet Mohammad is kept in the mosque in the city and displayed once a year. 

Hinkar Thirtha (Jain Temple), Mangalagiri 
A Jain temple here with great artistic work, it is slated to be the biggest Jain temple in the region. 

Kanaka Durga Temple
Kanaka Durga, goddess of power, is the presiding deity of Vijayawada. The city derives its name from the goddess, also known as Vijaya. The temple of the goddess is situated on the Indrakila hill along the river. The deity in the Kanaka Durga temple is "Swayambhu" or self-manifested, hence is considered very powerful. Nearby are the Vijayesvara temple and Malleshvaraswamy temple, said to have been installed by Arjuna and Yudhishtira, the Panch Pandava brothers of the Mahabharata Epic

Kolleru Lake 
Located 95 kms from Vijayawada, this large fresh water lake attracts several species of birds. The lake is spread over an area of 300 sq. miles and pelicans from Siberia and Fiji Island are seen here during October and November every year. The famous Peddinti Amma/ Jaladurga temple is located here. It is a great picnic spot for bird watchers and nature lovers. 

Kondapalli 
Kondapalli village, the famous toy-making centre is located 14 km northwest of Vijayawada. The toys are usually made of light wood called "Poniki" and lacquered in brilliant colours. These colourful toys depict themes centered around rural life, mythological characters, animals, birds, fruits, vegetables and houses. You can see craftsmen working on carvings in the village. There is a picturesque hill fort at Kondapalli, which passed hands successively through various dynasties. 

Kondapalli Fort 
Kondapalli village is situated 16 kms. from Vijayawada. A 7th century fort on the hill with an impressive three storeyed rock tower was witness to the glory of many dynasties. It served as a business centre. Finally the fort was used as a military training base by the British rulers. A good picnic spot, the village is famous for toy making with light-weight wood available on the hill forest. These toys are famous world-over as "Kondapalli toys".

Kuchipudi
Kuchipudi, situated 60-km from Vijayawada, is named after the famous classical dance style Kuchipudi. It is the birthplace of Siddhendra Yogi, creator of the dance form. A dance school in the memory of the great yogi offers courses to train students in the Kuchipudi dance form. 

Machilipatnam
This port town earlier known as Masulipatnam, is located 70km southeast of Vijayawada. It is renowned for its cotton textiles, especially finely woven muslins and brightly coloured prints. The town is famous for its hand printed silk and cotton saris, upholstery, sling bags and dresses. There are Dutch tombs with carved instructions and coats of arms bearing dates from 1649 to 1725. The Manginapudi Beach, 10kms away is a popular attraction for tourists and divers. 

Manginapudi Beach 
Located near Machilipatnam, lakhs of pilgrims take a holy dip here in the sea during Magha Poornami, as it is ideal for sea bathing. Fabric printing with natural colours known as Kalamkari and gold covering are the major village industries, famous worldwide. The Panduranga Swamy Temple, which is said to be similar to the temple at Pandharpur, is a popular pilgrim centre. 

Mangalagiri 
The Mangalagiri 13 km south of Vijayawada is famous for the renowned temple Lakshmi Narasimha, one of the Nine incarnations of Vishnu. This temple built by the Reddi Chiefs in the 14C on a hillock was remodelled in the 17C to 18C. The devotees believe that the deity accepts only half the quantity of "Panaka" (jaggery dissolved in water) offered by devotees. There is a small Garuda Shrine in front resembling a chariot. 

Mogalrajapuram Caves
Mogalrajapuram caves located 3km east of the city centre has five rock cut sanctuaries dating back to the 7th century AD. The Mogalarajapuram temple has an "Ardhanarisvara" statue which is thought to be the earliest in South India. Cave 2 shows an overhanging cornice with artificial windows. The idols of Lord Nataraja, Vinayaka in one cave are still in good condition among the worn images of deities. 

Prakasam Barrage 
The barrage first completed in 1855, located on the outskirts of Vijayawada is one of the earliest major irrigation projects in Southern India. The barrage 1000m long was named after the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Sri Tanguturi Prakasam. The scheme irrigates nearly one million ha, converting the Krishna delta into the richest granary in Andhra. 

Rajiv Gandhi Park
Located near the new Vijayawada bus stand, this educative park contains built-up structures of dinosaurs and pre-historic animals. There is also a Musical Fountain working from 7.30 p.m. to 8.15 p.m. closed on Mondays. 

The Victoria Jubilee Museum
The Museum of the Archaeological Department situated on Bundar Road contains sculptures and painting. Pre historic materials, such as stone tools, microliths and Neolithic implements are also on display. There is a colossal granite statue of the Buddha and also a well preserved standing white limestone figure of the Buddha from Alluru, dating from the 3C- 4C. Opens at 1030 to 1700. Friday holiday. Entry - free. For camera - Rs.5. 

Undavalli Caves
The ancient Hindu cave temples of Undavalli is located about 8km from Vijayawada across the river. The temples are atop the high hills overlooking the Krishna river. There are fine specimens of cut-in architectural and sculptural models. A huge monolith of Lord Vishnu in lying position is worth mentioning. 


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Warangal
Just about 157 kms from Hyderabad, lies the legendary city of Warangal, which has found its way into Marco Polo"s travel diaries! Come, explore a plethora of lakes, temples and wildlife. Warangal produces rice, peanuts, grains, and livestock. Warangal is also a center for cotton, rice, and grain milling; tanning; wool processing; printing; and carpet weaving. The rail junction of Kazipet lies to the southwest. Warangal has an arts and sciences college and a government teachers training college, both affiliated with Osmania University (1918) at Hyderabad. A 12th-century Hindu temple is in the city, and Warangal Fort, located nearby, is the site of the 13th century capital of an Andhra kingdom. Formerly a part of Hyderabad princely state, the city is sometimes called Hanamkonda. Warangal, is noted for its beautiful lakes, splendid temples and wildlife. It was once the capital of the legendary Kakatiya kingdom, and mentioned. The city was once the heartland of Telugu culture. The capital of the Kakatiya rulers, Warangal today contains some of the best forms of architecture, especially temples. Warangal city today is part of a cluster of three towns: Warangal, Kazipet and Hanamkonda, the district headquarters". Bound on the Northern part by the mighty Godavari River, the district has large tracts of forest and an array of flora and fauna

General Information

Temperature:
                       SummerMax 39.60C23.20C
                       WinterMax 300C13.50C

Rainfall: 82.5 cm. (June to September)

Best Season : September to February

Population: 447,657 (1991 Census)

STD Code : 08712

Access

Air: Nearest airport is at Hyderabad 157 km. 

Rail: Nearest convenient rail head is at Kazipet 6 km. Warangal also has direct rail connections with all important cities of India. It lies on the Vijayawada-Hyderabad section of the South Central Railway.

Road: Warangal is connected by state buses from Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Karimnagar, Khammam, etc. 

Places of Interest

Eturnagaram 
This sprawling sanctuary along the Godavari River is about 80 kilometers from Warangal and 210 kilometers from Hyderabad. Spotted deer, black buck, Neelgai, sloth bears, panthers and tigers inhabit the forest area interspersed with low hills. Spending the day walking along forest paths or staying the night amidst sylvan surroundings is exciting. Cottages maintained by the Forest Department at Eturunagaram and nearby Tadvai offer comfortable accommodation for tourists. The best time to visit is between October and May, before the onset of summer and monsoon. 

Kolanupaka 
Kolanupaka in neighbouring Nalgonda district was the second capital of the Kalyani Chalukyas during the 11 th century. It developed into a great centre of Shaivism and Jainism and is today considered to be a major pilgrim centre for the Jains. Located on the Hyderabad-Warangal road, 80 kilometer from Hyderabad, Kolanupaka has a number of temples and shrines, prominent among them being one of the oldest Jain temples, over 2000 years old with a 5-ft jade idol of Mahavira. The Sri Veeranarayana Temple and the Someswara Temple & the State Archaeological Department has set up a museum in the Someswara Temple complex with exhibits mainly relating to temple architecture. Kolanupaka is located 80 kilometer from Hyderabad and 70 kilometer from Warangal. The nearest railway station is Alair. 

Pakhal Lake 
The sanctuary around the beautiful Pakhal Lake lies about 60 kilometers from Warangal. A guesthouse run by the Forest Department is located on the shores of the lake surrounded by wooded hills. Moonlit nights are a heavenly experience. The lake itself was excavated in the 13th century. The sanctuary is home to tiger, leopard, panther and Sambhar, apart from a large number of migratory birds that arrive in winter. The Forest Department has put up "machaans" in the sanctuary, which afford a good view of the scenery around. The nearest railhead is Warangal, 130 kms from Hyderabad and the best time to visit the area is between November and June. 

Pembarti 
Pembarti is famous for its sheet metal art, which flourished during the reign of the Kakatiyas. Even now Pembarti is known for its handicrafts and a Copper & Silver Metal Craft Centre here is worth a visit. Pembarti is located about 100 kilometers from Hyderabad and about 60 kilometers from Warangal. 

Ramappa Lake 
As was the tradition of Kakatiyan rulers, a tank was excavated adjacent to the temple, which is called the Ramappa lake and is known for its scenic beauty. 

Ramappa Temple 
Ramappa Temple at Palampet village is 70 kilometers from Warangal and about 200 kilometers from Hyderabad. The Ramalingeswara temple, popularly called Ramappa Temple, is a classic example of Kakatiyan architecture. The construction of the temple dates back to 1213 AD and originally there were said to be three structures but only one is presently intact. The Shivalaya stands majestically on a six-ft high star-shaped platform. This temple is famous for its rich, intricate sculpture covered walls, pillars, brackets and ceilings. 

Thousand Pillar Temple 
The famous "Thousand Pillar Temple" built in 1163 A.D. by Rudra Deva, is situated between Hanamkonda and Warangal, the twin towns. An excellent example of Kakatiya architecture, built in the style of Chalukya temples - a star-shaped and triple-shrine, with perforated screens, exquisite icons and rock cut elephants. The temples are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. The added attraction is the splendid six-foot monolith Nandi carved out of granite with a smooth finish. The one thousand pillars themselves are richly carved. Close by is another famous temple of Bhadrakali, noted for its stone image of Goddess Kali, depicted in a sitting posture. 

Warangal Fort 
12 kilometers from Hanamkonda was built during the 13th century by the Kakatiyas. The impressive fort has four huge stone-gateways. Built by one of the Kakatiya Kings, Ganapathi Deva and his daughter Rani Rudrama Devi, one can still spot some exquisite pieces of sculpture here. Other places of tourist interest in Warangal are: Prataparudra Planetarium, Kakatiya Musical Garden, Rock Garden and Archaeological Museum, Kakatiya University campus, Samskritika Vihar and Laknavaram Lake. 

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   Costing includes

1)
Accommodation on Double Sharing Basis.
2)
Exclusive Non A/C vehicle for transfers & sightseeing. As Per Itinerary (Point to Point)
3)
Meal Plan (as mentioned above)
4)
Toll tax parking and driver allowances.

   Costing does not include

1)
Airfare, Train fare, Insurance Premiums
2)
Personal expenses such as laundry, bottled water, soft drinks, incidentals, porter charges, tips etc.
3)
Difference in cost arising due to change in Fuel price.
4)
Entrance Fees & Guide charges.
5)
Any expenses caused by reasons beyond our control such as flight delays, rescheduling or cancellations, any accidents, medical evacuations, riots, strikes, etc.
6)
Any tips to drivers, hotel staff, any meals apart from the ones mentioned above.
7)
Government Service Tax (G.S.T.) as applicable 3.09%

   Costing in rupees
Package
02 Person
04 Person
06 Person
Extra Adult
(12 yrs & Above)
Child W/O Bed
(5 To 11 yrs)
Meal Plan
Cost Saver - A Grade
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
---
Deluxe - 2 Star
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
---
Luxury - 3 Star
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
---
Premium - 4 Star / 5 Star
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
On Request
---
EP (Europian Plan) : Accomodation Only 
CP (Continental Plan) : Accomodation + Breakfast 
MAP (Modified American Plan) : Accomodation + Breakfast + Lunch or Dinner 
AP (American Plan) : Accomodation + Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner 
 
Note : All information is issued in good faith and is for guidance only. The management reserves the right to amend any of the above dates, rates, durations routes or hotel reservations at any time without notice. Terms & Conditions apply.
  
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