09 October - Bharatpur, India

 

Bharatpur, also known as the "Eastern Gate of Rajasthan," is a popular tourist destination famous for its Keoladeo National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary). This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its diverse birdlife, including migratory species. Beyond the park, Bharatpur offers historical sites like Lohagarh Fort and temples like Ganga Mandir and Laxman Temple. 

Top Attractions:

Keoladeo National Park: A haven for birdwatchers, featuring a wide array of bird species and a unique ecosystem of wetlands and woodlands. 

Lohagarh Fort: A historic fort known for its strength and architectural features. 

Ganga Mandir: Known for its impressive architecture & 4-foot statue of King Bhageeratha. 

Laxman Temple: Another temple showcasing intricate art and architecture. 

Bharatpur Palace & Government Museum: The museum houses a collection of artifacts, weapons, paintings, and items related to the erstwhile rulers of Bharatpur. 

This agrea was truly magical! Keoladeo National park is full of birds in their natural habitat, went on a jeep with a naturalist, it was amazing!

06-8 October - Agra, India

Agra, India, is a major tourist destination, primarily known for its Mughal-era architectural wonders, especially the Taj Mahal. Built by the grieving Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal’s unrivaled beauty explains why it’s regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world. A visit to India wouldn’t be complete without it. 

Agra also offers attractions like Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and various gardens, tombs, and cultural sites. Beyond the historical sites, Agra boasts traditional shopping areas and bazaars. 

06 October - Mathura / Vrindavan

After an early breakfast today my driver and I were off to drive to Agra, India. Along the way we stopped in Mathura / Vindavan.The site of Mathura was inhabited before the 1st century when the city flourished under the Kushan dynasty. In the 2nd century the city was a stronghold of Buddhists and Jains. In 1017–18 Maḥmūd of Ghazna pillaged Mathura, and between 1500 and 1757 it was sacked four times. The city fell under British rule in 1804.

Mathura is one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus. It is the traditional birthplace of the god Krishna (Krishna Janmabhoomi) and the primary site of pilgrimage for the annual celebration of Janmashtami. The city’s Shāh Mosque was built on the site in the 17th century, replacing a Hindu temple that had been erected there several decades earlier. The construction of a new temple, adjacent to the mosque, was completed on the site in 1965. 

Vrindavan is a town in western Uttar Pradesh state, northern India. It is situated on the west bank of the Yamuna River, just north of Mathura. The town is the sacred center of the Hindu deity Krishna and those who worship him. It is especially important to the Gaudiya sect of Vaishnavism and is a major pilgrimage site.

After we went to Agra.......see shots coming next!!!