Sunday, May 27, 2007

Gumbaz

Gumbaz is the mausoleum of Tipu Sultan and his parents Hyder Ali and Fatima Begum. Situated in Srirangapatnam, this marvelous structure is a popular tourist attraction of the historical city. The structure is made of white stone. The monument is built on a platform and is surrounded by an open balcony. There are a good number of carved pillars that adorn this open veranda. The mausoleum is situated inside a garden called the Lalbagh.
This grand, opulent and historical structure was built in the year 1782-84 by Tipu Sultan. It houses the tomb stones of Tipu Sultan, his father Hyder Ali and mother Fatima Begum. Hyder Ali's tomb is placed in the center. Tipu's tomb is covered by tiger skin. Even the inner walls of the mausoleum have tiger prints on them. The doors of this beautiful structure are ebony in color and is inlaid with ivory. The ceiling is beautifully carved and the windows have intricate carvings. You can also check out the Masjid-e-aksa mosque, which is located next to the Gumbaz. One is expected to take of one's shoes before entering the mausoleum.
Getting to this place is easy. You can take a bus or an auto and come over here easily.
Gumbaz allows you to pay respect to one of the greatest kings of India.

Come close to nature at Sangam

Located in Srirangapatnam in Karnatka, Sangam is the ideal place to get close to Mother Nature. A popular spot to go for an excursion when embarking on a Mysore Tour or a tour of the historical city of Srirangapatnam, the place offers the perfect spot where you can sit and spend time with yourself.
Sangam, or rather Sangam Ghat, is basically that point where River Kavery meets River Loakpavani, before they flow together towards the Mettur Dam in Tamil Nadu. Once here, you can sit on the ghat steps and enjoy the cool and gentle breeze that will soothe your senses and mind. You can also hire a small boat and sail on the tranquil waters of the rivers. The view is simply fabulous and every moment you spend over here is a magical experience. The calm and peaceful atmosphere and the gentle breeze that blows on your face entwines you and your soul with the spirit of nature. You can buy a green coconut from the vendor and sip the cool coconut water while sitting on the ghat steps. Sangam Ghat is also a good picnic spot. An ideal place to spend a romantic moment with your beloved.
So, enter into a tryst with nature and let your imaginations soar at Sangam.

Sree Ranganathaswamy Temple

One of the finest examples of South Indian temple architecture, the Ranganathaswamy Temple is definitely a place worth visiting. This marvelous temple is located near Tipu Sultan's fort in Srirangapatnam. Built of stone, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, also referred to as Lord Ranganatha.
The temple was built sometime during the reign of the Ganga Ruler, Tirumalaiya, during the 9th century. The temple architecture is a mix of the Hoysala and Vijaynagar architecture patterns. It is one of the three Hindu shrines that are dedicated to Lord Ranganatha. The gopuram of this temple is exquisite and grand. The interiors of the temple are like a maze. Broad, huge and ornately carved pillars adorn the interiors of the temple. One of the most striking features of the temple is the Chaturvimsati Pillar. Located in front of the temples inner entrance, this pillar is carved with 24 forms of Lord Vishnu. Inside the temple, the idol of the Lord shows him in a reclining posture, lying on Adi Sesha. You can find the idols of Lord Krishna, Goddess Laxmi, Gowtama Muni, Garur, Srinivasa and Panchamukha Anjaneya. The latter two were installed by Vyasaraya.
The atmosphere inside the temple is cool and comfortable. So, no matter how hot it is outside, inside the temple it is extremely comfortable. The interiors are illuminated with traditional Indian lamps.
Outside the temple premises, there are a large number of shops selling pictures, articles made of stone and wood and other handicraft items. You can buy these items. Prices are reasonable, though in some cases you may have to bargain a little bit.
So, if you are visiting Srirangapatnam, make sure you make a trip to the Ranganathaswamy Temple. What can be better than experiencing spiritual bliss on your vacations.