We did Two Trips in 1986
1. Dehradun - Mussoorie - Hardwar. And;
2. Agra and Fatehpur sikri.
THIS BLOG COMPLETED ON 07 November 2020.
Irrespective of the date when the map was made and the blogged, It has been published backdated, to maintain historical sequence.
These backdated blogs are written as much to record our travels and places seen all those years in the past, as they are to present a photographic record of the growth of Ajeet and Anuj through those early years.
Screen Shot !986 Trips.
This is a screenshot of our !984 and 1985 Trips. This Screenshot is just to give you an overall picture of the towns and the tourist's attractions we visited. But these details cannot be accessed here.
Full details and description about them and the information/write up about tourists attractions visited by us can be accessed in "interactive" google map.
Link for the album with photos of Dehradun - Mussoorie- Hardwar trip is given below
https://photos.app.goo.gl/TqAsrvM5qEeABXHj9
This album shared from the main 7ALBUM.85/4-10/86 @
1986 TRIPS
In 1986 we were staying at quarter no F - 23 at Jal Vayu Vihar Noida. During those days we were posted at Air Hq, Delhi.
We did Two Trip s in 1986
1. Dehradun - Mussoorie- Hardwar. And;
2. Agra and Fatehpur sikri.
Dehradun - Mussoorie - Hardwar.
F-23, Sector 21, Noida.
During those days:
we were posted at Air
Hq, Delhi and staying at Sector 21, quarter no F - 23 at Jal Vayu Vihar Noida.
Viju was commanding a
Base Work Shop in Dehradun.
Ravi after having
cleared selection, SSB etc was selected for the Army. He was undergoing training
at Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. On the completion of his course, He was passing out and being commissioned in the infantry on 4th June 1986.
Priti had decided to go
for this passing out parade. Aai, Appa from Indore wanted to attend his
passing out parade. Jiji and Bhupi also accompanied them. They Came to Delhi
and stayed with us for a couple of days. Viju came down from Dehradun to pick up them
up. It was decided that Ajeet would go with them. Priti, Anuj and I would join
them later.
We left by
bus for Dehradun on 1June 1986.
During the
family gup-shup it was decided that after the passing out parade we would see
Haridwar, Missouri and any other tourist place which could be seen in one day's outing.
Link for the album with photos of Dehradun - Mussoorie- Hardwar trip is given below
https://photos.app.goo.gl/TqAsrvM5qEeABXHj9
This album shared from the main 7ALBUM.85/4-10/86 @
Link for the album with photos of Agra - Fatehpursikri trip is given below
https://photos.app.goo.gl/WYyji1BegfbytsSg9
shared album is taken from main album number 7@
Viju House.
Ajet had already gone to Dehradun
with Aai Appa and co.
We left with Anuj on 1 Jun by bus
for Dehradun.
Do not recollect the location of Viju home. Assuming that it was in Cantonment
an arbitrary location has been selected as his home location.
Indian Military Academy.
Indian
Military Acadamy is the final stage of training for ex NDA and direct entry
cadets. Training for Ex NDA cadets is of one year while for direct entry cadets
it is of one and a half years duration after which they are commissioned as
an officer in the Indian Army.
Traditionally the final steps of the passing out parade leads cadets through the
portals of Chetwood hall. They enter the hall as cadets where the the "Stars" are put on their shoulders and they come out as an
Officer. This tradition is being followed since the formation of Acadamy.
All of us attended
the passing out parade. It was a moment of immense happiness and great pride
for all of us.
Information about Indian Military Acadamy available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
National Forest Research Institute.
As per
viju’s suggestion one day Jiji, Bhupi and four of us went to see National Forest
Research Institute of India. He said it was a premier institute, one of its kind
in the world.
It is spread
over a large area. Saw many unique and rare trees. Enjoyed it. Unfortunately do
not remember more details.
Information about National Forest Research Institute of India available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Haridwar.
One day
went to Haridwar. We went by what is called one tonner. Went in the morning
and returned to Dehradun by evening/night. Must have seen major places of
attraction. Had a dip in Ganga at Har Ki Pauri. All our sins, as on that date
were washed away :-)
Do not
remember too many details.
Sahastradhara Natural Spring.
Those days Anuj had a strange ailment. He used
to develop some sort of rash and pimples on top of his scalp. They were quite a
nuisance and also a bit painful. Priti tried all sorts of things without
success.
During general talks, we came to
know that about 20 odd KMs from Dehradun there is a place called Sahastradhara
Natural Spring. These were sulphur springs having medicinal qualities and
particularly helpful for the treatment of skin diseases. Priti told Viju to arrange
a trip to that place for so she could take Anuj for a dip in the hope that his
problem of rash and pimples would be cured.
So one day we went to Sahastradhara.
Do not remember many details.
Do remember that rash and pimple
problem of Anuj did not go away despite having a dip in sulphur springs.
Finally, It was cured only after Priti applied a paste of powered naphthalene
balls in coconut oil for many days running. That brought a great sigh of relief.
Information about National Forest Research Institute of India available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Malsi
Deer Park,
A one day trip to Mussoorie was planned. Among many other tourist attractions near
Mussorie, there were two
attractions we planned to visit. One was Malsi Deer Park which was on the way
to Mussorie and other was Kempty Water Falls,
So the day we went to see Mussorie, we stopped at
Malsi Deer Park.
Do not remember much but from the photographs, it seems that all the kids had a grand time.
Malsi Deer Park is a tiny zoological park, 10 km away
from Dehradun, in the foothills of the Shivalik range. Housed within its rocky
and forested environment are species such as deer, monkeys, peacocks,
two-horned deer, and Nilgai. The park also attracts migratory birds from the
different corners of India. Inside the Malsi deer park, there is a children
park and well-stocked canteen for eatables. Malsi Deer Park is a must-visit for
avid bird watchers and nature lovers.
Information about Malsi Deer Park available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Kempty Falls, Mussoorie.
After Masli Deer Park went to Kempty Falls, Mussoorie.
From the crowds, at the falls it was
obvious that it was a very popular spot. Water fell from a great height.
Considering ti was 4th June there was plenty of water.
Information about Kempty waterfalls available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Mussoorie.
After Malsi Deer Park went to Mussoorie. Almost every
hill station established by Britishers had a central point a junction called “The Mall”. It was the
place where Terrain permitting, The Malls had a bit of open space around which
most popular shops, restaurants, hotels and cinema halls etc were located. It
was a place to do window shopping and taking a stroll. It was 'the' get-together
place for friends and tourists to gather in the evening.
Went around the mall and other places. Near the bus stand, there were pony wallas. Ajeet, Anuj and Bonnie etc had a pony ride.
After spending
some time in Mussoorie returned to Dehradun.
Lunch
stop.
On the way back stopped for lunch and ice-cream break
at a place called Doiwala. We all Had a siesta as well under the shade of a huge
tree. It was a very laid down and relaxed affair. Finally, it was
time to board the one tonner once again and set course for Dehradun.
Were back in
Viju place by evening night.
AGRA -
FATHEHPUR SIKRI - 10 October 1986.
F-23, Sector 21, Noida.
By October 1986 we had almost spent a year and a half in Delhi. We had
yet to see Taj Mahal.
One of the friends suggested that it would be a good idea to include Fatehpur Sikri, a World Heritage Site, as well on the same trip. Bit
of discussion took place and we decided to go to Fatehpur Sikri as well.
Taj Express was specifically introduced
by Indian Railways for the convenience of foreigners. It used to depart in the
early morning from New Delhi Railway Station and return to New Delhi in the evening on the same day. Giving visitors sufficient time to visit The Taj Mahal as well
as surrounding attractions. The was also one of the highspeed trains which had reduced
travel time from three hours plus to just about two and a half hours. As a
result, it was the most popular train to travel between Delhi & Agra. We
decided to travel by this train.
It used to leave New Delhi railway
station around 6:00 AM. Distance between our house and New Delhi railway station was more than 22 or 23 KMs. Keeping margin for any unforeseen delay we decided
to start very early.
10th October saw all four of us on
the scooter setting course for the railway station at the ungodly hour of 4:30 AM in
thick of Delhi winter. It was pitch dark. Not a soul around. Deserted roads.
Naturally, we were stopped by a constable to check who could be driving around at that hour.
Seeing the family he mellowed down but still wanted to challan us for riding 4
on a scooter. I told him I was a Wing Commander in the air force. Showed him my
I card. He lectured me on breaking the law being from the defence. Heaved a sigh
of relief when he let us go.
Reached the station well in time.
To see zoomable photos with captions go to shared album
@
https://photos.app.goo.gl/WYyji1BegfbytsSg9
shared album is taken from main
album number 7@
Agra Junction.
Agra Junction is
locally and commonly called Idgah railway station as it is located in Idgah
colony.
Reached Agra. As we got out of the station we
were surrounded by touts. Every one of whom wanted to take us sightseeing on the best terms possible. Finally settled on one fellow. We told him that we wanted
to see both Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri. He advised that we engage a taxi for
the day which will take us to both the places and show all the worth seeing places.
Accordingly, we hired a taxi. The taxi driver suggested that we go and see
Fatehpur Sikri first and see Taj Mahal after we return from Fatehpur Sikri. This
would ensure that unforeseen delays in Fatehpur Sikri, we would have sufficient time to catch the return train. We agreed.
From Agra Station
set course for Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri.
Fatehpur Sikri is located 37 kilometres from Agra
near Sikri village. In 16th century, Sufi Saint Salim Chisti was
residing in Sikri village.
Mugal
Emperor Akbar did not have a son and heir to the throne. He went and visited
Salim Chisti at Sikri. The sain blessed the Emperor and predicted that a son will be born. The prediction came
true and a son was born in 1562. He was named Salim who later became Emperor
Jahangir. As thanksgiving, Akbar ordered building to a huge mosque.
A fort, grand
palaces and many residential buildings were constructed near Sikri village. all constructions were done with red sandstone
found in the area near Sikri. The new city was named Fatehpur to commemorate Akber's Victory
over Gujrat. Later Akbar shifted the capital of Mughal empire to Fatehpur Sikri. It
remained capital of the Mughal empire from 1571 to 1585. After which Fatehpur Sikri
was abandoned due to water scarcity and the capital moved back to Delhi.
Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of
Mughal architectural splendour at its height. Today the monuments have been
declared as World heritage Site and are a major tourist attraction.
Tomb of Salim
Chishti.
The very first place we saw in Fatehpur Sikri was Tomb of Salim Chishti.
It is situated in the huge paved courtyard of Jama Masjid. It is a very
beautiful structure in white marble. Pillars and lintels have been beautifully
engraved. Quite peaceful and sere atmosphere. Enjoyed going around.
Information about Kempty waterfalls available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Jama Masjid.
The moment you see Jama Masjid and enter its courtyard two things
overwhelm you one the sheer size area wise and the huge huge arched gates.
Tomb of Salim Chisti is also located inside. There are verandahs all along the walls. Rooms have beautifully designed niches and windows.
Information about Jama Masjid available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Anup Talao.
Anup Talao, or ‘peerless pool’
is located in front of khawabgah, Akbar's private quarters. This is one of the
most beautiful sites in all of Fatehpur Sikri. This square red sandstone
tank measures approximately 30 meters on each side; in the middle of the
tank is a raised platform, and the platform is enclosed by an ornate
balustrade. Attached to the central platform are four causeways, which connect
the platform to the four sides of the tank. Originally the tank was connected
to the waterworks system located on the northern side of the city. The Anoop Talao was also acted as a venue for musical performances during Akbar's time. It is forever associated with Akbar's legendary court musician Tansen who, it is said, could light oil lamps with the magic of his voice.
Courtesy tracyanddale.50megs.com/
@ http://www.tracyanddale.50megs.com/India/Rajasthan/HTML/anoopt.html
Panch Mahal.
Of all the beautiful
and grand buildings in Fatehpur Sikri Fort, your attention gets riveted on one five-storied building because of its unique architecture. Panch Mahal is rectangular
in plan view with North-South alignment. Each higher floor is smaller in length. The peculiarity of the construction is that the floors are raised, one on top the
other only from the southern end. Because of this and the decreasing size of
each floor, viewed from the side building has a stepped appearance.
All the
floors are without walls and are open from all sides. Each floor has ornate
balustrade all around.
Truly
a unique experience to see a unique building.
Information about Panch Mahal available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Diwan - E - Khas, Fatehpur Sikri.
In darbar of Mughal Emperor, there
always was a place where the emperor gave audience to the general public. This hall
was called Diwane Aam. (aam meaning ‘general’ or common)
There was another hall where only trusted few
and his ministers etc were granted an audience and where conferences were held.
This was called Diwane Khas. (Khas means ‘special’ or ‘favoured’).
Thre is a huge central pillar with intricate
and beautiful carvings. Diameter at the top is large and has plenty of space. Four
arms radiate out from this central space on top of the pillar, connecting four sides on the room.
It is said that the Emperor used to
sit in the throne installed on this central pillar.
Information about Diwan e Khas available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Agra.
Agra.
After leaving Diwan- e-Khas at Fatehpur
Sikri left for Agra.
To see zoomable photo with caption go to shared album
@
This shared album is taken from main album number
7@
So far as I was concerned Agra began and ended
with Taj Mahal. To stretch it a bit one can add ‘petha’ and also “Anguri Petha”
which is a favourite of Priti. After reaching Agra first place we went to was The
Agra fort.
Surfing around came across a web site
by the Department of Tourism,
Government of Uttar Pradesh. Felt that for a Govt web site it was quite
good. Here this is what it says about Agra. Browse through it, it is nice.
Agra is a city offering a discovery of the
beautiful era. Agra has a rich history, reflected in its numerous monuments
dotted in and around the city. The earliest citation for Agra comes from the
mythological era, where the epic Mahabharata refer Agra as ‘Agravana’ meaning
paradise in Sanskrit. ‘Ptolemy’, the famous second century A.D. geographer, was
the first person who referred Agra with its modern name. The Modern Agra was
founded by Sikandar Lodi, ruler of Lodi dynasty in 16th century. It was when
Shah Jahan descended the Mughal throne that Agra reached the zenith of
architectural beauty.
The city lies in
the Western part of Uttar Pradesh on the bank of River Yamuna. Though the
wonderful allure of the Taj Mahal attracts people from around the world over to
Agra, it is not a standalone attraction. The city offers a trail of fascinating
tombs and mausoleums to explore. Acclaimed for its lavish crafts like Pietra
Dura (marble inlay) work, rugs and leather goods, and the luscious Petha, Agra
equally caters well to shopaholics and foodies.
After reaching Agra first place we went to was The Agra fort.
Agra Fort.
Agra
Fort, I do not remember much about the fort. What I do remember is that we were
shown the bedroom of Emperor Shah Jahan from where, lying on his bed he used to gaze at Taj Mahal,
the tomb he had built for his beloved wife. Outside this room sat for a photoshoot on a marble bench.
Caught Taj mahal in the background. Almost the view of Taj which the Emperor
would have got all those years back.
Information about Agra Fort available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
Taj
Mahal.
From Agra Fort, we went to see the. Taj
Mahal.
It is a magnificent building. A world
heritage Site. One of the wonders of the world.
The symmetry, the architecture
is mind-boggling.
The accuracy with which the inlay
work has been done is simply amazing. How those craftsmen etched/removed the
marble to the exact shape and size of the material to fill the etching without
any mistakes or blemish is just unbelievable.
Spent lot of time going around admiring
the beauty.
Finally, time was approaching when we had to
leave for railway station if we were to catch Taj Express for our return
journey.
Information about Taj Mahal available on internet web sites, mostly from the wiki, is included in the interactive map.
F23, Sector 21, Noida.
Got down at New Delhi Railway station.
Collected the scooter from scooter stand and returned to Noida and home. Luck was
with us. No police fellow caught us during the return journey.
END OF TRIP.
