India has been independent for 75 years. As a result of the tenacious struggle of revolutionaries and freedom fighters against the oppressive British rule, this is a momentous opportunity for all of the countrymen to celebrate the birth of a free nation. The celebration of Independence Day pays tribute to the courageous leaders and freedom fighters who gave all for the good of their country and fellow citizens.
It’s time to honour the great sons of the soil and be motivated by their inspirational stories.
On August 15, the famous annual celebration of Independence Day will once more be visible from Red Fort. We have the ideal chance on this day to look back in history and consider the significance of this particular date.
History and Importance of Independence Day
Over the course of more than 200 years, India fought for its independence from British colonial authority through several protests and military uprisings.
Legendary independence fighters and leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Chandrashekhar Azad, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Bhagat Singh gave their all to make India a free country. Along with the uprisings of these independence warriors, World War II shifted the scales in our favour by seriously harming the British forces and rendering them unable to reign over India.
The British Parliament eventually granted Lord Mountbatten the authority to transfer power by June 30, 1948. Mountbatten accelerated the procedure to August 1947 because he saw the people’s impatience and realised that if he waited until June 1948, chaos would result.
The British tried to hide their failure by putting an end to the bloodshed since it was difficult for them to cede control and admit defeat. It was asserted by Mountbatten that advancing the date would prevent unrest.
In the end, British rule in India came to an end on August 15, 1947. Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru raised the tricolour for the first time at the Red Fort in Delhi on this momentous day. After then, it became customary to have the current prime minister raise the flag at the historical place on Independence Day each year.
PM Narendra Modi hoists national flag, addresses nation from Red Fort on Independence Day 2022
We honour and remember all those who lost their lives today to preserve our right to live in a free country.
Thailand is one of those places that has something for everyone, with its picture-perfect white sand beaches, exquisitely designed temples, delectable street food, and rich cultural heritage. Thailand has quickly grown to be one of our favourite nations in Southeast Asia, whether you want to visit to learn more about its rich cultural legacy or simply to enjoy one of their numerous beaches and nightly parties. We’ve created this comprehensive travel guide, emphasising the greatest things you can see and do in Thailand, after visiting and living there.
Primary query where is Thailand?
Southeast Asia’s hub is Thailand. East and northeastern borders are shared with Cambodia and Laos, while the northwesterly boundary is with Myanmar. Southeast of Burma, the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are to the west. It is steep and forested along the lengthy southern section that connects to Malaysia. In northern Thailand, there are the tallest mountains.
Thai people and their culture
Ninety percent of the population is Buddhist, although three million Muslims live in the southern region close to Malaysia’s border.
In Thailand, elementary school lasts six years. They are permitted to continue in high school for a further six years, but their families are responsible for covering the costs. In ninth grade, boys begin their military training.
Indian and Chinese cuisines have considerable impact on Thai cuisine. The majority of Thai cuisine is hot and spicy, and many popular recipes also incorporate coconut milk, lemongrass, basil, ginger, and fiery chilies.
Mulberry trees are grown by Thai farmers as food for silkworms. The worms produce silk, which is used to make exquisite silk apparel in France, Thailand, and the United States.
Due of its 83 canals, Bangkok is referred to as the Venice of the East. Up to 10,000 boats jam the canals with fruits, vegetables, and fish, creating a floating market.
Many magnificent Buddhist buildings, including spires covered in gold, beautiful pagodas, and enormous Buddha statues, can be found in Bangkok.
Thailand’s environment
Between May and September, it rains virtually every day. Thailand’s diverse and plentiful fauna is encouraged by the country’s humid and wet climate.
The most popular flower in Thailand is the lotus, which is widely available. Lotus flowers are rooted in the dirt but live above the surface. There are many of fruit trees, floral bushes, and trees. Carnivorous (meat-eating) plants like the enigmatic insect-eating pitcher plant can be found in the jungle.
Tigers, elephants, wild ox, leopards, and the Malayan tapir reside in the dense woodlands. The tapir has white fur at the back and black fur on the front part of its body. Thailand also has crocodiles and cobras.
Thailand’s historical background
In Thailand’s hillsides, villages were created around 2000 B.C. Ben Chiang is believed to be the first. This region has produced ceramics, tools, and jewellery dating from 200 B.C. to 300 A.D.
Up until 1939, Siam was the name of Thailand, which meant “country of the free.”
Thailand time
Thailand observes UTC+07:00, which is seven hours earlier than UTC. Initially, Bangkok’s local time was UTC+06:42:04. Since Thailand does not follow daylight saving time, it utilised this local mean time until 1920, when it switched to Indochina Time, or UTC+07:00. Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Christmas Island, and Western Indonesia are in the same time zone as Thailand.
What language do people in Thailand speak?
Although English is widely understood and spoken by many Thais, the official Thai language is frequently used across Thailand. This is especially true in Bangkok and other popular tourist destinations.
Places to visit in Thailand
Thailand is a top travel destination because it offers everything: the frenetic appeal of Bangkok, the vast tropical jungles, some of the best street food in the world, and palm-fringed beaches that stretch on forever. Thailand won’t let you down, whatever your motivation for visiting the Land of Smiles.
Thailand’s Top Destinations
Bangkok
Phuket
Pattaya
Chiang Mai
Ayutthaya
Koh Samui
Krabi
Kanchanaburi
Sukhothai
Chiang Rai
Kao Sam Roi Yot National Park
Hua Hin
Khao Yai National Park
Pai
Mae Sariang
Koh Lanta
Koh Tao
How to get to Thailand
Thanks to a wide selection of flight specials offered in collaboration with a number of reliable airlines, including American Airlines, Air Canada, Emirates, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air Asia, and British Airways, travelling to Thailand is easy and reasonable. Sydney, New York, Toronto, and London all have direct flights to Bangkok, while New York offers direct flights to Phuket.
Photo: Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok Thailand
All major capitals have daily non-direct flights to Phuket that make stops in Singapore, Bangkok, and Denpasar. Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the United States to Koh Samui; instead, passengers must stop in Bangkok.
Thailand’s Ideal Season to Visit
Knowing the ideal dates to travel to Thailand will help you plan your trip. Although there is never a terrible time to travel to Thailand, there are a few factors to take into account before booking your trip. Planning a vacation requires taking into account a variety of factors, including the weather, festivals, cost of travel and lodging, and the locations you want to see. When choosing the ideal time to travel to Thailand, take into account the following considerations.
Conclusion
There is a good reason why so many tourists consider Thailand to be a must-visit destination! With its breathtaking tropical scenery, historic temples, incredible food scene, and exciting nightlife, Thailand has a truly chaotic charm that draws tourists from all over the world. The nation, also known as the Land of Smiles, never lets you down.
The Bilaspur district is situated in Satluj valley in the outer hills and covers area of 1,167 Square Kilometers. Its boundaries touch Una, Hamirpur, Mandi and Solan districts. Satluj is the main river which passes through the middle of the district and divides it into almost equal parts. The New Township Bilaspur should be regarded as the first planned hill town of the country.
History of Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Bilaspur was the capital of a state of the same name founded in the 7th century, also known as Kahlur. The ruling dynasty were Chandela Rajputs, who claimed descent from the rulers of Chanderi in present-day Madhya Pradesh. The town of Bilaspur was founded in 1663. The state later became a princely state of British India, and was under the authority of the British province of Punjab.
On 13 May 1665, Guru Tegh Bahadur went to Bilaspur to attend the mourning and funeral ceremonies for Raja Dip Chand of Bilaspur. Rani Champa of Bilaspur made an offer to the Guru of a piece of land in her state, which the Guru accepted at the cost of 500 rupees. The land consisted of the villages of Lodhipur, Mianpur, and Sahota. Guru Tegh Bahadur broke ground on a new settlement on 19 June 1665, which he named Nanaki after his mother.
In 1932, the state became part of the newly created Punjab States Agency, and in 1936 the Punjab Hill States Agency was separated from the Punjab States Agency. On 12 October 1948 the local ruler, HH Raja Sir Anand Chand, acceded to the Government of India.
When was Bilaspur merged with Himachal Pradesh
Bilaspur became a separate state of India under a chief commissioner, and on 1 July 1954, Bilaspur State was made a district of Himachal Pradesh state by an act of the Indian Parliament. When the Sutlej River was dammed to create the Govind Sagar, the historic town of Bilaspur was submerged, and a new town was built upslope of the old.
Hotels in Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
There are umpteen hotels in Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Hotel Sagar View
Hotel Panchwati Bilaspur Himachal
HOTEL VIRASAT-E-PUNJAB
HPTDC Hotel Hill Top
Hotel Sea Rock Raipur Maidan
Hotel Prem Sagar
Kisan Haveli
Hotel Vasantam
Hotel Purnam Residency
Dunn Perk Manor
How to reach Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
How to reach Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh by Air. The nearest Airport from Bilaspur is Shimla Airport, roughly one and half hours drive from Bilaspur.
How to reach Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh by Rail: The nearest railway station at Kiratpur is 65 kms away.
How to reach Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh by Road: Bilaspur can only be reached by road. It is 88 km from Shimla, 135 km from Chandigarh and 360 km from Delhi. It is well served by public and private transport services.
Things to do in Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Bhakra Nangal Dam
Bhakra Dam is situated across the Satluj River, Bhakra Village (upstream) in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. Its reservoir is known as ‘Gobind Sagar’ which stores up to 9.34 billion cubic meters of water. Jawaharlal Nehru honourably called it as the “New Temple of Resurgent India.” It attracts a significant number of tourists from all over the country. Bhakra Dam is 15 km from Nangal city. Nangal Dam is a downstream dam to Bhakra Dam. Together they are called Bhakra Nangal Dam.
Photo: Bhakra Nangal Dam
The Bhakra Nangal multi-purpose dams are first among the river valley development schemes taken by the government post independence. It is one of the highest gravity dams in the world. The Gobindsagar reservoir created by the dam is the third largest reservoir in India. It holds water in right ways and prevents the fields from being damaged during monsoons. It has ten power generators on either of its sides. Also, it is the fourth largest dam after the Tehri dam.
Gobind Sagar Lake
The unparalleled scenic view of rolling hills and plains overlooking the azure blue tint of the man-made reservoir of the Gobind Sagar lake is an alluring vista to gaze upon. The gigantic reservoir is formed on the Sutlej river by the Bhakra Dam, one of the highest gravity dams in the world. Built in 1963, The Bhakra dam stands as an iconic marvel of dam engineering. The multipurpose dam has given birth to a mighty artificial lake that encompasses an area of 170 square kilometres and is 90 kilometres long. Owing to its location and proximity to the Himalayan ranges, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and an aura of tranquillity at every turn.
Gobind Sagar Lake is renowned for being the third largest reservoir in the country which stands as a lifeline to Himachal Pradesh and several other North Indian states such as Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab, providing millions of cubic tonnes of water for irrigation to over 10 million acres of fields across these regions. The enormous lake is named after Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth guru of the Sikhs. There is a sense of repose and calmness that Gobind Sagar lake welcomes you with. The views of the artificial lake from the lofty dam or the elevated areas around are enchanting and worth a visit. Famous for recreational activities such as water sports and picnicking and obviously the scenic beauty, large number of tourists frequent the vast water reservoir for a jaunt. There are hardly any reasons for you not to stop by!
Shri Naina Devi Ji, Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
The Temple of Shri Naina Devi Ji is situated on a hilltop in Bilaspur Distt. Of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at a height of 1219 m above sea level, it was built by Raja Bir Chand in the 8th century. With several folklores going about the temple ever since it was built, the temple is considered very holy by the pilgrims who pay a visit regularly.
Naina Devi Temple has a lot of mystical folk tales surrounding it, which attracts various tourists travelling in this region. This temple was constructed on a triangular hillock and is considered one of the 52 Shakti Peeths of Sati. All the major festivals talked about in the Hindu mythology are celebrated at the temple with great vigour, turning it into a melting pot of festivities all around the year.
Vyas Cave Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
This is the cave, on the banks of Sutlej River, where the author of the epic Mahabharata-Rishi Vyas stayed in his days of performing penance.
It is situated at a height of 610 m and lies on the left bank of Sutlej. The caves also grant the town it’s name which was earlier known as Vyaspur.
Kandraur Bridge, Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
This bridge on the Sutlej was once the highest bridge in Asia and at a height of 80 meters, is still one of the highest in the world.
The bridge is surrounded by limestone rocks and the river below is in maximum verve during the summers, due to the water from the melting of Himalayan glaciers.
Koldam Dam Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Koldam Dam is built on River Satluj and located about 18 kilometres from Bilaspur. It is one of the most famous attractions near Bilaspur and majorly draws engineering buffs because of the massive engineering marvel it is. The dam is surrounded by natural landscape and is often preferred by picnickers for a quick escape in the region. A top view of the massive dam is a breathtaking a sight, and a trip to the serene reservoir of the Koldam Dam underneath the clear blue skies is a sight to remember. The abundance of natural beauty of the location and the massive engineering marvel must be explored.
The Koldam Dam was built to generate hydroelectric power by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC). The foundation stone of the dam was laid in June 2000 by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the then Prime Minister of India. However, due to habitat and environment issues, the complete construction of the dam took about 15 years, and as it stands tall and robust today, the Koldam Dam is a perfect example of innovation and perseverance in India. It is incredible how the team consistently worked on the project and didn’t leave it halfway after a couple of options failed. Parents often get their kids to teach them this valuable lesson of life while many visit the dam to learn from its history. A great miracle in itself, the Koldam dam shouldn’t be missed.
Laxmi Narayan Mandir, Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Laxmi Narayan Mandir is a marvellous temple dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and her consort Lord Vishnu and is located in the district of Bilaspur. The temple is of immense religious importance for the devotees of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi who visit the temple often to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the deities. The beautiful temple has been constructed according to the Shikhara Shaily type of architecture and draws architecture buffs from all parts of the world. Located in the scenic region of Bilaspur, the pristine white temple has a divine vibe that will ease troubled visitors in an instant. The temple is located very close the Bilaspur Bus stand and is a well-maintained shrine.
The stately temple has beautiful idols of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi while areas of the temple also have stunning idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, Lord Ranganath and Baba Bangali. The Laxmi Narayan Mandir was initially located in the region where now stands the Bhakra Nangal Dam. That structure got submerged in the reservoir which is also known as Gobind Sagar Lake. The idol of Lord Ranganath was initially installed in a temple in old Bilaspur. After the town underwent modernization, the idol was re-installed in the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir. The temple is a pleasant relief from the hustle and bustle of the city. Many sit and chant Lakshmi and Vishnu Mantras as a daily part of their prayers. Devotees believe the deities are extremely powerful and any prayer made with a clean heart is always answered.
Fort Bachhretu, Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Bachhretu Fort is an ancient fort that was built in the 14th Century during the reign of the king of Bilaspur, Raja Ratan Chand. Once a magnificent structure, it is now in ruins but is considered to be of immense historical importance in the country. From what remains of the fort, one can imagine how massive the structure would have been when it was used during the reign of the King of Bilaspur. Some of the walls stand about the same height they were built in and are a characteristic feature of the fort. This property now comes under the Archaeological Survey of India and has been open to the public ever since.
The ruins of Bachhretu Fort lie at an elevation of 3000 feet above sea level. As one explores the fort from the inside, they can easily identify most of the rooms from the remains. The view of the surrounding hills and the serene Gobind Sagar Lake is best viewed from the fort. Photography enthusiasts must carry their camera to capture some beautiful frames. Those who enjoy exploring historical sites often find themselves lost in their imagination about how the structure would have been in the time bygone and how the people of that era might have conducted activities. Some find these ruins uniquely charming and hence is a perfect attraction for history buffs and those seeking inspiration.
Nahar Singh Dhaulra Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
The people of Bilaspur hold strong faith in and worship Baba Nahar Singh.
This temple dedicated to him holds his wooden slippers and assumes significant religious importance. The temple also holds town fairs on Tuesdays during the mid May- mid June.
Best Time To Visit Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh
Bilaspur in Summer (April – June). Being close to the plains, the summers in Bilaspur are hot and humid with the temperature ranging from 22 to 38 degrees. The best time to visit Bilaspur is the winter season in the months of October to March. The temperature remains comfortable and is apt for sightseeing and other pursuits.
Looking to travel abroad this holiday season with your loved ones? Thailand, a nation with a wide range of tourist places, is the only place to start. A chance to travel as a family to the Land of Smiles is provided by the 4 nights/5 days Thailand family vacation package. With the help of the tailored Thailand family packages, the itinerary may be altered to include parks, temples, bars, shops, and adventure activities. Bangkok and Pattaya are included in the Thailand package.
Day 1: Bangkok – Pattaya: Arrival & Transfer to Pattaya
Land to a warm welcome as you begin your family trip in the Land of Smiles.
At Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok, you will be greeted warmly. Your agent will make arrangements for a private taxi transfer to take you to your Pattaya hotel. With our Bangkok Pattaya vacation package for 4 nights and 5 days, you may take in the breathtaking scenery while travelling. After checking in, go to your room to get ready. During your free time in the evening, you might choose to tour the neighbourhood markets. Later, return to the hotel to spend the night. stay the night.
Distance from Bangkok Airport to Pattaya: 121 km
Duration: 2 hours
Day 2: Pattaya: Coral Island Tour & Alcazar Show
Explore the shimmering beach and its marine life by indulging in snorkeling and scuba diving
Proceed to Coral Island after a delectable breakfast in the hotel. Here, you can engage in water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling or simply unwind on the stunning beaches with your loved ones. Enjoy the numerous delights of this island tour while taking in Coral Island’s natural splendour. The Alcazar Show, one of Thailand’s most popular cabaret shows, will be performed in the evening. Return to the hotel for a relaxing rest after an exciting evening.
Day 3: Pattaya – Bangkok: Transfer – En-route Bangkok City and Temples Tour
Enjoy a well-curated temple tour in Bangkok
On the third day of your journey to Thailand, you will have breakfast at your hotel in Pattaya before being driven to Bangkok. The Thailand trip package includes a city tour that takes you to Wat Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram and Wat Traimit (Temple of the Golden Buddha) (the marble temple). Complete the check-in procedure at the hotel after you arrive. You have the second half of the day to wander about Bangkok. Return to the hotel afterwards for a tranquil stay.
DAY 4 of the Bangkok Pattaya Tour Package is a free day for you.
So, you have got two options from which you can opt one or either both. The first option is to enjoy the Hotel amenities like swimming, spa, gym, etc whereas the second option says hang out in Bangkok. With second option you can experience the life at Bangkok by viewing stuff like skyscrapers, Thai cuisine, Thai boxing, hang out on beaches, Bangkok’s nightlife, and much more. Enjoy the last night of Bangkok Pattaya Tour.
Day 5 Bangkok: Departure
It is time to say goodbye as your Thailand family tour comes to an end.
The final day of the Thailand itinerary will begin with a breakfast in the hotel in Bangkok after which you will be transferred to the airport for onwards journey. This concludes your 4 nights 5 days family trip to Thailand.
Raksha Bandhan celebrates the pure bond that exists between siblings. It literally translates to ‘safety’ and ‘bond’, is a celebration of this unbreakable bond that exists between siblings. The promise to always be there, to always protect, no matter what the circumstances.
Raksha Bandhan festival is celebrated among Hindus throughout the world. The festival of Raksha Bandhan celebrates love and affection between a brother and sister. It falls in the Hindu month of Shravan (generally August). However, the date is not fixed and is calculated every year.
In 2022 Raksha Bandhan is on August 11th, Thursday.
Also known as Rakhi, it involves the tying of a thread, known by the same name, on the wrists of brothers by their sisters. In return, the brothers promise to protect their sisters from all the hazards and harmful influences in her life. Traditionally, first, a thali is prepared and the girl does aarti of his brother, ties Rakhi on the wrist, and puts some sweets in his mouth.
During the festival of Raksha Bandhan, the markets are flooded with traditional as well as modern types of Rakhis. These days, Rakhis are decorated with all sorts of things like cartoons, film characters, toffees, etc. Even gold and silver bracelets are tied as Rakhis. Rakhi celebrations give families a chance to take a break from the hectic city life and spend some time with their families. There are a number of legends associated with the festival of Raksha Bandhan.
Photo: Instagram/indianshelf
The significance of Raksha Bandhan
Raksha Bandhan means to tie or knot of protection. The word Raksha is protection and Bandhan is a tie. This festival celebrates the love bonding between brothers and sisters. The sister prays for the well-being of the brother and tie thread, in return the brother pledge to take care of his sister. Not only within the family but this festival goes between cousins or distant family members too. The festival transcends biological family, brings together men and women across religions, diverse ethnic groups, and ritually emphasizes harmony and love.
Legends
The “Bhavishya” Purana mentions a battle between gods and demons. Fearing the defeat of gods, Indra (king of the gods) felt disheartened. At that point in time Sachi, the wife of Indra charged a thread with Mantras (sacred verses) and tied it on his wrist for protection. It is said that because of the power of that sacred thread Indra defeated all the demons. From that day onwards, the festival of Rakhi is celebrated amongst the Hindus. It is also believed that Emperor Humayun had received a Rakhi from the queen Karmavati of Chittor. So, in the performance of his brotherly duty, he protected her from his own soldiers. Such is the power of this sacred thread.
According to another legend of Yama and the Yamuna. Yama, the God of Death, had not visited his sister Yamuna for 12 years. The Yamuna, the goddess of the Yamuna river, was sad and consulted Ganga, the goddess of the Ganga river. Ganga reminded Yama of his sister, upon which Yama visits her. The Yamuna was overjoyed to see her brother and prepared a bounty of food for Yama. The god Yama was delighted and asked the Yamuna what she wanted for a gift. She wished that he, her brother should return and see her again soon. Yama was moved by his sister’s love, agreed, and to be able to see her again, made river Yamuna immortal. This legend is the basis for a Raksha Bandhan-like festival called Bhai Duj in some parts of India, which also celebrates brother-sister love, but near Diwali.
According to others, Krishna considered Draupadi his friend. When Krishna cut his finger while beheading Shishupal, Draupadi immediately tore off a piece of her sari and bandaged his cut. Krishna said that with this loving act, she wrapped him in debt and he would repay each “thread” when the time arrives. Indeed, whenever Draupadi needed Krishna’s protection she fervently prayed for his help, he came to the rescue and gave her unlimited cloth. This is one of the stories of the origin of the Raksha Bandhan festival. In the epic Mahabharat, Draupadi tied a rakhi on Krishna, while Kunti tied her rakhi on her grandson Abhimanyu, before the great war.
Celebration
Raksha Bandhan is viewed as a non-denominational, multicultural event. Priests tie rakhis around the wrists of congregation members. Rakhis are often shared between close friends. Women tie rakhis around the wrists of the heads of state, political parties, or social leaders. Ceremonies are also held to tie Rakhi around the wrists of soldiers. The festival centers on the mutual bond of protection whereby siblings pray for each other’s wellbeing.
Raksha Bandhan Mantra:
Though many may not be aware of it, there is a certain Raksha Bandhan mantra which sisters chant while tying Rakhi on the wrists of their brothers. The mantra goes as follows:
