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Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Scintillating 360

Last month I wrote about the Scintillating Diamonds engagement ring we created for a couple. The ring was crafted in anticipation of a complementing future wedding band. Well the wedding band is done!



Scintillating 360 custom-designed wedding band.

The custom-designed band features 25 round brilliant-cut diamonds set around its entire circumference. The bead-set diamonds are neatly nestled between two crisp, milligrained edges. So no matter how the ring rolls and moves on the finger, you will always see a scintillating display of brilliant white diamonds. We have nicknamed the design Scintillating 360.



Custom engagement ring and wedding band.

We matched the shapes and profiles of the two rings so they would fit snugly against each other. On the engagement ring, the prongs were masterfully tapered in shape and thickness then tucked in beneath the diamond for a narrower profile. This allowed the diamond to be set at a traditional height, slightly above the height of the band, and still have the base of the setting narrower than the width of the band.


A scintillating collection of diamonds.

One of the important steps in creating the wedding band was matching the 25 brilliant diamonds for color, cut and clarity. The goal was ensure the diamonds presented a uniform appearance and perfectly complemented the diamonds in the engagement ring. The result was a success - a scintillating array of sparkling white diamonds.

Scintillating 360

Last month I wrote about the Scintillating Diamonds engagement ring we created for a couple. The ring was crafted in anticipation of a complementing future wedding band. Well the wedding band is done!



Scintillating 360 custom-designed wedding band.

The custom-designed band features 25 round brilliant-cut diamonds set around its entire circumference. The bead-set diamonds are neatly nestled between two crisp, milligrained edges. So no matter how the ring rolls and moves on the finger, you will always see a scintillating display of brilliant white diamonds. We have nicknamed the design Scintillating 360.



Custom engagement ring and wedding band.

We matched the shapes and profiles of the two rings so they would fit snugly against each other. On the engagement ring, the prongs were masterfully tapered in shape and thickness then tucked in beneath the diamond for a narrower profile. This allowed the diamond to be set at a traditional height, slightly above the height of the band, and still have the base of the setting narrower than the width of the band.


A scintillating collection of diamonds.

One of the important steps in creating the wedding band was matching the 25 brilliant diamonds for color, cut and clarity. The goal was ensure the diamonds presented a uniform appearance and perfectly complemented the diamonds in the engagement ring. The result was a success - a scintillating array of sparkling white diamonds.

wedding party: men's gifts under $20

Walnut and Maple Money Clip
{ walnut and maple money clip by holcombswoodworking }

D. writes me with a challenge:
I am not having a bridal party, but I have a friend officiating, another as a musician, another as DJ, and readers... oh my. I want to give them something as a token of my appreciation, but they're mostly guys (so jewelry is hard, unless I have something different for the girls), and the biggest problem is we're pretty strapped for cash. The wedding is this August, so we don't have much time to save for gifts, either...

I'm hoping to spend 10-15 tops per person; something handmade (of course); something unique. Cufflinks are out (these guys aren't the kind of guys who wear cufflinks)... I'm totally at a loss.

can you find unique handmade gifts for random wedding helpers for under $15 each?
yes! yes. some of these are traditional, some unique, some just plain random (firestarter!)... you said no cufflinks, so i included the pair below if useful for other folks searching for similar. will post a separate post for ladygifts.

for your friends, readers, bartenders, photographers, djs, all under $15:

Bocote Wood Cufflinks CUSTOM Leather Keychain - Fobs - text on one side
Mans jewellery tray, wood, vintage Natural Mens Shaving Set w/ Brush in Smoky Vetiver (FATHERS DAY PRICE REDUCTION)
Bauer FireStarters - Set of 3 Camera Strap Slip Cover SALE
Vintage Bar Tools--Stainless Steel and Wood--Made in Japan--Set of Six Useful  Bar Tools for Cocktail Hour Two United Keyring
Turntable Record Player Retro Pop Art DJ Gift Black Metal Cigarette of ID card or Wallet or Ipod Nano and Earbuds Holder Case turntable amazing life organizer - small pocket moleskine cahier - green
Say Cheese Mens T-Shirt - Size XL personalized monogram bookmark -- brass letters
envelope wallet - business card holder Vintage Ronson Fish Starfire Varaflame Lighter
{each photo links to its shop}

also for readers/writers, there is a world of printed/gocco'd moleskine notebooks, many customizable and under $10.

and a few more ideas, for $15-$20:

SuperCurvy Churchkey - Hand forged bottle opener Buffalo Nickel Cufflinks-FREE GIFT BAG- Retro Man Guys Dad Fun Gift 80's Dork Boy Groom Groomsmen Fathers day
Stamped Copper Guitar Pick - or Unstamped Too - Just Say the Word Japanese Koi Yellow Fish Illustration Print Navy Messenger / Field Bag
Leather Journal Reporter Style 1920s Torpedo Etched Antique Aluminum Cigar Case
{each photo links to its shop}

or you could always get handmade frames and put photos in as your token of appreciation:

AUTUMN Fabric Photo Frame Samuel Fabric Picture Frame
Reclaimed handmade photo frame 1) 5x7  Colored Barnwood Style Picture Photo Frame with Glass (...7 Colors To Choose From...)
Bicycle Beer Bottle Cap Picture Frame 3.25 x 3.25,  2 blocks for your own art
{each photo links to its shop}

what do you think? other ideas? post links?

Monday, June 29, 2009

Heat Wave

No excuse for not updating my blog for the past 3 months... except for the fact that I've been battling morning sickness and trying to not get "get sick" in my studio. All I have to say is, thank goodness for modern medicine and anti-nausea drugs!

I was telling my friend at Frolic Boutique that if there was a cure for morning sickness it would be the Twilight books. Yes, I'm in my thirties, happily married, with an amazing daughter, and #2 on the way, and I can't get enough of Edward Cullen. Sorry people who are "team Jacob", I'm "team Edward" all the way! I couldn't stop reading the books; it was the only time I forgot about feeling nauseated. I can honestly say that I'm sad I've finished the books. What happens now to Edward and Bella? They just live "happily ever after"... There has to be more!

So, what does Twilight have to do with Throwing Stars Jewelry? Inspiration all the way, baby! If you were only a fly on the wall in the studio, you would see how much Edward, Bella, and Jacob go into every piece. My friend, Hope, who is helping me out in the studio, "my star apprentice", got me started on the books. That's all we talk about when we're making jewelry! While she's soldering and hammering away, and I need her insight and counseling on Twilight. I guess I could make a line dedicated to Twilight... Name every piece after a character? The "New Moon" Fall Line perhaps? Maybe that will be my fall preview, dedicated to the release of the movie!

I know, it's only fiction!
News of the Weird / Pro EditionJune 29, 2009 (news from June 20-27)by Chuck Shepherd© 2009 by Chuck Shepherd. All rights reserved.Inside ScientologyThe St. Petersburg Times last week advanced our "religious" knowledge (Scientology being a religion in the same sense that "Steeler Nation" is a religion, except that Steelers' season tickets are much less expensive) by quoting extensively four
News of the Weird / Pro EditionJune 29, 2009 (news from June 20-27)by Chuck Shepherd© 2009 by Chuck Shepherd. All rights reserved.Inside ScientologyThe St. Petersburg Times last week advanced our "religious" knowledge (Scientology being a religion in the same sense that "Steeler Nation" is a religion, except that Steelers' season tickets are much less expensive) by quoting extensively four

Comfortable Summer Hairstyles for Brides

by Arianna Jordan

Summer is the perfect season to spend relaxing and having a good time as often as possible. It is a great way to relive some of life's daily stresses by enjoying the weather whenever you can get away from work or household demands.

Do not waste hours of your summer days and night getting ready with hot curlers in your hair, or having to fuss with messy hairstyling solutions. Many women achieve flawless summer looks without having to work hard or miss out by taking to much time getting ready. By opting for comfortable summer hairstyles that not only look good, but give off the impression that you spent a lot of time getting ready, you will be happy to enjoy the summer with a fast and easy, style-and-go hair-do.

A hair-do that is gaining popularity this summer is the bob. Whether you are sporting a short or longer bob, this look is both comfortable and easy for women in the summer. Give yourself a break from hot curlers and curling irons this summer with this cute and sassy hairstyle. This hairstyle works beautifully with many different hair types and facial structures, and is also an appropriate hairstyle for women of all ages.

If you have medium length to long hair, you will be happy to know that the ponytail is still an extremely popular look for summer this year. Aside from a bob hairstyle, you cannot choose a much simpler way to style your hair than with a ponytail. With the wide assortment of colorful ponytail holders and hair tiebacks made out of different and unique materials, it is great to keep that fun, flirty look with your hair. Some hair bands can be covered with eye-catching gems that help you create several stunning looks without much effort at all.

Another trendy hairstyle for this summer is the fringe cut hairstyle. The fringe is an easy style-and-go choice that is popular with many women who want to let their personality run free. This somewhat feisty haircut is extremely easy to manage and maintain. Spend less time styling your hair and more time enjoying summer activities with this do.

Farrah Fawcett was one of the original women to make the layered and feathered back look famous. She single-handedly influenced millions of women in the 70's to sport her unique hairstyle. This hairstyle remains a popular choice with many women to this day. The layered hair looks great any time of the year, but many women prefer this easy and care-free look during the summer months. This layered look is a simple way to achieve and maintain all summer long.

Another well-liked hairstyle among women during the summer is the crop. This is a great look for women who prefer not to spend much time on their hair at all. A broken-edged crop can make for a dramatic look for most women, and is fairly easy to handle. This is different from a straight-edged crop, as a broken-edged cut follows the contours of your hair, which naturally varies at different points. This creates texturing that is unique to your hair and lends a very lovely style to your locks. Different haircuts are not the only hot trends for women in the summer of 2009. Many women are embracing color, as it has always been important in hairstyles choices. This summer, strawberry blonde, auburn, and rich chocolates tend to be the trend setting colors of the season.

If you want to know what summer hairstyles are hot with celebrities, look through celebrity and fashion magazines to find out who is wearing what trendy hairstyle this summer. There are also many magazines devoted to highlighting trendy hairstyles for women that can give you some great insights and tips on the summer hairstyle that is just right for you.

Consulting with your hairstylist is a great way to get more ideas on fashionable summer hairstyles. Tell your hairstylist that you want a style that looks great but that is easy to maintain, so that you can spend less time in front of the mirror and more time out enjoying yourself this summer. You can also look through a salon's magazines on hairstyles to get ideas the next time you are in a hair salon.

Some of the summer hairstyle choices for women may be new to you, and you may be a little apprehensive about taking the plunge to re-inventing yourself. By summers end, your hair will have begun to grow out and you can go back to your old hairstyle if you wish. Be bold and take a risk on a cute and fun new hairstyle this summer.

Stop letting your hair hold you back from summertime fun because it refuses to be styled in a timely and simple manner. Liberate yourself from hot curlers, curling irons, straighteners, messy hairstyling products, and the fuss and muss of styling your hair this summer with an easy hairstyle. Choose a summer hairstyle that is easy to style and that will look great on the beach or out for a night on the town.

About the Author
Arianna Jordan is a freelance writer and blogger who writes about fashion and beauty, often focusing on a particular product such as Bumpits.

Comfortable Summer Hairstyles for Brides

by Arianna Jordan

Summer is the perfect season to spend relaxing and having a good time as often as possible. It is a great way to relive some of life's daily stresses by enjoying the weather whenever you can get away from work or household demands.

Do not waste hours of your summer days and night getting ready with hot curlers in your hair, or having to fuss with messy hairstyling solutions. Many women achieve flawless summer looks without having to work hard or miss out by taking to much time getting ready. By opting for comfortable summer hairstyles that not only look good, but give off the impression that you spent a lot of time getting ready, you will be happy to enjoy the summer with a fast and easy, style-and-go hair-do.

A hair-do that is gaining popularity this summer is the bob. Whether you are sporting a short or longer bob, this look is both comfortable and easy for women in the summer. Give yourself a break from hot curlers and curling irons this summer with this cute and sassy hairstyle. This hairstyle works beautifully with many different hair types and facial structures, and is also an appropriate hairstyle for women of all ages.

If you have medium length to long hair, you will be happy to know that the ponytail is still an extremely popular look for summer this year. Aside from a bob hairstyle, you cannot choose a much simpler way to style your hair than with a ponytail. With the wide assortment of colorful ponytail holders and hair tiebacks made out of different and unique materials, it is great to keep that fun, flirty look with your hair. Some hair bands can be covered with eye-catching gems that help you create several stunning looks without much effort at all.

Another trendy hairstyle for this summer is the fringe cut hairstyle. The fringe is an easy style-and-go choice that is popular with many women who want to let their personality run free. This somewhat feisty haircut is extremely easy to manage and maintain. Spend less time styling your hair and more time enjoying summer activities with this do.

Farrah Fawcett was one of the original women to make the layered and feathered back look famous. She single-handedly influenced millions of women in the 70's to sport her unique hairstyle. This hairstyle remains a popular choice with many women to this day. The layered hair looks great any time of the year, but many women prefer this easy and care-free look during the summer months. This layered look is a simple way to achieve and maintain all summer long.

Another well-liked hairstyle among women during the summer is the crop. This is a great look for women who prefer not to spend much time on their hair at all. A broken-edged crop can make for a dramatic look for most women, and is fairly easy to handle. This is different from a straight-edged crop, as a broken-edged cut follows the contours of your hair, which naturally varies at different points. This creates texturing that is unique to your hair and lends a very lovely style to your locks. Different haircuts are not the only hot trends for women in the summer of 2009. Many women are embracing color, as it has always been important in hairstyles choices. This summer, strawberry blonde, auburn, and rich chocolates tend to be the trend setting colors of the season.

If you want to know what summer hairstyles are hot with celebrities, look through celebrity and fashion magazines to find out who is wearing what trendy hairstyle this summer. There are also many magazines devoted to highlighting trendy hairstyles for women that can give you some great insights and tips on the summer hairstyle that is just right for you.

Consulting with your hairstylist is a great way to get more ideas on fashionable summer hairstyles. Tell your hairstylist that you want a style that looks great but that is easy to maintain, so that you can spend less time in front of the mirror and more time out enjoying yourself this summer. You can also look through a salon's magazines on hairstyles to get ideas the next time you are in a hair salon.

Some of the summer hairstyle choices for women may be new to you, and you may be a little apprehensive about taking the plunge to re-inventing yourself. By summers end, your hair will have begun to grow out and you can go back to your old hairstyle if you wish. Be bold and take a risk on a cute and fun new hairstyle this summer.

Stop letting your hair hold you back from summertime fun because it refuses to be styled in a timely and simple manner. Liberate yourself from hot curlers, curling irons, straighteners, messy hairstyling products, and the fuss and muss of styling your hair this summer with an easy hairstyle. Choose a summer hairstyle that is easy to style and that will look great on the beach or out for a night on the town.

About the Author
Arianna Jordan is a freelance writer and blogger who writes about fashion and beauty, often focusing on a particular product such as Bumpits.

Express your love with Ruby Flower Ring

Round Ruby and Diamond Flower Ring

Many thoughts are expressed with a glorious flower and the most touching is 'I love you'. So, what else is better than this ruby and diamond flower ring for expressing your love to your mademoiselle! This flower ring will make her blush like a rose. The ring is meticulously crafted in white gold with a round ruby and fine diamonds. The gracious red in the ruby and the dazzling shine in the diamonds will surely charm your lady. This immaculate combination will engulf her delicate finger elegantly. Whenever she'll glance at her finger, it'll remind her of your eternal love. She will love to flaunt it!



Marketing Agencies
strasssteine hotfix
Sterling Silver Chain

Express your love with Ruby Flower Ring

Round Ruby and Diamond Flower Ring

Many thoughts are expressed with a glorious flower and the most touching is 'I love you'. So, what else is better than this ruby and diamond flower ring for expressing your love to your mademoiselle! This flower ring will make her blush like a rose. The ring is meticulously crafted in white gold with a round ruby and fine diamonds. The gracious red in the ruby and the dazzling shine in the diamonds will surely charm your lady. This immaculate combination will engulf her delicate finger elegantly. Whenever she'll glance at her finger, it'll remind her of your eternal love. She will love to flaunt it!



Marketing Agencies
strasssteine hotfix
Sterling Silver Chain

Express your love with Ruby Flower Ring

Round Ruby and Diamond Flower Ring

Many thoughts are expressed with a glorious flower and the most touching is 'I love you'. So, what else is better than this ruby and diamond flower ring for expressing your love to your mademoiselle! This flower ring will make her blush like a rose. The ring is meticulously crafted in white gold with a round ruby and fine diamonds. The gracious red in the ruby and the dazzling shine in the diamonds will surely charm your lady. This immaculate combination will engulf her delicate finger elegantly. Whenever she'll glance at her finger, it'll remind her of your eternal love. She will love to flaunt it!



Marketing Agencies
strasssteine hotfix
Sterling Silver Chain

Sunday, June 28, 2009

men's handmade + vintage wedding hats

Grey Feather Mens Fedora 6 and 7 8s with a red feather
Vintage Mens Tweed Fedora Vintage 1950's Men's Hat
VINTAGE Men's Fedora Sky Chief
Alden Men's Straw Hat
Vintage Straw Boater Hat Ribbon and Feather 7 Vintage Fedora, for You (or the Stylish and Manly Man in Your Life)
{each photo links to its shop}


rachael and her fiancƩ were having trouble finding a men's summer hat that didn't break the bank. she loved the ones at magar hatworks (see men's collection) and asked me to see if i could find more options.

etsy has lots of men's vintage hats, if you can luck into the right size -- not so many on the handmade side, plus you have to wade through acres of knit. chachashouse and magar are the best so far, with a couple off-etsy handmade options below. (anyone have other suggestions for great handmade hats?)

barbara feinman millinery
worth & worth hats

Join me at The Preppy Baby

I'm taking a break from wedding blogging these days. If you want to read up on my adventures in motherhood, join me at The Preppy Baby!

Join me at The Preppy Baby

I'm taking a break from wedding blogging these days. If you want to read up on my adventures in motherhood, join me at The Preppy Baby!

Collages

For some time now I have used BubbleJet2000© for printing images. In my last post I talked about some new methods. I wanted to share with you the results of my recent experiments.

This first collage has pictures printed onto cotton sheeting using BubbleJet2000© The background is made up of various papers with vintage lace and fabric that has been machined and hand stitched.

Then I decided to use inkAID on fine silk crepe. I have been thinking a lot about the vintage element and my need to use vibrant colours. So, this seemed the ideal opportunity. Using two different wedding photographs from my recent purchase. I set about experimenting. The first is of what I believe to be post WW1 and the second to be post WW2. For the first one I stayed with the sepia colours and vintage lace. Then for the second one I got out my vibrant silks and yarns. I found that once I had stitched on the silks I rather liked the hanging threads, they have remained and I am calling it "Threads of Time"

Shopping In Agra

Shopping in Agra is nothing short of an excursion to tourist attractions in India. Agra has both traditional markets that have been in the trading business for centuries. Then, there are the modern shopping sites and complexes especially the state emporiums where you can purchase antique souvenirs to luxury items.

A miniature marble Taj Mahal is a popular souvenir that tourists prefer to walk home with after a day's shopping in Agra. Besides the pietra dura marble items that are inlaid with colorful stones, other popular items that are worth buying during your shopping in Agra are rugs, leather items, gemstones, ethnic handicrafts and jewelry.

Sadar Bazaar and south of Taj Gang are popular shopping areas in Agra. Shilpagram, a craft village on the eastern side of Taj Mahal in Agra, is a popular open-air emporium that is frequented by many tourists on their shopping in Agra. With number of expensive emporiums lining the street, these shopping areas have plenty of rest houses and restaurants to choose from on your tour to Agra, under the Golden Triangle Tours package offered by Adventure Tours of India.

The Kinari Bazaar, also known as the old marketplace, near Jama Masjid, has many small distinct trading areas that date back to the Mughal period. The Loha Mandi (Iron Market), Sabzi Mandi (Vegetable Market) and the Nai-ki-Mandi (Barber's Market) are the main markets though the latter no longer functions as a barber's area, rather it is famous for its textiles.

Agra Brassware
The main markets for shopping in Agra are near the Taj Mahal complex. These areas include Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar and Munro Road. The U.P State Emporium called Gangotri at the Taj Mahal Complex, offers a range of brassware.

Agra Leather
Apart from clothing and accessories; you can also buy decorative pieces made entirely of leather. The skilled leather workers make beautiful animals like deer, tiger and the lingering symbol of maharaja's elephant are all made of leather. These items on the walls of your living room will surely invite appreciation from your peers.

Agra Marble
Returning from our visit to the Taj Mahal, we were guided to a marble factory by our guide, under the auspices of using the restroom. What a surprise, a guide who led us to a friend's or relative's shop! However, not to worry, as he assured us that this is the "best marble factory in Agra"--lucky us! At any rate, it was interesting watching how the designs we had just admired at the Taj Mahal were produced and continue to be manufactured for consumption around the world.

Agra Rugs
The main markets for shopping for rugs and carpets in Agra are near the Taj Mahal complex. These areas include Sadar Bazaar, Kinari Bazaar and Munro Road. The U.P State Emporium called Gangotri at the Taj Mahal Complex, offers a range of rugs and carpets. The Shilpagram crafts village is another venue where rugs and carpets are on sale, directly by the craftsmen themselves.

South India Tour Packages

South India Tour Packages - The land with natural landscape, sceneries, highly educated people, amazing art and architecture, ayurveda yoga and meditation. The southern part surrounded with oceans and bays consist the breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere recalls the tourist to stay under the nature laps. The South India Tour is complete and magnificent tour to spend a mysterious holidays.

Given here are just few of the suggested South India tour packages. We specialise in making customised itineraries and tour packages to South India. Send in your preferences and budget to enable us to provide your dream tour package.

South India Tour Package, a region of overwhelming grandeur and pristine beauty, is the region of India that includes the entire Indian Peninsula, south of the Vindhya ranges. The Narmada and Mahanadi rivers form the northern boundaries of the region, while the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal surround the peninsula in the west, south and east respectively. The southernmost point of the region (and of mainland India), is Kanyakumari.

South India Tour Packages are:

Culinary Tour In Kerala : Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, was founded by Raja Keshawadasan, Divan of Travanacore in 1762. Referred to as the Venice of the east, Alleppey is one of the most magnificent backwater sites of India. It's famous for its boat race. Dutch and the Portuguese were the initial rulers of Alleppey. Later, Maharaja Marthandavarma came to power and developed the infrastructure of the place. Alleppey is also famous for its coir factories.

South India Cultural Tour : Kerala has a rich and fascinating culture. With people from many communities and religions living in this small state along the west coast of South India, Kerala is a melting pot of cultural influences. Some of the major cultural events of Kerala are the Onam Festival, the Temple festival at Thrissur, the annual Snake Boat Races at Alleppey and the festivals of Id and Christmas. Depending on the time of year you can see some of these celebrations on tours of Kerala with Kerala Backwater.

Karnataka Wildlife Tour : Situated on the western peripheral of the Deccan plateau, Karnataka is the 8th largest state of India both in terms of area and population. Flanked by soaring Western Ghats in the east and the cool blue waters of the Arabian Sea in the west, this state has a 320 km long coastline with unspoilt beaches, magnificent temples, lush green gardens, exquisite palaces, sparkling waterfalls.

South India Temple Tour : India's Great Divide is the Vindhya Mountains. They run from east to west, separating the fertile river valley of the Ganges called the Ganga, from the Deccan Plateau which occupies much of the peninsula of India. It also separates the north, where the predominant languages are Sanskrit - based (brought in by the Indo Iranian herds people about 3,500 years ago), from the Dravidian tongues brought in by a long headed race from the Mediterranean about a thousand years earlier.

Port Blair Tour Package : Port Blair is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Port Blair has a number of beautiful sandy white beaches. Take a tour of these gorgeous beaches, relax and laze on them and forget your routine life. A tour of the Port Blair beaches is a short and perfect getaway from the hectic urban life.

Backwater Tour Of Kerala : Kerala is gifted with lovely beaches, hill stations, stunning backwaters, mindblowing greenery, wildlife, bird sanctuaries and rich culture. Kerala Backwaters are the most popular tourist attraction in India. From elephants to colourful butterflies, Kerala is overflowing with the wonders of nature. Throughout the world, Kerala beaches are renowned for their breathtaking beauty.

South India Panoramic Tour : The South Indian Hills stations are well recognized for their mighty rocks, milky waterfalls, hills plantations and lakes and no one can define the beauty in the plain words. Although, it is a very pleasant and rich experience for them who visited hills stations of South India recently. The limit of sky can be approached, by reaching the peaks of mighty hills. Admire the beauty and the surroundings of hills stations of South India with our "Best South India Hills Tour" that is 13 days tour of some most attracting destinations of South India like: Cochin, Munnar, Periyyar, Kumarakam, Alleppey, Kodaikanal, Ooty, Coonor, Coimbatore.

South India Beauty Of Andaman Tour : Explore the wild jungles and forests of India on India Wildlife Tours. Feel the excitement of seeing a majestic tiger prowling in a jungle, or elephants and rhinos trampling their way through the tall grass of a National Park in India. See amazing animals on wildlife safari tours in India. Spot wild creatures and explore nature tracts inhabited by rare birds on India Wildlife Tours.

» Culinary Tour In Kerala » Madurai Temple Tour
» India Golden Triangle Tour » Great India Tour
» Ecological Tour » Complete South India Tour
» Tanjore Trivandrum Tour » South India Cultural Tour
» Madurai Bangalore Tours » Backwater Tour Of Kerala
» Kerala Ayurveda Tour » Mangalore Goa Beach Tour
» Exclusive Beach Tour » Kovalam Ayurveda Tour
» Heritage Kerala Tour » Goa Kerala Tour
» Malabar Coast Tour » Coonoor Chennai Tour
» Trivandrum Beach Tour » Kumarakom Culinary Tour
» Tour To Tamil Nadu » Cochin Periyar Tour
» Madurai Bangalore Tour » Ooty Kumarakom Tour
» Trichy Mumbai Tour » Chennai Periyar Tour
» Karnataka Wildlife Tour » Mysore Goa Tour
» Kerala Tour Itinerary » Kerala Beach Tours
» Kerala Honeymoon Package » Kerala Spice Tour
» Calicut Wayanad Tour » Cochin Heritage Tour
» Beautiful Kerala » Tanjore Mararikulam Tour
» The Land Of Backwaters » South India Temple Tour
» Karnataka Cultural Tour » Kumarakom Delhi Tour
» Mumbai Delhi Tour » Alleppey Trivandrum Tour
» Chennai Pondicherry Tour » Goa Mumbai Beach Tour
» Chennai Trichy Tour » Kerala With Exotic Goa
» Cochin Holiday Tour » Cochin Spice Tour
» Cochin Kovalam Tour » Mumbai Kerala Tour
» Mumbai Chennai Tour » Bangalore Nagarhole Tour
» Cochin Beach Tour » Classical Karnataka Tour
» Karnataka Ancient Tour » Havelock Beach Tour
» India Malabar & Western Ghats » South India Pilgrimage Tour
» Andaman Adventure Vacation » South India Beauty Of Andaman Tour
» South India Exotic Tour » Southern Splendors Tour
» South India Kodaikanal Travel Tour » Best Of Karnataka Tour
» Best Of South India Tour » Splendour Of South India Tour
» South India Heritage Tours » Religious South India Tour
» South India Ayurveda Tour » Spiritual Tours Of South India
» South India Spice Tours » South Indian Healing Tour
» Kerala Extensive Tours » Sensation Of South India Tour
» Exclusive South India Tour » South India Festival Tour
» Peaceful South India Tour » South India Panoramic Tour
» South India Classics Tour » Magnificient South India Tour Package
» Kerala Yoga And Ayurvedic Tour » Fascinating South India Tour


Monuments In India

India is home to some of the greatest monuments ever made in the world including the seventh wonder of the world Taj Mahal in Agra. The monuments in India mark the presence of Mughal dynasty, Rajputana Empire and the Dravidian influence in the country. Most of the historic buildings took shape during the regime of these three powerful kingdoms.

The most important and the renowned one is the Monument of Love - The Taj Mahal - made of white marble signifying the eternal love between emperor Shahjahan and his beloved Mumtaz Mahal. The Forts and Palaces of Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur; the monuments like Red Fort,
Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, Fatehpur Sikri etc. in Agra; The large varieties of monuments in India reveal the ancient, medieval, colonial and contemporary architecture.

Taj Mahal is synonymous with India. A visit to the terrific Taj is like a visit to no other monument in the world. The beauty and grandeur make it the most visited, most photographed and most written about monument in India. Monument Tours to the Taj Mahal in India are a must check out for every visitor to India. In fact Taj Mahal is much more than a monument it is a symbol of love. The Taj is considered a must visited before death by many.

Humayun's tomb stands in testimony to the early Mughal architecture. It is often considered to be the predecessor of the magnificent
Taj Mahal. This quiet but splendid edifice was the last resting place of the second Mughal emperor Humayun, who strived all his life to be in Delhi, the city he loved.

Often referred to as "The Arc de triomphe of the East", Charminar in Lucknow is a monument with a difference. Built by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah, the erstwhile Qutub Shahi Sultan of Golconda, in 1591 Charminar has been the centre of attraction of the magnificent capital city of Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah ever since it was built.

The Konark Sun Temple is not just one of the many temples in India dedicated to the Sun God it is the finest. The Konark Sun Temple is amongst the few World Heritage Sites in India. The temple acts as a backdrop for the annual Konark Dance Festival. The three-day cultural extravaganza is a celebration of Indian classical dance forms.

The Golden Triangle Tour that takes you to Bhubaneshwar, Puri and Konark are amongst the most often opted for monuments tours of India. Sinilarly, the Golden Triangle Tour where you visit Chennai, Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram is another monuments tour of India you must look forward to. In order to check out the medieval heritage of India one must visit the temples of Khajuraho.

Monuments of India are amongst the most fascinating tourist attractions to visit and explore. Built over a period of 3000 years, these monuments in India tell the stories of valor, greatness, cultures, and civilizations that are no more or have altered. Monument tours not only take you to the monuments of India but also ensure that you get periods of recreations and the entire trip is in sync with the happy holidays mood.

We have the Monument Tours of India to make you aware of this amazing fact. The Monument Tour of India would increase your knowledge about the Indian heritage and legacy. The India Monument Tours give your travel a different shade with its element of acknowledgment from your side. You enjoy the India Monument Tours with a certain assurance and acceptance towards the rich traditions and architectural skills of India.

Festivals In India

India is a land of myriad festivals, in rhythm with the cycle of the seasons, with sowings and harvesting. and around them have grown legends, most depicting the victory of good over evil. These fairs and festivals lend color and gaiety to life and Indian calendar is marked by plethora of such big and small occasions. Some festivals are of religious nature, others are related more to, change of season and harvesting. They have a long past and many have undergone major modifications. Though the enthusiasm for some also seems to be fading, nevertheless they do bring about a change in the lifestyle of the people. Some festivals and fasts are religion specific protocols aiming towards communication with the divine. The liveliness of the people is reflected in the colorful vibrancy of the fairs and festivals. Processions, prayers, new attires, dance, music etc. are elements related to any such celebration.The Puri-Rath Yatra, Allahabad-Kumbha, Alleppey-Boat Race, Pushkar Camel Fair, Goa-Carnival so on and so forth all reflect the diversity of the land and its people but common emotion of revived vigour, joy and sharing.

Vasant beckons spring. Scattered amongst the ripening wheat are the bright yellow flowers of mustard. Tender blossoms appear on the mango tree and 'song is bestowed upon the bird'. On that day everyone wears a special shade of yellow. The festival is dedicated to Saraswati, goddess of learning and the arts. After about two months comes Holi , the very end of our cool season. It is a festival of colour, truly democratic and egalitarian. All barriers are down, all inhibitions shed. Boys and girls, men and women of all ages, all castes, and all classes participate. None is high and none is low. Anyhow, when a person is plastered with colour he is not easy to identify. On the eve of Holi bonfires are lit and Holi itself is celebrated by the throwing of colour, by gaiety and noise, one could even say, by wild abandon. In time the festival has also become associated with the 'Lila' of Radha and Krishna and has inspired some of our most sensuous poetry.

Of all the seasons it is the Sawan (Monsoon) which has evoked the largest number of songs. This is not strange, for summer in the plains of North India is long and hot. As months go by anxious eyes scan the sky. It is a time for renewal. Swings are hung at all likely places and women and children are seen swinging high into the branches overhead accompanied by joyous singing. Raksha Bandhan - the bracelet of protection - is a festival belonging to the old days of chivalry. If the gift of a bracelet sent by a girl was accepted by a man, he henceforth became her adopted brother, pledged to support her in times of stress or war. Today it is just a ritual, though a charming one.

Close on its heels comes Janmashtami , the birthday of Lord Krishna, and the most beloved of all gods. The Krishna legend has caught the imagination of our own people and now of many abroad. Krishna is intensely human. He's everybody's child, full of mischief. Stories of his pranks are recounted as recent happenings. As an ardent lover, he inspires our poets and artists, our music and dance.Ganesh is the god of wisdom as well as of good fortune. As a granter of boons he is worshipped at the beginning of every prayer and auspicious occasion. Ganesh's birthday (Chaturthy) falls at the end of the monsoon and is marked by special festivities after which is image is immersed in the nearest river or the sea.

Every year in autumn, at the time of the full moon the Rajputs gather to honour Lord Brahma, the god of creation at the temple of Pushkar. This is the only temple dedicated to the god in the country.The female as Shakti (Perennial Energy) has a central place in Indian tradition and Durga is its militant form. She is the Mother and at the same time the destroyer of evil forces. Her festival Dussehra heralds the new planting season and also celebrates her victory over the demon buffalo Mahishasura. These are also the days of the Ram Lila, an enactment of the story of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the hero of the epic Ramayana. It is extraordinary how this ancient story written in Sanskrit by Sage Valmiki and the people's spoken Hindi by poet Tulsidas and in other languages by renowned poets has permeated the hearts of our people and is relived year after year.

On the day of Dussehra effigies of Ravana the king of Lanka are burnt at nightfall marking the celebration of the victory of Rama over Ravana symbolizing the victory of good over evil. 20 days later comes Diwali , the most beautiful of all festivals. It is dedicated to Lakshmi the goddess of prosperity. All buildings from the palatial to the humblest are illumined with millions of twinkling oil lamps, now being replaced by electricity, which though cleaner is not half-pretty. At dusk the sky is lit up and air reverberates with fireworks.States have special harvest festivals such as Bihu in Assam, Onam in Kerala and Pongal in Tamil Nadu. The main attraction of Onam is a boat race on rivers swollen by the monsoon. At Arnamulla the long boats compete in speed on the Pamba River where water jousts are held. Each boat painted in the colors of its proprietor or village is manned by a hundred oarsmen, who chant in rhythm to speed up the beat of the paddles.

Kerala is a land of strange beliefs and of all of India it is here that pre Aryan customs have best been preserved. North of Malabar, the feasts of Therayattam are held from January to March. Masked dancers execute what seems to be a synthesis of all the different cults rendered to Devi the Great Goddess and to the ancestors. From daybreak to dusk masked divinities dance without ceasing. At Trichur, Pooram the feast of the Shaivite temples is enthusiastically celebrated in April or early May. The festival attracts millions of spectators to watch the celebrated procession of elephants in battle formation. Musicians play all day. Beating their drums in frantic rhythm, clashing their cymbals or blowing their bugles.The Muslims celebrate Eid twice a year and is an occasion for functions of communal harmony. There is also the Prophet's birthday. Ramzan is a month of prayer and fasting.

The Sikhs observe the birthdays and days of martyrdom of their Gurus. The birthdays of Buddha and Mahavira are similarly observed.For official and work purposes we follow the Gregorian calendar, but Hindu and Muslim festivals are calculated according to the Lunar calendar, so the dates change every year. Different groups of observe different New Years. For the Gujaratis Diwali marks the eve of the New Year. The Parsis celebrate Nauroz on 21 March, the same as in Iran. The Kashmiri Hindus New Year is the same as the 'Gudi Padwa' of Maharashtra, the Ugadhi of Karnataka and Andhra. Everyone has a different type of celebration. The Punjabis have Baisakhi , which falls on 13 April. Bengal and Assam observe the 1st of Baisakhi , which falls around the same time.

Festivals In India

New Year`s Day Lohri
Pongal Makar Sakranti
Mauni Amavasya Sankat Chauth
Vasant Panchami Maghi Purnima
Maha Shivratri Amalaka Ekadashi
Holi Navroze
Bihu Bhai Dooja
Ramzan; Eid-ul-Fitr Muharaam
Good Friday Easter
Mahavir Jayanti Hanuman Jayanti
Gangaur Chitrai Festival
Ram Navami Baisakhi
Akshya Triteeya Nrisimha Jayanti
Buddha Purnima Nirjala Ekadashi
Ganga Dussehra Rath Yatra
Teej Hari Shayani Ekadashi
Guru Vyas Poornima Raksha Bandhan
Pitra-Paksha Ganesh Chaturthi
Janmashathami Onam
Ananta Chaturdashi Durga Puja
Dussehra Pratyushan Parva
Sharad Poornima Deepawali
Karwa Chauth Skand Shashthi
Surya Shashthi Kartik Festivals
Guru Parba Christmas