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NATURE WORLDWIDE: BIRDS WORLD INSTITUTE FOR CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENT, WICE
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Bhopal Near the city of Bhopal are the oldest intact Bhuda Stupas, as well as the ruins of several Buddha temples and monastery. The site is properly restored and particularly visited by the Indians themselves. What was particularly impressive is a huge sculptured gate around one of the stupas. This sculptured wall has withstood the times for about 2000 years! This monument is mostly visited by Indians and Asian bhudists (most Indians belong to other religions) and it has a relaxed atmosphere of timelyness. Don't expect souvernis shops or fancy restorants. Just wander off in time at sunset.... and you will start hearing the voices of the monks that populated these holy sites many generations before us.
ORCCHA And then there was Orchha, not too far away from the railroad station at Jhansi. What a palais it has been. It is not properly restored yet, but it is on the urgent list of the Indian Government. But for a place that has not been kept up for a long time it is in a very reasonable condition. A guide takes you through the many corridors and stairways. The setting near a river and extended forests gives it a wonderful atmosphere. The palace is surrounded by ruins of various service buildings, and several temples are located at a short distance. The market of the local village is like always lovely. For spending the night - and one should, because Orccha is most beautiful at sunset - there are two great options: The Orccha resort offers a five star ultramodern but extremely tastfull memorable night along the river, while the State Hotel organisation offers you a super romantic night in one of its two royal bedrooms in the palais. Not so modern, but decent and very spacy, with an enormous marble bath tob. And remember, kings and princes more than 150 years ago, did not have the luxuary that the modern traveler has today. I personally opted for the royal sweet, but a tired traveler may prefer the resort. Both are great.
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