Bangalore Paradise City

According to myth King Veeraballa of Vijayanagara was once lost in the forest. Looking for his companions and came upon a lone hut, where he met an old woman. She offered him shelter and cooked some baked beans for him ('Benda Kalu' in Karnataka). The King was so delighted by this modest fare, that he named the place "Benda Kalu Ooru"-place of baked beans...........Bangalore is the anglicized version.

In keeping with its tradition Bangalore has risen from its humble roots to become the IT capital of India. In fact the I.T industry views Bangalore as the 'byte-basket' of India.

Bangalore Lore

Capital of the Southern state of Karnataka, Bangalore is a delicious merger of the traditional and modern. There are old beautiful bungalows, parks, hallowed places of worship and traditional market-places on the one hand, with fashionable shopping malls, pubs, new architectural wonders and modern looking religious centers on the other hand.

Bangalore is known all over the world as the most broadminded and forward-thinking city of India. These attributes have pushed Bangalore to the forefront and it currently ranks as India's most developed city and one of the world's fastest growing cities.

Bangalore enjoys a relatively mild climate year round. The relaxing climate has made it a haven for tourists and businessmen. Bangaloreans are highly educated, warm and friendly people by nature. They will go all out to make you feel at home and are always ready to lend a hand.

Bangalore is an ideal place for a holiday or for business. Bangalore is well connected by air, rail and road to all the major cities such as Delhi, Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta etc. There are regular train services from Madras, Mysore, Calcutta, and New Delhi. Bangalore Airport caters to both domestic and international flights.

Bangalore has hotels to suit every one, from 5 Star to semi-luxury and Economy Hotels. Most of these are located around the Sankey Road, Kasturba Road, and MG Road area where restaurants and major shopping and business centers are within easy reach. The Ista hotel located on Swami Vivekananda Road is a great place to relax for tourists and business personnel.

Bangalore City of Nick-names

Bangalore is known by many names-

Pub City: The city Bangalore is a drinker's paradise with its many pubs and bars; it is also the headquarters of United Breweries, makers of the popular Kingfisher Beer. Wherever you are in Bangalore, a pub is just a stone's throw away. Whether it is a basic, no-fuss kind of place or a posh meeting place for the elite, you can be sure of excellent beer, service and ambiance.

Garden City: Garden City is the nickname Bangalore proudly claims. With its many gardens and parks and tree lined avenues it is paradise on earth. Cubbon Park, Lalbagh Park, Cariappa Memorial park are a few of the well known parks of Bangalore.

Silicon Valley of India: Bangalore is often said to be the center of the Indian I.T. outsourcing movement. It is home to some of the most high tech industries in India domestic as well as international. There are many reasons for this growth, the pleasant climate, the talent pool of highly trained professionals, the infrastructure and progressive Government policies to name a few.

Business Paradise

Apart from IT, Bangalore is the centre for a host of other businesses as well. It provides an excellent industrial atmosphere.

The easy accessibility of trained technical manpower, research and development facilities provided by a number of Central Government laboratories and research institutions facilitate business opportunities. It also has a Stock Exchange of its own which is considered the number one bourse in South India.

Good weather, transport and communication facilities have combined to make Bangalore a favorite industrial hub.

Bangalore is the perfect place to host conventions and conferences. The Ista hotel Infact is perfectly outfitted to assist the business needs of conventions and conferences.

Tourist Paradise

Bangalore offers the tourists historical sights as well as modern sightseeing pleasures. It is full of old beautiful temples and forts, as well as spectacular malls, discos and pubs.

The Bangalore Palace & Fort , Government Museum, ISKCON temple, The Bull Temple, The Gangadhareshware Temple, Jumma Masjid, Ravindra Kalakshetra, St. Mary's Church, Ulsoor lake, Vidhana Soudha are the most famous historical sites of Bangalore.

Shopping is a delightful experience in Bangalore. Exquisite silks, handicrafts in sandalwood and rose wood, are specialties of Bangalore. For gold and jewelry, there is the quaint Jeweler's Street. Some of the favorite shopping haunts are M.G.Road, Brigade Road, Residency Road and Commercial Street.

Bangalore is a city that never sleeps. It has a rocking night life with pubs, bars, discos and restaurants. Go disco-hopping or pub-crawling, shop till you drop, or relax in the swankiest restaurants.

For business or for pleasure Bangalore is the ideal getaway.
By Ram Gopal

Destination In Croatia

On the Istrian coast of the Adriatic Sea, there are a number of resorts that cater to every conceivable type of visitor, with the naturist resorts of Koversada and Valalta being a specialised attraction. There are over a thousand islands in the Adriatic which are part and parcel of Croatia. The important cities have their own unique appeal with places to see and admire.

Dubrovnik

The historical town of Dubrovnik or Ragusa, as it was historically called, is encircled by a 20 foot thick, 82 foot high wall extending for one and one half miles: something of an architectural marvel. You can actually walk on top of the wall and gaze down upon the tiled roof homes and winding streets of Dubrovnik. The Roman Catholic churches, palaces, restaurants, and terracotta-roofed townhouses are also a must-see for tourists.

If you enjoy night life, there are live music performances and shows you can go to. You can also take your pick of outdoor bars and cafés. Many visitors choose to start off by taking an evening walk along the famous Stradun or Placa street. The cafes lining the pavement are ideal places for those who indulge in the favourite pastime of the locals: people watching.

The important places for sight-seeing include the Rector`s palace; the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries; the Cathedral, and St Blaise s church. If you have the time, make sure you visit the Konavle valley which is renowned for its original stone architecture and handicrafts.

Pula

Pula is situated at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula and the region’s untouched natural beauty has an unmistakeable air of romance. With its mild climate and calm sea, Pula has a tranquillity all its own. If your intention is to rest and relax, you would be hard pushed to find a better destination. Winemaking, fishing and shipbuilding are the indigenous crafts of Pula. Don’t miss the magnificent amphitheatre while at Pula, together with the architectural wonder of Triumphal Arch of Sergius, the Church of Our Lady of the Sea (Mornaricka crkva), and the Double Gate / Twin Gate (Dvojna vrata).

Rovinj

Located 49 km from Pula is Rovinj, yet another town in Istria stepped in tradition and located in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Venetian Renaissance, Baroque monuments and churches are absolutely stunning. If you’re visiting in summer, you may want to attend the International Pop festival, although there are many other events including the International Art Exhibition held annually on the 2nd Sunday of August and St Euphemia’s day which is celebrated on the 16th of September. You may also wish to explore the nearby islands of Crveni otok if you’re so inclined.

Split

You can reach Split by bus in about six hours from Dubrovnik. The origins of Split in the 3rd Century can be traced back to the castle of the Roman Emperor, Diocletian, widely considered to be the largest private residence in the ancient world, extending to an area of some one million square feet. Today, the major attraction here is thus the Diocletian Palace. You can also visit the Peristyle, the Cathedral of St. Duimus and Jupiter`s Temple while at Split. From Split you can reach the town of Trogir in an hour by bus. The narrow serpentine stone streets of Trogir constitute a tour of ancient architecture and, indeed, Trogir is a well preserved World Heritage site. From Split you can also visit several of the nearby islands, such as Brac, Vis or Bisevo by ferry and explore Hvar, the isle of cypress, and lavender.

Conclusion

Croatia is emerging as a holiday destination that can satisfy even the most demanding traveller. It has something to offer those seeking fun holiday activities, sight-seeing or simply tranquility against a stunning natural backdrop. Since Croatia is still in many ways an emerging market, this island studded nation measures well against more established destinations in monetary and value for money terms.

Tenerife

One of the world's most popular holiday destinations . Over 10,000,000 people visit Tenerife every year. Found just off the North African coast, it is one of seven volcanic Canary Islands. Tenerife is the leading island for tourist numbers and income from those tourists. Tenerife is split into two very distinctive geographical regions. In the south, the island is considerably dry while up on the island’s northern territories, it is very green and fertile with high humidity. The majority of holiday destinations are concentrated in the south of the island in the region of Costa Adeje. It is here that the popular and ever growing Los Cristianos and Playa de las Americas resorts are situated. To the north, the town of Puerto de la Cruz is now becoming a sought after holiday destination too. Here however, a huge amount of thought has gone into keeping the old and traditional charm of the town making it a perfect location for a peaceful and more relaxing break. The city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has across the years acted as a principle port in the Atlantic, and it still serves that role today. Being the capital city as well as the largest city on the island, things are more cosmopolitan here. The variety of clubs and bars here is excellent with a wide variety of restaurants offering international cuisines. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is especially exciting throughout the month of February when it hosts to the huge world famous Tenerife Carnival.

Tenerife Carnival

Iguacu falls

One of the great natural wonders of the world, the Iguacu Falls are situated near the border of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. They are absolutely "deslumbrante." Numerous rocky and wooded islands on the edge of the escarpment over which the Iguaçu River plunges divide the falls into some 275 separate waterfalls or cataracts. The name of the falls comes from the Guarani Indian word meaning "great water."The area is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Fiji islands

The Fiji islands in the South Pacific are an archipelago of over 330 islands packed with attractions that can be found no where else and offers a unique experiential opportunity for the visitor. Fiji resorts and hotels are among the finest in the world. Each resort combines the highest standards of luxury and service with world-class treatments for health and pampering.

Fiji enjoys a typical tropical climate, with a trade wind blowing across the islands to cool things down during most of the year. Maximum summer temperatures average 88ºF (31ºC), with the winter average not far different at 84ºF (29ºC). Rain can be expected at any time of year. The driest months are April, May, June and October.

Fiji consists of 322 islands, of which 106 are inhabited, and 522 smaller islets. The two most important islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. The islands are mountainous, with peaks up to 1,300 metres (4,250 ft), and covered with tropical forests. Viti Levu hosts the capital city of Suva, and is home to nearly three quarters of the population. Other important towns include Nadi (the location of the international airport), and Lautoka (the location of a large sugar mill and a sea-port). The main towns on Vanua Levu are Labasa and Savusavu. Other islands and island groups include Taveuni and Kadavu (the third and fourth largest islands respectively), the Mamanuca Group (just outside Nadi) and Yasawa Group, which are popular tourist destinations, the Lomaiviti Group, outside of Suva, and the remote Lau Group.

About Acapulco

Mexico's first great resort destination, Acapulco is a stunningly beautiful city located around a bay on the Pacific Ocean, with miles of easily-accessible beaches. It's truly in the tropics, with palm trees and other exotic plants everywhere. Views across the bay are gorgeous, the sunsets are legendary, and the city lights at night are lovely from every vantage point.

What to do? Swimming (but note that some beaches have rough surf and undertows), working on your tan, eating and drinking at the wide variety of restaurants and clubs... and staying up late (or all night) to go dancing at the discos. Scuba diving, fishing, boating, and other water sports are available, as are golf courses and tennis courts. The shopping is great fun, though don't expect the best bargains in Mexico in this tourist-oriented city. Famous divers jump off extremely high cliffs into the sea at La Quebrada... that's something to watch, not to do! Most of all, Acapulco is a place to relax.

I've been to Acapulco both as a child and as an adult. Of course, the city has changed a lot; the quaint little motel just a block from the beach where we stayed when I was a kid is long gone, replaced with newer, taller buildings.

I adored the city as a child, and I continue to like its natural beauty and its beaches. Though it is now a huge city and very tourist-oriented, I still think Acapulco is an outstanding place for a beach vacation. The glittering celebrities are more likely to go to the newer resorts -- Cancun and others that were small towns or fishing ports when Acapulco was the rising star.

If you explore the central market and other places away from the obvious main tourist areas, you can get a real connection with the people. Many of the tourists nowadays are Mexican, and you can chat with them on the beach. Don't speak Spanish? No problem! Smiles go a long way, and many Mexicans know some English.

The weather in Acapulco is very nice all winter, hot and humid in the summer. Good thing the beach is there!

Beijing Major Tourist Attractions

Beijing is the capital of china and is one of the most visited cities in Asia. It offers tourists an almost limitless number of places to see and things to do. It is a very busy metropolis that mixes modern living with ancient history unlike any other city in the world.

The cities main attraction is the “Forbidden City”. It contains 800 buildings and was closed to the public for a very long time. Today it is one of the best preserved sections of ancient china. This was the imperial palace and it was constructed in 1406. It took 200,000 workers 14 years to complete and its buildings contain 8700 rooms and halls.

The second most popular site in Beijing is the Tiananmen Square. In contrast to the Forbidden City, it was built in the 20th century under the Mao dynasty. It is a large open area flanked by the Museum of Chinese history, the great hall of the people, and Mao’s mausoleum. This particular place became infamous when a young demonstrator was killed during a pro-democracy demonstration.

Another fascinating place to visit in Beijing is the national Museum of China. This museum was founded in 1926 and it has a collection of some 300,000 historical artifacts of witch about 5,500 are on display at any one time. The displays include painted pottery, bronze ware, and ceramics. Located in the same area as this museum, is the Museum of the Chinese Revolution which focuses on the history of the communist party in china.

One more site of great interest in the Sun Yatsen Park. It was originally the site of the temple and was named after Sun Yatsen, a leader of the 1911 revolution. The park includes a number of cypress trees, and a great marble arch.

Beijing has many things to see and do for tourists wishing to explore the city. The above list is just a small sampling of some of the places to see while in the Beijing area. For a more detailed list please consult your local travel agent.

Amazing Alice

Alice Springs is one of Australia's most well known outback towns. It is almost in the centre of the Territory and lies between the West and East MacDonnell Ranges, and can be reached in a day's drive from Darwin.

Most of the year you can enjoy sunny days, and wide, blue skies. The winter nights get very cold, so don't forget your socks, and in summer the temperatures can soar to over 40 degrees. The best time to travel is spring and autumn, where the temperatures are not as extreme.

There is so much in this diverse town, which is the second largest in the Territory next to Darwin. You will find history in every corner, as the town was forged by brave pioneers and flying doctors who put Alice on the map. Make sure you visit the old telegraph station, which also offers bushwalking and pretty picnic spots. The Royal Flying Doctor service is known and loved by all Australians, and a visit to the original base is worthwhile to see the museum and enjoy the interactive tours.

The Alice Springs Reptile Centre also has to be seen, especially if you have boys with you (of any age!). You will be amazed at the large range of reptiles on show, including the frilly neck lizards, thorny devils, goannas, pythons and venomous snakes.

One of the highlights of your stay at Alice would have to be the 'Spirit of the Night sky', held at the Milky Way Café and Observatory in town. This educational and entertaining presentation, featuring powerful telescopes and displays will give you a greater insight into the heavenly realms.

The MacDonnell Range Holiday Park is recommended if you intend to stay here for a while. Set in an excellent, central location it has excellent amenities and there is plenty of room for the family.

Beyond the ranges surrounding Alice Springs are the Simpson and Tanami deserts. The Simpson is famous for its vast mesmerising dunes that go on forever, and although you can venture close should not be crossed unless you are with an experienced guide. Camel treks and four wheel drive expeditions are possible, although you won't see many other people in this part of the world.

There are plenty of day trips not far from town which are just as fascinating. One popular natural attraction is the Rainbow Valley, located in the James ranges. You can also visit Chambers Pillar on the way which features rock carvings and is steeped in history.

Travel north from town and you will be awestruck by the natural beauty of the bush, with camping, bushwalking, gem fossicking all popular activities. Visit the Gemtree, where you can visit the gem fields on organised tours and actually find something to take home. They also offer a large camping ground if you are not in a hurry to head home. Spend some time out here and enjoy the wonders of the starlit skies. Nothing beats an open campfire in the outback, with a majestic sunrise waiting to greet you at dawn.

Heading south just over 100 kilometres, you will be rewarded by some of the most stunning scenery at Finke Gorge National Park. There are camping facilities at Palm Valley, known for its bountiful cabbage palms, if you prefer to stay longer.

If you can allow an extra few days, make sure you plan to visit the famous MacDonnell Ranges, which surround Alice Springs. The West MacDonnell ranges are easier to reach, with swimming holes and bushwalks winding through the spectacular gorges. Take your time and camp overnight, or leave at dusk and enjoy a picnic at a swimming hole. The East MacDonnell ranges are also incredibly beautiful, featuring the stunning Trephina Gorge.

Alice Springs is surrounded by the most incredible rugged Australian outback in the world. It is the ideal base to visit those hidden natural wonders that beg to be appreciated and enjoyed. Your hire car will give you all the flexibility you need to make the most of your holiday in the territory.

Agnes Waters and The Town of 1770

What are some of the factors that make up the perfect holiday? It should be an opportunity to spoil yourself, to get a bit of much needed pampering. Its a time to reconnect and bond with family members, a private time where you can enjoy your own space and your own company with the people you love. Its a chance to enjoy and appreciate some different scenery, to get away from your normal boring surrounds and experience different faces and different places. Unfortunately, with the hordes of tourists flocking to the tourist hotspots, there aren't too many destinations that cater to the perfect holiday anymore. Luckily for you then that the towns of Agnes Waters and The Town of 1770, nestled into a quiet corner of Queensland's Discovery Coast, offer all you ever needed in a quiet getaway destination and more.

The two towns share a heavenly stretch of coast that is known as the first landing place of Captain James Cook in, you guessed it, 1770. Characterised by sparkling white beaches divided by rocky points and lookouts coated in lush vegetation with lots of palm trees, you cant help but marvel at the first impressions of Australia this area would have provided the Captain and his crew. Strict development laws and a resident population determined to retain the historical and natural heritage of the region has kept the urban growth of the region in check, so much of what you see now is exactly as Captain Cook would have seen it.

Relying on tourism for the majority of their income, the towns still provide all the necessary services and amenities within a quiet and serene village atmosphere, giving you the best of both worlds. The abundance of attractions in the area and the friendly and welcoming attitude of the locals will provide you with a holiday you won't forget.

The massive coral ecosystem that is the Great Barrier Reef is just a short boat ride away, with day trips to the Fitzroy Reef and Lady Musgrave Island available. The coral lagoon around Lady Musgrave is especially popular because of the sheltered snorkelling and scuba diving it provides. The island itself is covered in thick prisonia rainforest that is home to a variety of bird and wildlife, and its border of white sand is an ideal spot to take a break from the water. If you don't feel like getting wet then take a cruise on a glass bottomed boat, and enjoy the colours and underwater wonders of the reef from this safe and dry vantage point.

If watersports are your thing then you will enjoy the novelty of surfing in Agnes Waters, which is the most northerly point on the Australian East Coast that still has surfable waves. Surfboards, bodyboards and surfing lessons are available here, but remember in the summer months there is the threat of the Irukandji jellyfish, so always inquire from the locals before hitting the water. The beaches around here are quiet and secluded, so if you would like to just relax, catch some sun and spend some quality time with the family then you are spoilt for choice. Some of the better beaches are only accessible by 4WD, so if you want to do some exploring then check with the locals.

The marina at 1770 offers fishing charters which give you the choice of fishing the deep sea beyond the reef or the coastal estuaries. Many come here simply to indulge in the world class fishing, but for those who would rather let others do the work then the restaurants in the town always have fresh sea food on the menu.

The attractions of The Town of 1770 and Agnes Waters are not limited to the beaches and the reef. Just a short drive away are two National Parks, Deepwater to the south and Eurimbula to the north. Hop into your campervan or hire car and use the camping facilities at either of these parks as a base to explore their rich ecosystems. It will feel like you are in a large botanical garden, surrounded by mangrove fringed estuaries and freshwater paperbark swamps. As you go inland the vegetation transforms to lowland eucalypt forests and then into tall rainforests with large hoop pine trees, and you are also bound to see lots of local wildlife.

The Town of 1770 is one of the few places on the East coast of Australia where you can stand on land, looking over water, and watch the sun go down over land. While enjoying the deep orange of the sunset over the bay you are also likely to spot one of the bright pink amphibious vehicles that have become a feature of the town. A ride on one of these will take you to all the land based and water based attractions of the town, and is an exciting little outing for the kids. Adults and kids alike are also going to be interested in the history of the region, so why not visit the monument to Captain Cook erected near to where his boat first anchored. The museum in Agnes Waters documents the association of the region with Captain Cook, providing a wider historical overview. The Bustard Head lighthouse also has an interesting history of its own, first being manned in 1868.

A half days drive north of Brisbane, and within easy driving distance of the Bundaberg and Gladstone airports, these two towns are easy enough to get to. Any drive you make is richly rewarded with the serenity and beauty of the region. There is accommodation to suit all types of budget, from caravan parks and camping grounds to hotels and motels. Shops in the towns provide you with all your basic requirements, and there are numerous bars, taverns and restaurants. There is nothing more you could ask for from a holiday destination that Agnes Waters and The Town of 1770 do not provide!
By Gavin Wyatt

Niagara Region Canada Niagara Falls Ontario

Niagara Falls is a picturesque destination of Ontario, Canada for travelers, tourists and nature lovers. It is a sprawling 212 sq. km. area with spectacular sports facilities like cycling, biking, 40 top class golf courses, to name a few. With a population base of 80,000 (approx), it is a gorgeous destination for varied attractions. Niagara is an awesome manifestation of Niagara Falls in the city’s delights. There is man-carved lure in the Niagara that includes the Maid of the Mist; Reply’s believe it or not, Louis Tussads wax museum, Spanish Aero car, Casino Niagara, etc.

The Niagara falls have been existent from over 12,000 years and are the most sought after tourist place of visit. The Niagara falls were formed by the melting of glaciers that resulted in the formation of several unsullied water lakes that moved across a sharp rock face called the Niagara escarpment. The Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the American Falls are the two waterfalls that were formed by the rushing waters and the melting of the ancient glaciers. The rushing water of the Niagara River has a velocity of 35 miles an hour.

Moreover Niagara is a hydropower house that generates electricity to the rest of New York as well as southern Ontario. Niagara has its famous wineries and 70 of them have been listed in the award winning category. Many people come to Niagara to smell the rich aroma from the grape fruits and consume them. Several people come over to Niagara to participate in breathtaking stunts and get their names registered in the books of records. At night the Niagara Falls are illuminated by brilliant lights and the sight makes people gay. Another beautiful picture is of the bridges made of ice that accumulate below the chilling falls. No wonder the spectacular spectacles gifted with lure and bliss makes Ontario’s Niagara Falls as the Honeymoon capitals of the world.

Thus Niagara has become the biggest trade centre for its wines and wineries, fruits, tourist haven, military headquarters and hydropower. The Niagara Falls magnetizes writers and poets of the world and brings out the dare devil in everyone.

Business Opportunity

As it is a big business and tourist hub several travel agents and websites look to capitalize on the opportunity. With the number of business houses and travel points in the rise Toronto web services has taken initiatives to catapult the functioning of websites of various travel agents at Niagara and other websites who advertise Niagara. The travel appoints and beer and wine makers can get a chance to get their websites designed, updated and optimized in the search engines. Customers can increase and web marketing strategy can get a boost with the number of people flooding to your website to book their tourist adventures and Honeymoon at Niagara.

Toronto services also specialize in special tourist catering services like hotel and tourist booking and other superior and desired services.

The Mystery of Chinese Royal Architecture

With vivid characteristics, Chinese royal buildings, especially the most popular tourist attractions in Beijing, are mysterious to today's people. Nearly every small part of the architecture is different and has some symbolic value! Here we take the Forbidden City as an example and collect something interesting about this imperial palace. If explore it without a guide, you will never know the secrets. Let's feel it more than just watch it!

The Ornamental Pillars (Hua Biao)

A pair of marble pillars, decorated with exquisite clouds and entwined dragons carvings, can be often found in front of most large royal complexes. They were originally made of wood and used to solicit public opinions from the people. They were also treated as landmarks or road signs. But later they were only used to decorate important buildings.

The most famous Huabiaos are located at Tiananmen two in front of the gate of Tiananmen and two behind the gate. On top of the Huabiaos, there sits a mythical animal called Hou. It is believed that the positioning of the Hous' heads was a reminder to the emperor of the hopes of the people. The two behind the gate looking at the palace (north) mean expecting the emperor to go out often and to understand the life of the people better. The two in front facing south express longing for the emperor's return to run state affairs when he was absent from the palace for too long.

Stone/Bronze Lions

Lion is a special animal to Chinese people. A pair of stone or bronze lions, a male and a female, can often be seen in front of the gates of traditional buildings. The male lion is on the left with his right paw resting on a ball, and the female on the right with her left paw fondling a cub.

Marble Terrace

Most of Chinese ancient royal buildings stand on marble terrace. The white marble terrace can not only support and magnify the single building on it, but also protect the wood structure from dampness. It also has a deeper meaning. It reflects the rank of the building.

Grand Roof

Roofs are very important to Chinese architecture. Palaces had particularly impressive elaborate roofs. The distinctive roof of Chinese architecture involves a great deal of symbolism. Symbolism is present in the colors and tiers of the eaves, roofing materials and roof top decorations.

Yellow, regarded as an auspicious color, was exclusively used by the imperial families of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Imperial roofs are certainly brilliant gold or imperial yellow.

Tunjishou (the ridge-devouring beast)

Watch carefully, you will find the ridges of each roof are topped with figures of mythical creatures. Fierce and formidable, it looks as if it were ready to devour the whole ridge; so it is also known as tunjishou or the ridge-devouring beast.

What were they used for? For decorative purposes only? According to architects, these strange-looking creatures can prevent the roof from sliding. Moreover, the number and the size of the creatures on the eaves indicate the importance of the building. When visiting the royal palace, it can be very interesting to count the animals on the eaves and get to know exactly how important the building was.

Taihe Dian

Now, it is very easy to figure out that the Hall of Taihe Dian is the main hall of the Forbidden City. First, the building is raised on a triple marble terrace, 8 m (26 ft) high, enclosed by marble balustrades, whilst those around the same courtyard were kept lower so as to set off the magnificence of the hall. Second, it has a roof with double eaves and is decorated with carved dragons and phoenixes, most of which are gilded. Third, don’t forget the little mythical creatures on the eave. There are 12 in total, the most of all! The Hall of Taihe Dian was the place where emperors in the Ming and Qing dynasties held.

Colors in the Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a complex painted in just two colors, yellow and red, which can be seen throughout the city. The color red signifies happiness and yellow signifies earth. In ancient China, the color yellow in particular, was most extensively and exclusively used by the emperors, who were regarded as the Sons of Heaven and the supreme rulers of humanity. Therefore, yellow became the dominant color in the Forbidden City. Roofs are built with yellow glazed tiles; decorations in the palace are painted yellow; even the bricks on the ground are made yellow by a special process.

There is much more in the Forbidden City waiting for you to discover. Why is it that no trees in the grand courtyard of the Hall of Taihe Dian? Hundreds of gilt bronze vats are scattered in the Forbidden City. What were they used for? Only when you get there can you reveal its mysterious veil!

What are you waiting for? Discover yourself!
By Mandy Lee