Saturday, 18 February 2023

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Mandu is a stone celebration of lifestyle and pleasure, as well as poet-prince Baz Bahadur's love for his stunning consort, Rani Roopmati. Mandu, located at an elevation of 2,000 feet along the Vindhya stages, has eclectic creations combining the captivating declaration of the Afghan mode with the notable cultural heritage of the Turkish people.

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Each of Mandu's structures is an architectural gem, such as the massive Jami Masjid and Hoshang Shah's Tomb, which is thought to have inspired the Taj Mahal's master builders.

The Jahaz Mahal in Mandu appears to be a ship about to sail in its reflection. However, for hundreds of years, this delivery made of stone and mortar did not. Instead, it floated over the two lakes, bearing silent witness to Mandu's long, rich, and varied history.

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

The grand palaces are still alive with royal romance, while the gateways (Darwaza) tell the story of imperial conquests.

The Roopmati Pavilion and Rewa Kund were built as a result of the mythical love story of Baz Bahadur and Roopmati. The abandoned ruins of Hathi Mahal and Ashrafi Mahal have fascinating stories about their lives. The fascinating Bagh caves site has the ability to bridge the events of previous centuries.

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

There are numerous places to visit in Mandu, including forts, palaces, gateways, and temples. Mandu is a town adorned with breathtaking architectural jewels, and a stroll through the gallery of those monuments will leave you speechless.

Meals YOU need to try IN MANDU

Mandu ka Dal Paniya" is a must-try nearby delicacy while exploring the mediaeval capital of Malwa.

Dal Paniya is easily available in most restaurants and hotels and is also popular in other parts of Madhya Pradesh.

Maize flour, salt, sugar powder, milk, and lukewarm water are used to make those paniyas. Paniya dough is divided into small balls, which are then barely flattened (like bati). The paniyas are then cooked in a tandoor, which gives them a smoky flavour when dipped in the dal. If you enjoy highly spiced meals, you should try this traditional Malva dish because it is very flavorful.

The city of pleasure is also home to massive Baobab bushes (Baobab is a tangy fruit), which originated in Africa and whose seeds were gifted by the Caliphs of Egypt to the Sultans of Mandu in the 14th century. It is known as Khorasani Imli in the region and is used to add tang to dals and curries. In addition, when the gourd-like fruit ripens in February, the companies in Mandu promote it.

Places TO visit IN MANDU


Roopmati's Pavilion

The pavilion was initially designed as a navy commentary post. This swish shape with its two pavilions became a retreat for the lovely queen from its hilltop perch, from which she could see Baz Bahadur's palace and the Narmada flowing through the Nimar plains far beneath.

Jahaz Mahal

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

This fashionable two-story palace is a hundred and twenty-meter-long 'Jahaz Mahal' built between synthetic lakes Munj Talao and Kapur Talao. Jahaz Mahal is an innovative activity in stones of a royal pride craft, with its open pavilions, balconies overhanging the water, and open terrace.

Hindola Mahal

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

The name "swinging palace" comes from the sloping sidewalls of this audience hall. Its ornamental facade, delicate trellis paintings in sandstone, and beautifully moulded columns all display excellent and modern techniques.

Ashrafi Mahal

Built by Hoshang Shah's successor, Mahmud Shah Khilji, this 'palace of gold money', which runs through the Jami Masjid, was intended as an educational institution (madrassa). Within the same complex, he constructed a seven-story tower to commemorate his victory over Rana Khumba of Mewar, of which only one storey has survived. The tomb, which was intended to be Mandu's largest structure but collapsed due to hurried and faulty construction, is also in ruins.

Baz Bahadur Palace

The palace, built by Baz Bahadur in the early sixteenth century, is notable for its spacious courtyard surrounded by halls and high terraces with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

Darwazas (Gateways)

The 45-kilometer-long parapet of partitions that encircle Mandu is punctuated by 12 gateways. The most impressive of these is Delhi Darwaza, the main entrance to the castle city, which is reached via a series of gateways including Alamgir and Bhangi Darwaza, through which the current street passes.

Hoshang Shah's Tomb

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

It is India's first marble edifice, with a magnificently proportioned dome, marble lattice work, porticoed courts, and towers at each of the rectangle's four corners. Shah Jehan dispatched four of his brilliant architects to examine the tomb's design and make recommendations.

Jami Masjid

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Inspired by Damascus' magnificent mosque, the Jami Masjid was designed on a grand scale, with a high plinth and a large domed porch. The enormousness of the building's proportions strikes one, and the mosque is surrounded on all sides by large arcades with a rich and appealing range in preparations of arches, pillars, range of bays, and rows of the dome above.

Nilkanth Mahal

This Mughal-era palace, located near the Nilkanth shrine (the sacred Shiva shrine), was built by Shah Badgah Khan for Emperor Akbar's Hindu spouse. On the walls here are some inscriptions from Akbar's reign that refer to the futility of earthly glory.

Shriram Mandir :

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Mandav, Mandu Madhya Pradesh

Excursions FROM MANDU

A trip to Mandu, which is undoubtedly magical in and of itself, can be made even more interesting by planning a tour to one of the many nearby destinations.

A 90-kilometer journey to the 6th-century rock-cut Bagh caves, a 140-kilometer journey to the district of Jhabua, known for its colourful Bhagoriya pageant, the mediaeval metropolis of Dhar, which is also the district headquarters, and Burhanpur, the historical gateway to south India, 220 kilometres from Mandu.

A spiritual path can also be followed to the temple towns of Maheshwar and Omkareshwar (45 km and 155 km, respectively), which are located scenically along the Narmada River.

Things to do IN MANDU

If you plan a trip to the town of pleasure in December for the duration of the Mandu festival, you will hear, see, taste, and experience Mandu like never before.

The Mandu festival, a five-day celebration of art, craft, track, food, and adventure, includes live live shows, journey sports activities, biking expeditions, glamping, hot air ballooning, and a lot more. It will undoubtedly be an experience like no other!

Pleasant TIME TO go to MANDU

The best time to visit Mandu is between July and March, when the average temperature ranges between 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit) and 30 degrees Celsius (86 ranges Fahrenheit).

Summers are hot, with temperatures reaching as high as 46 degrees Celsius (one hundred fifteen degrees Fahrenheit), whereas winters can drop to under 5 degrees Celsius (41 ranges Fahrenheit).

Monsoons arrive in the first week of July, following the scorching heat, and the rainy season lasts until mid-September. Mandu takes on a fresh green sheen during the rains, and clouds lazily flow inside and out of lush valleys.

The way to reach MANDU

By means of Air: 

The nearest airport is Ahilyabai Holkar Airport at Indore (95 km), which is linked by using regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Bhopal, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Raipur, Kolkata, and so forth.

With the aid of Rail: 

The nearest railhead is positioned at Ratlam, one hundred thirty km from Mandu. Essential mail and express trains stop right here. As a substitute you can still disembark at Indore, which is well-linked to Delhi and Mumbai via rail.

By means of road: 

Mandu is nicely-connected with ordinary bus offerings from Indore and Dhar (40 km). From Indore, there are direct buses to Mandu from Gangwal Bus Stand and Sarawate Bus Stand. The adventure commonly takes around 3 hours. Buses to Dhar are available regularly from the 2 bus stands. From Dhar, possible both take a bus or lease a automobile.

FAQ :

Why is Mandav famous?

What is the history of Mandav?

Is Mandu worth a visit?

Is Mandu a hill station?

Why Mandu is known as city of Joy?

Saturday, 7 August 2021

Tour to Harishchandragad in Maharashtra

Tour to Harishchandragad in Maharashtra

The fort is quite old. The remains of a Microlithic man were discovered here. There are numerous references to Harishchandragad in ancient works such as the Matsya Purana, Agni Purana, and Skanda Purana.

Its history begins in the sixth century, during the reign of the Kalachuri dynasty. During this time, the fort was constructed. Several caves could have been carved in the 11th century.

There are statues of King Vishnu in these caves. Despite the names Tamarat and Rohidas, the cliffs have nothing to do with Ayodhya. Changdev (author of the epic Tatvasaar) meditated here frequently in the 14th century.

Most notable places you are interested in

Saptatirtha Pushkarni :-

To the east of the temple is "Saptatirtha," a well-constructed lake. There are temple-like structures on its bank with statues of King Vishnu.

These statues have recently been transformed into caves near the Harishchandreshwar temple.

Many pedestrians face the arduous pain of the place these days, as they dump plastic waste and other items into the lake. Swimming is also an option.

(However, in the summer, the water is so cold that you almost feel like you're standing in the refrigerator compartment.)

Kedareshwar Cave:-

A local legend says that when the fourth pillar breaks, the earth will end.

Tour to Harishchandragad in Maharashtra

A large cave to the right of the Harishchandreshwar temple in Kedareshwar contains a large Shiva Linga that is completely surrounded by water. The water reaches the waist and rises 15 feet [5 m] above the ground.

The water is extremely cold, making access to Shiva Linga difficult. The cave contains sculptures. Getting to the cave during the rainy season is impossible because a large stream flows across the road. This is the Mangalganga River's headwaters.

There is a large rock above Shiva Linga. To support the cave, four pillars were built around Shiva Linga.

Another intriguing feature of this area is that water enters the temple every day through four walls.

And because the water is so cold, it's difficult to get back inside. Water flows continuously throughout the year. During the rainy season, the water level in the cave is nearly at its maximum.

Kokankada:-

Kokankada

several times. From this point, a round rainbow (Broken spectre phenomenon) can be seen on occasion.

It is only visible when there is a slight fog in the valley and the sun is behind the person viewing it.

A vertical cloud mass is a phenomenon that can be seen in this area, in which clouds near a cliff enter a hole that falls below and are thrown into the sky at a distance of more than 15 metres, creating the image of a wall rising straight at the edge of the cliff without entering the earth's surface.

If you visit in April or May, throw your panama hat on the cliff and enjoy a hike up and back to the plains.

The height of the Tamarati:-

Tamaranchi is another name for Tamaranchi. This is the castle's highest point (1429 meters). Leopards have been spotted in the forest above the summit. We can see the entire Naneghat range and the castles near Murbad from here.

We can see forts as far south as Siddhagad near Bhimashankar and the twin mountains of Napta, Ghodishep (865 metres), Ajoba (1375 metres), and Kulang fort (1471 metres) in the north near Kasara district from Tamarati.

Caves in Harishchandragad:-

The caves are scattered throughout the castle. Many of these are habitable and are located beneath the upper level of the Tamarati.

Some are near the temple, others near the castle, and still others deep in the woods. The natural cave is located deep on the northwest side of the castle, to the right of Kokan Kada.

Many other caves have gone missing, according to reports.

Nageshwar Temple near Khireshwar

This is a beautiful ancient architecture with various works of art on display. Some carved objects can be found on the temple's roof.

The most impressive inscription is a 1.5-meter-long statue of King Vishnu in the dormitory, known as "Sheshshayi Vishnu" in Marathi.

It is extremely rare and thus extremely valuable. There are numerous legends surrounding this image. Near the temple, there are caves.

Ganapati, Harishchandreshwar Temple:-

This temple is an excellent example of ancient Indian carving. It stands 16 metres tall from the ground.

A number of ancient caves and water tanks are located near this temple. The Mangal Ganga River is said to have originated in one of the temple's tanks.

The temple's surface is similar to temple construction in northern India. The same temple can be found in Buddha-Gaya.

Many cemeteries can be seen here, with the general construction visible. These are made of carefully placed stones that are finished on top of one another. Near the temple, there are three large caves. Drinking water is obtained from wells near the temple.

Kashitirtha, another nearby temple, is also worth a visit. This temple's allure is enhanced by the fact that it is engraved on a single large rock.

Doors are available on both sides. Face sculptures flank the main entrance. This is the expression of the temple guards. An inscription by Devsnagsri about Saint Changdev can be found to the left of the door.

How to  Reach There:-

Harishchandragad lies at the confluence of the Thane, Pune, and Ahmednagar regions.

1) Thane District: One has to take a bus to Nagar from Kalyan and get off at 'Khubi Phata'. From there we reach Khireshwar village by bus or private car. The city is about four miles [7 km] from the fortress.

2) From the Pune District: A daily bus runs from Shivajinagar ST stand in Pune to Khireshwar village.

3) From the Ahmednagar region: One has to take a bus to Nashik or Mumbai and descend to the village of Ghoti.

From Ghoti, we have to catch another bus to Sangamner via Malegaon & land in the Rajur area. From here, 2 routes turn the castle.

1) From Rajur, one has to take a bus or a private car to the village of Pachanai. From here, the trail goes straight to the highest point.

2) Recently, the road from Rajur to Tolar Khind has been made available. The temple is about 2-3 hours on foot from Tolar Khind (Tolar valley).

3) from kotul to kothale bus bus services are available tolar khind every hour bus to kothale, private cars are also available on this route.

You Also Read:

1. MAHARASHTRA FORT INFORMATION

2.Shivaji Raje Fort In Maharashtra

3. Ujjain Tourist Places-उज्जैन महाकाल


FAQ:

How do you reach Harishchandra gad?

What is the history of Harishchandra gad?

हरिश्चंद्रगड कुठे आहे ?

हरिश्चंद्रगड विषयी माहिती?

Friday, 30 July 2021

Travel to Shimla Himachal Pradesh india

 This is a list of tourist attractions in the town of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh in the Indian state.

Slideshow

Change image every 3 seconds:

1 / 5
Manali
2 / 5
Manal
3 / 5
Manali
4 / 5
Manali
5 / 5
Manali

Shop: Shopping Mall is the main shopping street in Shimla. It boasts a plethora of restaurants, clubs, banks, pubs, post offices, and tourist information centers. This is the lowest level of the Gaiety Theatre.

Ridge: Ridge is a big open space on Mall Road that accommodates all of the city's cultural activities. Christ Church, located in Ridge, is North India's second oldest church.

Inside are glass windows representing faith, hope, compassion, resilience, patience, and humility.

Some of the monuments in this area are the State Library and the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex.

Jakhu Hill: 2 kilometers from Shimla, at an elevation of 8,000 feet, Jakhu Hill is the city's highest point, with views over the city and the snow-capped Himalayas.

At the top of the hill is the ancient temple of Hanuman, a Hindu deity famous for both tourists and locals alike.

Hanuman statue, 33 meters (33 meters), 2,591 meters high above sea level, is one of the highest artifacts in the world, surpassing Christ Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 

Jakhoo has a rope access road and connects Jakhoo's temple on the beach and is the first of its kind in Shimla.

Kali Bari: Kali Bari is a temple dedicated to the body of the fearless goddess Kali Shyamala in the city of Shimla.

Views from the temple include Annandale, Shimla Railway Station, Railway Board Building, Old Bus Stand, ATRAC, TV Tower, and other landmarks.

Annandale: Developed as a Shimla racecourse, Annandale is 2-4 km from Ridge at an altitude of 6,117 ft. It is now used by the Indian Army. It has a Military Heritage Museum and a helipad. Every VVIP, VIP, or celebrity visiting Shimla comes via nhelipad.

Annandale is one of the main tourist attractions in Shimla. The first Durand Cup football tournament was organized here in 1888 by Mortimer Durand.

Indian Institute of Advanced Study: The center is located on the site of the former Viceregal Lodge, built-in 1884-88.

The Himachal Pradesh State Museum: The museum, which opened in 1974, sought to protect the hills and cultural heritage of the empire. There is a collection of small paintings by Pari, sculptures, sculptures of wood and cloth, textiles, and regional jewelry.

Summer Hill: Summer Hill township is 6,500 feet high on the Shimla-Kalka railway line. Mahatma Gandhi lived in these quiet places during his visit to Shimla. Himachal Pradesh University is located here.

Sankat Mochan: The famous Hindu temple dedicated to Hanuman.

Tara Devi Temple: 11 km from Shimla bus station. Tara Devi Hill has a temple dedicated to the star goddess above the hill. There is a Military Milk City here with headquarters for Barat Scouts and Guides.

Jutogh: Located 8 km, the military cantonment is located near Tutu, the capital of Shimla.

Saturday, 24 July 2021

Travel Trip for Mysore-Ooty-Kodaikanal

 Mysore - Ooty -Kodaikanal

Travel Trip for Mysore-Ooty-Kodaikanal

Mysore: Places to visit in Mysore :

National Park of Bandipur 

Bandipur National Park is another exciting place to visit while in Mysore. The Park is about 50 kilometres from Mysore and offers a peaceful retreat in the natural swamps away from the city's violence.

Rangana Hills of Biligiri 

The Biligiri Rangana Hills, also known as B.R.Hills, are another exciting destination for nature lovers from Mysore. Although these hills are well-known for their ancient temple, they also house some lesser-known wildlife.

Melkote or Thirunarayanapuram is an important pilgrim centre near Mysore. Melkote is located about 60 kilometres from Mysore in a hilly area with some of the world's oldest rocky outcrops. Melkote, the temple city, is located in the midst of these hills.

Nanjangud is the most well-known excursion from Mysore town. Nanjangud is located 25 kilometres from Mysore. Because of the Nanjundeshwara or Srikanteshwara temple, it is a sacred site.

Shravanabelagola Shravanabelagola is a must-visit place in Mysore. Shravanabelagola is famous for the Bahubali monolith or Gomateshwara. 

The two stone hills are known as Chandragiri and Indragiri. Chandragiri is famous for the Ganga-made Chandragupta Basadi. Indragiri is well-known for Chavundaraya Basadi and the magnificent Gommateshwara statue.

Travel to Shivanasamudra Shivanasamudra is located about 85 kilometres east of Mysore. The Cauvery River flows into a beautiful two-leaf clover in Shivanasamudra.

Temple of Somnathpur Somnathpur is a small town on the Cauvery River founded by the Hoyasala military commander Somnath. The village is well-known for its stunning Keshava temple, which was built in the Hoysala style.

Talakad, near Mysore, is known for its dunes and is located on the banks of the Cauvery River. Several temples are buried beneath the sand on the Cauvery River's shores at Talakad.

Ooty

 The "Queen of the Hill Stations," also known as Udhagamandalam, is the regional capital of Nilgiris. It is one of India's most popular tourist destinations. Nilgiris means "Blue Mountains" in Tamil. A country with beautiful picnic spots.

Travel Trip for Mysore-Ooty-Kodaikanal

During the colonial era, Britishers used it extensively during the summer and on weekends. It is at an elevation of 2,240 metres above sea level.

The ratchet and pinion train route, which begins at Kallar, near Mettupalayam, and crosses many hair-raising curves and dreaded tunnels, chugs along deep rivers full of lush vegetation, streams, and tea gardens, is another attraction for visitors to Udagamandalam.

Travel Trip for Mysore-Ooty-Kodaikanal

This morning, you will be treated to a tour of the 'Queen of the Green Mountains,' which will include a visit to Dodabetta Peak, which has a stunning view. Continue on to Coonoor, where you can visit Sim Park, Dolphins Nose Point, and the Tea Garden.

Return to Ooty and visit the Botanical Garden before walking to the famous Ooty Lake. Ride a boat on Ooty Lake.

Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a hill station located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is situated at an altitude of 2,133 meters above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather.

Some popular tourist attractions in Kodaikanal include the Kodaikanal Lake, Coaker's Walk, Pillar Rocks, Bryant Park, and the Bear Shola Falls. The town is also known for its homemade chocolates, eucalyptus oil, and various handicrafts.

Travel Trip for Mysore-Ooty-Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal is a popular destination for tourists, particularly during the summer months when the weather is cooler than other parts of Tamil Nadu. It is also a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts who enjoy trekking, hiking, and camping in the hills.

Kodaikanal is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and beautiful waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The town also has several viewpoints that offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Apart from its natural beauty, Kodaikanal has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several temples, churches, and historical landmarks. The town's unique blend of Tamil and European influences is reflected in its architecture and local cuisine.

Visitors can also indulge in several outdoor activities such as boating, horse riding, cycling, and fishing in Kodaikanal. The town also hosts several festivals and cultural events throughout the year, including the Summer Festival, which attracts thousands of tourists from across the country.

You Also Read:

1. MAHARASHTRA FORT INFORMATION

2.Shivaji Raje Fort In Maharashtra

3. Ujjain Tourist Places-उज्जैन महाकाल

Friday, 16 July 2021

Trip to Bhavali Dam,Igatpuri Nashik

 A good one day trip in envy - Bavali Dam, Igatpuri, Nashik, India

Bavali Dam, Igatpuri Nashik is a great place to visit during the heavy rains. 

It is a beautiful place in the bhavli area near Igatpuri. We see beautiful waterfalls near the lake in the stream.

A well-connected area by Road. A place with great natural beauty, away from the normal life of the city. It is not as popular as other waterfalls because there is a small crowd here.

The departure from Nashik was Just 55 KM away after Igatpuri and Highway connected only 10 KM inside. Road Cement Road and connected to Dam and Water Falls.

Also making this beautiful Dam a beautiful Picnic spot is BHAVALI Water Fall. It's great and you can see the water falling into two layers during the Monsoon season. One should explore this natural beauty during peak Monsoon (say mid-July to mid-Sep).

Some Beautiful places very close to Bhavali Dam

1) Sarva Tirth Taked

This is the place where Jatayu's wounded was found by King Rama on the outskirts of the village of Taked.

While Jatayu was injured and laying on the ground when King Rama came, King Rama observed the ultimate result and determined that Jatayu should obtain a moksha.

Lord Rama hit an arrow on the ground to summon all seven sacred rivers, called the teertha.

The water of the six rivers has come, the water of one river has failed to obey the call of King Ramah. Since Lord Rama himself was a man of Lord Vishnu, He forced the Gaya teertha to come to that place.

Eventually, Jatayu was given water from seven rivers and found a moksha. Today, six river water is visible in one lake, and the seventh is just a few yards away. It meets the remaining six waters in an invisible way.

The obscure town remains a tourist attraction today. The exhibition is organized at the Mahashivratri festival near the sacred pool of water.

2) Bandardara Dam

Bandardara is a dam built by the British during their rule in western India. The village is located in Akole tehsil, Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra province, approximately 185 km (115 mi) from Mumbai and 155 km (96 mi) from Ahmednagar.

Bandardara lives along the Pravara River; Arthur lake and Randha falls are tourist attractions.

There are many historical and ecological sites in the dam. From Bandardara, visitors can climb up to the castles of Ratangad and Harishchandragad. Or, tourists can follow the routes leading to the peaks of Ajoba and Ghanchakkar. 

The highest peak in Maharashtra, Mount Kalsubai is 1646 m and the first place for this trek is Bari Village, located 12 km from Bandardara. At the top, there is a small temple complex, with views of Sahyadris and Bandardara. 

The most difficult places in Sahyadri are Alang Fort, Mandangad fort and Kulang gad (also called AMK) is located on the south side. The smallest village in Sandhan is located on the West side of the dam. 

3) Kalsubai Shikhar :

Kalsubai is a Western Ghats mountain in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Its summit, with an elevation of 1,646 meters (5,400 feet), is Maharashtra's highest point.

The mountain range is located in the Kalsubai Harishchandragad Wildlife Sanctuary. It is visited year-round by pilgrims, devotees of the Kalsubai temple, and wildlife lovers alike. 

It is named after his three sisters, Kalsubai, Ratnabai and Katrabai.

The peak can be viewed fully from the east coast hamlet of Bari, about six miles (3.7 km) from Bandardara. It is accessible by road through Igatpuri on the Mumbai-Nasik route.

Trains from Mumbai provide an alternative route to Kasara railway station, by connecting Government Transport buses, which run on the Akole-Kasara route, leading to the station in the village. Private cars from Kasara offers yet another alternative to public transportation.

So visit these places and enjoy a Great Day commemoration of your life !!!!!

5 Top tourist places in Agra

  Agra is a city in northern India famous for its historical and architectural landmarks, including the iconic Taj Mahal. Here are 5 tourist...