If one would carefully go through the history books of India, they would know that Aurangabad is indeed a treasure trove of the vivid culture of our country.

Historian Rashmi Jolly who has written a self-help, smart tourist guide — Aurangabad: Jewel of The Deccan, that reminds people of all the historical treasures that Aurangabad houses, says, "Tourists visit Goa, some go to Kerala for therapies and to places like Delhi, Agra or even Hyderabad, but Aurangabad just gets overlooked." She adds, "The heritage caves of Ajanta and Ellora has been listed by UNESCO as one of the important historic places. In fact, the Japan Bank Of International Corporation has given huge funds to restore these caves, due to the Japanese connect with Buddhism." The writer believes that if there was a direct flight from Japan to Aurangabad both places would see quite a cross-cultural exchange of tourists to both places.

"Aurangabad has never got its due credit," she explains. "The place is not just known for Buddhism but also for Jainism, Hinduism and Islam. Unfortunately it its poor infrastructure has, in a way, isolated it. By writing this book, I am trying to do my bit for this magnificent city," she asserts.

Rashmi has been visiting Aurangabad since 1976, and says, "I have seen the city grow." In the book, she has listed out all the places of historic and cultural significance that one must go to, plus the places where people can stay and eat. "The aam admi has to see the entire city in two days, so this book will help them relate to the city when they go to see the place, after reading the book." RIDDHI DOSHI (d_riddhi@dnaindia.net)