Posted by Permanent Message on 6/4/2009, 7:15 am
Message modified by board administrator 6/4/2009, 8:57 am

Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico... Tepic is the capital and largest city of the Mexican state of Nayarit. It is located in the central part of the state. It stands at an altitude above sea level of some 915 metres, on the banks of the Río Mololoa and the Río Tepic, approximately 225 kilometers north-west of Guadalajara, Jalisco. Nearby are the extinct Sangangüey volcano and its crater lake. Tepic is the primary urban center of this rich agricultural region; major crops include sugarcane, tobacco and citrus fruits. The city was founded in 1542. In the 2005 census, it reported a population of 295,204 people. Its surrounding municipality of the same name had a population of 336,403. The municipality has an area of 1,983.3 km² (765.8 sq mi). It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tepic. Main sights The 19th century Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), with a neo-classical portal. Cuatro Pueblos Museum, showcases the culture of the main four ethnic groups: huicholes, coras, tepehuanos and mexicaneros. Cathedral of the Purísima Concepción de María: this structure was built in the 18th century. The 16th century Temple of the Cruz de Zacate was originally a Franciscan convent; today it houses the State Ministry of Tourism. The Amado Nervo Museum displays photos and texts of poet Amado Nervo, who was born in this house in 1870. The Regional Museum of Anthropology and History offers archaeological exhibits and the ethnography of the Cora and Huichol indigenous peoples. In the Casa de la Cultura (House of the Culture) there are murals by Mexican artist José Meza as well as other periodic cultural and artistic exhibits. Activities in Tepic: Around the city of Tepic one can find many fabulous natural places that will challenge the skills of professional climbers or golf lovers. Who visit these places will be astonished with the resources and mostly probably will wish to experiment the adventure again. Golf: For golf lovers, Tepic, Nayarit’s capital city, counts with a golf course that offers all the necessary services to practice this elegant sport. Club Nayar Campestre is located in the Jalcocotal-Tepic road km 1. It counts with a 9 holes course, pair 36. Extreme sports: Just a few kilometers from the city in Mesa de Picachos is Cerro Bola (a hill). It is a climbing and rappelling zone that has become a complete tourist attraction, due its adventures doesn’t end there. On the hill one can practice hiking, mountaineering and camping in safe plains, spending the night around a campfire. Aquatic activities: The Aguamilpa Hydroelectric dam is a magnanimous work, one of a kind. It has a 187 meters high curtain and is located in Sierra de Picachos. Besides providing a better communication with the indigenous people, the dam helps to boost tourism. In its water one can take a boat ride and practice sport fishing or aquatic skiing. Recreation time: A perfect place for recreation and relaxation, safe for all ages and companies, is La Loma Park (the best in all of Nayarit) and the Alameda Central. These places count with children areas, mechanic attractions, mini train tour, springboards, basketball and tennis courts, a fine zoo, as well as pools. There is also a Lienzo Charro where one can enjoy Jaripeos (horse shows) and La Concha, a public area where one can enjoy plays, regional dancing shows, etc. There is free transportation to get to Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross). From the top of it one can contemplate with telescopes: the city, Matatipac Valley and the gorgeous sunsets. One can also have fun at the Ecological Park. It counts with children areas within a green area that has a lake with gooses. One can rent canoes to get to meet the area or simply exercise enjoying the cleanest air and the amazing landscapes.