Mumbai

Welcome to the city that never sleeps! Pulsating, Alive, On the Move, Vibrant, Fun -- this is Mumbai or as it is still frequently referred to -- Bombay. The most modern city in India, it captures the spirit of the changing pace set by liberalization and modernisation.
Once a cluster of seven islands, Mumbai was presented to King Charles II in 1661 as part of the dowry when he married Princess Catherine de Braganza of Portugal.
Over the years, as colonialism gave way to independence, Mumbai has transformed itself into an entity with thriving markets, business houses and many different communities reflecting a cosmopolitan and trendy atmosphere rarely seen elsewhere. On the surface, it represents the ever-changing face of today's India -- the old coupled with the dynamic new, and yet at its very core, the heart of the city is steeped in Indian customs and values.
It is the capital of Maharashtra state, and its official language is Marathi although English and Hindi are widely spoken and understood. The fast-paced life has given rise to hordes of "fast-food outlets" on almost every road, offering lip-smacking choices of Mumbai's very own pau bhaji, bhel puri and kababs. There is no dearth, though, of multi-culinary delicacies dished out in posh restaurants by expert chefs. Mumbai is a shopper's delight with bargain buys, exclusive boutiques, ethnic markets and mini bazaars. This busy city is also the hub of a thriving cultural life, with a constant stream of performances in music, dance and drama. The seat of the Hindi film industry, known locally as Bollywood, it produces the largest number of films in the world. Mumbai caters to the adventurous and the romantic through its sporting activities, nightclubs, pubs, theatres, beaches and restaurants. Old and new, rich and poor, classical and modern -- its all here for you to savour and enjoy!

Shirdi

122 kms from Nashik is the abode of one of Maharashtra's most revered saint -- Sai Baba of Shirdi. Popularly known as the 'Child of God', Sai Baba preached tolerance towards all religions and the message of universal brotherhood.
Every activity at Shirdi revolves around the vast temple complex dedicated to Sai Baba. Devotees start queuing up in the early hours of dawn to catch a glimpse and seek the blessings of the life-size statue of Sai Baba. Thursday is marked by special pujas and darshan of the Sai Baba statue. There are other places of interest that devotees can visit as well including Dwarkamani Mosque where the Baba meditated and slept on alternate nights. Near the mosque, in a corridor is the dhani or eternal flame that burns day and night. Other places of importance are the Gurusthan, the Kandoba Temple, Shani Mandir, Narsimha Mandir, Changdev Maharaj Samadhi and the Sakori Ashram.
Getting There :

Air Nearest airport is Aurangabad.
Rail Nearest railhead is Kopargaon, 15 Kms. on the Manmad-Daund section of central Railway.
Road Mumbai-Shirdi,296 kms. (Mumbai-Nashik-Niphad-Yeola-Shirdi) Nashik-Shirdi 112 kms. Aurangabad-Shirdi 126 kms.(Aurangabad-Vaijapur Yeola-Kopargaon-Shirdi) Pune-Shirdi,183 kms. (Pune-Kalamba-sangmner-Talegaon-shirdi). State Transport buses ply regularly from Mumbai, Nashik, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad, Pune and kopargaon. MTDC runs a bi-weekly round trip bus service to Shirdi form Mumbai.

Accommodation :

Hotel "The Pilgrims Inn" self contained rooms (50 blocks).
Check out Time
12.00 noon
Reservation
Shirdi and Mumbai.

Ajanta Caves - A legacy from a golden age

Ajanta and Ellora are the pride of Maharashtra. The rock-cut caves of both these sites are world famous and illustrate the degree of skill and artistry that Indian craftsmen had achieved several hundred years ago. Ajanta dates from 100 B.C. while Ellora is younger by some 600 years. The village of Ajanta is in the Sahyadri hills, about 99 kms. From Aurangabad; a few miles away in a mammoth horseshoe-formed rock, are 30 caves overlooking a gorge, `each forming a room in the hill and some with inner rooms. Al these have been carved out of solid rock with little more than a hammer and chisel and the faith and inspiration of Buddhism. Here, for the Buddhist monks, the artisans excavated Chaityas (chapels) for prayer and Viharas (monasteries) where they lived and taught. Many of the caves have the most exquisite detailed carvings on the walls, pillars and entrances as well as magnificent wall paintings.
These caves were discovered early in the 19th century quite by chance by a party of British Officers on manoeuvres. Today the paintings and sculptures on Buddha’s life, belonging to the more mellow and ritualistic Mahayana Buddhism period, are world famous. Copies of them were shown in the Crystal Palace exhibition in London in 1866. These were destroyed in a fire there. Further copies were published soon afterwards and four volumes of reproductions were brought out in 1933 by Ghulam Yazdani, the Director of Archaeology of the then Hyderabad State. Ajanta has formed an epicentre of interest for those who appreciate and are eager to know more about Indian history and art.
Ajanta Cave It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and has been listed in the World Heritage list of monuments.The 30 caves of Ajanta were created over a span of some 600 years.
In their range of time and treatments they provide a panorama of life in ancient India and are a source of all kinds of information... hair styles, ornaments, textiles, musical instruments, details of architecture, customs etc. It was from this collection of classical Indian art that a particular style was formed that traveled with Buddhism to many parts of the world. Similar paintings can be seen in Sigiriya in Sri Lanka, Bamiyan in Afghanistan, temples and shrines in Tibet, Nepal, China and Japan.

Royal patronage made Ajanta possible. Professional artists carried out much of the work and each contributed his own individual skill and devotion to this monumental work.
Visitors often ask how the artist who painted the detailed frescoes and chiseled out the intricate carvings, managed to work in the dark interiors of the caves. It has been noticed that the caves are illuminated by natural light for part of the day and it is presumed that metal mirrors or sheets of white cloth were used to reflect sunlight into the inner recesses.

Amaravati

It is 35km away from Nagarjunkonda.

The Great Stupa

It has 32 meters height and 32 meters diameter, larger than one at Sanchi, Bhopal in Madhaya Pradesh. The dome is intricately carved marble slabs. The origins of the stupa go back to the 3rd or 2nd centuries BC. The excavations by Col. Colin Mackenzie in 1797 recovered the magnificent railings, sculptured friezes. Almost all these excavated items are placed at the museum of Madras.

The Archaeological Museum

It opens from 0900 to 1700 except Friday, Entry is free. The site of this museum contains the panel, chakras and caskets containing relics, broken railings and sculptures of the Bodhi tree. Galleries containing pottery, coins, bangles and terracotta.

Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple

Nestled by the three hills of Durgambika in the north, the Kannappar in the south and the Kumaraswamy in the east, the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple is located in the Chitor district of Andhra Pradesh. It is positioned in close proximity to the renowned temple town of Tirupati. This is definitely a very advantageous location because the large number of devotees who come to offer their prayers to Lord Balaji at Tirupati can easily come and pay a visit to the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple in the same trip.

Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh dates back to several centuries. The fact that it is referred to in pre Christian Tamil literature speaks volumes about its antiquity. It finds mention in the Chola inscriptions as well.

According to legend, Rahu and Ketu, two of the nine planets in Indian Astrology offered their prayers at the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple. The importance of this Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh also lies in the fact that it is one in the group of five temples that worship Shiva as a personification of the five primary elements of fire, earth, water, wind and space.

This particular temple of Andhra Pradesh represents wind or air in this group commonly referred to as Pancha Bhoota Stalams.

The rulers of the Chola and the Vijayanagar dynasty are credited with the patronage of the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple. The gopuram of Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh was built by Krishnadevaraya and is admired to this day. The tower at the entrance of the temple is also quite striking. This temple being dedicated to Lord Shiva, it was visited by a large number of Shaivites even in the 1st century A.D. They were highly impressed by the construction of the temple. This Andhra Pradesh temple is referred to in the Kriti Sri Kalahasteeswara composed by legendary Karnatic music composer Deekshitar.

Being one of the most popular Shaivite shrines in the whole of southern India there are many interesting stories that are associated with it. Goddess Parvati is worshipped here alongside Shiva. It is believed that the statue which has the prestigious distinction of being present within the sanctum of the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple along with the lord is that of a devotee of Lord Shiva. This devotee by the name of Thinnan was so committed to the Lord that he sacrificed his own eyes and later earned the name of Kannappan.

The popularity and importance of the Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh can also be gauged from the fact that here Lord Shiva was worshipped by Indra, Rama and Muchukunda as well. Maha Shivratri Festival is celebrated at this temple with a lot of joy and exuberance.

Veerbhadra Temple , Lepakshi

The Veerbhadra Temple is located on a small mound referred to as Kurma Sailam in the sleepy village of Lepakshi in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. Lepakshi has attained a great deal of historical and archaeological importance because of the presence of the Veerbhadra Temple.

Constructed way back in the 16th century, the Veerbhadra Temple stands as one of the finest examples of Vijaynagara style of art and architecture. The shape of the Veerbhadra Temple bears a great deal of resemblance to the tortoise. Even though the commanding deity of the temple is Veerabhadra, several other gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon are also regularly worshipped here. Some of them are Lord Rama, Lord Shiva who is also referred to as Lord Papanasesswara and Durga.

The Veerbhadra Temple at Lepakshi is divided into three parts. They are the Mukha Mandapa, the Artha Mandapa and the Garbha Griha. But what is sure to attract your attention immediately after your entry to the Veerbhadra Temple are the Mandapams. All the Mandapams are intricately carved with beautiful sculptures. The exquisite sculptures enhance the beauty of this magnificent shrine.

It needs to be mentioned in this context that though all the Mandapams are strikingly beautiful do not miss out on the Kalyana Mandapam which contains a large number of pillars carrying the life size images of dancers, musicians and other figures carved out on them. One cannot simply take one’s eyes off it. They still stand in their original splendor reflecting the remarkable architectural and sculptural dexterity of those artisans of the bygone era. According to legend, Lord Shiva and Parvati were married at this very spot.

The ceiling of the Veerbhadra Temple in Andhra Pradesh is no less admirable. The mural paintings can be rated as the best paintings at the time of the reign of the Vijaynagara dynasty.

Yet another feature of the Veerbhadra Temple that is sure to leave you spell bound is the enormous Nandi Bull which has been carved out of a single granite stone. Its height is 4.5 m and its length is 8.23 meter.

You are sure to be amazed after a visit to this architectural marvel. The Veerbhadra Temple in Lepakshi, Andhra Pradesh startles all its visitors by its brilliance.

Kanakdurga Temple, Vijaywada

Introduction to Kanakdurga Temple, Vijaywada

The Kanakdurga Temple is a very popular temple and is located in Vijaywada, Andhra Pradesh. The deity in the Kanakdurga Temple is referred to in the Vedas as well and is considered to be very powerful. The temple is visited by a large number of devotees every year and the place has immense spiritual significance.

History of Kanakdurga Temple, Vijaywada
Legend has it that the demon Mahishasura was causing a lot of trouble to the natives. Sage Indrakilla requested the goddess to reside on his head and keep a watch on the demon. He assumed the form of a mountain. She decided to make this her permanent abode. The goddess then killed the demon and brought a lot of relief to the people. It is also believed that the spiritual leader Adi Shankara visited the temple. He even installed a Sree Chakra which is still to be seen.

Description of Kanakdurga Temple, Vijaywada
As the temple is located on top of the Indrakeeladri Hill, one can get a panoramic view of the city of Vijaywada as well as the River Krishna flowing alongside it from this temple.

A large number of inscriptions that are attributed to different dynasties are carved on the walls of the temple.

The most striking feature in this temple is however the very imposing image of Durga that is awe inspiring. It is 4 foot high and embellished with a lot of gorgeous ornaments and bright colored flowers. There are weapons in her hands and she is shown as piercing the demon with a trident. Lord Shiva is also worshipped here as Malleeshwara. A large number of devotees throng the Kanakdurga temple at the time of Durgashtami to offer their blessings to the lord.

You are sure to be impressed by this fantastic temple and the idol which is housed within it.

Tirupati Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala

Introduction to Tirupati Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala
The Tirupati Venkateswara Temple is one of the most important pilgrim sites of the Hindus. It is visited by a large number of devotees each year. Located on the seventh peak of the Tirupati Hill, this ancient temple is a must see for all tourists. It is emblematic of wonderful architecture. One can also get an idea of the tremendous faith that people have in this deity when they visit the temple. Individuals willingly stand in long queues just to get a glimpse of the lord housed in the richest temple. A visit to the temple is like a spiritual sojourn that simply overwhelms the senses.

History of Tirupati Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala
The glorious history of this temple spans for several centuries. There is literary evidence as well as a lot of engraved inscriptions that point out to the antiquity of this temple.

Kings belonging to the Chola, the Pandya and the Pallava dynasty have been regular visitors to this temple. Sri Krishnadevaraya was an important contributor and endowed the temple with rich offerings.

A permanent endowment fund was set up by the Maratha general Rajhoji Bhonsle so that regular worship in the temple could be carried out without any hindrance.

With the coming of the Muslim rulers, the temple came under their supervision and at a further later period, the British were transferred the power. Eventually the East India Company decided that they would no longer take the responsibility of administering native religious institutions.

The Sri Seva Dossji of the Hatiramji Mutt at Tirumala was entrusted with the responsibility. They continued to hold power for over a century till 1933. Then in 1933 the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams Committee took over. Finally in the year 1951, a Board of Trustees took over the administration of this grand temple.

Description of Tirupati Venkateswara Temple, Tirumala
The outer Gopuram of the temple is inscribed with figures of Vaishnava gods. You will surely be impressed by the architectural brilliance of these craftsmen.

There are several Mandapams in the temple. The Ranga Mandapam reflects the Vijaynagara style of architecture and was constructed between 1320 and 1360 A.D. It is believed that when Srirangam was occupied by the Muslim rulers, the idol of Lord Ranganadha was kept here. The Tiruamla Raya Mandapam is a spacious complex of pavilions. The Dhvajasthamba Mandapam is a complex with a large number of pillars. You will simply be fascinated to see the remarkable sculptures that are there in this Mandapam. The central pillar of this Mandapam is surrounded by several small pillars. Strike one of these pillars with a small stone and you will surely be amazed to find that they emit musical sounds. Bronze statues also adorn this Mandapam. The Aina Mahal is rightly named because there are a large number of ainas or mirrors which reflects images on its walls. It consists of two parts. There is an open Mandapam with a total of 36 pillars and a shrine consisting an Antarala and Garbagriha.

The portals of the temples are adorned with statues of Krishnadevaraya and his consorts which were installed by Krishnadevaraya himself. The Maratha general Rajhoji Bhonsle gifted valuable jewels and that included emeralds which have been retained to this day.

You will certainly be impressed by the sparkling and dazzling brilliance of this temple.

Rishikonda Beach

Introduction to the Rishikonda Beach in Andhra Pradesh:
The Rishikonda Beach is located at Vishakhapatnam (also known as Vizag). The Rishikonda Beach is an exclusive beach carpeted with golden yellow sand dunes and hemmed by the verdant coconut trees on either side. It merges with the sea in order to complete its destination and also allows the visitors full fledged entertainment.

The tranquility associated with the Rishikonda Beach is just indescribable. It is perhaps the other name for heaven on earth. A sunbath in the sea and sun-basking in the sand beach is a thrilling experience and is also beneficial for health.

Description of the Rishikonda Beach:

The Rishikonda Beach is the best sight for the swimmers. They find a scope to display their swimming talents in the cerulean sea. The vast expanse of the aquamarine expanse seems to drive ones thought across the horizon making him contemplative and poetic.

Poetic talent seems to erupt like volcanoes in the hearts of a man once he is in the Rishikonda Beach. The picturesque setting allures him and sends him back to the times past to rediscover some of the bright golden moments of his life which he cherishes with exceptional pride and spontaneity.

The water skiers also find the Rishikonda Beach an invigorating experience. They dive down with the waves of the sea, sometimes surfacing along with the wave and sometimes diving deep down into the unfathomable depths. They offer a unique site for the visitors.

The skiers with their boats make miraculous twists and turn and are the charming sight for the visitors. The wind surfers also find a enthralling experience with the surging and dying waves an flies high above with their parachutes along with the sea-waves down below.

The entire atmosphere seems to brighten up with the colorful boats and parachutes. The azure sea reflects them with pride and so, a visit to the Rishikonda Beach is just a handsome experience.

Araku Valley

Introduction to the Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh:

Araku Valley lies close to the Orissa Border and the pleasant weather tempts tourists for a visit, especially during the summer. The natural beauty of the Araku Valley is beyond compare; it lies roughly at an altitude of 600-900 kilometers from the sea level and extends over an area of 36 kilometers.

Description of the Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh:

A journey to the valley is filled with entertainment and soothing views consisting of thick forests that lines the way to Araku Valley. There are 46 tunnels and Bridges that offer enticing Trekking Tours for the explorer. Anathagiri Hills are located on the way to Araku Valley. Vishakhaptnam is the located 112 kilometers from the Araku Valley and is the nearest airport from here. Bus Service is also obtainable from Vishakhapatnam

The Sangda Falls has been discovered recently and is considered to be the best tourist spot in Araku Valley. It is located in the Sangda Village and offers spectacular scenes. Moreover Paderu is another picturesque Valley located few miles away from

Vishakhapatnam and has an altitude of about 900 meters from the sea level. Hill streams locally known as Geddas offer a comforting view here. The Shiva Temple at Matsyagundam is another pleasant sight. This is a beautiful place in the Araku Valley and is a unique locale for the anglers.

Sightseeing in Araku Valley in Andhra Pradesh:

Ananthagiri Ghats are covered with thick forests and they are also replete with Orchards and offer some scenic beauty to the landscape. Araku Valley is a home to many tribal people; about 19 tribal groups reside here. The women of the tribal community wear saris beautifully and bedeck their hairs with brightly colored flowers. Dimsa and Mayur are the age old folk dances at the Araku Valley and it is still performed during the Itika Pongal Festival.

Itika Pongal is a renowned Hunting festival in the Araku Valley attended by the young and old alike with exceptional vigor and enthusiasm. A significant feature of this region is the rail route from Ananthagiri to Vishakhapatnam which includes the highest broad gauge track in the Indian Railways. The Coffee Plantations beneath the Valley offer a spectacular scene to the high spirited tourists. Shimliguda Railway is the highest Railway Station in Indian and is located at Araku Valley.

Munnar - The Gateway to the Hills

Munnar is located at the Idukki district of Kerala State in South India. Munnar's mesmerising greenery, mountain scenery, calmness and cool refreshing air attracts honeymooners and tourists throughout the year. It is a weekend hideout location for domestic tourists during summer season. Foreign travellers likes watching the natural beauty of Kerala while the journey from Thekkady to Munnar.

Munnar is at the confluence of three rivers. In Tamil, the word 'munnu' means "three" and 'aar' means "river". Hence "Munnar" is a shortened version of 'Munnu Aar'. The 3 mountain streams joining together here are Madurapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala.

Munnar is a commercial centre with one of the world's best tea estates. There are about 30 tea plantations in and around Munnar. Among these, majority of the plantations are owned by Tata Group's Kannan Devan Tea Estate. A visit to Munnar can witness the nurturing of tea in plantation to the process of manufacturing and packing.

The tea estates, hills, lakes and forests inside Munnar area exposes it's beauty. The tea plants covered Munnar hills makes the feeling of seeing a wide green carpet.


Places to See in and around Munnar:

Breathing in the crisp, clear and unpolluted air, relaxing and eating are the added bonuses of going to Munnar. Getting around the mountains that surround Munnar is an experience one cannot miss, not in a million years.

1. Tata Tea Museum

Located 2 Km from Munnar Centre on the Nallathany Road.

Collection of old bits and pieces from the colonial era can be seen here. Demonstration of tea production. Information on machinaries, tea processing and tea tasting. Photography and Videography prohibited here.

Working Time: 10.00 AM - 4.00 PM.

Monday holiday

Ticket Fee: Rs 50 for adult, Rs 25 for child

2. CSI Church

A church built with stone in 1910. It has fine stained glass and brass plaques. Above all, a calm place to pray and meditate.

3. Devikulam is 7 Km away. Tourists are attracted to this lake town

4. Mattupetty is 14 Km away from Munnar. Mattupetty dam has an agriculture garden on its banks. Speed boat ride through the dam is also available.

5. Rajamalai (Eravikulam National Park) is situated 13 Km away from Munnar on Udumalpet road (SH17). Trekking here can perhaps give you a glimpse of Nilgiri Thar, the rarely seen mountain goat.

Working Time: 7.00AM to 6.00PM (September to May)

Ticket Charge: Rs 10 for adults, Rs 5 for children. Photography / Videography permitted for fee.

6. Top Station is 40 Km away from Munnar. From here you can get a spectacular view of the plains of Tamilnadu. Kundalai Dam is on the Munnar-Top Station road

7. Marayoor is about 40 Km away, where Sandalwood forest, Muniyaras (ancient caves) and water falls (Thoovanam) are located

8. Chinnar Wild Sanctuary is 60 Km away from Munnar on Udumalpet road (SH17). Elephants, deers, samba etc can be seen from the watch tower. The tall tower is about 200 meters distance from the check-post. Entry fee: Rs 15 per person. Visiting time: 07.00AM to 06.00PM

9. Blossom International Park at Munnar has an adventure track, 1000-feet long fountain, roller skates, underground mediation centre and a beautiful garden.

10. Anamudi, the highest peak of South India is close to Munnar and is a great place for adventurous trekking.

Driving up to Munnar can be adventurous, especially if you are driving. As you go up slowly through the narrow winding roads, you will see all the shades of green that God created. From the lush carpets of the tea bushes to the silver green of the oak it is all there on the mountains of Munnar.

If you are determined to reach Munnar in record time and you are traveling in a reasonably good car, it takes about 4 hrs from Kochi which is approximately 136 km away. The Ernakulam - Munnar route extends through Thripunithra, Muvattupuzha, Kothamangalam, Neriamangalam, Adimali and Pallivasal.

Private and government operated (KSRTC - Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) buses are available to various locations of Kerala. Buses are the cheapest form of transport to Munnar. Regular bus services to Tamil Nadu (towns like Theni, Kumbam, Madurai and Coimbatore) are operated by Tamil Nadu and Kerala Governments.

KSRTC has a bus station at the south of the town. Town bus stand is located in the modern new bazar.

Tourist Cars, Jeeps and Auto rikshaws available for getting around. Bicycles and bikes are also available for daily rent.

Munnar has 4 major roads:

Kochi road, Thekkady road, Top Station road, Marayoor road

Distance Chart:

Munnar - Ernakulam (135km) 4 1/2 hours

Munnar - Thekkady (110km) 4 hours

Munnar - Thiruvananthapuram (300km) 9 hours

Munnar - Palani (120km)

Munnar - Coimbatore (150km) 6 hours

Munnar - Madurai ( km) 6 hours

Thekkady

A breathtakingly beautiful sanctuary located nearly 1800 m above sea level in the dense semi- and evergreen deciduous forests of Idukki district, Thekkady is a landlocked home for its myriad fauna and flora as well as for the Mannans, Palians and Ooralie tribes who still continue their ancient methods of herding and bee keeping.

Sightseeing:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is a fascinating natural wildlife reserve spread across 777 sq. km, which was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. The Sanctuary is centred around the 24 sq km artificial lake formed by Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river. There are three watch towers to observe wild life at Edappalayam and Manakkavala and Thannikudi.

The Mangladevi Temple (12 km away), on the northern boundary of the reserve, the famous plantation town Peermede, named after the Sufi saint Peer Mohammed, Munnar, the popular hill station known for Neelakurinji, a flower which washes the hills in a blue hue every twelve years and the highest peak in South India, Anamudi (2695 m), are places worth visiting.

Activities:

The forest department arranges plantation eco-tours through the spice, coffee and tea plantations, as well as visits to tea factories, tribal hamlets in and around the hills. To enjoy the forest experience you can go for elephant rides, boat cruises on the Periyar Lake, and trekking in Kurisumala, Pullumedu, Ottakathalamedu, Grampi, Nellikkampetty and Manakkavala.

The Arubi creek (16 kms), Crusoe Island (19 kms), Manakkavala (10 kms), Mullakudy (29 km), Pavarasu (19 kms), Periyar Dam (12 kms), Thannikudy (38 kms) and Peermede (40 kms) are ideal picnic spots. The Tribal Heritage Programme gives you a glimpse into the tribal way of life with its tour of the grey thatched tribal hamlets, traditional fishing and hunting gears, indigenous medicinal plants, as well as the Tribal Heritage Museum.

Varkala

This small town 50km north of Thirvananthapuram is an important religious destination, and has also grown into a popular seaside resort over the years. It has a beautiful beach facing the Arabian Sea, but what is more unique are the steep cliffs rising from the beach with unique geological formations and natural springs, known as the Varkala Formation. The mineral rich waters are used for spa treatments and this small unexplored destination has been attracting many tourists, including foreigners, for a mix of beach relaxation and natural therapies. Varkala is also a good stop-over while travelling from Thiruvananthapuram to Kollam. The most important religious landmark of Varkala is the 2000-year-old Janardanaswami temple. Varkala is also an important centre for Ayurveda, and the district hospital is famous for its treatments. There are several spas and private clinics dotting the town as well.

Sightseeing Highlights:

The quiet and secluded Varkala Beach is a haven for sun-bathing and swimming. The evening views of the sunset are worth lingering over. There are several small restaurants and snack shops near and around Papasnanam beach, which attracts the maximum visitors both for leisure as well as for religious reasons. Vettekkada beach is another secluded and picturesque beach a short distance away near Kappil.

Anjengo Fort is a 17th century fortress built by the Dutch for guarding the coastline of this once-important trading centre.

Varkala Tunnel is a popular tourist highlight. It was a 924 ft long tunnel built in 1867 by T. Mahadeva Rao the dewan of Travancore, and took 14 years to complete. Varkala Lighthouse is another tourist highlight in the vicinity.

Ponnumthurut Island is a beautiful spot you can reach by cruise boat. It also has a Shiva-Parvati temple that you could visit.

Religious centres:

Janardanaswami temple, a very important Vaishnaviite shrine attracts thousands of pilgrims. Facing the temple is the Papasnanam beach where devotees take a bath in the belief that the sacred waters will wash away their sins. A large bell washed up from the wreck of a Dutch merchant vessel is kept on display at the temple.

Sivagiri Mutt is a famous ashram in Varkala, founded by the philosopher and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru, whose mausoleum is also located on the hill-top.

Other spiritual centres in the adjacent hills are the East-West University of Brahmavidya and Sree Narayana Gurukulam, both founded by Nataraja Guru, a disciple of Sree Narayana Guru.

Kaduvayil Thangal Dargah is another place of pilgrimage that houses the shrine of a famous local Muslim saint. It is on National Highway 47 and attracts people from all religions, who seek the saint's blessings.

Other Activities:

Ayurveda is an important activity in Varkala there are several clinics offering massages and treatments many of them opening only during the peak season. You could also enroll for meditation classes at the Sivagiri Mutt.

Backwater cruises is an activity that is picking up in the stretch between Edava and Kappil (6km north of Varkala). The scenery of this beautiful estuarine area is captivating.

Kumarakom - A Unique destination to relax

The quaint town is a cluster of little islands, located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in the Kuttanad region of Kerala. Renowned for its natural beauty, Kumarakom is an ideal base to experience the famous Kerala backwaters, replete with meandering lagoons, coconut trees, endless rows of paddy fields interspersed by waterways and canals. Just 16 Km from Kottayam, Kumarakom is also home to a bird sanctuary.

Sightseeing Highlights:

The Vembanad Lake is a feast for the eyes with its traditional country crafts or Kettuvallams and canoes floating up and down. The lake and its surrounding area can be best explored on a houseboat. There is a small island, Pathiramanal or Midnight Sands which is worth a visit for its natural beauty. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is spread over 14-acres and is a favourite haunt of migratory and other water birds. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, 2 Km down a mud lane is known for its beautiful landscape and cascading falls. Kottayam, 16 Km away is famous for its churches and rubber plantations.

Other Activities:

Backwater cruises, fishing, and boating are the most popular things to indulge in at
Kumarakom. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary demands more than one visit for serious birdwatchers. You can also seek some ayurvedic therapy from the experts and go in for a rejuvenating massage.

Silent Valley

Silent Valley National Park located 40 kms from Mannarkkad in the Palakkad district, echoes with the sounds of teeming wildlife.
The core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, the Silent Valley National Park is probably one of the most magnificent gifts of nature to mankind, a unique preserve of tropical rain forests in all its pristine glory with an almost unbroken ecological history. Thanks largely to its difficult terrain and remoteness, the extent of degradation is minimal in comparison with other sanctuaries.

How To reach :

Nearest airport is at Coimbatore, 55 kms.The nearest railway station is Palakkad, 75 kms.40 Kms From Mannarkkad, Kerala.

Prime Attractions of Silent Valley :

The park has a huge variety of wildlife, with over a 100 species of Butterflies and 400 species of Moths and other animals like the Ceylon Frog Moth, Great Indian Hornbill, the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush and the Lion-Tailed Macaque.

The park has around 26 species of mammals and 120 species of avifauna, many of them considered endangered. Apart from these, there are 11 species of snakes, 19 species of amphibians, and nine species of Lizards in the park.

There is a huge wild tree of Kattualying variety. It is hollow within and can hide at least 12 people in it.

Alleppey - Venice of the east

Alappuzha or Alleppey is famous for its boat races, houseboats, coir products, fish and lakes. Alappuzha remains prominent on the tourist trial of Kerela as one of the major centers for backwater boat trips.

A host of boat races are held here during the harvest season ( between July and September ).

Alleppey or Alappuzha is also known as the "Venice of the East" its was here that traders from across the seven seas came in search of black gold and souvenirs.

Alappuzha or Alleppey is also home to Kuttanad, The rice bowl of kerala, one of the very few places in the world where farming is done below sea level.

Kuttanad is a land of lush paddy fields and stretches for 75 Km sandwiched between the sea and the hills.



Kuttanad is the most beautiful backwaters region of Kerala. It is here that most of the snake boat races are conducted and a majority of the rice boat & houseboat cruises are scheduled.

Kerala's network of navigable backwaters stretches to over 900km. These serene waterways are fringed by palm grove and paddy fields and offer a striking spectacle of the rustic life.

In Alleppey or Alappuzha, the life revolves around water. Cildren learn to swim before they walk. They learn to row boats before they bicycle. They learn their first lesson from the school of fish.

Situated in Kuttanad popularly known as the rice bowl of Kerala, QST & R Block Kayals (backwaters) remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland.


A striking example of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how, here cultivation and habitation are made possible at four to ten feet below the sea level. For this purpose extensive land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and is protected by dikes built around it. A leisurely cruise along the canals here is a memorable experience.

Alappuzha or Aleppey was once the busiest coast south of Mumbai, and its canals and backwaters helped in the passage of cargo - be it tea, rubber or other produces from the hills - to the sea.

The lighthouse and the pier helped the boats ferry accross, facilitating trade in their own way. Today, the 1000 ft long pier at Allepey beach , built in 1862 by Captain Hugh Crawford is a mere skeleton of its past.


Alleppey's allure is the backwaters. Begin with a cruise, then stroll back into the town past the canals covered with mauve hyacinths.



A backwater cruise on the Punnamada Kayal takes you along canals past scenic islands offering sublime views of coconut and paddy fields, chinese fishing nets and toddy tappers at work.

Alleppey or Alappuzha's beauty is not merely in its backwaters, but in the man-made islands that you will find amidst the waters. These islands are hedged by mud walls, a haven for migratory birds, with paddy fields inundated with water throughout the year. These fields stand below sea level. R Block is especially famous for the fresh toddy served to guests.

Nearesh Airport - Cochin ( Kochi ) International Airport ( Travel time - 120 mins )
Nearest Railway Station - Alleppey Railway Station & Ernakulam Railway Station ( travel time - 90 mins )

Idukki - The spice land of kerala

One of the largest districts of Kerala, Idduki offers diverse attractions from wildlife sanctuaries to hill stations. Idukki is a picturesque blend of mountains, streams, spice plantations, and wooded valleys. It derives its name from the Malayalam word idukku which means a narrow gorge. The town of Idukki flourished after its discovery by Scottish planters, who liked this place on account of its high range, and left behind some fine bungalows. It is also home to South India's highest peak, Anamudi, along with 13 other peaks with a height of over 2000 m, and some important rivers like Periyar, Thodupuzhayar and Thalayar.

Sightseeing:

You can take your pick of Wildlife sanctuaries in Idukki: the Periyar Tiger Reserve, located in the southern part of the district; Eravikulam National Park and Anamudi Shola National Park in the northern area; the Kurinjimala Sanctuary in the east and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary in the north east; and Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary in the west.

Brush up some astronomy at the famous Nedumkandam hill known for its stunning view of the constellations.

Visit the famous Idukki Arch Dam, Asia's very first and the worlds second arch dam. It runs across the two hills of Kuravan and Kurathi and is 550 feet high. Its west is flanked by another dam called Kulamavu and the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is close by as well.

Other sight-seeing spots are the picturesque waterfalls at Kuthumkal and the Mangladevi Temple 13kms from Kumily.

If you want some adventure and outdoor exercise head to Thommankuthu, where you could trek to the many waterfalls and have a picnic on the way.

Activities:

Trekking, fishing, camping, boating, plantation visits are some of the activities you could indulge in.

Wayanad - The green paradise

This unspoilt expanse of virgin rainforests in the Western Ghats in northeastern Kerala, (south of Coorg) is bordered by the Nagarhole National Park, Bandipur National Park and Mudumalai. The misty environs of Wayanad offer a wide range of trekking opportunities, plantation visits and wildlife tours.

It was at Mananthavady (35km N) that Lord Arthur Wellesley fought a guerilla war with the Pazhassi Raja and British supremacy marked the region for two centuries. The state of Kerala was created in 1956; the southern region of Wayanad which was part of Cannannore district was attached to Kozhikode district. In 1980 the Wayanad region was amalgamated out of the districts of Kannur and Kozhikode and comprised the three taluks of Manathavady, Sultan Bathery and Vythiry.

Kalpetta the region's district headquarters (15 km N), used to be a major Jain centre. Lakkidi, its gateway town, is popular for its plantation homestays. Tipu Sultan, the legendary ruler of Mysore who valiantly opposed the British, built a fort at Sultan Bathery 10 km away, in the 18th century.

Sightseeing Highlights:

Trekking to Chembra Peak (14 km SW) the highest point in Wayand and Pakshipathalam along the Kerala-Karnataka border is arranged by the DTPC. The freshwater Pookote Lake is a popular picnic spot and offers enjoyable boat rides. You can visit the ancient Jain shrines-the Anantnathaswami Temple and Koottamunda Glass Temple. Sultan Batthery (10 km E) which takes its name from Tipu Sultan, offers access to the Eddakal Caves with their prehistoric carvings.

The Muthanga (Wyanad) Wildlife Sanctuary, to the east, is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Advanced trekkers can venture into the Ambukuthy range. The Vishnu Temple at Thirunelli (32km N) is a major pilgrimage point in the region. The Meenmutty Falls, at their very best after the monsoons, lie 30km away from Kalpetta which also offers quick access to the Suchipara and Kanthampara falls 22km away.

Other Activities:

Plan for a stay at one of the beautiful plantation homes around the region. It's best to eat at your place of stay as there aren't many exciting options in the townships. Make time for tours around the wildlife sanctuaries and parks bordering the region. The DTPC office arranges camping and guided tours in the region.

Kovalam - Paradise of south india

Thirty years ago, Kovalam was a hippy idyll: a picture perfect tropical beach; a traditional fishing village providing fresh fish, fruits and toddy (coconut beer). Today this tiny beach is the focus of a multi-million dollar business, drawing thousands of tourists for a week dose of ozone, UV and a refreshing Indian Experience. Kovalam was brought to the public eye by the Maharaja of Travancore. Over the past three decades, the place has been well developed, and now figures prominently on the world tourism map. Kovalam is just 16 kms away from Trivandrum.Today Kovalam beach is known as the "Paradise of the South".

Its scenic beauty and serenity is supplemented by the availability of excellent accommodation . There are a lot of restaurants which provide western style food as well as Indian, which is delicious. The grilled seafood items such as lobster, king prawns and kalamari are got fresh from the sea at Kovalam. Ayurvedic massage parlours, yoga centers and water sport facilities, makes Kovalam a popular haven for tourists from all over the globe.




"Kovalam" means a grove of coconut trees and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees. The crescent-shaped beach has three parts. The southern most beach, and the most popular, is light house beach. It offers an amazing sight of Vizhinjam mosque. The northern Samudra is a laidback one and time seems stands still here. The middle, hawah, in the early day, is a beehive of activities with fishermen setting out for sea. With a high rock promontory and a calm bay of blue waters, this beach paradise creates a unique aquarelle on moonlit nights.

It is warm and clean filled with the coconut trees and the white sandbed as the seabreeze gently plays with the waves. Swimming and bathing are very refreshing and exhilirating in the waves. One can walk into the sea for about 100 metres without loosing ground. This cove is also the safest place for swimming. At many coastal places there are beautiful patches of coral reefs. The underwater views, which are visible during snorkeling, are really marvellous.

Azure water and favorable climate make Kovalam a favorite year-round spot for swimming. Sea here is pacific and shallow where you can take a dip in the saline waters. The clean white sandy beach will arouse a temptation irresistible: to lie idle on the sands and tan your body.You could get into any of the Ayurvedic massage centre and indulge in a rejuvenating herbal, body-toning massage and holistic therapies.

Highly commercialised and very crowded through most of the year, Kovalam manages, against all odds, to retain much of the charm which made it a popular beach in the first place. Surfing and swimming are among the other water sports possible in Kovalam beach.Many people from different countries and cultures, interminlge with each other and get together in this paradise of the South and spend their leisure time joyfully.

Pattadakal

Pattadakal, a ceremonial site for the Early Western Chalukyan kings, is located near Aihole and Badami in Karnataka. The six temples, discussed in the following pages, all date from the first half of the 8th century. However, the Kashivishvanatha temple seen in the photo is Rashtrakutan, from the second half of the 8th century, and there is also a Rashtrakutan (9th century) Jain temple nearby.

Pattadakal contains eight or so temples. These display a mixture of styles, like the much more numerous group at Aihole. In the photo, for example, northern (r.) and Deccan (l.) towers are displayed side-by-side. All the temples face towards the east.

Pattadakal is an art historians dream. It has a set of nine temples built almost in a single file, showing the architects' desire for experimenting in various styles. Pattadakal represents the culmination of early Chalykyan art. Four of the temples here are in the south Indian Dravidian architectural style while four are in the north Indian Nagara style while Papanatha temple exhibits a hybrid style.

The Virupaksha temple, probably the most beautiful of all temples here is in the south Indian style and is almost a replica of the Kailasanatha temple of Kanchi. While the Kailasanatha temple of Kanchi served as a model for this temple (given the interaction between the Chalukyas and the Pallavas), this temple served as the model for the Ellora Kailasanatha temple built by the Rashtrakootas.

The Virupaksha temple was built by Lokeswari one of the queens of Vikramaditya II in honor of his victorious battle against the Pallavas of Kanchi in the year 735 CE. The Mallikarjuna temple was built by her sister, also a Chalukyan queen.

The Virupaksha temple faces east towards the Malaprabha river. It has carvings depicting scenes from the puranas in each of the 18 pillars in the mukhamandapam. There are also carvings of Ravananugrahamurthy, Narasimha, Gajendramoksham, the dance of Shiva. The square vimana of this temple is in three levels. There is also an image of Lakulisa, showing the prevalence of the Pasupata sect of the Saiva religion in the Chalukyan land.

Nearby is the Mallikarjuna temple, very similar to the Virupaksha temple but on a much smaller scale.

The Galaganatha temple is built in the north Indian idiom and so is the Kasi Visweswara.

Other temples here include those to Chandrasekhara, Sangameswara, Jambulinga, Kadasiddheswara.

The Papanatha temple has a Nagara styleed Vimanam. It is decorated with scenes from the Ramayana.

There is also a Jain temple from the period of the Rashtrakootas (9th century) here at Pattadakal.

Bangalore - Capital of karnataka

The capital of the state of Karnataka, Bangalore was founded in the 16^th century and became an important fortress city under Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan two centuries later, though little remains from this period except the Lalbagh and Botanical gardens.

Toady a modern, bustling city and an important business centre, Bangalore is one of India�s most pleasant cities. The center of the city is studded with beautifully laid out parks and gardens, wide tree lined avenues and imposing buildings. It is said that Bangalore is the fastest growing city in Asia.

Places of Interest
Vidhan Soudha
Built in 1854, this is one of Bangalore�s most spectacular buildings. It is constructed of granite in neo-Dravidian style of architecture and houses both the secretarial and state legislature.

Cubbon Park and Museums
The park was laid out in 1864 and overs 120 hectares. In the park are red Gothic buildings which house the Public library, The High Court, Children�s Park, Government Museum and the Technological and Industrial Museum.

The Government museum, was established in 1886 and houses collections of geology, art, numismatics and relics from Mohenjodaro. It also has some good pieces from Halebid and Vijayanagar.

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens
The gardens were laid out in the 18^th century by Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan and covers 96 hectares. It contains many centuries old trees and has India�s largest collection of rare tropical and sub tropical plants.

Fort
It was originally a mud-brick structure built in 1537 by Kempegowda. It was rebuilt in 18^th century by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan in stone but much of it was destroyed during the wars with the British.

Tipu Sultan�s Palace
This wooden Palace was begun by Tipu Sultan�s father, Hyder Alii, and completed by Tipu Sultan in 1791. It resembles Daria Daulat Palace at Srirangapatnam near Mysore.

Bull temple
This is one of Bangalore�s oldest temples build by Kempegowda in 16^th century. It contains a huge monlith of Nandi similar to the one on Chamudi Hill. Non Hindus not allowed inside the temple.

HOW TO REACH
By Air
Daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and other major cities.

By Train
Trains from Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai.

By Road
8 hrs drive from Chennai.

Badami - Capital city of Chalukyan empire

The small rural village of Badami was once the capital city of Chalukyan empire which ruled much of the central Deccan between the 4^th and 8^th centuries A.D. Here, and at nearby Aihole and Pattadakal, you can see some of the earliest and finest examples of Dravidian temples and rock cut caves.

Though principally the promoters of Vedic culture, the Chalukyans were tolerant of all sects and elements of them can be found in many of their temples.

Badami was the capital of Chalukyas from about 540 untill 747 A.D. when they were overthrown by the Rashtrakutas. Later it was occupied by Chalukyans of Kalyan, the Kalachuryas, the Yadavas of Devagiri, the Vijayanagar empire, the Adil Shahi kings of Bijapur and the Maratha. All these rulers have left their mark at Badami.

Badami is best known for its cave temples, displaying a full range of religious sects which grown up on Indian soil. Two of the caves are dedicated to Vishnu, one to Siva and the fourth is a Jain temple. There is also one natural cave which is a Buddhis temple. Of the other monuments, some of the most beautiful are the two lakeside temples known as the Bhutanatha temples.

The archeological museum, housing super examples of sculpture collected locally is worth a visit.

Aihole
43 kms from Badami, this village, was the Chalukyan regiona capital between the 4^th and 6^th centuries. The Hindu temple architecture in its embryonic state can be seen here. From the earliest Ladkhan temple to the later and more complex structures like Kunligudi and Gurgigudi temples. The Durgigudi is unique in India, being circular in shape and surmounted by a primitive gopuram. There are over 70 monuments in and around the village

Pattadakal
16 kms from Badami, Pattadakal was not only the second capital of the Badami Chalukyans, but the place where all coronations took place. It reach the height of its glory during the 7^th and 8^th centuries when most of the temples here were built.

The most interesting monument here, is the Virupaksha temple or the Lokeshwara, is a huge structure with episodes from Hindu epics and the social life of early Chalukyans. The other tmeple Mallikarjuna � has sculptures depicting scenes from Bhagvad Gita, the story of Lord Krishna.

HOW TO REACH
By Air : Nearest airport is Bangalore (358 kms)

By Train : Trains from Hospet and Bijapur.

By Road : 4 hours drive from Bijapur.

Udupi

Udupi is an important religious place in Karnataka. It is 381 km away from Bangalore and 60 km away from Mangalore. Udupi is famous for the 12 th century saint Madhava who built 8 sanyasi mutts in this place and made his birth place a pilgrim site. This place is also known as Shiva belli or Shivali. There is a legend that Parasurama crowned his disciple Ramabhoja as the king to recover the land from the sea. In return Ramabhoja formed silver Peetham with snake curved on it. He established Parasurama there as Linga Swarupam and started worshipping him as Ananteswara. Tours to Karnataka and the most attractive part of this temple is a small window which is called ‘Kanakana Kindi'. Tours to Karnataka and the tourist Places in Karnataka is believed that Krishna became visible before his devotee Kanakadasa, a saint minstrel of low cast. In Udupi there is a Balakrishna temple which has an image of Krishna. Tourist Places in Karnataka and there is a myth related to this temple. It is believed that divine architect Viswakarma built this temple in the Tours to Karnataka.

Udupi Places and the Parya festival is a colorful festival of Udupi which brings number of tourists and devotees from all over the country. In this festival management of the temple is changed. It is held once in two years. Makara Sankranti is the most important festival of Udupi. In this festival image of Krishna, Chandamouleeswara and Ananteswara are carried by the devotees in a procession. On the 7 th day of the festival another festival is celebrated which is called Brahma Rathotsavam. In this festival Aaraathi is carried out in the Madhava Sarovar tank. Krishna Janmashtami is another festival of Tour To Udupi Karnataka.

Number of tourists and pilgrims come to Udupi through out the year. For this huge number of tourists there are number of hotels which offer comfortable accommodation facility. These hotels are Karavali Hotel, Hotel Durga International, Hotel Rukmini Residency, Mother Palace, Hotel Sharda International, etc.

How to reach there
By air: you can land either at Bangalore airport or Mangalore airport.
By road: Udupi is well connected to Bangalore and Mysore. There are frequent bus services from Mangalore.