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Colva beach is situated about 6 km from Margao City, Goa. It is situated around 40 km from Panaji (Panjim), the capital of Goa, India. The distance of Colva beach from the Benaulim beach where tourists often go to spend some quiet moments is only 2 km. Colva beach of south Goa is the most popular beach in Goa. This picturesque beach is less packed than Anjuna and Calanguate beach. This is the beach where tourists want to only relax, relax and relax. According to popularity, this picturesque beach has the honor of being second after Calanguate beach.

Colva is not one of the traditionally known beaches of Goa. As compared to other popular destinations it is a more recent discovery. But whatever it may be it is 20-km long bliss of virgin white sands, palm fringed,and sun beaches. Undoubtedly, Colva is the most popular beach of Goa. Off lately, the quiet life of Colva has been punctuated by the number of hotels and buildings that have come up here in quick succession of one another. The annual religious event of Fama of Menino Jesuse (Child Jesus) is held at the church in Colva since the 17th century.

Specaility Of Colva Beach

Many choose to go to the Goa Colva beach to experience a change from the crowded Anjuna or Calangute beaches. Colva beach in Goa is one beach which is usually less crowded. There are many shacks lined up along the Colva beach which offers you delicious Goan cuisine to be washed down by innovative cock-tails. Sit in one of those shack, savour the mouth-watering food while looking at the vast sea in front of you.

Though there are eating joints and hotels around Colva, the Colva beach still manages to keep its serenity in tact. Unlike Anjuna or Calangute, Colva beach in Goa gained popularity only lately. Over the years, many hotels and buildings have sprung from nowhere in and around these beaches in Goa. Colva beach is one of those beaches in this small Indian state of Goa that is developing at a very good pace.

The Sundarbans is formed by an alluvial archipelago of 54 islands, made by the waters of Ganges, Brahmaputra and the Bay of Bengal. The Sundarban National Park got its name from the Sundari trees found here in abundance. Sundarbans’ also shares its boundaries with the Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary.

Sundarbans National Park in India is one of the world’s largest deltas and the mangrove forest formed by the confluence of three rivers- the Ganga, the Brahmaputra and the Meghna- covering an area of 2,585 sq km wildlife sanctuary, which extends into Bangladesh too. The Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s largest estuarine sanctuary is really worth a visit. With a series of densely forested islands and saline water channels, Sundarbans is home to 270 Royal Bengal Tigers along with the spotted deers, wild pigs, monkeys, herons, kingfishers and white-bellied eagles.

The most unique feature of the Sundarbans is the tigers in the park apt at swimming and are strictly amphibious! The Park is also famous for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtles. The other wild animals found in the Sundarbans National Park are estuarine terrapins, Olive Ridley turtles, estuarine crocodiles, Ganges dolphins, water monitors and a wide variety of birds, fish and crustaceans. One of the major tourist attractions is the Sajnekhali Visitors’ Centre, which has a crocodile enclosure, a shark pond, a turtle hatchery, and a Mangrove Interpretation Centre.

Sudarban National Park’s Wildlife

The Sundarbans forest houses Royal Bengal Tigers in plenty. At the Sundarbans you are elated to watch Chital Deer and Rhesus Monkey. The aqua fauna in the park include variety of fishes, red Fiddler Crabs and Hermit Crabs.

There are crocodiles, which can be often seen along the mud banks. Sundarbans national park is also noted for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle. There’s is a incredible variety of reptiles also found in Sundarbans, which includes King Cobra, Rock Python and Water Monitor. The endangered river Terrapin, Batagur Baska is found on the Mechua Beach, while the Barkind Deer is found only in Holiday Island in Sundarbans.

Story Behind The Yatra

There is a mythological story famous about the Jagannath Puri Rath yarta. Once in Dwarka, queens of lord Krishna asked Mata Rohini to tell them something about Krishna’s Brij lila, Gopi and their affairs.

Mother tried avoiding at first, but on excessive request of queens, she told them. Then, Subhadra was asked to stand at the gates to house and not to let anyone come inside. Coincidentally, lord Krishna and Balram came there. Subhadra followed the orders of Rohini and did not let them go in.

Standing on the doors, all the three of them heard the narration of Brij love affairs. Dev Rish Narad also heard this and requested lord to reside here in the same love form. Lord agreed to the wish of Narad. The temple here has the idols of lord Jagannath, Balram and Subhadra.

These idols don’t have legs, they have shoulders but no hands. And, the idols are made of wood. They are replaced in every 12 years. This Rath Yatra is carried on from the 12th century. This yatra is carried up to the Gundicha temple. On the way, lord is offered Khichdi in the Mausima temple.

How the Festival is Celebrated

The festival begins with the Ratha Prathistha or invoking ceremony in the morning, but the Ratha Tana or chariot pulling is the most exciting part of the festival, which begins in the late afternoon when the chariots of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhdra start rolling. Each of these carriages have different specifications: The chariot of Lord Jagannath is called Nandighosa, has 18 wheels and is 23 cubits high; the chariot of Balabhadra, called Taladhvaja has 16 wheels and is 22 cubits high; Devadalana, the chariot of Subhadra has 14 wheels and is 21 cubits high.

Each year these wooden chariots are constructed anew in accordance with religious specifications. The idols of these three deities are also made of wood and they are religiously replaced by new ones every after 12 years. After a nine-day sojourn of the deities at the country temple amidst festivities, the divine summer vacation gets over and the three return to the city temple of Lord Jagannath.

Location : At a distance of 16 km from Palampur in the Beas valley
Built by : Ahuka and Manyuka
Built in : 1204 A.D
Dedicated to : Lord Shiva
Significance : Water of this temple has medicinal properties
How to reach : One can easily reach Baijnath Temple by taking regular Buses or by hiring taxis from anywhere in Himachal Pradesh

Baijnath is located at a distance of 16 km from the town of Kausani, in the Katyuri Valley. Lying in the ancient town of Baijnath, the town is historically and religiously significant. Once known as Kartikyapura, Baijnath was the capital of the Katyuri dynasty of kings who ruled Uttaranchal during 12th and 13th centuries. Constructed in the 12th century, the Baijnath Temple holds significance. This is because, according to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva and Parvati were married at the confluence of River Gomati and Garur Ganga.

Located at an elevation of 1,125 m above sea level, the town is famous for its temples of Shiva, Ganesh and Parvati, along with those of Chandika, Kuber, Surya and Brahma. Temple of Maheshsur Mardini portrays the slaying of the bull-headed deon by the Goddess Kali. On the banks of the Gomti River, in the Garur Valley, Baijnath Temple is located. At a distance of 3 km from the town, Kote-ke-mai temple is located. This temple is famous for the sculpted statue of Vishnu, who is the presiding deity of the temple.

History Of Baijnath Temple

Lord Shiva is commemorated here as Vaidyanath (the Lord of Physician) and is placed in the form of ‘Lingam’ (phallic form of Lord Shiva). The main sanctum comprises five projections on every side and a tall curved shikhar (spire). The history of Baijnath temple is inscribed on the stone slabs inside the complex. As per the beliefs, Ravana (King of Lanka) had worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple.

The water of this temple is believed to contain medicinal properties, which can cure diseases of people. Due to this reason too, Baijnath Temple receives thousands of people every year. Shivratri is the major festival that is observed at this temple with full gusto and fervor. Devotees visit the temple during this time to seek the blessings from the God.

Besides the shrine of Lord Shiva, there are many other small shrines dedicated to Gods and Goddesses. In the early 20th century, the temple was suffered from an earthquake. Raja Sansar Chand made an effort to renovate the temple after the calamity. The temple complex acquires lush green gardens, which makes a perfect foreground to the ancient and unique structure of this temple. Baijnath temple is considered as a part of Indian Heritage, so security arrangements are made here to avoid any unwanted element.

Mahabaleshwar, Queen of all Hill Stations, is situated at an altitude of 1,372m in the heart of Sahyadri Hills in Satara District. The hill station has a legendary past. The name ‘Mahabaleshwar’ is derived from a temple of Lord Mahadev and three Sanskrit words, “Maha” (great), “Bal” (power) and “Ishwar” (God). But, some say that the name ‘Mahabaleshwar’, which simply means very mighty God, seems to have a mythological past.

The British in order to escape the summer heat of the plains and in their search for cooler pleasant climates, were always looking for mountain tops and plateau for recreation and change. So it happened that Col. Lodwick (Late General Sir Peter Lodwick) stationed at Satara, in April 1824 with a contingent of soldiers and Indian guides climbed up the mountain face reaching what is now known as the Lodwick Point. Thus Mahabaleshwar was “Discovered”.

Mahabaleshwar is famous for its scenic beauty and the splendid views of the valleys and the sea, which is quite visible in clear days pony rides on the lanes of Mahabaleshwar, are quite thrilling.

Main Attraction

Mount Malcolm:
It used to be the most famous building in the olden days. it was built in 1829 with magnificient architectural skills. Unfortunately, it has lost a lot of its old charm now.

Catholic Church:
A visit to the old Raman Catholic Holy cross church is worth a detour. although the church is practically falling apart, its stained-glass windows are still a sight to behold. this deserted church is now looked after by a Hindu family.

Mahabaleshwar Club:
The club was built in 1881 and is still flourishing and well-maintained. Only members of the club can stay here. It is very popular for its well-tended roses and lovely jogging track. Christmas is grandly celebrated by loyal members every year. Fortunately, one facility is open to visitors; who can use the golf course whenever they feel like it.

How To Go

Air:
Pune is the nearest airport both for Mahabaleshwar (120 km and Panchgani (98 km)

Train:
For Mahabaleshwar, the nearest railhead is Wathar (62 km) but Pune (120 km) is the convenient railhead.
For Panchgani, the nearest railhead is Wathar (45 km). Mumbai-Wathar via Pune (312 km). Pune-Wathar (120 km)

Road:
From Mumbai via Pune, Mahabaleshwar is 290 km and via Mahad it is 247 km. The State Transport buses ply from Mumbai and Pune to Mahabaleshwar. MTDC operates daily bus services except during the monsoon, between Mumbai-Mahabaleshwar-Mumbai. Also sightseeing tours for Mahabaleshwar and Mahabaleshwar-Pratapgad Fort.

If your are short on time, the ‘Best of India Tour’ is the best tour package to explore India. The ‘Best of India Tour’ combines the Golden Triangle tourist circuit and Udaipur to bring you the best of India.

Tour Information

Duration: 08 Days / 07 Nights

Destinations: ( Delhi- Agra- Fatehpur Sikri- Jaipur- Udaipur )

Day 01: Arrival Delhi

You will be received by our representative at the airport, who will take you to the hotel. You will be accorded a traditional welcome. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Delhi

After breakfast, head on a guided tour of New Delhi. Some of the monuments you visit on your sightseeing tour include Bahai Temple (Lotus Temple), Humayun’s Tomb, the Qutab Minar, Connaught Place and India Gate. In the afternoon proceed on a sightseeing tour of Old Delhi, visit Jama Masjid, Red Fort, Raj Ghat and other memorials. You also take a ride on a cycle rickshaw.

Dinner with an Indian family is the main highlight of your evening activity. You visit an Indian family for dinner to get an insight into the Indian way of life. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Delhi- Agra

After breakfast proceed to Agra. In the afternoon tour the massive Agra Fort, which was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar. The fort houses various beautiful palaces and mansions that you can visit on your tour of Agra Fort. In the evening visit Taj Mahal and watch the wonder monument change color as the sun sets. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04: Agra-Fatehpur Sikri-Jaipur

After breakfast proceed to the Pink City—Jaipur. En-route visit Fatehpur Sikri, the capital city of Akbar, the Mughal emperor. The city has some palatial buildings, a mosque and the shrine of saint Salim Chisti. Upon arrival in Jaipur, check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Jaipur

This is the day to take in the architectural beauty of the Pink City. You visit Amber Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Hawa Mahal and other important places on your sightseeing tour of Jaipur. Jaipur is rich with ancient monuments, which were built centuries ago. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 06: Jaipur-Udaipur

After breakfast transfer to airport to catch a flight to Udaipur. Upon arrival check in at hotel. The city was founded by Maharana Udai Singh about four centuries ago. On your tour you visit many important tourist places in Udaipur, which include the Jagdish Temple, the City Palace and Lake Pichola.

Day 07: Udaipur-Delhi

The day is at leisure. Take independent walks in the bustling bazaars of Udaipur. You can also visit Shilpgram, the crafts village to shop for some exquisite handicraft items. Afterwards transfer to airport to catch a flight to Delhi.

Day 08: Delhi

Upon arrival check in at hotel. Refresh and relax. Later transfer to airport to catch a flight back home. Tour ends.

How to get there :

Air - The nearest airport is at Hyderabad , 157-km away.

Rail - Warangal has a railway station and is well connected by rail to important cities of India.

Road – APSTRC and Private buses connect Warangal with Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Karimnagar, Khammam and some other districts.

Description :

This is a large granite temple built in 1430 A.D. The main entrance of the thousand pillar temple, which faces the east, opens onto a wonderful 15 meter tall monolithic pillar called Mahastamba in front of the doorway.

The 2.5 meter tall bronze idol of Lord Chandranatha Swami in the sanctum hall is considered to be very sacred. The pillars of this basadi are decorated with carvings typical of Vijayanagara style.

The temple boasts of a valuable collection of jewel-encrusted metallic images of Jain tirthankaras, and superb monolithic columns in the Jain tradition, each with a different carving.

The Jain Mutt near the main temple entrance has a library protecting some beautiful 12th and 13th century palm leaf manuscripts.

The temple is in shape of a star and has three shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu and Surya. The temple is built on a 1m high platform on the slopes of the Hanumakonda hill, and has a majestic monolithic Nandi. The black basalt Nandi, a monolith, has a lovely polished finish.

There are many small lingam shrines surrounding the gardens. The temple is famous for its richly carved pillars, screens and detailed sculpture. The atmosphere is calm and serene with the sonorous ringing of the puja bells, gentle chirping of the birds and the soothing cool breeze.

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 also has the highest peak in South India – Anamudi , which towers over 2695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking. The high ranges of Munnar were earlier known as Kannan Devan Hills,named after a certain Kannan Devan,who had been land lord in the Anchanad Valley on the eastern side of the district. The main cultivation crops in Munnar are Tea and Coffee

Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands in Munar is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in the blue every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD.

Main attractions in Munnar :

Mattupetty :
Mattupetty is situated at a height of 1700 m above sea level. Mattupetty Lake and Dam is a beautiful picnic spot with the panoramic view of the tea plantations and the lake. Boating facilities are available in the reservoir. Mattupetty is also well known for its highly specialized dairy.

Eravikulam National Park :
A sanctuary for the endangered mountain goat of South India, the Nilgiri Tahr ( Hemitragus hylocrious), the Eravikulam National Park stands out for the stark beauty of its rolling grasslands and sholas, spread over 97 sq km in the Rajamalai hills.