Archive for the ‘States of South India’ Category
August 28th, 2010 | 
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The town reflects an old world charm and is famous for undulating hills, garrulous rivers and is home to some of the finest tourist attractions. Some of the major tourist attractions in Coorg are historic Madikeri Fort, the Omkareshwara Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu, and some stunning viewpoints such as Raja’s Seat. Around Madikeri, there are lots of recreational and pilgrimage sites such as Abbey and Irupu Falls.Talakaveri / Talacauvery
Talacauvery is marked by a tirtha kundike or Brahma kundike (small spring/pond) from where the river emerges as a small perennial spring, but flows underground again to emerge a short distance away. It is about 48 kms from Madikeri. There is a shrine near the kundike and a big tank in front of it where devotees baths before offering prayers. There are 2 temples, a Shiva temple and with a rare and ancient Shiva Linga, and another temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple has a holy Ashwantha tree where, according to legend, the Trimurtis – Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh gave darshan to sage Agastya.
Irpu Falls
This is more a hike than a holiday (there are people like us out there who take these differences very seriously). You could begin from behind the Rameshwarna temple, and relax at a refreshing pond halfway up the falls. Then, if you are some strange sort of enthusiastic trekker and have some spare RBC (the leeches demand that), carry on to the top.Direct buses leave Madikeri every couple of hours for Irpu falls. You could also catch a bus from Gonikoppal. There are more of those from there.
Abbey FallsLocated at a distance of 8 km from Madikeri, the charming Abbey Falls is a perfect place for picnics. It is advised that the tourists should make their own arrangements to reach this place before they embark on a tour. It is one of the finest among the tourist attractions in Coorg and should not be missed out at any cost.
Nagarhole National Park
Though the name literally means Snake River in Kannada, there aren’t too many snakes around. Created from a former raja’s hunting grounds, Nagarahole is one of the best game sanctuaries in South India, providing a natural living conditions to several wild animals like elephants, tigers, panthers, rhinos and wild elephants, but one is more likely to see smaller game like gaur, deer, wild dogs and langur. Pleasantly cool round the year, it is a little difficult to reach, which makes it quieter than other parks. This in turn makes it a great place to relax. Jungle safaris are available as elephant rides. Direct dailies from Mysore and Madikeri leave for Nagarhole park. You could also take a bus to Gonikoppal from either of these places, take another to Kutta, and finally hire a jeep
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Mysore was the capital of Wodeyar rulers, who were Governors of southern Karnataka under the Vijayanagar kings. Modern Mysore is the creation of Tipu Sultan who in 1793, revamped the old city and built the present day Mysore. It is the cultural epicenter of Karnataka retaining the old world charm.There are some elegant buildings erected under the Wodeyars, enhance the wide tree-lined streets. The palaces, temples, churches, well laid gardens and parks have made this city one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the state.
Kalyana Mantapa
Kalyana Mantapa (Gombe Thotti opens to Kalyana Mantapa) is famous for beautiful oil paintings that adorn the wall. Most of the paintings depict the grandeur of Dussera celebration in the bygone days.
You can admire the grandeur of Mysore Palace when it is lit. More than 97,000 bulbs are used to create a wonderful spectacle. Unfortunately, it is not a sight available everyday as the palace is illuminated only on Sundays, national holidays and state festivals and between 7.00pm and 8.00pm. Jagmohan Palace: Visit to Jagmohan Palace is recommended as it houses some of the best collections of Indian Paintings. It is close to the Palace and an autorickshaw should take you there for minimum fare. Jagmohan Palace has a room devoted to house the paintings of Raja Ravi Verma, one of the earliest Indian artists to work on oil paints. His paintings are known for their realism.
Mysore Zoo
This is a magnificent zoo which was established in the year 1892, and houses a diverse collection of animals, including magnificent species kept in natural surroundings. There are various places of tourist interest in Mysore that will help you make your tour to Mysore an exclusive one. A look at its tourist attractions is the best way to learn about the history and tradition of the town.
Sri Chamarajendra Zoological garden
A wild paradise for animals in captivity was established in 19th century under the patronage of the then King, houses many endangered species. Also known as Mysore Zoo, it entertains large number of visitors to Mysore and gives them the opp
ortunity to observe the animals in their natural habitat. The zoo has a man made island, created in the Karanji Lake and converted into mini sanctuary for birds. Boating facilities are available.
The zoo is at a distance of about 3 km from the City Bus Stand and 2 km from the Mysore Palace. It is open from 8.30 am
to 5.30 pm on all days except Tuesday.
St. Philomena’s Church
The church was built by the King of Mysore in response to the requests by European soldiers. This gothic styled church, designed by French architect Daly, is one of the largest Cathedrals in India. The Church has the relic of St. Philomena in a beautiful catacomb below the main altar. Church is located 2 Kms from the palace and is open from 8 AM to 6 PM.
A very important pilgrim centre of the Indians. Rameshwaram is the place from where Lord Rama, built a bridge across the sea to rescue his consort Sita, from her abductor, Ravana. This is also the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to cleanse away the sin of killing Ravana. Both the Vaishnavites and Shaivites visit this pilgrimage which is known as the Varanasi the south. The temple comprises of twenty-two wells where the taste of the water of each well is different from the other. Rameshwaram is significant for the Hindus as a pilgrimage to Benaras is incomplete without a Pilgrimage to Rameshwaram.Gandamadana Parvatham
The imprint of Lord Rama’s feet placed on a Chakra (wheel) is found in this shrine which is at the highest point on the island at 2 km from Rameswaram.
Jada Tirtham
Jada tirtham is another small temple within Kaveri Tirtham and it too has its own mythological importance. The temple is constructed in near the trunk of a large peepal tree and all the deities are supposed to have rested there while they had been in banvas. The temple is small in construction but is a great master piece of lattice work and the artmanship is wonderful. It is famous for its beauty and uniqueness. Though small, its beauty lies in it being small enough and it too is among the famous pilgrim places in southern India.
Kothandaraswamy Temple
Kothandaraswamy Temple is 12 km from town, this temple was the only construction to live on the 1964 cyclone which washed the rest of the village away. Legend states that Vibishana, brother of Sita’s kidnapper Ravana, surrendered to Rama at this spot. Adam’s Bridge is the name given to the chain of reefs, sandbanks and islets that almost connects Sri Lanka with India. According to fable, this is the sequence of stepping stones used by Hanuman to follow Ravana, in his bid to rescue Sita.
Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi named after Rama’s bow, is at the eastern end of the island at a distance of 8 kms from Rameshwaram. The boulders around the sea between Srilanka and this place known as Adam’s bridge, are believed to be used by Hanuman to reach across Srilanka. Dhhanushkodi was completely destroyed by the cyclones of 1964. Kothandaramaswamy temple is the only salvage of the cyclone. Idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman and Vibhishana (brother of Ravana), surrendered to Rama, here.
Munnar is a small hill station set amongst the Kannan Devan hills. It is famous for its lush green surroundings, lakes, reservoirs, forests, and tea estates. The quiet environs of Munnar attract the traveler to relax in the lap of Mother Nature. Munnar is one of the highest tea estates in the world.Nyayamakad
It is located at a distance of 10 kms from Munnar and is a land of incredible waterfalls. The sight of waters cascading down a hill from a height of around 1600 meters is an awe-inspiring one. The captivating surroundings make an outstanding picnic spot and trekking point.
Eravikulam National Park
This flourishing national park is home to the Nilgiri Tahr and also to the Anamudi Peak which is located in the Southern region of the park. It was initially established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex) and was recognized as a national park in the year 1978. It is spread over an area of 97 sq kms and is one of the most sought-after among the tourist attractions of Munnar. This park is remarkably beautiful and is a gem to the crown of Munnar.
Tata Tea Museum
It is 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
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.
Mattupetty
It is 14 km away from Munnar. Mattupetty dam has an agriculture garden on its banks. Speed boat ride through the dam is also available.
Rajamalai
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.
Chinnar Wild Sanctuary
It is located 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
Blossom International Park
Blossom International Park at Munnar has an adventure track, 1000-feet long fountain, roller skates, underground mediation centre and a beautiful garden.
Anamudi
Anamudi, the highest peak of South India is close to Munnar and is a great place for adventurous trekking.
Kollam is situated about 71 Kms. north of Thiruvavanathapuram and is linked by rail, road and backwater transport. The town edges with the famous Ashtamudi lake. Many a foreign traveler has visited Kollam in early medieval period. It was one of the early centres of Christian activity in Kerala. It is said that the present town of Kollam was built by the Syrian Merchant; Sapir Iso, in the 9th Century A.D. The popularity of Kollam has been established by the time honoured proverb once you see Kollam, you will not need home any more. Kollam is an important commercial, industrial and trading centre.Ashtamudi Lake
The house boat trips at serene Ashtamudi Lake is a great pleasures and so is the boat cruise. The boat cruise to Munroe Islands is a wonderful experience. The popular cruises one can avail at the place are Kayal Pradakshina Cruise and Sayanthanam Sunset Cruise.
Mayyanad
Mayyanadu,10 kms south of Kollam is noted for its shrines and temples. The most important temple is the one at Umayanallor, dedicated to Lord Subramanian. The shrine is said to have been consecrated by Shri. Sankaracharya of Kaladi. Besides the temples, there are three churches and a Mosque. Cotton weaving and oil pressing are the main occupation in the village.
Neendakara
Situated about 8 kms north of Kollam , Neendakara is the Headquarters of the Indo-Norwegian Fisheries Community project, which was established in 1953.The important institutions under this project are the boat building yard at Sakthikulangara the Fisherman’s Training Institute, the ice factory and the refrigeration Plant. Neendakara Port, the hub of fishing activities is here.
Thangasseri
This seaside village of historic importance has the ruins of an old Portuguese fort and churches built in the 18th century. The
Thangasseri Lighthouse is open to visitors from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. There are buses at 15 minute intervals from Kollam town.
Thangasseri Lighthouse is open to visitors from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. There are buses at 15 minute intervals from Kollam town.Chavara
Chavara is one of the important industrialized zones in the state of Kerala. There are large mineral deposits located in the Chavara region. The place supports four major industrial establishments which includes Indian Rare Earths, The Kerala Premo Pipe factory, Kerala Mineral and Metal factory and Titanium Complex.
Adventure Park
3 kms from the central bus stand and next to the government guesthouse at Asramam, is an Adventure park, which delights children. The Kollam District Tourist Promotion Council organises backwater cruises from there and during the season conducts cruises to Alappuzha.
Kottarakkara
Kottarakkara is the origin of the famous classical dance has originated from Kottarakkara Taluk. It was once the capital of Elayadathu Swarupam, a principality ruled by a branch of the Travancore Royal Family.
Kottukal Rock Cut Cave Temple
Situated on the Thiruvananthapuram – Kottayam MC Road, Kottukal Rock Cut Cave Temple is a magnificent masterpiece of Sculptures.
Rameshwara Temple
This temple which shows Pandyan influence in its design has inscriptions in Tamil, dating from the 12th to the 16th century. The Vyala monster sculptures in this temple are carvings which give one the impression that the creatures are animate and are actually climbing upstairs with their outstretched paws.
Thiruvananthapuram also known as Trivendrum is the capital of Kerala. It is located at the South Western tip of India, surrounded by the Arabian sea on the West and Tamil Nadu on the East. The wooded highlands on the Western Ghats in the Eastern and North
Eastern borders give some of the most enchanting picnic spots, a long shorline, with internationally renowned beaches, historic monuments, backwater stretches and a rich cultural heritage make this district a much sought after tourist destination. With a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing, it is a district of immense natural beauty. It literally means “Abode of Lord Ananta” in Sanskrit and Malayalam. The study derives from the deity of the Hindu Religion. Anantha is the serpent on which lord Vishnu or Padamnabhan reclines. The city is built on hills by the seashore on the west coast. Mahatma Gandhi referred it as the “Evergreen city of India”. It is the largest city in Kerala and a sizable number of international tourists visit here annually. There are reputed science and technology institutions such as the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC), Techno Park, the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) and the Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research (IISER). Apart from these India’s
first and only animation park is situated here. It is an ancient city with trading traditions dating back to 1000 BCE. The city was the famous trading center of spices, sandalwood and ivory.
Climate Conditions
The city has a climate that borders between a tropical savanna climate and a tropical monsoon climate. The mean maximum temperature 34 °C and the mean minimum temperature is 21 °C. Foreign tourists use the city as a hub to explore the tourist cities
around Kerala. It is also a major destination for medical tourism, as there are many recognized Ayurveda centers.
Best Time To Visit
The city comes to life during Onam Festival in August/September. This is the harvest festival that signifies association of the people with agriculture. On the eve of Christmas festival, the city wears a colorful look. The tourism week parties with many cultural events
are held each year during the Onam festival. The common cuisine is the Keralite cuisine, which is characterized by the significant use of coconut and spices. The favourite fast food is easily acquirable in the city.
Best Way To Reach
Air: The city is well connected by major cities of India. It is internationally connected to Colombo, Mali, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Kuwait.
Rail: Thambanoore is the Central Railway Station, which connects rail services to important cities of India.
Road: It is well connected by major cities of India.
Major Attractions
Padmanabha Swamy Temple: The temple is located inside the East Fort. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu; the temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. It is known for its mural paintings and stone carvings.
Kovalam Beach: A former fishing village that is 16 kms away from Trivandrum. This internationally renowned beach resort has been a favorite haunt of tourists since 1930s. It consists of three adjacent crescent beaches. The southernmost, known as the Lighthouse Beach, is an evergreen and pleasant climatic beach resort. This world famous beach is known as the “Paradise of the South”.
Varkala Beach: It is located 30 Kms north of Thiruvananthapuram on the seacoast. It is a seaside resort and spa. The Papanasam Beach at Varkala is a quiet, less crowded beach known for its white, silvery stretch of sand, mineral springs and rocky cliffs. The 2000-year-old Janardana Swamy Temple and the Nature Care Center are the main attractions of Varkala Beach.
Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave: These eighteen sanctuary rocks cut sculptures can be seen in the cave temple at Vizhinjam. The granite cave encloses a one-celled shrine with a loose sculpture of Vinandhara Dakshinamurthy. The outer surround of the cave depicts incomplete statues of the Hindu God Shiva and Parvathi.
Ponmundi: It is an idyllic hill resort with narrow, winding pathways with cool, green, wooded environs. It is located 915 meters above sea level. It has a variety of beautiful mountain flowers, exotic butterflies, small rivulets, springs and the deer park. This hill station has excellent trekking trails.
Veli Tourist Village: It is a picnic spot where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea. There are Pedal boats and speedboats that you can hire to explore the charms of the lagoon.
The Kanakakunnu Palace: The palace and its sprawling grounds are the venue for many cultural meets and events.
Shankhumugham Beach: It is situated 8 kms away from the city; this is a favorite haunt of sunset watchers. The beach is adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram Airport and Veli Tourist Village. An indoor recreation club, the matsya Kanya (a gigantic, 35 m long sculptures of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the attractions.
Kuthiramalika Palace Museum: The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma – the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional travancore style of structure also has exquisite woodcarvings. The palace museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family.
The mathematician Museum: It was constructed in 19th c
entury, the indo – saracenic structure boasts a “natural” Air-conditioning system and houses rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot, ivory carvings, gables and turrets. A repository of fine works of art, the chief attraction is the 250-year-old temple automobile designed for Lord Vishnu that is artistically prefabricated and beautifully ornamented. There are objects carved out of wood, models of temple and antique jewelry etc. The use of plastic is illegal in the museum premises.
Shree Chitbra art Gallery: It is located near the mathematician Museum. It displays choose paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Reorich and exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includes paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali.
Boat ride: A boat-ride on the enchanting backwaters of Kerala is the speciality. You can enjoy waterways of Thiruvananthapuram visiting the panorama of beautiful landscapes, beaches, coconut palms and friendly local people.
Cape Comorin – Kanyakumari Excursions
Thiruvallam: This serene backwater stretch is situated 10 kms away on the route to Kovalam. It is known for Canoe Rides.
Aruvikkara Dam: This picturesque picnic spot is situated 16 kms away on the banks of the Karamana River. You can see the stream full of fish fed by the visitors.
Kanyakumari (Cape Comorin): The last tract of land in India or the point where the three seas meet is the renowned Kanyakumari. It is one of the most favourite tourist spots of India. It is the very tip of the Indian peninsula and the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean.
A visit to Visakhapatnam is surely incomplete without a visit to the Beach. The Rama Krishna Beach, or RK Beach as it is commonly called is the closest beach park you can reach from the heart of the city. Of course, the beach is one of the best tourist spot in Vizag.Spreading through the edge of the sea, the R.K.Beach is a great picnic spot to spend time with your loved ones. Singles of course always get mersmerized in the dreams sitting at the beach shores. People from round the world come here to enjoy the cool breeze. Young Children spend their Sunday and Holiday evenings here playing with sand.
A visit to the beach will surely free your mind of tensions and bring in new energy. Sipping a soft drink or biting corn, you can walk on the beach sands or just lie down and de-stress your mind experiencing the cool breeze, looking at the waves and the ships that appear to be moving as slow as a snail.
Attractions at the Beach
The city administration has taken additional care to make the beach a more entertaining place to be in. RK Beach is jointly developed by the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) and the Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA). The VUDA Park, the Matsya Darshini (Acquarium), the Submarine Museum, Visakha Museum, Swimming Pool, Yoga Village all will temp you spend more time here.
About Golconda Fort :
Golconda fort of Andhra pradesh, is a majestic monument, which lies on the western outskirts of Hyderabad city. It speaks of a great cultural heritage of 400 years and is regarded as a place worth visiting. Built by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in 1525, it stands as the epitome of Nawabi culture and grandeur.
A Well Planned Architecture :
The magnificent architecture of the Golconda fort is manifest in its acoustic system, the structural grandeur of the palaces and ingenious water supply system. The fort was famous for its diamond trade and the ‘Kohinoor’ diamond is said to have come from here. One is perplexed to see the meticulous details of the architecture and the fading gardens, which were once upon a time replete with sprawling lawns and playing fountains.
Golconda is built on a granite hill 120m high, and is surrounded by crenulated ramparts constructed of large masonry blocks weighing several tonnes. The design of the ventilation reveals the brilliant planning of the architects; they are designed to let in a flow of fresh cool breeze, which is a respite from the heat of summer.
The massive gates are studded with large pointed iron spikes to prevent elephants from battering them down. The outer wall surrounding the entire township of Golconda, is about 11-km long, and is strongly fortified. In its heyday, the 10-km long road from Golconda to outer Hyderabad was a fabulous market selling jewellery, diamonds, pearls and other gems, which were famous all over the world.
History Of Golconda :
Before the city of Hyderabad was founded the Deccan was ruled from Golconda fort. Founded originally by the Kakatiya’s in the 13th century the existing structure was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a massive fort with granite walls and ramparts extending some 5-km in circumference. The first three Qutub Shahi kings rebuilt Golconda, over a span of 62 years.
Shepherd’s Hill” or “Golla Konda”, as it was popularly known in Telugu, has an interesting story behind it. One fine day, on the rocky hill called ‘Mangalavaram’, a shepherd boy came across an idol. This was conveyed to the Kakatiya king, who was ruling at that time. The king got a mud fort constructed around the holy spot. Over a period of time this lowly construction was expanded by the Qutub Shahi kings into a massive fort of granite, which has been a silent witness to many historic events.
Attractions Within The Fort :
One of the most remarkable features of Golconda is its system of acoustics- a hand clap at a certain point below the dome at the entrance reverberates and can be heard clearly at the ‘Bala Hissar’, the highest point almost a kilometre away, palaces, factories, water supply system and the famous ‘Rahban’ cannon, that was used during the last seize of Golconda by Aurangazeb, to whom the fort ultimately fell.
There is also supposed to be secret underground tunnel leading from the ‘Durbar Hall’ to one of the palaces at the foot of the hill. The tombs of the Qutub Shahi kings, built with Islamic architecture lie about 1-km north of the outer wall of Golconda. These graceful structures are surrounded by landscaped gardens, and a number of them have beautifully carved stonework. Not be missed is the Sound and Light show conducted by Andhra Pradesh Tourism.
Outside the Golconda Fort are two separate pavilions built on a rocky eminence – the ‘Taramathi Gana Mandir’ and the ‘Premathi Nritya Mandir’ from where the legendary sisters ‘Taramathi’ and ‘Premamathi’ resided. They gave their performance on a circular dais atop a two-storied structure, the ‘Kala Mandir’, which was visible from the king’s durbar (king’s court) on top of the Golconda Fort.
A new attraction at the fort is a sound and light show that brings the legend of Golconda to life. With a spectacular interplay of audio and visual effects, the story of Golconda unfolds over centuries of splendour. The show livens up the glorious past and it is an experience worth watching. The show is presented in English, Hindi and Telugu.
In Hindi – Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday
In Telugu – Thursday
Closed on – Mondays
Advance Booking – Available at Yatra Nivas, Secunderabad. Coach leaves Yatranivas at 5:00pm and returns from Golconda Fort at 8:15pm.
How to get there ?
Air – Hyderabad can be reached by air, from all the major cities of the country.
Rail – Hyderabad is well connected by rail to all parts of the country.
Road – There is a regular bus service to Hyderabad from many cities in southern, central and southeastern parts of the country.