Pondicherry is richly cosmopolitan. A staggering number of 55 languages are spoken here. By an easy, relaxed set of people. Pondicherry town is a surprise in India. With grand boulevards and quiet promenades. You’ll be greeted with large bouquets of bougainvillea hanging over the ivory-coloured walls of colonial mansions.

Pondicherry with its ashram charm, is sought out by the peace-seeker. And with its safe and secluded beaches, by the tan-seeker.Pondicherry has a rich French cultural heritage, having been the capital of the French colonies in India since the 17th century. Pondicherry, Karaikal, Yanam and mahe were transferred to the Indian union in 1954. It has been seat of learning and Vedic culture since ancient times and was also the home of the great Hindu sage Agastya.

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Places Of Interest

Auroville

It is located at the distance of 10 kms north of Pondicherry. Auroville is envisioned as a universal town as it encompasses people from different nationalities, faiths and beliefs, can live in peace and harmony.The temple was constructed by one of sri Aurobindo’s disciple in the year 1968.The development of this Utopia is still in progress. Several countries have offered to set up permanent pavilions, reflecting the culture and ethos of their countries.

The French Heritage

The place has been dedicated to Shri Aurobindo who was the great seer, poet and prophet of the twentieth century.The place encompasses Shri Aurobindo Ashram.Pondicherry was the dwelling of Aurobindo Ghosh from 1910 till his death in 1950. His vision and ideals continue to draw People from all over the world.

Villaiayanur

The place is located at 9.5 kms away.The foundation has been laid down by Sri Gokilambal Thirukameswarar tamale. During may- June, the temple organises a ten - day annual festival (Brahmothsavam) which attracts hundreds of devotees. The temple car rising to a height of 15.25 meters is profusely decorated, pulled out from its usual position and taken on a procession around the town. It is an awe - inspiring sight.

Mansion of Ananda

The Mansion of Anand was built in 1773. This mansion is a fine specimen of indo - French architecture. Ananda Rangapillai was the courtier of Joseph francois dupleix , the governor. The dairy which Rangapillai maintained between 1736 - 60 is a book of great value as a source of information on the history of Pondicherry and the French in India.

Botanical Garden

The garden was established by C.S perrotet in 1826.It displays a large Varity of exotic species of plants from all over India and abroad.

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Introduction

Champawat is renowed for its natural beauty and well-known temples of high artistic value.It is located at 76 kms from pithoragarh. It was in Champawat that Lord Vishnu is said to have appeared as ‘Kurma avatar’(incarnation as tortoise). The story of Golla Devta is also associated with Gorilla Chaur of Champawat. The Baleshwar temple is the noted attraction of Champawat. The Nagnath temple at Champawat is also an excellent example of ancient architecture of Kumaon.

Best Time To Visit

The place can be visited any time during the year.The tourist may carry cotton clothes for summers and Heavy woollens are most suitable during winters

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Introduction

Tirupati is located amidst the lush green Eastern Ghats in Chittoor district in the southeastern part of Andhra Pradesh . It is at a distance of 700 kms from Hyderabad. One of the most important pilgrimage centers in India. The place is renowed for the Venkateswara temple which is abode of Lord Balaji. Tirupati encompasses several temples and is famous for its red wooden toys, copper and brass idols.

Best Time To Visit

The place can be visited at any time of the year. It experiences moderate climate. In summers the maximum temperature is 22.30 C and in winter the temperature falls to 13 C.

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Here are few interesting places in Tirupati which is must see for all.

Lord Venkateswara Temple

The deity Lord Venkateswara is sometimes referred to as Lord of the Seven Hills.The temple is located on Tirumala Hills in the Eastern Ghats. The temple finds a mention in Shastras and Puranas as it was patronized by kings of Southern India. The main temple has been carved out of fine indian architecture.The Vimana and the Dhwajasthambam are made out of gold.

Sila Thoranam

Sila Thoranam is a rare geographical arch and the only one of its kind in the whole of Asia. The length of this arch is 25 feet and the height 10 feet.The arch is located on Tirumala Hills. The arch can be dated back to1500 million years. This is also a rare geological feature called ‘eparchean unconformity’. This natural arch is believed to have formed due to intensified weathering and erosion of stream action and has withstood the torque of nature.

Lepakshi

Lepakshi is located 16 Kms away from the Hindupur railway station at Anantapur district. The village exhibits wide number o magnificient temples. The monolithic bull mount of Shiva (Nandhi) is the largest sculpture of its kind. The Vijayanagar styled temples have number of paintings on its wall and ceiling. The main attraction of the village is the hanging tower supported from top.

Akasa Ganga

The river is located 3 kms north of the main temple.It is a perennial stream.According to legend.the river is said to flow from the feet of the Lord Vishnu. The Akasa Ganga as the name implies is the sacred river and many tourist take the sactred bath in this river to wash away their sins. The water from here is used for the daily rituals in the temple.

Govindaraja Swami Temple

The temple is located in the heart of Tirupati is Sri Govindaraja Swami Temple.The foundation of this temple was laid down by the Nayakas, the successors to the Vijayanagar empire. The temple has an impressive outer gopuram. The inner most gopuram is the earliest dating from the 14th-15th centuries. The main shrines are dedicated to Vishnu and Krishna.

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Here are few of the interesting places to see in Kurnool.

Mantralayam

The temple is located on the banks of the river Tungabhadra.Its foundation was laid 300 years ago.Mantralayam displays ‘Samadhi’ of the well-known saint, Sri Raghavendra Teertha. Raghavendra Swamy Brindavan is located nearby.It is the tomb in which he entered alive. Other temples include Anjaneya Swamy Temple; Panchamukhi Anjaneya Swamy and Venkateswara Swamy Temple.

Srisailam

Srisailam is located in the northeastern portion of the Nandikotkur Taluk of Kurnool District amidst the thick and inaccessible forests of the Nallamalai hills.The tourist can proceed to Atmakur from Nandyal.The Brahmarambha Mallikarjuna Swamy temple at Srisailam encompasses India’s twelve Jyotirlingas.The foundation of the temple was laid in 14th century.The walls are ornamented with depictions of elephants and displays hunting scenes and Lord Shiva in different manifestations.According to myth, Pandava Pratistitha Lingas is the place where Pandavas worshipped Lord Mallikarjuna.The place is believed to exhibit Thriphaleswara Tree which is believed to bless childless couples . Arana Veereswara Temple. Bayalu Veerabhadra Swamy Temple .Nava Brahmalayams which depict various manifestations of Lord Shiva. Mallika Gundam, a well that devotees believe has medicinal properties. Sita Pratistitha Linga, an attractive linga which is said to have been founded by Goddess Sita . Sri Ankalamma Temple.Sikhareswaram, site of the Sikhareswara Swamy temple on the highest peak in the Nallamalai Hills.

Yaganti

The place encompasses the temple of Uma Maheshwar.The foundation of the temple was laid in the 15th century. It has a magnificent Gopura at the entrance and a pond .The wall of the temple displays mythological scenes. Other places of interest include a huge Nandiswara; Agasthya Pushkarini; and scenic natural caves.It is located 90 Kms from Kurnool.

Belum Caves

Belum caves are located at 125 kms from Kurnool.The cave was discovered by a team of European speleologists led by Mr Gebaner in 1982. It is the second largest natural caves in India after Meghalaya Caves.There are three well like cavities among which the middle one forms the main entrance.The cave is horizontal & has a length of 3229 meters.The Belum Caves have long passages, fresh water galleries and siphons.

Mahanandi

Mahanandi is located 80 kms away from Kurnool.It encompasses Mahanandishwara temple that dates back to the 7 th century AD.The place is a noted pilgrimage center and is surrounded by dense forest. The remarkable feature here is the crystal clear water which flows throughout the year from perennial springs. Other places of interest are Pushkarini, a pond with water so clear and pure that even a pin at the bottom can be seen, Kodanda Ramalayam, and the Kameswari Devi Temple.

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Kurnool was earlier known as Kandenavolu which stands for Town of grease as it supplied oil for greasing carts.It is located on the Deccan Plateau near River Tungabhadra. The temple of Ahobilam, the Jyotirlinga at Srisailam, the large caves of Belum, all stand testimony to the rich heritage of this district.Kurnool was the capital of Andhra Pradesh from 1953 until 1956 when Hyderabad became the capital.Vijayanagar kingdom built a fort on the site, which was taken over by Muslims. Although the fort was later destroyed, the ruins of a palace, an ancient wall, and bastions still stand on the bluff. Household industry, especially artistic handicrafts, is important to Kurnool’s economy.The nearest airport is in Hyderabad.

Best Time To visit

Kurnool experiences moderate climate.the place can be visited any time during the year.The winters last for three months from November to February.A woolen pullover is suggested for winters and cottons are most preferable during other months of year.

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Bangalore has huge attractions for its visitors to see. Here are some of the major attractions of the city…

Bangalore Palace

The Bangalore Palace is situated in the heart of the city.The foundation of the palace was laid down by Wodeyar king in 1887 who erected this eddifice at the cost of 1million.The architecture of the palace is inspired by Windsor Castle and was built in the Tudor style.Gothic windows, foiled windows, battlements and turret gisves the palace resemblance of Daria Daulat Palace in Srirangapatanam.The palace is mostly carved out of woods and is well known for its paintings and carvings

Tipu’s Palace

The palace and the fort of Tipu Sultan is well renowed for its beautifully carved arches in Islamic style and for the well preserved Ganapati temple.. The palace has its origin to Kempe Gowda who built the temple in 1537. Later it was extended and fortified by Tipu Sultan.The fort and its remains present the struggle of Tipu Sultan against British domination.The historical incidence of imprisonment of David Baird along with a number of British army officers by Hyder Ali, Tipu’s father bear its testimony here.

ISKCON

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness or ISKCON Temple Complex of Bangalore is an exquisite blend of modern and traditional south Indian temple architecture.The building has some of the modern facilities like the multi-vision cinema theatre, computer aided presentation theatres along with vedic library and a preaching library. The temple also has good accommodation facility to house various types of people, like bramacharis, members, devotees and people taking short term courses offered here.

Shiva Statue

The statue of Lord Shiva sitted in the position of Padmashan or Lotus position is 65 feet high.Mount Kailash, the Lord’s heavenly abode and the river Ganga flowing in the background through matted rocks gives a marvellous look to the statue.The lighting display at night adds to the beauty of the statue

Lal Bagh Gardens

Lal Bagh is regarded as one of India’s most beautiful botanical garden.The garden extends upto 240 acre. The name Lal Bagh signifies red roses that ornates the garden throughout the year.The rulers of Mysore,Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan are accredited for the foundation of this paradise.The garden has rare species of trees which has its origin from far off Persia, Afghanistan and France.The design of Glass House situated at the heart of the gardens drew their insipiration from Crystal Palace , London.Flowers exhibition are held in January and August.The garden acquires a festive look during the Republic Day and on days of Flowers Exhibition.

Vidhan Soudha

Vidhan Soudha, built in the year 1954 and serves as a major tourist attraction in Bangalore.The architecture of this edifice is based on the neo Dravidian style and serve as a tribute to temple architecture.Presently, it houses the Legislative Assembly of the state of Karnataka having 46 meter high seat of the government and therefore is regarded as Bangalore ’s best known landmark. Mr. Kengal Hanumanthaiah the then chief minister of Mysore decided to construct the Vidhana Soudha in Indian style of architecture.

Cubbon Park

The park derive its name from Lord Cubbon,the viceroy of India in 1864,who laid the foundation of this park then.The park is situated in the heart of the bangalore city and stretches upto 300 acres.The tranquility of the place attracts nature lovers, joggers, walkers to the place.The park also displays the red Gothic structures of the State Central Library and the High Court.

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Varkala Beach

Varkala Beach is a beautiful beach that has a more than 2000 years old shrine of Lord Vishnu. This beach of Kerala is rich in mineral water springs that are known for their medicinal value. The sea shore is called `Papanasm’ and hundreds of Hindu devotees perform ‘Vavu Bali’ on new moon days of th Malayalam month of Karkidakam.

Varkala is less crowded with less number of shops, beach sellers and still lesser amount of commercialization.

The development we see today in Varkala happened only in a period less than two years. The raw and unused stretch of beach is a loner’s delight where one could swim, play cricket or volley ball and even manage to practise yoga. If you are lucky, you also get sight of a naughty dolphin.

Warning to the Visitors

Like much of the Kerala coast, Varkala too experiences strong coastal rips. Many lives, even that of experienced swimmers have been lost in the turbulence of the tides. It is not advisable to swim too far into the sea. Varkala has only one lifeguard post with two lifeguards and it is advised to swim around this area. On a crowded day spotting when in trouble becomes difficult.

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Kovalam Beach

Kovalam is the only beach resort of Kerala, and is very popular with the Indian as well as international tourists. Industry is relatively small scale in this area and the prices low. The beach is just a few minutes walk from the village. The fishing village of Kovalam lies 10 kilometres south of Thiruvananthapuram,the capital of Kerala.

Kovalam consists of three successive small crescent beaches; the southern most known as Lighthouse Beach, is where most of the visitors spend their time. The beach is bordered with low cost lodging houses, and restaurants which offer adequate facilities, at affordable tariffs - ideal for a long stay. The light house on the promontory at the southern end of the beach, offers a spectacular view across to the Vizhinjam mosque.

Swimming on the beaches is not always safe, as the undertow can be very strong, therefore it is essential to follow the warnings of the safety flags. However, days can be spent here just lolling around on the sands or retreating under the awnings of the beach cafes.

There are numerous craft and carpet shops (usually of Tibetan, Kashmiri and Rajasthani origin), clothing stores and general stores, yoga schools, travel agents and massage parlours lining the beach.

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Mr. Steven from Missouri, US have beautifully described the enchanting green paradise of India - Kerala. He explored the endearing place in the August 2004.

Kerala opens it’s magnificent gateways with love for the visitors. It is Beautifully located and wonderfully blessed with natural charisma, Kerala beholds spectacular magic.

In fact, I was mesmerized by the beauty of it’s virgin beaches and lush green wildlife sanctuaries. The colorful culture echo the melody of passion and desire to welcome relentless explorers like us. Kerala boost a rich folk tradition, of the volume and variety of its performing art. No other state could match the splendor and creativity of Kerala performing art.

I was specially impressed by the their cuisine- Sambhar and Dosa. What I liked in Kerala dishes is mildly falvoured, gently cooked and certain soft delicacies on the stomach.

I was enticed by Kerala

Kerala - an abode where heaven meets the Earth. A land of sparkling blue,enchanting green and houseboats. Popularly known as God’s own country , the land adorns serene beaches, emerald backwaters, lush hill station and exotic wildlife.

As I was too tired of my daily routine, I needed a decent break. I wanted to go to a place where I get the time and facilities to rejuvenate myself and Kerala was one such place where natural beauty and ayurveda provided me the healing touch that I needed.

The Path Taken !

Since there are very few international flights to Kerala, I decided to land on Mumbai airport and from there took a flight to Kerala. Kerala is well connected to New Delhi, Madras and Mumbai through railheads and airways.

The Resonance with the melody of Nature !!

Through various travel books that I read earlier, one thing became clear that Kerala endorses exotic beaches which one should definitely visit. As Kerala boasts a long coastline lined with the swaying coconut palms. Out of all the beaches I visited, Kovalam and Varkala beach had the most enthralling coast.

Be Wild !!!

Well! This land should have been called the Green land of India. Since 30 % of this exotic land is covered by forests, it houses some of the major major wildlife sanctuaries in India. I covered few of the leading wildlife sanctuaries like Periyar wildlife sanctuary , Eravikulam National Park and Parimbikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Knowledge of Life !!!!

Ayurveda was one of the major thing that lured me to Kerala. Since I needed to rejuvenate from my monotonous life and 24 x 7 work routine, Ayurveda provided me with therapies that assisted me to recover from my hectic past.

Touch the Undiscoved Zone !!!!!

Kerala is quite famous for their backwaters and I was one of the lucky few in the world to actually experience the magic that they hold. The magic of ‘Kettuvallams’, a special type of houseboat, that provided with accommodation for a stay. The major towns and cities that endorses backwaters are Kollam, Alleppey, Kumarakom and Cochin.

Holidays in Kerala!

My trip to Kerala is one thing I am not going to forget all my life. In fact if God give me another chance to visit Kerala, I will not like to miss the opportunity. Today when I recall Kerala, I feel as if the green land again calls me with open arms.

The sensational coastlines, coconut, exotic beaches, rolling grasslands, Kettuvallams all give grand welcome to the magnificent land.

“What was the best thing in Kerala?” asked Mathew, my friend. “ Boat cruises”, I exclaimed. The backwaters indeed holds a distinct attraction to every visitor in Kerala.

I particularly liked Kettuvallams, the specially designed houseboat. I had an incredible experience when I sailed in those beautiful ornamented houseboats along the soothing water.

Memories to Cherish!

Another thing that attracted me was the greenery around. Since most of the Kerala is still covered with forests, the land boasts some of the very famous wildlife sanctuaries like Periyar. I couldn’t forget the boat safari which I took in Periyar wildlife Sanctuary. The animals were so near that I could have literally touched them. “Sher” yelled an Indian child in fear, all of us became cautious and soon found it was merely a wild dog.

Kerala is strikingly blessed by nature with lush vegetation, tranquil beaches, stunning mountains and hill stations.

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