Historical Monument of Sultan Battery Near Mangalore

Blessed with Historical Monuments, Forts, Churches, Temples, Plantations of Coffee, Pepper, etc, Mangalore is a Paradise of Tourists.
Tippu has been one of the Most Powerful and Dreaded Sultans of India who ruled from Sri Rangapattana, near Mangalore. To make his Sultanate free from enemy attacks he built Sultan Battery which is not only a Monument of Historical Importance but it is also an Architectural Wonder.
Sultan Battery
It has been constructed on black stones of churches destroyed by Sultan during his persecutions of Christians in Mangalore for as lengthy a period as that of fifteen years. Located at Boloor, on east bank of Gurpur River, 4 km from Mangalore Bus Stand, Karnataka State, India, it is a Watch Tower built by Tippu Sultan in 1784 known as Sultan’s Battery Watch Tower to watch the movements of Enemy Warships into Gurpur River. Though it is constructed as a Watch Tower it looks like a fortress with elaborate arrangements for firing of cannons. Firing of cannons is called ‘battery’ and hence it is called Sultan’s Battery. Over a period of time people started calling it Sultan Battery instead of Sultan’s Battery for the sake of convenience and since then its original name of ‘Sultan’s Battery’ has lost its relevance.
There is an Underground Chamber at the Battery to store Gun Powder and there is a belief that it has a secret route to Sri Rangapattana, the Capital City of Tipu Sultan.
As there has been no maintenance mechanism in place much of the Tower has got ruined and in that sorry state of affairs only a portion of it is existing now which is called ‘Tippu’s Well’. But still it would be a good proposition to pay a visit to it given its historical and architectural importance. And if you would climb up the stairs of the Tower you would be welcomed by the Spectacular Views of the Arabian Sea and also by the cool windy breeze of the same Sea.
The Best Time To Visit
September to February
How To Reach
By Air
Mangalore has an airport of its own at Bajpe, 18 km


By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station Mangalore.
By Road
Mangalore is well connected by road to different parts of India
Kasargod of Kerala State is just 60 km away

Factors Responsible for the Beauties of Munnar

The Malayalam Language Words ‘Munnu’ , which is the Language of Kerala State, India, means ‘three’ and the word ‘Aar’ means ‘River’ Hence Munnar is the shortened version of the two Malayalam Words, ‘munnu’ and ‘aar’ ,‘Munnar. It is truly at the confluence of Three Rivers namely Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala justifying its name. It has two parts, Old and New Munnar. Tourist Information Office is located at Old Munnar and Bus Station and most Guest Houses are situated at New Munnar.
It is a Beautiful Hill Station to be in and the Main Factors responsible for its beauty are its Strobilanthes, Landscape, etc.
Strobilanthes
Its Strobilanthes or ‘Neelkurinji’ in Malayalam is a blue flower wonder spectacle which happens only every 12 years and it had last bloomed in December 2006.
Landscape
Its landscape is gifted up with Hills, Waterfalls, Lakes, Wildlife, Tea Plantations, etc and it is like a green carpet thanks to its huge green tea plantations which glitters with silver oak trees separated by valleys, lakes, streams, etc. Its sky-cape is like a canvas of water colours of all hues, namely, blue, orange, grey, white, red, etc. And to add wonder and splendor between land and sky fog and mist play their merry-games of hide and seek.
You would find mountains and valleys dancing with immaculately trimmed tea plants. You would also find silver oak trees in between tea plants at regular distances to preserve water during summer to keep the soil moist throughout the year.
Spice Garden
It has an area of 73 acres but you have access to only 3 acres.
Herds of wild elephants come to Garden in the morning to quench their thirst. As they are under protection they roam about freely and in the process they destroy standing crops, trees, etc, though bananas are their favourites. If they come in groups they are gentle and they would be wild if they come alone.
Garden has plenty of white chilli, insulin making leaves, cardamom, pepper, lemon grass, vanilla, coffee, cloves, cinnamon, etc.



Anamudi
‘Anamudi’ is the Highest Peak of South India which is located in Munnar with a height of 2685 meters.
As all tourist spots are dispersed placing each at distance from another hiring a cab would be an ideal proposition.
The Best Time to Visit
November to April
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport Kochi, 140 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Junction, Ernakulam, 140 km
By Road
140 km from Kochi
Roads are smooth but they are narrow, curvy and twisty and so drive takes more times. Kothamangalam is on the way 80 km from Munnar and Adimali, 30 km and these 30 km you would experience fabulous cool drive through natural forest, waterfalls, etc. If you move about 8 km from Adimali, you would have wonderful views of tea plantations on both sides of the road and Western Mountain Pass.

The Majestic Beaches of Kovalam

The Beaches of Kovalam are located approximately 15 km south of Trivandrum, Capital City of Kerala State, India. The word ‘Kovalam’ means grove of coconut trees and as if to justify the said word Kovalam Beaches offer an endless row of coconut trees spreading out its splendor of greenery and scenery.
The Majesty of Kovalam Beaches
The Unique Features of Kovalam Beaches are majestic and musical seas, smiling and silvery white sands, murmuring and dancing palm trees, glittering sun shine, rejuvenating Massage Parlours, etc, which only make Kovalam Beaches Majestic.
Three Beaches
Kovalam has mainly three successive but small crescent beaches namely Lighthouse Beach, Eve’s or Hawah Beach and Samudra Beach.
Lighthouse Beach
This is the southernmost beach and it is called Lighthouse Beach as it houses the Lighthouse to guide ships, etc. It is a Worthwhile House to visit for if you climb up its 142 spiral steps and 12 ladder rungs to reach its Observation Platform you can see Beemapalli mosque in one direction and Poovar on the other. The Lighthouse offers spectacular view of nearby Vizhinjam Mosque.
The Beach is clustered with Low Cost Lodging Houses, Restaurants, etc, ideal for long stay.
You can also venture out into the sea on surf boards, wooden catamarans, etc. Beach chairs and parasols are also available on hire.
The Middle, Hawah- or Eve’s Beach
With a high rock promontory and a tranquil bay of blue waters, it creates a unique aquarelle on moonlight nights. Its leisure options are sun bathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programs, catamaran cruises, etc. It situates in opposite direction of Lighthouse Beach. esterners in their swim suits are common sights here. They choose this beach as crowd is less and waves are not very rough.
Samudra Beach
It is into north and is not active during day times, but it gets active at nights and restaurant tables are laid out on the shore. There is a small temple situated here which is surrounded by resorts with ayurvedic spas, massage parlours, etc. Local fishermen crowd this beach during day times.

Activities.
Local fishermen provide sun rise and sunset cruises in fishing boats. Also you can have Catamaran cruises on country rafts.
Accommodation
It is available from budget to top class hotels and also home-stay facilities.
Shopping
You can find shops selling carved ivory items, wooden baskets, caskets, Kathakali masks, handicrafts items, books, antiques, Tibetan, Kashmiri and Rajasthani clothes, etc.
The Best Time to visit
September to March
HowTo reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport Trivandru,15 km
By Rail
Trivandrum Central Thampanoor Railway Station, 15 km.
By Road
It has good network of roads. Kerala State Transport Buses and inter-state buses have regular services to Kovalam.

Kodai Lake, The Landmark of Kodaikanal

The word ‘Kodaikanal’ means ‘Gift of Forest’. With its ever-green fauna, scenic greenery, exotic hills, exquisite tea plantations, lazy, cozy lake, serene, green ambience, sweet neat plums, the blue Strobilanthes or Neelkurinji, etc, it is truly a Gift of Forest or she is the Daughter of Forest that fires the dreams of every tourist to throw up his or her hat into the ring of its charm to sit in its lap for at least a second.
British Creation
It has been built by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the Collector of Madurai during the British Rule in 1863. By artificially creating it he transformed a marshy stretch of land into a spectacular lake by strengthening its banks and bringing beautiful boats from Tuticorin.
Star-shaped
Star-shaped, centrally located and surrounded by lush green hills of Palani Hills Range, it spreads out its Green Carpet of Greenery and Scenery to welcome you. An Earthen Dam has been constructed to create Lake in a marshy area. Outflow from the Lake forms a Waterfall called Silver Cascade.
Location
Located at a distance of 3 km from Main Bus Stand at an altitude of 2285 meters it covers an area of about 60 acres. You can trek or drive along the Lake bordered by a well maintained road.
Leisure Activities
You can enjoy horse rides in the shores of Lake or you can cycle around it. Children can enjoy pony rides, can play around greeneries, etc. If you opt out to sit on the edges of Lake its cool, woolly breezes would caress you.
Annual Boat Pageant is held every May at the Boat Club.
The Pathway running into 5 km along the periphery of Lake is a good jaunt to laze around.
Several hotels surround the Lake. You can watch its beautiful scenery while sipping a cup of coffee in the balcony of your hotel. It would be an excellent option for you to stand by the Lake and to watch the most enchanting Sun-set.


Temperature
11 to 20 Degree Celsius during Summer and 8 to 17 Degree Celsius during Winter.
Clothes
Light woolen during summer and heavy woolen during winter.
Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to October.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport Madurai ,120 km,
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Stations, Palani, 64 km and Kodaikanl Road Railway Station, 80 km
By Road
Regular Bus Services are available from Madurai, Palani, Kodaikanal Road Railway Station, etc.
Local Movements
Taxis and Vans However no auto- rickshaws are available

Historical Monument of Sultan Battery Near Mangalore

Blessed with Historical Monuments, Forts, Churches, Temples, Plantations of Coffee, Pepper, etc, Mangalore is a Paradise of Tourists.
Tippu has been one of the Most Powerful and Dreaded Sultans of India who ruled from Sri Rangapattana, near Mangalore. To make his Sultanate free from enemy attacks he built Sultan Battery which is not only a Monument of Historical Importance but it is also an Architectural Wonder.
Sultan Battery
It has been constructed on black stones of churches destroyed by Sultan during his persecutions of Christians in Mangalore for as lengthy a period as that of fifteen years. Located at Boloor, on east bank of Gurpur River, 4 km from Mangalore Bus Stand, Karnataka State, India, it is a Watch Tower built by Tippu Sultan in 1784 known as Sultan’s Battery Watch Tower to watch the movements of Enemy Warships into Gurpur River. Though it is constructed as a Watch Tower it looks like a fortress with elaborate arrangements for firing of cannons. Firing of cannons is called ‘battery’ and hence it is called Sultan’s Battery. Over a period of time people started calling it Sultan Battery instead of Sultan’s Battery for the sake of convenience and since then its original name of ‘Sultan’s Battery’ has lost its relevance.
There is an Underground Chamber at the Battery to store Gun Powder and there is a belief that it has a secret route to Sri Rangapattana, the Capital City of Tipu Sultan.
As there has been no maintenance mechanism in place much of the Tower has got ruined and in that sorry state of affairs only a portion of it is existing now which is called ‘Tippu’s Well’. But still it would be a good proposition to pay a visit to it given its historical and architectural importance. And if you would climb up the stairs of the Tower you would be welcomed by the Spectacular Views of the Arabian Sea and also by the cool windy breeze of the same Sea.
The Best Time To Visit
September to February
How To Reach
By Air
Mangalore has an airport of its own at Bajpe, 18 km


By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station Mangalore.
By Road
Mangalore is well connected by road to different parts of India
Kasargod of Kerala State is just 60 km away

Hallmarks of Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park has been set up with a view to protect the Endangered Specie of Wild Goat called ‘Nilgiri Tahr’ as it has been found only in this area south of Himalayas in India. Rich in forests, grasses, etc, this is located in the High Ranges of the West Coast of India in the Munnar Forest Division of Idukki District of the State of Kerala. It is in the Border Area of the States of Kerala and Tamil Nadu and in Tamil Nadu it extends as Annamalai National Park.
It covers an area of 97 sq. km near Hill Station of Munnar, 17 km from the Park.
Fauna
As the purpose of estasblishing the Park has been to protect the threatened species of Nilgiri Tahr you would find them in good numbers around 600. Other fauna you can find would be elephants, tigers, leopards, gaur, lion-tailed macaques, giant squirrels, etc. Also you could find about five species of amphibians, four of snakes, three of lizards, etc.
Flora
Flora of the region is primarily tropical ever-green forests. And as such you would find the area dotted with grass-lands, shrubs, forests, etc, The area is full of grass-lands or ‘Sholas’ which are grass-lands with covers of forests in between.
Three Plant Communities
Three Major Types of Plant Communities that you can find in the Park are grass-lands, shrub-lands and forests. Terrain above 2000 meter is covered by grasslands. Shrub-lands dominate the base regions of Cliffs. You could find forests mainly in deep valleys and also in small patches in hollows and gullies of the region.
Anamudi or Elephant Peak
Anamudi, the Highest Peak of South India is located inside the Park having a height of 2695 meters.
This is a wonderful place for trekking and sight-seeing. The Park has been divided into Three Areas for administrative and development activities namely the Core Area, the Buffer Area and finally the Tourist Area. You would be given entry into only the Tourism Zone which is located at an area called Rajamalai Tourism Zone.
At Rajamalai you can see Tahr at close quarters.
Private vehicles are not allowed inside the Park. You would be taken to your areas of interests by the Park or Forest Department Authorities in their vehicles.

The Best Time to Visit
November to April
How To Reach
By Air.
The Nearest Airport Cochin, 143 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station Ernakulam, 143 km
By Road
Motorable Road is available upto Rajamalai, the Headquarter of the Park ,which is located at a disstance of approximately 17 km from Munnar Town. And Munnar is connected to Major Towns of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, etc, by regular bus services.
However from Rajamalai you would have to walk up and down on foot for around 18 km.

Gandhi Memorial of Kanyakumari

Mahatma Gandhi is a highly revered Political Leader and Statesman of India and also of the world, who spearheaded the Movement for Independence of India. It was due to his painstaking efforts that India attained freedom from her colonial masters, namely, Great Britian. It is an irony of fate immediately after India became Independent Indians assassinated him as if he was required to live only till Independence and afterwards they had no need for him. The relevant dates are India became free on 15 August 1947 and Gandhi has been shot dead on 30h January 1948.
Immediately after the burial ashes of the burnt body of Gandhi were divided into various divisions and sent to various places of India to be scattered over the waters of river, seas, etc. Accordingly on 12th February 1948 burnt ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were brought to Kanyakumari and kept in a pot in shore of Kanyakumari so as to enable people to pay their last respects to their departed leader before immersion in sea. After people of Kanyakumari and others paid their last respects to the departed leader part of the ashes were immersed in sea. In commemoration of this eventful event a wonderful monument, Gandhi Memorial or Gandhi Mandapam has been constructed at the same venue where his ashes had been kept for public view.
It is a Pink Architectural Building constructed very close to Kanyakumari Temple. This structure has a height of 79 feet representing the age of Gandhi at the time of his death. This has been constructed by Government of India and its administrative control has been transferred to State Government of Tamil Nadu in the 1970’s.
It was constructed on the lines of Bhubaneshwar style of architecture. A big hall has been constructed at the place where ceremonial rites were performed before immersion and particular spot where ashes were first kept is indicated by Statue of Mahatma. There has been a hole made at roof of hall in such a way that on 2nd October ,the Birthday of Gandhi, sun shines exactly on forehead of Statue to signify Emergence of Light of Independence by selfless efforts of Bapu Gandhi.
It is open to visitors and in its inside Museum you will see photos of leader. You are allowed to pay homage to your idol on all days of the year and it is a stroll away from Kanyakumari Temple.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport, Trivandrum, 80 km

By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station is Kanyakumari. Tirunelveli is another Nearest Railway Junction, 80 km, which can be reached by road via Nagercoil, 19 km.
By Road
It is well connected to Major Towns of South India by Road.
Local Movement
Tourist Vehicles

Uniqueness of Fashion Street of Mumbai

Mumbai of India has various Markets for buying a variety of goods at throw-away prices and Fashion Street is one amongst them.

Uniqueness of Fashion Street

The Uniqueness of this Street is that all the shops numbering approximately 150 are carved out in footpath. So you can’t call them shops as they are ‘Footpath Cubicle Shops’.

The Name ‘Fashion Street’ is a Misnomer

Shops in this area stock-pile and sell rejected Export Quality Garments meant for Western countries as per their designs and patterns Mumbaikars believe that fashion is set in Western countries and therefore even their left-over and Rejected Ones are Futuristic Fashion Statements. And as shops in this street though sell those discarded fashion pieces they firmly believe that Fashion is set in Fashion Street and hence they call it Fashion Street. Nevertheless the fact remains that the Name Fashion Street is a Misnomer to it.

Market for Garments

Fashion Street is mainly a Market For Garments. You could therefore pick up jeans, shirts, skirts, track-pants, tops, skimpy night wears, etc. However you shouldn’t be surprised if you get defective shirts, clothes, etc, with missing buttons, crooked collars, etc.

Also Market For Other Items

Though shops mainly deal in garments you could also find a few shops selling shoes, sandals, kolhapuri sandals, costumes, artificial jewellery, etc, to cater to the crazy fashion seekers in those departments also as well.

Location

It is conveniently located in Mumbai very near to Churchgate Railway Station in Western Railway and opposite to Azad Ground near C.S.T. Railway Station in Central Railway. You can also reach here by bus, taxi, etc.

Bargain Market

It is principally a Bargain Market as shop-keepers quote you fancy prices. So if you won’t go for bargaining you would be taken for a ride by them forcing you to empty your pockets for defective goods. Though the goods that you can put your hands on may have minor defects the advantage is that you can procure them at a fraction of the prices that they are sold out in the shops of U.S.A., U.K., etc. Hence it has become crazy habits even with American, European Tourists, Indian Sophisticated and Educated Women, Indian Students, etc, to patronize shops over here.


Also there is a firm belief amongst teenagers, college students, etc, of India, that if they go for anything in Fashion Street they get in return the trendy fashion piece of U.S.A., Europe, etc, that would make them far ahead of other Indians in the realm of fashion.

Trekking Attractions of Coonoor

Sitting down majestically at a high altitude of 1,858 meters in the Blue Mountains of Tamil Nadu State of India, Coonoor is a Hill Station that throws you up with tremendous opportunities for trekking. It has a plethora of Trekking Attractions like the Lamb’s Rock, Lady Canning’s Seat, Dolphin’s Nose, Laws’ Falls, the Droog Fort, etc.
Trekking
It could be undertaken from Lamb’s Rock to Lady Canning’s Seat, Dolphin’s Nose, Law’s Falls and finally to The Droog Fort.
Lamb’s Rock
It is on way to Dolphin's Nose situated in Burliar village about 8 kilometre from Coonoor. Set upon a high hill you would have to climb up the Rock to have the wonderful vistas of the plains.
Lady Canning’ s Seat
Trek for about 8 km from Coonoor, along the road to Lamb’s Rock to reach this destination. It is named after the wife of then Viceroy of India. It offers you spectacular views of Tea Estates. Lamb’s Rock, Droog Fort, etc.
Dolphin’s Nose
Continue trekking from there to the Towering Rock of Dolphin’s Nose situated near Tiger Hills about 12 km from the town which is shaped like the snout of a rising dolphin and hence it is called Dolphin’s Nose.. It gives you opportunities to enjoy the beauties of St. Catherine Waterfalls.
Law’s Falls
It is named after Col. Law, who constructed the new Coonoor Mountain Pass. It has a pretty cascade on the Coonoor River near its Junction in the Mettupalayam Mountain Pass Road. Now trek back towards Coonoor, undertake a de-tour for about 5 km to reach the Falls..


The Droog Fort
Now head for this Towering Fort of 6000 ft located 13 km from the town built by Tipu Sultan which he had constructed to use it as a Military Outpost. Though it is in ruins now it offers views of surroundings.
While heading back to Coonoor you can board a bus from here but to enjoy this luxury you would have to trek for about 3 km.
Best Time To Visit
November to February.
The Essentials To Carry
Insect Repellants, Sun Glasses, Hat, Light Woolen for Summer, Heavy Woolen for Winter, etc. .
Accommodation
It has plenty of accommodation to suit all the budgets from family run guest houses to government rest houses, etc.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport Coimbatore, 90 km
By Train
The Nearest Broad Gauge Junction Coimbatore, 70 km.
The Toy Train from Mettupalayam to Ooty connects Coonoor.
Ooty, another fabulous tourist centre is only 17 km away.
By Road
Coonoor is well connected by road and buses are also available from Coimbatore.

The Lustres of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

It is located about 18 km from Marayoor and 60 km from Munnar, on the Munnar-Udumalpet Road, Idukki District, State of Kerala, India. With as large an area as that of 90 sq. km. it is one of the Twelve Protected Sanctuaries of Kerala and is contiguous with Eravikulam National Park. Chinnar and Pambar Rivers are its Water Sources.
Fauna
Mammals
The Main Mammals that you can find in this Sanctuary are Panthers, Indian Elephants, Tigers, Hanuman Monkeys, Grizzled Giant Squirrels, Spotted Deer, etc.
Birds
A Large Number of Birds also inhabit in the Sanctuary, namely, .Peacocks, Kingfishers, Yellow Throated Bulbuls, Myna, Woodpeckers, etc.
Flora
As it is located in the Rain Shadow Region of Western Mountain Passes its Flora is enriched with 965 species of Flowering Plants, Dry Thorny Scrubs, Dry Deciduous Trees, Wet Grasslands, etc, interspersed with Fabulous Plains, Magnificent Hillocks, Wonderful Rocks, Enchanting Cliffs, etc. It also has allowed to flourish a good number of Medicinal Plants to keep you healthy.
Its Attractions
It has got Various Sight-Seeing Attractions or its Lustres are Smiling Peaks, Glittering Waterfalls like Thoovanam Waterfalls, Towering Watchtower , etc.
Peaks
It has been magnanimous to house some of the Highest Peaks of the Region, namely, Kottakombumalai, 2144 meters, Viriyottumalai, 1845 meters, Vellaikalmalai, 1563 meters, etc.
Thoovanam Waterfalls.
They are located within the Sanctuary itself on Pambar River that provide you with wonderful spectacles.


Safari Options
You can also have various River Trekking Expeditions, Trek to Thoovanam Waterfalls, Guided Trekking from Karimutti Forest Station through the pristine forests, etc.
Watchtower
The Tall Watchtower empower you to have panoramic views of entire Park, adjoining beautiful Forests of Tamil Nadu, etc. However you would have to walk for about twenty minutes from Check Post to reach the Tower.
Nearby Attractions
Eravikulam National Park, another renowned Tourist Attraction of the area is located at a short distance from here.
Marayoor, another Tourist spot is just 16 km away.
Munnar, a Beautiful Hill Station, 60 km.
Best Season To Visit
December to April
Accommodation
For accommodation you would have to move to Marayoor or Munnar.
How To Get there
By Air
The Nearest Airport, Cochin International Airport, approximately 150 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Stations, Pollachi, Tamil Nadu State, 69 km and Ernakulam Junction of Kerala, approximately, 150 km.
By Road
The Munnar-Udumalpet Road passes through it that provides you an easy access to it.

The Lake of Goddess, Devikulam

‘Devi’ and ‘Kulam’ are Malayalam Language Words, which mean Goddess and Lake respectively. There is a Mythological Story behind its name and as per the same the Goddess of Sita of Ramayana had taken bath in the Waters of Lake of this Area. To link directly to this Eventful Event the Lake is called the Lake of Goddess or ‘Devikulam’ in Malayalam, the Language of Kerala. And subsequently the whole area around the Lake is called ‘Devikulam’.
Nature’s pet
Mother Nature has been magnanimous to her sparkling creation. It is cool when summer simmers and its climate is pleasant when winter makes you shiver. So it is an Ideal Escape Destination to escape from sweltering summers and quivering winters. It is blessed by the Luxuriance of Nature and the Benevolence of Creator. Richly endowed with scenic lustre, glistening springs, fragrant spices, stimulating teas, etc, it is bestowed upon with the best and the best only.
Location
It is located at an altitude of 1800 meters, 16 km southwest of. Munnar, another Ideal Hill Station.
A small creamy, dreamy, Hill Station of Idukki District it can be reached by a sharp ascent along mountainous path, 149 km from Kochi, and 132 km from Kottayam, State of Kerala, India.
Star Attractions
Its Star Attractions are Lake, Spice Plantations, Trout Fishing, Trekking, etc.
Lake
Devikulam Lake known as Sita Devi Lake is a beautiful picnic spot. Its crystal clear waters, flowering shrubs, twittering songbirds, etc, make it an ideal picnic spot. It is believed that its mineral water fountains, natural springs, etc, have curative and medicinal qualities.
Spice Plantations
Neatly trimmed row of tea shrubs, lightly tied pepper plants, pampered clove plants and cared cardamom plants stir the air with sprays of perfumes that would take away all your chronic diseases to give you a new lease of life in its heaven.


Trout fishing
It is a fabulous pastime to spend your leisure time with. Only very few areas afford you this pleasure of grandeur like Nilgiris, Devikulam, etc.
Paradise of Trekkers
It is a Paradise of Trekkers. Its lush green landscape, mountain trails, verdant woods, etc, are irresistible to adventurers. Its clean, crisp mountain air, red-blue gum trees, abundant flora, fauna, etc, attract them to go into this activity.
Best time to visit.
Climate mild throughout the year, so you can visit it any time.
How To Reach
The Nearest Airport, Kochi, 140 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station, Ernakulam, 140 km
By Road
Buses ply from Madurai, Coimbatore, Munnar, etc, to Devikulam regularly.

The Importance of Vivekananda Memorial of Cape Comorin

The Vivekananda Rock Memorial has been built to Commemorate the Meditation of the Great Indian Philosopher Swami Vivekananda in a Small Island Like Rock 200 meters from shore of Cape Comorin or Kanyakumari in 1892. Boat Facilities are available to visit this Memorial. It is a Twin Rock on which the Memorial has been constructed. It has a Meditation Hall where people can meditate in a very calm and composed atmosphere .
Swami had come to Kanyakumari on 24.2.1892 before his departure to Chicago to participate in World Religious Conference in 1893 and he sat and meditated on this Rock for two days. This has been built to recall these events in 1970 blending numerous architectrural styles of India.
It has two structures, Vivekananda Memorial Building or Vivekananda Mandapam and Sri Pada Mandapam.
Vivekananda Mandapam
Entire Memorial or Mandapam is similar to that of Sri Ramakrishna Temple at Belur and its entrance has been designed on the lines and styles of Ajanta and Ellora Cave Temples. However the Memorial Structure can be approached only by boat ride which will be an enjoyable cruise in the sea.
It has Main Hall and Meditation Hall. In the Main Hall you could find Life-size Bronze Statue of Swami in his Standing Monk Posture called ‘Parivrajaka Posture’. Near the Main hall you will find a ‘Dhyanamandapam’ or Meditation Hall where devotees can sit and meditate in serene atmosphere.
Sri Pada Mandapam
On this Rock there is a small projection resembling human foot which people believe is the Sri Padam or Holy Foot of Swami and to enable people to worship it only this has been constructed naming so.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport Trivandrum, 80 km

By Rail
Kanyakumai is well connectd by rail to major towns of Kerala, South India, etc.
Tirunelveli, 80 km, is another Nearest Railway Junction which can be reached by road via Nagercoil , 19 km.
By Road
It is well connected to major towns of South India vide Roads.

The Cute Botanical Gardens of Ooty

Sitting prettily in the lap of the green, lean Blue Mountains, Ooty or Udhagamandalam, is one of the Most Enamoured Summer Hill Stations of India. Decorated with gardens of plums, peaches, tea, etc and lined up with trees of eucalyptus, pines, etc, its landscape is beautiful. Perennially engulfed in the gulf of mist its inalienable mist only adds charms to its calm ambience. Found out and founded by the British in the19th century even after the elapse of a few centuries the British influence could be seen in its chocolates, cheese, etc, even today.
Though Ooty has a large number of attractions its Top Attraction however is Botanical Gardens.

The Botanical Gardens
It is located in the Lower Slopes of the Doddabetta Peak, 10 km from Ooty and it is the Highest Peak of Nilgiris with a height of 2623 meters. It has been chiseled out by Marquis Tweedle in 1847. With an area coverage of 55 acres it is home to about 650 species of plants, trees, etc.
It is not only enchanting to walk around its plush, lush green, clean Lawns but it is also enjoyable to watch striking varieties of flowers, ferns, etc. Also you can find many rare trees like cork trees, paper bark trees, monkey puzzle tree, old fossilized tree of 20 million years old, etc. The novelty of the Monkey Puzzle Tree is even monkeys can’t climb upon it.
Five Gardens
The Cute Botanical Gardens have Five Gardens, namely, The Lower Garden, The New Garden, The Italian Garden, The Conservatory Garden and The Nurseries Garden.
The Lower Garden
It has two Lawns, the Entrance and the Lower Lawns. Its principal attraction is the carpet-bed design of the Union of India weaved out from plants, with trunk of the fossilized tree of 20 million years old erected on a stand.
The New Garden
It is located between Front Garden and Crescent- shaped Pond at Bandstand. It also has a Rose Garden with 300 varieties of roses and flower beds to match slopes of area.



The Italian Garden
As it has been laid out by Italian Prisoners of World War 1 on Italian Style it is called Italian Garden. Its crescent shaped lily pond is for growth of aquatic plants.
The Conservatory Garden
This is to categorise various flowering plants of the Garden.
The Nurseries Garden
Located about 300 feet above Lower Lawns they have Eight Glass Houses and a number of terraces for breeding various plants. Glass Houses are for cultivation of ferns, bulbous plants, etc and its terraces are for cultivation of plants of cut flowers, etc.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Coimbatore, 90 km
By Rail
Ooty Railway Station, 2 km,,Mettupalayam Railway Station, 45 km.
There is a Toy Train that connects Ooty with Mettupalayam
By Road
Ooty has a good network of roads and as such you can reach Ooty easily by road.

The Attractions of Marayoor, ‘The Hidden Land’

The name of the place ‘Marayoor’ is derived from the Malayalam Language Words, ‘mara’ and ‘ur’ which mean ‘hidden’ and ‘land’ respectively. That means Marayoor is a’Hidden Land’ It is also spelt out ‘Marayur’.’Malayalam’ is the Language of Kerala State.
It is a Rain ShadowVillage located between Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Kannandevan Tea Plantations. It is situated on the Eastern Slopes of Western Mountain Passes at the elevation of 3200 ft, 40 km from Munnar on Udumalpet Road in Idukki District of Kerala State, India. Its wind is so strong that it can even fly you or any strong person to and in air.
Its Main Attractions are Sandalwood Plantations, Rajiv Gandhi Children’s’ Park, Jaggery or ‘ Sharkara’ Making Units, Dolmen or ‘Muniyaras’, etc.
Sandalwood Plantations
It is the only place in Kerala with natural growths of Sandalwood Trees. In comparison with other high rainfall areas of Kerala its less rainfall makes it an ideal place to their abundant growths. The Plantations occupy an area of 95 sq km with around 65,000 trees of high qualities. You can purchase Liquid Gold Oil extracted from the roots of these trees.
Rajiv Gandhi Childen’s Park
It is located in the town itself. It is a Calm or Serene Park spread out an area of over one hector. Its novelty and distinguishing feature is it is carved out under the canopy of a single banyan tree.
Small Jaggery Production Units
Its Jaggery is famous for its quality as it is the Best Quality produced in the whole of India. You could therefore find here Small Jaggery Production Units that produce Dark Brown Sugar Ball made out of condensed sugar cane juice called Round Jaggery Ball or ‘Undasarkara’ in Malayalam.
Dolmen or ‘Muniyaras’
Dolmen attract the attentions of not only Tourists but also those of Historians, Anthropologists, Archaeologists, etc, as they prove out the existence of Stone Age Civilization as old as 10,000 B.C. in its backyards. They are therefore the Most Important Attraction of Marayoor as they catapult it to one of the Most Coveted Towns of Ancient Stone Age Civilization.


Located one km from Marayur on way to Kanthalloor, Dolmen are Burial Chambers made up of Four Stones fixed on their edges and then covered by another or Fifth Stone called Cap Stone. Some of these Chambers have quadrangle walls with Roof or Cap Stones to close them up. The Siva Temple or Thenkasinathan Temple at Kovilkadavu near Pambar River Bank is dotted with a number of dolmen.
Major Tourist Places Nearby
Munnar, Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty, Top Station, Rajamala, Devikulam, Pallivasal, The Echo Point, Powerhouse Waterfalls, Pothamed or Pothamedu, etc.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport, 150 km.
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Stations are Aluva, 120 km, Ernakulam Junction, 150 km.
.By Road
It is well connected by road and as such you can reach here by road without much difficulties.

Specialities of Thiruvalluvar Statue of Cape Comorin

Thiruvalluvar is a Renowned Poet of Tamil Nadu, India, who has written the Tamil Poetical Epic of ‘Thirukkural’. He has written it in two-line couplets highlighting various components of life. It comprises of 1330 couplets and 133 Chapters each containing 10 couplets.
It has Three Parts where First Part touches upon the subject of Virtue containing 38 Chapters while the Second Part centres around the Topic of Wealth with 70 Chapters and the Last Part hovers around the Theme of Love consisting of 25 Chapters thus making up 133 Chapters altogether.
He was a happy married man as he had a wife who had loved, respected and obeyed him in every age and stage of his life. Even then he led a divine holy life thereby he showed people that to lead a divine life there was no need to leave material family life.
It is believed that Thiruvalluvar was born 30 years before Jesus Christ.
Tamil Calendar starts from the era of Thiruvalluvar and it is referred to as Thiruvalluvar Year.
Located on a Rocky Islet offshore of Cape Comorin, Thiruvalluvar Statue is one of the Biggest Statues of Asia modeled on The Statue of Liberty of New York, U.S.A. It has been carved out from a number of rocks which have been joined together later on which has a height to equal the total number of chapters of Thirukkural, the Master-piece of Renowned Tamil Poet Thiruvalluvar.
It has Two Parts namely the Statue Part and the Platform Segment. The height of the Statue Part is 95 feet while that of the Platform Part is 38 feet. So the combined height of the Statue comprising of Statue Part and Platform Part is 133 feet. The height of Platform of 38 feet represents the number of chapters contained in the First Part of the Work,‘Virtue’ and the height of 95 feet of the Statue represents the number of chapters contained in the Second and Third Parts of the said Epic. Thus the Statue portrays the Themes of Wealth and Love based on Virtue.
Three – Tier Pedestal of Statue is surrounded by an Artistic Hall known as ‘Alankar Mandapam’. The Hall is surrounded by the Statues of 10 elephants. To help visitors worship Holy Feet of Saint Thiruvalluvar 140 steps have been constructed inside the Hall.

How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Trivandrum, 80 km
By Rail
Kanyakumari has a Railway Station of its own which is connected to Major Towns of India
Thirunelveli is an important Railway Junction, 80 km, which can be reached by road via Nagercoil, 19 km
By Road
Well connected to Major Towns of South India
Local Movements
Tourist Vehicles, Inter-city Train Services, Boat Rides, Walks, etc.

Some Important Landmarks of Bangalore

Bangalore is a Wonderful City of India full of Tourist Places. It is therefore difficult to see all its attractions in a day. Some of its Beautiful Attractions are Bangalore Palace, Ulsoor Lake, Government Museum, etc.
Bangalore Palace
Situated at the heart of the City in Palace Gardens and built up by Chamaraja Wodeyar in 1887 it is decorated with fabulous Wood Carvings, Tudor Style Architecture, etc. Constructed on the pattern of Windsor Castle of London it has Fortified Towers, Gothic Windows, etc, to beautify it enormously.
Ulsoor Lake
Situated near the busy M.G. Road and constructed by Kempa Gowda II in 2nd century it spreads over an area of 1.5 sq km dotted with islands. It provides you with plenty of opportunities for Boat Rides and to undertake them you can hire boats from Boat Club.
Government Museum
It is also called State Archeological Museum and it is one of the Oldest Museums of India. Designed by Colonel Sankey and constructed in 1876 it is located at Kasturba Gandhi Road near Cubbon Park. It has Two Exhibition Floors which are further divided into 18 Galleries which in turn have different sections for Geology, Natural History, Sculpture, etc. Its Collection consists of ancient coins, art, relics from Indus Valley Civilization, etc. Some of the Relics that it show-cases are more than 5000 years old.
Also it houses pre-historic artifacts of Neolithic Period, South Indian Jewellery, Fascinating Stones, Inscriptions, Icons, Paintings, etc.
Attarah Kacheri
Located near Bangalore Palace , 2 km from M. G. Road,’Attarah Kacheri’ are Hindi Words which mean ‘Eighteen Offices’. Built with stone and red bricks in Greco-Roman Style of Architecture the construction of the Two Storied Building has been completed in 1864. to house administrative offices. However it now houses the High Court of the State of Karnataka. .It overlooks the ‘Vidhan Soudha’, or the Legislative Tower of Karnataka State. Notable buildings which are located nearby are Public Library, Government Museum, Vishweswaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, etc.


How To Reach
By Air
Bangalore has an International Airport of its own and therefore you can reach here from any part of the globe easily.
By Rail
Bangalore is an Important Railway Junction of India and as such you can reach Bangalore easily by train from any part of India.
By Road
Bangalore has an Excellent Network of Roads and as such there is no difficulty to reach here by road.

Serene Papanasam Beach of Varkala

Varkala Beach which is also called ‘Papanasam Beach’ is a serene, sandy and a crescent-shaped beach surrounded by coconut palm trees and high red rocky cliffs of about 1500 meters and as such it is an Ideal Beach to spend your leisure hours with. There are principally two Cliffs, North and South Cliffs. They are very steep and rugged and are made up of red, brown stones.
Location
Located about 50 km from Thiruvanthapuram, the Capital City of the State of Kerala, India, it has got various attractions. However its Main Tourist Attraction is Varkala or Papanasam Beach.
Papanasam Beach means the Beach that destroys sins or the Beach that liberates you from sins. The Beach has Two Parts, the Religious and the Tourist Parts. Religious Part is used for religious purposes like holy dips, performance of last rites of relatives, etc and the Tourist Part is used for Tourist purposes, sight-seeing, etc.
Religious and Tourist Parts of Papanasam Beach
Varkala Beach is also called Papanasam Beach as Hindus believe that dips in its holy waters purify their bodies of impurities as also cleanse their souls afflicted with sins. They also use this Beach to immerse the ashes of their relatives and kin to get salvation for them.
Tourist Part of the Beach is a few minutes walk towards north along the coastline. The Road near Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Road that leads you to Helipad are the Main Access Points to this Part.
Small Beaches
Besides Main or Papanasam Beach there are several Small Beaches further north of Varkala with black volcanic sand. They are more serene and isolated than Papanasam and so they provide more privacies.
Mineral Springs
They are located near the Main Beach. They are believed to have medicinal properties to cure a whole host of ailments Accordingly a large number of people throng to these Springs to drink waters of Springs and to take baths in them to get cured of their diseases.


Sunsets
Its Sunsets are spectacular.
Monsoon magic
During monsoon it is enchanting to watch the high tidal waves kissing and embracing the cliffs and the rocky banks.
Adventure Activities
Sunbathing, water sports of wind-surfing, scuba diving, para-sailing, beach volleyball, swimming, etc.
Shopping
Frequently held Beach Markets provide excellent opportunities for shopping.
Additionally Beach Coast is lined up with Souvenir Shops, Restaurants, etc. Vendors sell a wide variety of decorative items, conch shells, beads, etc.
How to reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport Trivandrum, 50 km
By Train
The Nearest Railway Station is Sivagiri of Varkala itself which is located at a distance of approximately 5 km from Varkala Beach. Other Nearest Railway Stations are Kollam and Trivandrum which are situated about 37 and 50 km away from the Beach respectively.
By Road
Varkala is connected to all the Major Towns of Kerala

Prominent Religious Attractions of Mangalore

With its narrow streets, green coconut palms, old-world tile roof houses, beautiful temples, wonderful churches, etc, it has a large number of Religious and Other Attractions. However its Prominent Religious Attractions are Mangala Devi Temple, Kadri Manjunatha Temple, St. Aloysius College Chapel, etc.

Mangaladevi Temple

The name ‘Mangalapura’ or’ Mangalapuram’ is originated from the Temple of Mangaladevi and the name ‘Mangalore’ is the Anglicized Version of ‘Mangalapuram’. It is a very old temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mangaladevi situated at a place called ‘Bolar’, 4 km from the city and it is believed to have been constructed in the 9th century. People believe that if they worship the Goddess she blesses them up with prosperity. The Chief Festival of the Temple is ‘Dussera’ or ’Navarathri’, a Hindu Festival of Nine Days which people of the area celebrate with splendor and grandeur.
Kadri Manjunatha Temple
Built up in 11th century it is situated at the foot of the Kadri Hill, 3 km north of the city. Its idol of Lord Manjunathaswamy is considered to be the Oldest Idol of South India,. On top of the Hill you could find a Monastery or ‘Mutt’ called 'Jogimutt’ where Pandava Stone Caves await you to welcome you.


St. Aloysius College Chappel

Located about one km from the city on top of the Light House Hill it is an Architectural Wonder that could stand in comparison with the Beautiful Sistine Chappel of Rome. Its walls and ceilings have been decorated with Biblical Frescoes which are fabulous. It was built by Italian Jesuit Father Antonio Moscheni in 1884.
Jesuit Fathers have played pivotal roles in the Educational, Health Care, etc, spheres of Mangalore. They only set up St. Aloysius College in 1880 followed by the College Chapel.
The Best Time To Visit
From September to February



How To Reach
By Air

It has an Airport of its own at Bajpe, 18 Km

By Rail

Mangalore has a Railway Station of its own which connects it to Major Towns of India.

By Road

It has a good network of roads and as such you can reach here without any difficulty from any part of India.

Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses ply from Mysore, Bangalore, Goa and Mumbai. Private buses too operate.

It is also close to ‘God’s Own Country of Kerala’ as its Kasargode Town is only 60 km away.

Located in the West Coast of India, South of Mumbai, Goa is a Hot Spot Tourist Destination of India

Varkala of Kerala State, India, is mainly a Pilgrim Town, thanks to its Prominent Temples, namely, Janardhana Swamy Temple, Sivagiri Mutt or Monastery, etc.
Believed to be more than two millennia or 2000 years old the Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Janardhana Swamy Temple, is an important Pilgrim Centre of Hindus. The Sivagri Monastery established by Social Reformer Sri Narayana Guru on its Sivagiri Hill is also a Dominant Pilgrim Centre.
Janardhana Swami Temple
Located on Beach Road at Temple Junction it stands on cliffs overlooking the Varkala or the Papanasam Beach or The Beach of Destroyer of Sins.
The Temple can be reached from Temple Junction or from western part of the beach. ‘Padmatheertham’ or the ‘Perennial Canal’ is an important feature of the temple which can be seen even from outside.
Erected upon the steep cliff lining up the Arabian Sea the Temple is a circular structure with red coloured tile roof that houses the main shrine dappled up with colour sculptures of Hindu Deities.
Main idol has four arms which are the identification marks of Lord Vishnu. It is the only shrine that has dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the name of Janardhana as temples are generally dedicated to Lord Krishna in India.
Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter into inner sanctum of the Temple but they are permitted to move around the Temple.
Sivagiri Monastery
Sri Narayana Guru, the Reformer, Philosopher, Teacher, Preacher and Leader of the Ezhava Community, which is one of the Hindu Religious Communities of Kerala, had made Varkala his area of operation from 1855 to 1928. With his efforts the Monastery came into being in 1904 at the top of Sivagiri Hill located 10 km away from Varkala. He made Monastery the Headquarters of Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Sangham or S.N.D.P., the Organization that he set up to propagate his concept of ‘one caste, one religion and one God’.



Even after nearly a century after the demise of Guru in 1928 his Mausoleum is continued to be visited and worshipped by thousands of devotees donned in yellow attire from different parts of Kerala and elsewhere every year during Sivagiri Pilgrimmage Days from 30th December to 1st January shows the influence that he exerts amongst his community and followers even today.

How To Reach Varkala
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Thiruvananthapuram Airport at Valiyathura, 50 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station is Sivagiri of Varkala itself which is located at a distance of about 5 km from the Town. Other Nearest Railway Stations are Kollam about 37 km and Trivandrum about 50 km.
By Road
Varkala is well connected by road to major towns of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, etc.

Prominent Churches, Temples, Forts, etc, of Goa

Located in the West Coast of India, South of Mumbai, Goa is a Hot Spot Tourist Destination of India.

Its beaches have played very prominent roles in catapulting it to such a high pedestal. But it
is not only an area filled up with beaches but it also has a large number of churches, temples, forts, etc, that also have contributed much in its make-over endeavours. Listed below is a Small List of Churches, Temples, Museums, etc, of Goa, which have participated in that movement of metamorphosis.

Churches

Some of the churches that I feel you should not miss out to visit in Goa are - Se or St. Catherine’s Cathedral at Panjim, Church of St. Francis Assisi, just south-west of it, Chapel of St. Catherine, Panjim, Basilica of Bom Jesus, 9 kms from Panaji, Chapel of St. Xavier in Panjim, etc.

Temples

The Temples of Goa that worth seeing I feel are Mahalaxmi Temple at Panaji, Mangesh Temple at Priol, Shant Durga Temple at Kavele, Ganapati Temple at Khandole, Mahalaxmi Temple at Bandewade, Sri Nagesh Maharudra Temple at Bandora, etc.


Forts

The forts that you could visit in Goa I feel are Reis Majos Fort at Bardez Taluka, North Goa District, Fort Aguada at Sinquerim Plateau in Bardez Taluka, Chapora fort located at southern cape of Chapora River, etc.

Heritage Sites

Major World Heritage Sites of Goa are mainly Churches built by Portuguese or those built during their reign. Some of them are Se Cathedral, Church and Convent of St. Francis Assissi, Chapel of St. Catherine, Basilica of Bom Jesus, etc.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Worthwhile Willdlife Sanctuaries to visit in Goa are Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, about 38 kms from Margao, Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary located at Mollen in Sanguem Taluka of South Goa District, about 53 kms away from Panaji, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary located at Canacona Taluka, South Goa District, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located at Island of Chorao near Mandovi River, etc.

Museums

Museums that I feel you should visi in Goa are Archaeological Museum located about 9 kms away from Panaji, Museum of Goa in Old Goa, Institute of Menezes Braganza, Panaji, The Naval Aviation Museum, located at Bogmalo Road, Dabolim, 6 kms from Vasco de Gama, etc.

Prominent Attractions of Bangalore

According to legend Bangalore has got its name from the Kannada words‘Benda Kalu Ooru’ or ‘Place of Baked Beans’. As per the same King Veeraballa of Vijayanagara while travelling through the forests of Bangalore forgot his way and consequently he got exhausted and also he felt hungry. Fortunately he found a poor, old woman in a hut who felt pity upon him and so she served him with baked beans or ‘Benda Kalu’ in Kannada language. In gratitude he christened the place ‘Benda Kalu Ooru’ or ‘Place of Baked Beans’ which later on became Bangalore.
Location
It is located in the State of Karnataka, India It has got a Large Number of Attractions. However the Prominent among them are State Legislative Assembly Tower or Vidhan Soudha, Lalbagh or Red Garden, Cubbon Park, Nehru Planetarium, etc.
‘Vidhan Soudha’
It has been constructed incorporating the Best Architectural Features of Kannadas, Cholas, Dravidians, Rajasthanis, etc. A Thirty Meter Dome towers over it surrounded by a Four-Headed Ashoka Lions, the National Emblem of India. Illuminated on Sunday evenings it looks marvelous.
Lalbagh
It is one of the Best Botanical Gardens of South Asia. .
Laid out by Hyder Ali, the Ruler of Mysore in 1760 as a Private Garden of 40 acres and designed on model of Garden at Sira in Tumkur, 120 km from Bangalore, it was further developed by Ali’s son Tipu Sulan, British, etc. Now it has an area of 240 acres and has over 1000 Species of Flora which include rare collection of Tropical Plants, Trees, Herbs, etc. Glass House modelled on Crystal Palace of London is its Principal Attraction. It is aesthetically designed with Lawns, Flowerbeds, Lotus Pools, Fountains, etc. and it has been accorded the Coveted Status of Government Botanical Garden in 1856 and since then it has been a Centre For Scientific Study of Plants, Conservation of Plants, etc.
Cubbon Park
Located 5 km from Railway Station, in 1927 it was officially renamed Sri Chamarajendra Park to commemorate Silver Jubilee Rule of Sri Krishnaraja Wodeyar in Mysore State. Many official and public buildings are located within the Park. The High Court, Indira Priyadarshini Children’s Library, City Central Library, Government Museum, Art Gallery, Aquarium, etc, are located in Park. It is spread over an area of 300 acres with lush grass area with flowers, flowerbeds, illuminated fountains, etc.

Nehru Planetarium
Founded in 1989 it hosts daily various programmes to educate people on astronomy. It also has a Sky Theatre with a Sitting Capacity for 225 Persons with a Dome of Fifteen Meters Diameter which enables you to view mysteries of outer space.
How To Reach
By Air
Bangalore is an International airport and as such it could be reached easily by air from any part of the globe.
By Train
It is well connected by train to all the major cities of India
By Road
It could be reached easily by road from any part of India.

Prominent Attractions of Kanyakumari

Kanyakumari is also called Cape Comorin. It is situated in the State of Tamil Nadu of India, at the south end of that country where Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean meet and that power empowers you to sail directly to Antartica. The land in and around the town are uneven which in turn divides it into two parts namely Upper and Lower Portions. In Upper Part you would find many commercial buildings, hotels, etc, while the Lower Part is occupied by native people for their residential purposes.
Prominent Tourist Attractions
Tourism is one of the main activities of the people and many locals are engaged and/or employed in shell-craft and other tourism-related activities. However native people mainly engage in fishing and other maritime activities. Its Proninent Attractions are Unique Sun-rises and Sun-Sets, Kanyakumari Temple, etc.
Spectacular Sun-Rises and Sun-Sets
Its Sun-rises and Sun-sets are unique thanks to the confluence of three oceans - the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea – which make them special and spectacular. On balmy, full-moon evenings which are called ‘Chitra Pournami’ you can see the moon-rise and sun-set at the same time - on either side of the horizon, which is a splendid visual that you can’t forget even after years and years.
Kanyakumari Temple
The Kumari Amman Temple which is also called Kanyakumari Temple is located on its shore and it is dedicated to Parvati, the virgin goddess who had taken the pains of penance to obtain the hand of Lord Shiva in marriage which however remained out to be a pipe-dream for her.
Southeast of the Kumari Amman temple in the offshore on two rocky islets you can find the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the gigantic 133 feet statue of Tamil saint-poet Thiruvalluvar. Ferry services are available to reach the memorials.
The Gandhi Mandapam or The Gandhi Memorial
Consequent upon the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of India, his ashes had been brought down to Kanyakumari for immersion in the sea. However before doing that they were kept for public view. To commemorate this epoch-making event Gandhi Memorial has been constructed at the same venue where his ashes were kept for public view immediately after his assassination in 1948.


How To Reach
The Nearest Airport is Trivandrum, 87 km, The Nearest Railway Station is Kanyakumari and Nagercoil Junction is 19 km away, As it has a good network of roads you can reach it by taxi, etc, easily.
Local Transportation
As it is a small town you can walk down to enjoy its Prominent Attractions.

Prominent Attractions of Coonoor

‘‘Nilgiri’ or ‘Blue Mountain’ of South India is a Mountain of Hill Stations and Coonoor is one of its Main Hill Stations. It is located in the State of Tamil Nadu, India, at an altitude of 1850 meters above sea level. Some of its Prominent Tourist Attractions are Sim’s Park, a Wonderful Botanical Garden designed on Japanese Style, Pasteur Institute, the Fruit Research Centre of Pomological Station, an Amusement Park called Fun City, etc.

Sim’s Park
Located about 13 km on north part of the Railway Station of Coonoor in the midst of slopes, ravines, etc, it is a Green Carpet of Ethnic Trees, Shrubs, etc. It is a Botanical Garden partly developed on Japanese Style in 1874 by J.D.Sim, Secretary to Madras Club and hence it has been named after him. Spread out over 12 hectares with a wide collection of over 1000 species of plants including magnolia, camellia, pines, ferns, etc, it also houses trees like Burma Teak Wood, Mahogany Trees, etc. Its rare Bead or Rudraksha Tree is its great attraction. An Annual Show of Fruit and Vegetable is held in the Park every year in May.

Pasteur Institute
This is located opposite to Sim’s Park. Established in 1907 it is engaged in developing vaccination medicines for rabies, polio, etc. It arranges Guided Tours to educate people on the histories and mysteries of vaccination in India. You would be allowed to visit it only on Saturdays but with permission from the Director of the Institute you can visit it even on other days of the week also as well.

Pomological Station
It is one of the Fruit Research Centres of India. Fruits like Persimmons, Plums, Peaches, Lemons, Pomegranates, Apples, Apricots, etc, are cultivated here for Research Activities.
Fun City
Located 3 km from town this Amusement Park is an ideal location for family outings.
How to reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Coimbatore, approximately 90 kilometers.

By Rail
The Nearest Railhead is Mettupalayam, around 45 kilometers.
However Coimbatore is the Nearest Railway Junction located approximately 90 km away.
The Toy Train connects Coonoor with Ooty, Mettupalayam, etc.
By Road
It has a good network of roads that connects it to nearby major towns and as such you can reach here by road easily.

Periyar, a Unique Wildlife Sanctuary

Periyar Sanctuary is also called Thekkady Sanctuary as it is located in Thekkady in the State of Kerala, India.
Unique Sanctuary
It is a UniqueWildlife Sanctuary for you can see here Wild Animals at Close Angles with the helps of Safe Boats, its Flora and Fauna are also Unique as you can’t find them in any other Wildlife Sanctuaries in the World, etc.
Area
It spreads out over the Districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta of Kerala bordering Tamil Nadu State. It is a Protected Area and a Nature Reserve. Its Protected Area covers 925 sq. km out of which 350 sq. km have been earmarked for Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve. Protected Area is located in the mountainous region of Cardamom Hills. Its Highest Point is Kottamalai with a height of 2018 meters. It is surrounded by picturesque 26 sq. km Periyar Lake which had been carved out by constructing Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895. The Reservoir and Periyar River provide permanent source of water to fauna and flora of Sanctuary.
Fauna
You can see about 50 different varieties of Mammals here. The number of tigers is around 50 in Tiger Reserve Area and elephants 100. Gaur, horse deer, barking deer, mouse deer, Indian wild dogs, mongoose, foxes, leopards, elusive and endangered Nilgiri Tahr or goat, etc., also could be seen. For protecting Nilgiri Tahr only this has been established. Four species of primates are also its inhabitants, namely, rare lion- tailed macaque, Nillgiri langur, common langur and bonnet macaque.
The most enchanting sight that you could witness here would be the mischievous games that herds of elephants would be exhibiting before you in their majestic and gigantic styles in the Periyar Lake.
Birds
You could figure out about 300 types of birds here which include darters, cormorants, kingfishers, great Malabar hornbill, etc. Also you could find different types of reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects, etc.


Flora
Flora comprises of tropical evergreen forests of 30,500 hectares and semi evergreen forests of 27,500 hectares around Reservoir and moist deciduous forests and woody grasslands in the central part of the Park. Major flora include teakwood, rosewood, eucalyptus, sandalwood trees, mango trees, tamarind trees, banyan trees, bamboo trees, etc.
Activities.
Boat Cruises in the Lake empower you to see wild animals in their natural and wild habits. It is difficult to see tigers. However you could see elephants, wild bears, horse deer, deer, etc.
It offers boat rides, elephant rides, etc.
Boating through placid Lake provides you with a rare opportunity to watch wild animals at close quarters.
Elephant rides take you to the remotest parts of the Sanctuary.
It also facilitates trekking expeditions.
How to reach
By Air
The Nearest Airports are Cochin, 140 km and Madurai, 142 km.
By Train
The Nearest Railway Stations are Kottayam, 110 km, Ernakulam Junction, 140 km
By Road
Thekkady is well connected by road to important towns of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, etc.
Nearest Town
Kumily, 4 km
Best Time to visit
October to June

Marina Beach, the Charm of Chennai

The Beach of Marina forms the shoreline of Chennai and it is one of the Major Attractions of the Metropolitan City of Chennai.

It has various Unique Features some of which are , it is the Second Longest Beach in the World covering an area of 13 km, its sun-set is spectacular, prominent buildings of Chennai are located on the Beach Front of Marina, etc and hence it is called the ‘Charm of Chennai’.

The Beach has a good number of Tourist Attractions like Anna Park, The Swimming Pool, The Beach Acquarium, Vivekananda House, The Beach Market, etc.

Sun-set

Sun-sets of Marina Beach are magnificent. The visual of sun stepping down from the high heaven of sky to dip slowly but steadily into the Ocean and his colouring the whole area into enchanting ranges of orange, red, blue, pink, etc, is amazing. And when you are under his spell of charm you would be shocked to find him sinking into the sea slowly but completely taking you to the sea of disappointment.

The Anna Park

This is its another attraction which is named after C.N.Annadurai, the late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. It also houses Statues of M.G.Ramachandran, another late Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and also the statues of many Tamil Sages, etc.

The Swimming Pool

Due to strong under-currents in the beach swimming remains an impossible dream for swimmers. But as beach without swimming facility nosedives its charm and sheen City Planners have wisely created a wonderful Swimming Pool for you in the Beach to satiate your urges for swimming in the beach.

The Beach Acquarium

It has a praiseworthy collection of tropical sea fishes, fresh water fishes, etc. It is located opposite the Presidency College which is another landmark of Chennai.








Vivekananda House

It was previously called Ice House as during the Colonial Era ice imported from England, U.S.A., etc, was stored over here. In 1892 Swami Vivekananda visited this place and stayed here. To commemorate this event it has been rechristened as Vivekananda House.

The Beach Market

The Beach is a Market of Activities in the evenings and therefore you could find hawkers peddling food items, decorative pieces, dresses, etc, during the evening hours.

Sunday afternoon Beach Market is very famous and popular.

Beach is also venue for important State Functions.

Kite flying, Pony rides, etc, are pastimes of the beach.

Other Attractions are Statue of Mahatma Gandhi, Lighthouse, etc.

Connectivity

The beach is only 3 km from city. It could be reached through Kamaraj Road, Auto-rickshaws, cabs, etc, could be hired from city to reach over here.

How To Reach

By Air

Chennai could be reached easily by air from any part of the world.

By Rail

It could be reached easily by train from any part of India.

By Road

It can be reached by road from any part of India.

Major Tourist Places Around Ooty

As Ooty and its surrounding areas are located in the High Altitude Blue Mountains of the State of Tamil Nadu, India, they throw up wonderful Tourist Destinations for you to exploit upon like Doddabetta Peak, Ketti Valley, etc.
Doddabetta Peak
Located 10 km away from town it is the Highest Peak in Blue Mountains having a height of 2623 meters at the junction of Western and Eastern Mountain Passes. There is a ‘Telescope House’ run by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation to enable you to have the enchanting views of the landscapes. Trekking to top of Peak would be ideal as it won’t be difficult as that equips you to view the fabulous vistas of Blue Mountains, areas around it, etc.
Ketti Valley
7 km from town it is situated on Coonoor Road and it is the Second Largest Valley in the World. It is called the 'Switzerland of South India' due to its Swiss Climate. Its beauty could be enjoyed from Valley View on the Main Ooty - Coonoor Road.
Wenlock Downs
It features grasslands and hills. Its topography is similar to Yorkshire Dales of England. This is a popular film shooting area, situated about six and nine miles out of Ooty on the main Ooty to Pykara or Mysore Road and therefore they are called ‘Sixth Mile’ and ‘Ninth Mile’ respectively.
Kamraj Sagar Lake
It is also called Sandnalla Reservoir and it is a dam 10 km from Ooty located on way to Pykara Lake There are a wide variety of herbs, shrubs, etc, in its landscape.
Mudumalai National Park
Situated 67 km way from town at an elevation of 1000 meters and area of 321 sq. meters bordering the Bandipur National Park of Karnataka State it is the First Sanctuary of South India. Within Sanctuary there is an Elephant Camp called ‘Theppakkadu’ where you would also find a Rest House. It is home to many endangered species like tigers, leopards, etc and also to elephants, giant squirrels, barking deer, flying squirrels, etc.


Emerald Lake
Located 25 km from town in Upper Plateau Region of Blue Mountains at a place called Emerald it is part of Silent Valley and is beside Red Hill Nature Resort. Its sun-rises and sun-sets are spectacular.
The Tiger Hill
Located at Doddabetta Peak area at a distance of 16 km from town it houses a Drinking Water Reservoir to meet the water requirements of town. There is also a cave near it which is associated with many religious legends.
Kalhatty Waterfalls
Located in Kalhatty Slopes 20 km from town at 100 feet in height it is home to panthers, bison, wild buffaloes, etc.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Coimbatore, 100 km
By Rail
Ooty Railway Station, 2 km, Mettupalayam,46 km. There is a Toy Train that connects Mettupalayam with Ooty.
By Road
Ooty has a good network of roads and hence you can reach Ooty easily by road.

Major Tourist Places Around Munnar

Set at an altitude of about 6000 ft in Idukki District, Kerala State, India, Munnar has everything to offer, attract as also to satisfy its tourists. Hence once you have fallen into the lap of its charm you would never wish to leave it. Major Tourist Places around Munnar are Chinnakanal or Powerhouse Waterfalls, Top Station, Tata Tea Museum, etc.
Chinnakanal or Powerhouse Waterfalls
This Waterfall is located about 16 km from Munnar on the Munnar-Madurai National Highway. It is on the way to Thekkady, another nearby Famous Tourist Attraction and as such it is an ideal stop-over for you to visit it. Truly everybody comes to visit Thekkady or Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary only and on its way everyone visits this Waterfalls as a Bonus Point.
The water that it pours from the Waterfall emanates from Devikulam only, another wonderful Hill Station located 8 km away from Munnar. The Water of the Waterfall has curative qualities.
It is a wonderful spectacle to watch the pure, crystal, clear, white water flowing from a steep rock located at an incredible height of about 6000 feet from sea level making thunderous applause to find its way to fern-fringed pools. You will understand the depth of its purity and the width of its clarity only when it sprays its ‘holy water’ on your face, dress, etc.
Top Station
Situated at an altitude of 2200 meters, Top Station is the Highest Point in the picturesque, exquisite Munnar-Kodaikanal Landscape and hence it is called the Top Station. It is also home to the Highest Point of Tea Plantation in India and it is located on the border of Kerala – Tamil Nadu States.
If you stand at the topmost point of the Top Station you would feel that you tower over everybody as you can see not only the nearby views of southern and northern sides but also far away sights of the East, that is the entire State of Tamil Nadu and also everything of the West Side including the Arabian Sea.
It would be a windfall if you get the fortune to witness the endemic Strobilanthes or ‘Neelkurinji’ whereby it colours the entire region with the blue colour of its flowers for about a month as it happens only once in 12 years. Nevertheless during that period it ensures that the entire landscape has been brought under its ‘blue reign’.


Tata Tea Museum
This is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar. It houses curios, photographs, etc, connected with the growth and development of tea plantations, tea processing, etc, in Munnar.
Nearby Tourist Places
Kodaikanal 61 km, Thekkady 60 km, Munnar 16 km, Devikulam 8 km
How to reach Munnar
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Kochi, approximately 140 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station is Ernakulam approximately140 km
By Road
Munnar has excellent network of roads to connect it with major towns of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, etc.

Major Tourist Landmarks of Ooty

Located in the Blue Mountains of the Western Mountain Pass of the State of Tamil Nadu, India, Ooty spreads out its blue and green carpets to welcome you with its lofty mountains, thick forests, sprawling grasslands, miles of smiling tea gardens, aromatic eucalyptus trees, etc.. Situated at an altitude of 2,286 meters above sea level it has many mesmerizing attractions to enchant you to chant her glories like Government Rose Garden, Blue Mountain Railway, etc.
Government Rose Garden
It is located on Slopes of Elk Hills in Vijayanagaram in the heart of city and it is the Largest Rose Garden of India with an area of 4 Hectares in 5 Curved Terraces. It also has the Largest Collection of Roses with more than 20,000 varieties. Collection includes Hybrid Tea Roses, Miniature Roses, Roses of Unusual Colors of Black, Green, etc. Along its slopes of garden you would find an Observation Platform called ‘Nila Maadam’ from where you can view the entire Garden.
Nilgiri or Blue Mountain Railway
Opened in 1908 by the British, its Unique Features are, it is one of the Oldest Mountain Railways in India, it is a World Heritage Site and it is one of the few in the world that still depends on Steam Engine Locomotives for its operations.
Though Ooty has a Railway Station but as that Railway Line belongs to Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty Railway Station also belongs to it. That Line runs between Mettupalayam and Ooty..
You have two rail connections to Ooty, from Mettupalayam and Coimbatore. Coimbatore is connected by Long Distance Express Trains. Only one Express Train extends upto Mettupalayam, Chennai - Mettupalayam Nilgiri Express or Blue Mountain Express.
Distance from Coimbatore to Ooty is 90 km, Mettupalayam is in the middle, 45 km.
From Mettupalayam you can board Mettupalayam – Ooty Mountain Train. This is a Connection Train for Blue Mountain Express from Chennai. So it waits for 0oty- bound passengers.
St. Stephen’s Church
It is a Gothic Style Church with stained glass built in 1829 and its cemetery contains grave of John Sullivan, Founder of Ooty.



Wax World Museum
It houses Wax Statues of Eminent Indians from Indian History, Culture, etc.
Tribal Research Centre
Constituted on 2nd October 1983 it functions from 25 acres terrain at M.Paladin, 10 km from Ooty Bus Stand.
It concentrates on Nilgiri District as six primitive tribal groups namely Todas, Kotas, Irulas, Kurumbas, Paniyans and Kattunayakans inhabit in Nilgiri Hills since ages.
Tribal Museum
With the efforts of Tribal Centre this functions from Centre. It is home to rare artifacts, photographs, etc, of tribal groups of Tamil Nadu, etc.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Coimbatore, 100 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Stations are Ooty, 2 km and Mettupalayam 45 km. There is a Toy Train that connects Mettupalayam with Ooty.
By Road
Ooty has a good network of roads and hence you can reach Ooty by road easily.

Major Tourist Attractions of Shimla

It is located on the North-West of Himalayas at an altitude of 2128 meters, 115 km from Chandigarh and 365 km from Delhi. It is a Wonderful Hill Station with a Plethora of Attractions. However its Major Attractions are Kalka – Shimla Railway, Summer Hill, Vice Regal Lodge, etc.

Kalka – Shimla Railway

Kalka- Shimla Railway Line has been constructed to connect Shimla, the Summer Capital of British India, with the then Indian Railway System. Opened up in 1903 the 95 km long Kalka-Shimla Railway Track is an Amazing Achievement of Engineering. It is a Narrow Gauge Track of 2 feet 6 Inches to run through the Picturesque Mountain Greenery and Scenery with the Herculean Task to ascend from as low an altitude as that of 2800 ft to as high an altitude as that of 7000 ft. Now Shimla is Capital of the State of Himachal Pradesh of India and Kalka is a Town in Panchkula District of Haryana State. It runs through more than 800 Bridges, 102 Tunnels, etc, and hence it is considered to be one of the ‘Engineering Magic’ and as such it is called the ‘British Jewel of the Orient’. In 2008 it got the Highly Covenanted Title of ‘ U.N.E.S.C.O. World Heritage Site’.

Summer Hill

Situated at a distance of 5 km from the Ridge it is a lovely, lively township of Summer Hill at a height of 6500 ft on the Shimla – Kalka Railway Line. It had been the Favourite Resort of Mahatma Gandhi whenever he visited Shimla. Himachal Pradesh University is also located here.

The Vice Regal Lodge/Annandale

Built up in 1884 – 88 and located on Observatory Hill it was residence of the British Viceroy during the Colonial Era. Nevertheless now it is called ‘Rashtrapathi Niwas’ or the ‘Palace of the President of India’. It is the only building in Shimla that occupies a hill for itself. From 1965 it houses Indian Institute of Advanced Study which has an Illustrious List of Fellows which includes, among others, Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Winner from Myanmar.
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The Best Time To Visit

October to November and March to May.

How To Reach






By Air

Shimla is connected to Major Cities of India by air and its Airport is located at Jubbharhatt, 23 kms

By Rail

Kalka is the Nearest Railway Station, 96 kms.

From Delhi you can board train to Kalka

By Road

It is well connected to Major Cities of India

Major Attractions of Mattupetty

Major Attractions of Mattupetty

Munnar and areas surrounding it located in Kerala State, India, are blessed up with a number of Picnic Spots which you would only love to be in and would never love to be out. One such Tourist Place around Munnar is Mattupetti

Mattupetty

Main Attractions of Mattupetty are Indo-Swiss Livestock Project called Dairy Farm or Cattle Village, Dam, Lake, Tropical Montane or Shola Forests, etc.

Indo- Swiss Cattle Project

The Project has been established under the auspices of the Kerala Livestock Development Board in 1961.

It has been set up at a height of 1700 meters in Mattupetty, 13 km from Munnar. Over 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared at this Highly Specialized Dairy Farm. There are 11 Cattle Sheds altogether out of which you can visit only 3.

Lake

Spread out over an area of 8 km and nestled on the Hills of the Calm Waters of Idukki it offers Boat Cruises. Idukki District Tourism Promotion Council, D.T.P.C., provides you with Speed Boats, Motor Boats, Pedal Boats, Row Boats, etc, at Lake on hire to undertake Enchanting Cruises in the Lake.

Dam

It is a Storage Masonry Dam built up to conserve water for hydroelectricity. It has been vital source of power for the State of Kerala yielding high revenue to the State. Large amount of water available in the Dam also caters to the needs of Wild Animals of the forests.

It also attracts elephants to quench their thirst that also quench the thirsts of tourist to see them.

Boating in the tranquil waters of the Dam is a wonderful experience. To enjoy the same you can hire various types of boats.

The spectacle of the Dam surrounded by Wooden Hills, Tea Plantations, etc, is magnificent.




Tropical Montane or Shola Forests

Shola means grove. Shola and grassland together form Shola Grassland Complex or Shola Grassland Mosaic.

Wet Temperate Forests are found in Kerala along the crest of Western Mountain Passes in the Disticts of Palakkad, Wayanad, Idukki and Trivandrum. They happen at an altitude of about 1800 meters above sea level and higher. Best examples of these types of forests are found in Eravikulam National Park, Silent Valley Park, Mattupetty, etc, of Kerala.

Shola Grassland Ecosystem is characterized by dense growth of trees in depressions and folds of Mountain Passes surrounded by extensive areas of grasslands.

Grasslands constitute about 80 percent of such forests.

Trees show underdeveloped or stunted growth due to wind section with spreading canopy, twiggy branch-lets, foliage of different colour, etc. Many kinds of endemic flora, fauna, etc, come into being in these forests with extensive micro-climatic conditions. Lower Plant Categories like ferns, lichens, etc, also proliferate in these environments.

How to reach

By Air

The Nearest Airport is Kochi, 140 km

By Rail

The Nearest Major Railway Station is Ernakulam, approximately 140 km.

By Road

Munnar is well connected with major towns of Kerala

Major Attractions of Kodaikanal

Sitting high on the high altitude of 2133 meters above sea level Kodaikanal has pocketed an area of 21.45 sq.km in the beautiful Palani Hills of Dindigal District of the State of Tamil Nadu, India.
Some of its Major Attractions are Star-Shaped Lake, Massive Pillar Rocks, Guna Caves, a Wonderful Botanical Garden called, Briant Park, a Magnificent Rock which looks like the Nose of Dolphin called, Dolphin’s Nose, etc.
Lake
It is also known as Kodai Lake, a man-made lake, located in the Town itself, 3 km from Bus Stand. It spreads over an area of 60 acres and is surrounded by fine tar roads of 5 km. It is star-shaped, centrally located and is surrounded by lush green hills of Palani Hill Range which is the main watershed of lake. An earthen dam has been constructed to make it look like a marshy structure. Its Boat Club provides various types of boats on hire. You can walk, sail, and ride around it. You can also have horse rides, cycle rides, pony rides, etc.
Pillar Rocks.
Located 8 km from Lake they are made up of three massive granite rocks having heights even upto 400 feet that enable you to have a spectacular view of surroundings from there. The cool dark environments of Rocks tempt you to seek shelters in their shadows.
They have also hidden nooks, corners, etc, to please the adventurist in you.
Also there you will find some inscrutable chambers between two pillars called ‘Devil’s Kitchen’.
Guna Caves or Devil’s Kitchen
They are made popular by Tamil Movie ‘Guna’. They are bat-infested chambers among three gigantic boulders called Pillar Rocks. Deep narrow ravines are now closed to public due to the tragic deaths of twelve youths a few years back. These dangerous caves are now protected and therefore they can be seen only from far away locations.
Briant Park
East of Lake and 500 meters from Bus Stand you would find a 20.5 acres Botanical Garden called Briant Park. With 325 species of trees, shrubs, cactuses, etc, it is treasure-house of stunning flowers. A large section of it is dedicated to over 700 varieties of roses. You would also find there a nearly double century-old 1857 Eucalyptus Tree and a Bodhi Tree.


Dolphin’s Nose
Located 8 km from Bus Stand it is a flat rock projecting over a wonderful chasm of 6600 feet deep.
Temperature
11 to 20 Degree Celsius during Summer and 8 to 17 Degree Celsius during Winter
Clothes
Light Woollen during Summer and Heavy Woollen during Winter
The Best Time To Visit
April to June and September to October
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport Madurai, 120 km
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Station Palani, 64 km and Kodaikanal Railway Station, 80 km
By Road
Regular Bus Services are available from Madurai, Palani, Kodai Kanal Railway Station, etc

Major Attractions of Dublin

The name ‘Dublin’ is derived from the Irish words ‘ Dubh Linn’ which mean ‘Black Pool’. Looking at its tourist attractions I wish the meaning should have been ‘Paradise of Attractions’. The Major Attractions of Dublin are Spire, Custom House, Dublin Castle, etc.
Spire
Made out of stainless steel and located at the Main Street of City, namely, O’Connel Street, it is a 398 ft conical spire. Its top and base are illuminated during nights to act as signals in dark nights and hence it is also called the ‘Monument of Light’.
Custom House
Designed by James Gandon and completed in 1791 it has a wonderful Central Dome with a 16 feet height Statue of Commerce with 14 Keystones, wherein 13 Stones represent the Total Number of Rivers of Ireland and the 14th Stone represents the Atlantic Ocean to signify their significances to the Commerce of Ireland to highlight that they are the Stones of Backbones of Ireland. Though it has been destroyed by I.R.A. in 1921 it has been restored since then.
Dublin Castle
Built between 1208 and 1220 it show-cases the British Power in Ireland as they occupied it for more than seven centuries. During their occupation they used it as Residence of Viceroy of England but now it is used for Ceremonial Functions of Irish Government like Inaugurations of Presidents of Ireland, etc.
General Post Office
Built in 1818 and located in O’Connell Street it is now the Symbol of 1916 Easter Rising as Patrick Pearse read out ‘The Proclamation of Irish Republic’ from its steps and James Connolly and Members of Irish Volunteers and Irish Citizen Army occupied it for a week. Afterwards they surrendered and got their leaders executed. It got destroyed in the firings of Rising and got rebuilt in 1925 after Ireland became free. Now it functions as a Post Office and its history is recorded in the paintings inside with a Plaque containing the words of ‘The Proclamation of Irish Republic’ hanging on the wall and a Statue of Legendary Celtic Warrior Cuchulainn.

Guinness Storehouse
‘Guinness’ is the Most Famous Brand of Beer in the World and it is the Most Important Tourist Place of Ireland. Located at the heart of St. James’s Gate Brewery, its Seven Floors have been designed on a Central Glass Foyer in the Shape of a Pint of the Brand. You can take a journey to all the floors to find out its ingredients, processing, etc. The fact that it attracted over 4 million visitors from all parts of the world since its opening in November 2000 highlights its popularity. Favourite of visitors is Sky Bar namely, ‘Gravity’, located above roof which offer you complimentary pint and an astounding view of the city.

Major Attractions of Coorg

It is located in the Southern State of Karnataka of India very near to the State of Kerala and its Kasargod Town is only 85 km away from it. It is a town blessed with various attractions.
Its Major Attractions are Madikeri Fort, Omkareshwara Temple, Raja’s Seat, etc. Fort is an Imposing Structure of Glamour and Grandeur, Temple is a Splendid Draft of Art and Craft, Raja’s Seat, on abolition of Kingship in India, has been converted into a Public Garden and therefore now you too could sit upon this Royal Couch like a King and enjoy the beauties, of Coorg, etc.
Madikeri Fort
Originally built up on mud and later on replaced by a concrete stone by Tippu Sultan you could find the Palace of Lingayat Rulers inside the Fort. It is an imposing structure of glamour and grandeur.
Raja’s Seat
It proclaims the beauty of Coorg and this Seat has been created to enjoy it fully by its Kings. Sitting comfortably on this rosy couch they used to enjoy the sun-sets, beauties, etc, of Coorg every evening. Consequent upon the abolition of kingships and kingdoms in India it has now been converted into a Public Garden and as such now you too could enjoy them like a king sitting on the same seat.

Omkareshwara Temple
Built up in honour of the Hindu Lords of both Shiva and Vishnu it is a 200 years old structure blending wonderful Islamic, Gothic, etc, Styles of Architecture to make it a splendid draft of art and craft.
Abbey Falls

It is also called Abbi Falls and is located at a distance of about 5 km from Coorg and 8 km from Madikeri. Situated between coffee plantations and spice estates you would find Kaveri River cascading down on a rock. Roars of Falls can be heard on your way to it. Water flow is very high during monsoon and during dry season it is low and hence the best time to visit it is monsoon. A Hanging Bridge has been constructed now to offer an excellent vista of the Falls. It can be reached by a narrow road from Madikeri. Cars can reach up to entrance and from there you would have to walk down about 500 meters on a slightly paved steps to reach it.


Iruppu Falls
It is at a distance of about 50 km from Coorg and 91 km from Madikeri and it is a renowned pilgrim center that has its association with Rama, the hero of the Epic Ramayana. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on the River Ramathiratha and on Mahashivratri day lots of pilgrims take holy dips in the river.
How To Reach
By Air
The Nearest Airport is Mangalore, 170 km and the Closest International Airport is Bangalore, 300 km.
By Rail
The Nearest Railway Stations are Mysore, 120 km and Mangalore 140 km.
By Road
It is well connected by road. .

Major Attractions of Ooty

Ooty, short for Ootacamund or Udhagamandalam is a Beautiful Hill Station of Tamil Nadu, India.
The word ‘udhagamandalam’ is derived from the Toda word, ‘othakal-mund’ which means ‘house in mountains’. It stands at 7347 feet above sea level in Blue Mountain Range.
It was found out and founded by the British in early 19th century and as such the British influence could be seen in every walk of life even today after a lapse of two centuries, right from chocolates, cheese, to hand-rolled cigars, etc. Enveloped in mist throughout the year and dotted with orchards of peaches, plums, tea plantations, eucalyptus trees, etc, it a fabulous Hill Station that you would cherish to spend your precious time with.
Major attractions of Ooty are Ooty Lake, Botanical Gardens, etc
Ooty Lake
It is an Artificial Lake constructed by John Sullivan, the First Collector of Ooty. It has an irregular L-shape and it stretches for more than 2 km in length, however its width varies at regular intervals. Overall area of Lake is about 1.5 sq miles.
It is located behind Bus Stand and the railway Line runs along one of the banks of Lake itself. There is a Boat House at its far end where rowing, paddle boats, etc, are available on hire so that you can undertake boat rides .
Boat Races, Boat Pageantry, etc, are organized during summer.
Its other attractions are toy train, garden, etc
Botanical Garden
Laid out by Marquais of Tweedale in 1847 and spread over 56 acres with lawns, etc, it houses rare tree species like cork tree, paper bark tree, monkey puzzle tree, etc. The peculiar feature of Monkey Puzzle Tree is even monkeys can’t climb over it. Also it houses a 20 million years old fossilized tree, an Italian style garden, a vast variety of flowering bushes, plants, etc, in myriad hues, a Fern House with a vast range of ferns, orchids, etc. A Flower Show with Exhibition of rare plant species is held every year in May at the Garden. It has a wide variety of plants that include different types of roses, imported shrubs, rare flowering plants, etc.


Climate
Its climate is very cool and its temperatures vary from 5 to 25 degree celsius in winter and summer respectively.
The Best Time to Visit
November to March
How To Reach
By Air
Coimbatore is the nearest airport, about 90 km
By Rail
The nearest Railway Junction is Coimbatore,90 km. Board Tea Garden Express from Coimbatore to Mettupalayam and then board The Blue Mountain Express from Mettupalayam to Ooty. Distance from Mettupalayam to Ooty is 45 km
By Road
It has a good network of roads and so you can reach over here by road easily.

Main Tourist Places of Shimla

Shimla was called Simla previously. It is the Capital City of the State of Himachal Pradesh of India

The name Shimla is derived from the Hindu Goddess Shyamala Devi, an incarnation of Hindu Goddess Kali.

Queen of Hills

It has been a favourite Hill Station of the British during the Colonial Era because of its hilly location and Mediterranean climatic conditions. And during the British Period it was the Summer Capital of India right from 1864 and they used to call it the ‘Queen of Hills’. Also it was the Capital of the Undivided Punjab State from 1871 until the construction of the City of Chandigarh. When the new State of Himachal Pradesh was formed in 1966 it became its capital.

Location

It is located in the north west Himalayas at an altitude of 2128 metres. It is located approximately 115 km from Chandigarh and 365 km from Delhi. It is draped in forests of pine, oak, etc. It has pleasant summers and cold, snowy winters.

Places of Tourist Interests

Shimla has various Places of Tourist Interests. However its Main Places of Tourist Interests are The Mall, Christ Church, Jakhu Hill, etc.


The Mall

It is the Main Shopping Street of Shimla. It houses many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars, tourist offices, etc. The Gaiety Theatre is also situated here. The Ridge and Scandal Point are the two main meeting points of the Mall.

Christ Church

It is the Second Oldest Church in North India. It has a very majestic appearance and inside there are stained glass windows which represent faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience and humility.

Jakhu Hill

It is 2 kms away from Shimla located at a height of 8000 ft. It is the Highest Peak of the Area and it offers beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered Himalayas. At the top of the Hill you would find an old temple of Lord Hanuman which is also the home of countless playful monkeys waiting to be fed by visitors.

Shimla State Museum

Opened in 1974 it has a large collection of miniature Pahari Paintings, sculptures, bronze and wooden carvings, textiles, jewellery, etc, of the region.

The Best Time To Visit

October to November and March to May.

How To Reach

By Air

It is connected to Major Cities of India from its own Airport located at Jubbharhatt, 23 kms

By Rail

Kalka is the Nearest Railway Station, 96 kms.

From Delhi you can board train to Kalka

By Road

Its Fine Network of Roads connects it to Major Cities of India

Main Tourist Attractions of Pondicherry

The word ‘Pondicherry’ derived from the Tamil word ‘Puducherry’ which means ‘New Village’. It is also called ‘The French Riviera of the East’, as it was a French Colony right from the year 1674 to 1954 .

French Influence

As it has been a French Colony for a long period from 1674 to 1954, save and except from 1693 to 1699 when it was occupied by Dutch and from 1760 to 1765 when it was under the control of Britain, the French influence could be seen in every aspect of life right from culture, style of construction of buildings, cleanliness, etc.

Tourist Attractions

Promenade Street, Auroville Beach, Auroville Monastery, etc, are the Main Tourist Attractions of Pondi.

Promenade Street is the most favourite street of tourists. It is a 1.5 kms long street along the Pondicherry Beach or Rock Beach. It houses the landmarks of the Statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Joan of Arc,.etc, as also Light House.

Pondicherry Beach offers tremendous opportunities for jogging, walking, cycling, sitting on the rocks to enjoy the spectacular sun-rise, etc.

Auroville Beach

Auroville Beach is one of the cleanliest beaches of India. Its water is shallow and as such it is a paradise for swimmers. It is totally isolated from the town due to its narrow path and as such no vehicles could be plied. To reach over here hence you would have to pass through a narrow path full of bushes. Because of its typical characteristic of isolation and difficulties to move about it is not a crowded beach and thanks to the same it is a virgin beach.

Auroville Monastery

Auroville Monastery is a renowned center of spirituality. It is mainly occupied by foreigners. People from different parts of the world have made it their abode for divine and spiritual purposes. It has a Meditation Center called Matri Mandir or Temple of the Mother. It is closed on afternoons of every Sunday. Its Boutique d’Auroville is a Shopping Center which offers various handicraft products, scented candles, incense sticks, lampshades made from recycled paper, colourful ornaments, etc.

The Best Time To Visit

September to March

How To Reach

By Air
The Nearest Airport is Chennai, 135 kms

By Rail

Pondicherry is connected to Villupuram by rail, 36 kms, which connects to Chennai, Madurai, Trivandrum, etc.

Trains to and from Pondicherry are slow and very few.

By Road

The Best Option is Chennai 150 kms by taxi or by bus.

Buses depart from Tamil Nadu State Express Bus Stand of Chennai, which is also called Thiruvalluvur Bus Stand located at Parry’s Corner on regular basis. The bus would take about four hours to reach Pondicherry Bus Stand.

Main Landmarks of Havana

Initially Havana has been established on the Southern Coast of Cuba in 1514 but subsequently it has been moved out to its Northern Coast by 1519. It has been declared the Capital of the Spanish Colonial Cuba in 1607 and it has been growing since then. In the early 18th century it has been the Third Largest City of the Spanish Empire after Mexico City and Lima.

It has a number of Sight-seeing Attractions and its Major Landmarks in this front are Museo de la Revolucion, Ernest Hemingway Museum, etc.

Museo de la Revolucion

Previously it was the Presidential Palace and Headquarters of the Government of Cuba. It has now been converted into a Museum show-casing documents, photographs, etc, pertaining to the Cuban Revolution as also those from Colonial Times to present day. In front of the Museum you can find a Tank used by Fidel Castro in the Battle of Bay of Pigs of 1961. Behind the Museum you can find a glass-case yacht, named ‘the Granma’ which had brought 82 Visionary Revolutionaries from Mexico in 1956 and the Most Prominent Amongst them were Che Guevara, Fidel Castro, etc, that set the ball of the Revolution of Cuba in motion.

Capitolio Nacional

Built on the pattern of U. S. Capital in Washington D.C. it is one of the Leading Landmarks and Tourist Attractions of Havana and it had housed the Cuban Congress. Now it is home to National Library and Academy of Sciences though some of its rooms are used for state functions.

Habana Vieja or Old Havana.

Built in 1519 and it was a prominent port of the Colonial Power of Spain. Its Plaza de Arman was the Seat of Power of Cuba for about 400 years mainly during the Spanish Colonial Era. However today it is home to book markets. During the Prohibition Era in U.S.A. Americans flocked here for liquor, gambling, etc. Famous American Writer Ernest Hemingway had frequented its La Bodequita Del Medio Bar.

Ernest Hemingway Museum

Ernest Hemingway is an Eminent American Writer. But since he has spent a lot of time in Cuba to write his famous books of ‘For whom the Bell Tolls’ ‘the Old Man and the Sea’, etc, Cubans believe that he is their adopted son. They have therefore restored his home outside Havana and made it a Museum named after him. It is kept in the same condition when he lived here. You can therefore find even the olden era typewriter used by him along with his Library of over 8000 Books.