Visakhapatnam Tourism

Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary In Warangal

2011-12-13T05:31:00.000-08:00

Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is one of those rare ecoregions of the world that has various emergent species of deciduous elements. This wildlife sanctuary is considered one of the oldest sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh, India. Dense forests and green grasslands of the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary provide shelter to numerous species of plants and animals.

Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary: Introduction

The Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Andhra Pradesh, India at a distance of 90 kms. from Warangal and 250 km. from Hyderabad. It is a narrow strip of forest formation alongside the southern coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. This wildlife sanctuary, which spreads across 806 sq. kms of dense forests and green grasslands in Warangal district, was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1953 by the erstwhile Hyderabad Government due to its rich bio-diversity. Climbers are the unique features of the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary, which are found in abundance across the length and breadth of this natural park. The area is full of steep and gentle slopes. Moreover, the sanctuary area has historical importance owing to the presence of tree fossils in the Sarvai area and caves.

Wildlife in the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary

Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary is the homeland to many characteristic floristic elements typically dominated by thorny species such as Zyzyphus glabarrima, Dicrostachys cinerea, Randia dumetorum, and Carissa spinarum while other plant species include Bamboo, Pterocarpus, Anogeissus, and Buchanania. Southern tropical dry deciduous teak and many of its other forms including Timan, Kodesa, Abnus, Gumpena make the wildlife sanctuary a significant place for botanists. The deep forests of the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary provide habitats to several endangered mammals and reptiles including Tiger, Sloth Bear, Four Horned Antelope, Chinkara, Black Buck, Panther, Wild dog, Wolf, Jackal, Giant Squirrels, Crocodiles, Python, Star Tortoise, Cobra, Monitor Lizard, Krait, to name only a few.

Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary: Tourist Information

Climate : The climate of the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary region is usually hot round the year with an average rainfall of 800-1000 mm. Most of the precipitation occurs during the brief northeast monsoon between October and December. Maximum temperatures during the long dry season in summer soars upto a stifling 44° Celsius while winters in the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary are usually mild.

Best time to visit : October to April is considered the best time to visit the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to get there

By Road : A number of buses and private transport to the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary are available from Warangal.

By Rail : The nearest railway stations are Warangal and Kazipet, at about 100 km away from the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary.

By Air : Hyderabad is the nearest airport, which is 250 km away from the Etunagaram Wildlife Sanctuary.

Warangal Tourist Attractions

2011-12-13T05:22:00.000-08:00

Warangal is very popular for its Tourist Attractions. There is a never ending list for Tourist Attractions in Warangal in Andhra Pradesh in India.

Tourist Attractions attractions in Warangal.

All of these Warangal Tourist Attractions in Andhra Pradesh in India are the center of attractions of the Warangal that makes this Warangal in Andhra Pradesh as one of the top tourist cities of India.

Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary In Warangal

Eturnagaram wildlife sanctuary in Warangal is famous across the world for its teak woods and various kinds of animals, such as tiger, wolf, and black buck etc. the people who love nature’s beauty, it is the first place to visit. Eturnagaram wild life

Govindarajula Gutta In Warangal

Warangal is built by the Kakatiya rulers which became the capital in twelfth century. The city is full of beautiful Warangal tourist attractions. The Warangal is also known as Oruguallu, there are people who call it Omtikonda because of its history.

Padmakshi Temple In Warangal

Padmakshi temple in Warangal was built in the twelfth century. The primary deity of this temple is Padmakshi. Annakonda pillar is great tourist attraction in Warangal. The pillar is four faced and every face is extremely good to watch

Pakhal Lake In Warangal

Pakhal Lake in Warangal is very beautiful place for tourists to enjoy their vacation. It is a manmade lake built on a branch of River Krishna nearby city Warangal. It’s been said that Pakhal Lake in Warangal was built in 13th century through Kakatiya

Pembarti Village In Warangal

The Warangal is not only known for its beautiful temples, gardens, sculptures but for it brass works too. It’s been said that brass was used here when even people did no know how more about iron. Pembarti Village in Warangal is known for its bras

Ramappa Temple In Warangal

Ramappa Temple in Warangal is one hundred thirty kms away from Hyderabad. The Warangal is hot tourist destination because of its marvelous lakes, temples wildlife sanctuaries and forts. The Ramappa Temple in Warangal is situated at Palampet which

Travel - Papikondalu

2011-07-15T22:27:00.001-07:00

The favorite destination for hundreds of nature lovers, Papi Hills is a lovely place and the beautiful scenery of Papi Hills, the waterfalls at Munivaatam, and the peaceful atmosphere at this tribal area give a pleasant look and peace to visitors, making it a special attraction for tourists.
It settled for ‘Papi Kondalu’ as the original name for this hill range was ‘Papidi Kondalu’. this range looks like a well designed partition that splits river Godavari, this name was coined.

Small water falls, water streams, thick rain forest and other flora and fauna adds to scenic beauty of PapiKondalu. A legend about Papi Kondalu is the Lord Rama and goddess sita dwelled here during the vanavasa.
Considerable percentage Telugu movies are shot in Rajahmundry and east Godavari district. (Papi Kondalu is important attractions for these movie makers). Ramadasu, Apadbhandavudu, Godavari, are few of the popular movies shot here. The boat takes you till Parentallapalli in Khammam district the abode of lord shiva

On weekend launch ride in Godavari is the trip down the river from kunavaram would lead to a different world where the nature delights the naked eye of Pilgrims and tourists with grand spectacles. The hilly countryside patch-worked with tiny farm plots, the landscapes dotted with tribal habitations, the river banks forested with the timber reserves, the fresh air and the deep river all blend tighter to make it a magic place. They present ideal settings to enjoy the nature. people stop and stare at The beauty of the uncrowned spaces all along the river.
The boat ride commences at Polavaram in summers because of low water levels and in Pattiseema at all other times.

The boat ride leads you to countryside patch-worked with tiny farm plots, the landscapes dotted with tribal habitations, the river banks forested with the timber reserves, the fresh air and the deep river all blend tighter to make it a magic place. They present ideal settings to enjoy the nature.
The beauty of the uncrowned spaces all along the river makes people stop and stare.Actual Papi Kondalu is a place where the width of Godavari is Narrowest less than a KM). From distance you would feel that both the hills are merging together however the boat cruises through the narrow width of Godavari and this is the best of the entire trip.

As part of tourism promotion packages the ride in the river has been introduced. It has become an enjoyable outing for the tourists who prefer to spend a weekend in the temple town. Powered with the engines of 100 to 150 hp the launches take six hours to cover journey.The river winds and twits through interesting rock formations the disallow the use of speed boats.This boat facility is from Rajamandri

A night stay on the river side near papikondalu cn be mind blowing. Star gazing while sleeping on the banks of the river Godavari will surely bring out poet in you.

Papi Kondalu Tourism in Andhra Pradesh

2011-07-15T22:18:00.000-07:00

Andhra Pradesh is an Indian state that is rich in historical and cultural legacy. Historians suggest that Aryans were the original people that formed the ancient populations of Andhra Pradesh, who later migrated and mingled with different races.

King Ashoka ruled a substantial part of this state and his dynasty remained for several decades. Many sites still depict that Buddhism had its major significance and it was a prime Buddhist centre.

Andhra Pradesh is popularly known as “Food bowl of South”. Hyderabad is the capital of Andhra Pradesh, which is a rich cultural city with many places of interests, palaces, museums, parks and religious sites.

Andhra Pradesh is home to many wildlife and natural forest reserves with a large variety of flora and fauna. Diverse landscapes, deciduous forest, coastal belt, dense mangrove forest and many rivers of religious importance also originate in Andhra Pradesh. Largest Indian tiger reserve at Nallamai forest and pelican refuge at Kolleru Lake forms an important location for wildlife lovers.

Andhra Pradesh has numerous locations to visit and offer prayers on pilgrimage sites such as Tirupati, Srisailam and Basara. Sri Venkateshwara temple at Tirupati, Birla Mandir at Hyderabad and Sai Baba Ashram at Puttaparthi are few of the holy and pilgrimage sites. There are famous mosques and masjids to offer prayers.

There are waterfalls at Ettipothala, Gandipet and Kuntala. Keen visitors can visit caves at Undavalli and Borra. World famous hydel power projects and dams are located at Nizamsagar and Nagarjunasagar.

Hyderabad and Secunderabad often referred to as twin cities linked by Husain Sagar Lake offer a beautiful evening hang out for everyone. Char Minar, Golconda Fort, Salar Jung Museum, Mecca Masjid are sites of historical significance. Nearby places with important historical backdrop, include Warangal, Palampet, Vermulavada, Lepakshi and Bhadrachalam.

Andhra Pradesh has varied art culture in its pot. Bidri, Himroo and Nirmal are some of the art work that relates to metal and fabric specially originating in Andhra Pradesh. Kucchipudi Dance is an articulate form of dance prevalent here. Hyderabad considered as the pearl centre of India offers unique and exclusive quality pearls. Andhra Pradesh is a beautiful state with vast array of art, culture and religious virtues.

Rajahmundry Tourism

2011-07-15T22:16:00.000-07:00

City of Rajahmundry is one of the old cities of Andhara Pradesh state. Located between two main cities Visakahaptnam and Vijayawada of AP state. This is one of the oldest business centers of AP. By the side of Godavari River this city got its name from the King whose status is there in one of the city center.

There are many temples around Rajahmundry and one of the important places is Annavaram temple located at a distance of 90 KM from Rajahmundry towards Visakhapatnam. This temple can be visited while coming to Rajahmundry from Visakhapatnam or while returning.

Dowlaiswaram

Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage is located at downstream of River Godavari at a distance of 6 KM from city center. This old barrage of length 1440.05 meter has 70 spans. There is a status of Sir Arthur Cotton who has constructed this barrage for the benefit of rural areas by providing Irrigation facility through canals. See the picture gallery of this barrage. This place is also a picnic spot as the vast view of river Godavari is visible downstream of the barrage. People (vendors) carrying banana in huge numbers over the barrage for selling is a common scene.

Godavari river at Rajahmundry By Road:National Highway number 5 between Chennai and Kolkatta connects this city. By road on NH 5 it is 200 KM from Visakhapatnam ( towards north or Kolkatta side ) and it is 160 KM from Vijayawada ( south or Chennai side ). Chennai is 600 Km from Rajahmundry. From Visakhapatnam it is 3 hours journey by road.

By rail:

Rajahmundry is connected by Chennai – Howrah main train line. All super fast and express trains stops at Rajahmundry station. After the main station train passes over the river Godavari ( while going towards Chennai ). Train takes 3 hours from Visakahaptnam ( north side ) and 9 hours from Hyderabad and 10 hours from Chennai ( south side )

By Air:

There are daily flights from Hyderabad and Chennai by air Deccan.
Around Rajahmundry
Godavari Launch to Bhadrachalam
Annavaram Temple
Antarvadi
Vizag
Bhadrachalam

Accommodation:
There are plenty of budget range hotels to stay at Rajahmundry. If you don't have any particular location in mind then better to stay near Godavari river side hotels. Akshya Residency is located near rail cum road bridge at a walkway distance from the Godavari river bank A double bed A/c room is available at Rs 650 with 24 hours checkout time. But if you want to relax for a day by paying more then the best choice is River Bay hotel. This hotel is located just by the side of river Godavari and has got some excellent river facing rooms. Room tariff starts from Rs 995 for a single room. River facing rooms starts from Rs 1695 ( single ) and Rs 2045 ( double ). This hotel has got all the facilities like function hall , A/c conference hall, water park etc. For more Information on River Bay hotel pleas visit the official website.

Konaseema , Andhra Pradesh

2011-07-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

Fast Facts
State: Andhra Pradesh
District: East Godavari
Famous for/as: Scenic
Languages: Telugu
Best Season: Oct - May
Weather: Summer 32-43°C, Winter 15-25°C
Pincode: 533201
STD code: 08856

Konaseema is a scenic delta that is located in the East Godavari District of the State of the Andhra Pradesh. Konaseema is situated with the River Godavari on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. The area is extremely pristine and green and the rich fertile land is home to many agricultural fields. The region is one of the most fertile places in the Coromandel Coast and many fields of Cashews, Mangoes and Paddy can be seen in the area. The area is prone to many cyclones due to its close proximity to the Bay of Bengal.

Konaseema is known for its excellent cuisine which is a combination of local produce and fresh sea food. The area was isolated until the bridge was constructed which connects it to the mainland. The main mode of transportation in the area is through the waterways and it is an idyllic way to see the place.

There are religious festivals during the Kartika Masamm and they are a must see for any travelers. Many small lamps are placed on the canals and they can be seen floating around the waterways in the pre dawn hours. The culture of the area resembles much of the other parts of the State.

Uppada Beach Kakinada

2011-07-14T07:03:00.000-07:00

Located on Uppada Road, about 5 km from Kakinada, it is a major tourist attraction with its combination of gradual slope and wide shore. A neat and enthralling beach with clean waters, it is also home to a beautiful park that adds to its beauty.

Uppada village is a weaving village that is right next to the sea and is home to a sizeable fishermen population. The road to Uppada from Kakinada all along the sea is very picturesque.

Kadiyapulanka Nurseries

2011-07-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

Located about 8 kms from Rajahmundry, it straddles National Highway-5 and is a nature’s paradise with an excellent collection of flowers and fruits and is popular for its thriving floriculture and horticulture trade.

The place abounds with dazzling colourful gardens of Jasmine, Roses, Chrysanthemums, Lilies and Kanakambaram and ornamental plants like Archaria, song of India, Johnny Fresh, Dracenia, and Arclias, etc. Every year in the month of January, an annual flower show is held when one can see a wide range of nature's most beautiful creations. Also, grafting and seedling of mango, cashew, guava and sapota are produced here and sent to different parts of the country.

Its nursery products are exported to every nook and corner of the country and its export potential to foreign countries remains untapped.

Hope Island in Konaseema

2011-07-14T06:56:00.000-07:00

Konaseema is a scenic delta that is located in the East Godavari District of the State of the Andhra Pradesh. Konaseema is situated with the River Godavari on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. The area is extremely pristine and green and the rich fertile land is home to many agricultural fields. The region is one of the most fertile places in the Coromandel Coast and many fields of Cashews, Mangoes and Paddy can be seen in the area. The area is prone to many cyclones due to its close proximity to the Bay of Bengal.

Hope Island is a narrow stretch of sandy formation in the mighty Bay of Bengal which was responsible for the formation of the Bay of Kakinada. This enchanting island was formed during the last 200 years by the sand drifting from the tributary of Godavari River.

The picturesque island presents a beautiful view with backwaters on one side and sandy beaches on the side facing the Bay of Bengal. The northern part of the island is called the "Godavari point" which overlooks the entry point into the Bay of Kakinada and the Kakinada harbour.
Hope Island protects the city of Kakinada from the strong cyclone/tidal waves coming from the Bay of Bengal and offers shelter to ships which berth at anchor in the Kakinada Bay. Thanks to this protection, the port of Kakinada has become one of the safest natural harbours on the east coast of India

Experts disclose that Hope Island is fragile and should be protected to the maximum extent. They caution that there should be no construction activity on the Hope Island, as that would adversely affect the island and the town itself.

Brindavan Garden karnataka

2010-07-08T02:13:00.000-07:00

Located 15km from the city center, Brindavan Gardens are one of the most visited travel destinations in Mysore. The Gardens are laid across the River Cauvery below the Krishnaraja Sagar Dam in Mandya District, spreading over 150 acres of land. From Mysore it is a 30-minute drive to reach these exquisite gardens.

On the other side of the dam lie the Brindavan Gardens. At the time of Krishnaraja Wodeyar's regime the garden is constructed below the Krishnarajasagar dam across the river Cauvery. Evenings holds an enchanting charm as the sun sets behind the mountains on the western side, the whole environ turns spectacular with the splash of golden rays reflecting through the lake.

The garden is embellished with vast expanses of well-laid out lawns, diverse kaleidoscopic rows of flowers and above all the amazing site of fountains encompassing a small beautiful lake holding the charm of musical fountain in its center. In Dec 2004 the entire garden was amended with new fountains and lights. Brindavan Gardens are basically terrace gardens that have been landscaped with decorated steps where water flows in-between these ornate steps.

Attractions of the Garden

During 60's Vrindavan gardens were the prime location to shoot any dance or song sequence in Indian films. It was a perquisite of every film whether Hindi or regional to have some shots of the garden, one of the most favored sites in the Indian film world. Today any kind of shooting is strictly ban, one can luxuriate in the panoramic splendor of this magnificent garden and make a day.

The main charm in the garden is its "Dancing Fountain" where fountains dance on the tunes of music and makes magnificent color patterns. The Musical fountains have spectacular harmony of water, colors and music. With the splendid play of lights and musical fountains one could feel the charm of heaven on earth.

On a travel tour to Karnataka one must definitely visit the most beautiful garden, enjoy the illuminated garden embellished with colorful soft lights along with the music played to complement the ornamental fountains. Every evening at 7.00pm, the lights in the garden are opened turning the entire vicinity into a fairy tale sequence. It just awe-inspiring to see such a majestic vista.

Visiting Time

Timings: Brindavan garden is open from 7:00am to 8:00pm every day.

On weekends the lighting are done from 7:00pm to 8:45pm.
During Dasara Festival the garden is illuminated every day.

Accessibility To The Garden

To reach actual site of Brindavan Gardens, visitors need to walk about 1.5km from the main gateway of the park. As the garden is located 15km from the center, auto rickshaws and private taxis are the most reliable and easily available mode of transport.

The garden has been divided into four parts -

» Main Gate : Its the huge entrance of the Garden, from which gallons of water flowing inside the garden can be seen. A slight view of the inside attractions of the Garden can be seen from here.

» South Brindavan : It is the area near the Cauvery Statue. In front of the Cauvey Statue there is an area called the Kaveramma Circle, containing big water fountains. On the slopes of these terraces, a number of Ornamental plants like Bougainvillea and Cacti are grown. This part of Brindavan Garden has a special attraction in the evenings as the whole of the part is illuminated with colorful lights. With the colorful and musical fountains and illuminated flower bed, it becomes a major attraction in the morning and eye catcher in the evening.

» North Brindavan : It has four terraces filled with various Ornamental Plants. Shrubs of Bougainvillea, Allamanda, Bignonia magnifica, Homskloidia sanguina are found on the slopes of the terraces. There is also a nursery where these Ornamental Plants are grown and maintained. Those who like plants and would like to take some variety can do so.

» Childrens Park : Just beside the South Brindavan there is the Children Park. In this part, there is not only the various rides for Children but also Food Courts which serve South Indian and Chinese Delicacies. Apart from this there a'int much variety available.

Around the Garden

» Government Fruit Orchard : Sprawling over an area of 75 acres, it has the plantations of Mango, Guava, Sapota, Litchi, Roseapple, Bilimbi, Aonla, Avacado, Malayan apple, Arecanut, Coconut.

» Musical Dancing Fountain : The water effects move or dance with music and interpret each tune in synchronization with light and sound.

» Biological Research Departments : There are Biological Research Departments here. Once can see and go through the various processes which are carried out on the Ornamental Plants to care and develop them with the changing enviornment.

» Krishna Raja Sagara Dam : The Dam built across the river Cauvery is the lifeline of Mysore and Mandya districts. Built in the year 1942, its a wonder to see and admire.

Kerala Wildlife Tourism

2010-07-08T02:08:00.000-07:00

Places to See : Chennai (Madras) - Mettupalayam - Madhumalai - Bandipur - Mukurthy - Ooty - Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary - Munnar - Periyar - Cochin
Duration :17 Days / 16 Nights

Day 01 : Arrive-Chennai

On arrival in Madras meet and transfer to Hotel. Stay overnight at Hotel

Day 02 : Chennai

Excursion to Vedanthagal Bird Sanctuary. Board the overnight train to Mettupalpyam.

Day 03 : Arrive- Mettupalpyam

Transfer to Madumalai. Late afternoon , a trek through the scrub jungles of Madumalai Wildlife sanctuary. Overnight stay at jungle resort.

Day 04 : Madumalai

Visit to deciduous forests and Madumalai Sanctuary. Overnight stay at jungle resort.

Day 05 : Madumalai - Bandipur - Madumalai

Day excursion to Bhandipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Overnight stay at jungle resort.

Day 06 : Madumalai-MukurthyEnquire Now

Drive to Mukurthy Wild life Sanctuary, on arrival check in jungle resort. Overnight stay at jungle resort.

Day 07 : Mukurthy

Explore Shola forest. Overnight stay at jungle resort.

Day 08 : Mukurthy-Ooty

Drive to Ooty, on arrival in Ooty

Day 09 : Ooty-Annamalai

Drive to Annamalai: Drive to Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. On arrival in Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary check in lodge. Stay overnight at Lodge

Day 10 : Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary
Kerala South India Wildlife Tour, Kerala Wildlife Trip in South India
Trip to elephant camps and forest. Overnight at Lodge.

Day 11 : Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Trip to Anagundi and Varagaliarrain forests. Overnight stay at Lodge. .

Day 12 : Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary

Trip to Parambikulam wildlife Sanctuary. Overnight stay at Lodge.

Day 13 : Annamalai Wildlife Sanctuary - Munnar

Drive to Munar. En-route visit Chinnar Sanctuary. On arrival in Munar check in Hotel. Stay overnight at Hotel.

Day 14 : Munnar-Periyar

Drive to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Stay overnight at Hotel.

Day 15 : Periyar

Cruise on Lake Periyar. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 16 : Periyar-Cochin

Drive to Cochin, on arrival in Cochin check in Hotel. Stay overnight at Hotel.

Day 17 : Depart-Cochin

Transfer to airport for flight to onwards journey.

Wildlife Tour of South India

2010-07-08T02:02:00.000-07:00

Duration : 11 Nights/ 12 Days
Destinations Covered : Bangalore - Bannerghatta - Mysore – Ranganathittu- Nagarhole - Bandipur - Ooty – Bangalore

India has a splendid diversity of flora and fauna spread all cross the country. Southern part of the country is well gifted with all natural resources as well as many national and wildlife parks. This tour enthralls you as some of the destinations covered are really praiseworthy. It covers Bangalore the city of gardens, Mysore famous for the Palace. Wildlife parks like Nagarhole, Bannerghata and National parks of Nagarhole and Bandipur will excite you with its flora and fauna.
Day 01 : Arrival Bangalore
Welcome to the city of gardens, Bangalore. Also referred as Silicon Valley due to many thriving information technology industry. At airport you will be met by our representative who will transfer you to your pre booked hotel.

Day 02 : Bangalore - Bannerghatta - Bangalore 22 Km
Bannerghatta National Park is about 22 Km from Bangalore. It houses one of the richest zoological reserves. It is a habitat of white tigers, lions and other mammals. Besides these animals it also have elephant, bonnet macaque, cheetal, muntjac , slow Loris, wild boar, fox and three striped palm squirrel. After spending some delighted moments return to hotel for Night stay.

Day 03 : Bangalore Sightseeing - Mysore 140 Km / 03 Hrs
The city sightseeing of Bangalore will include Tipu’s Palace made of complete wood was summer retreat of Tipu Sultan. Later visit 16th century Bull temple which is carved of single granite block. Visit the Botanical garden Lalbag and later drive past Vidhan Souda. Later continue your drive to Mysore en route visiting Srirangpatnam, once the capital of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, on arrival check in hotel.

Day 04 : Mysore - Ranganathittu - Mysore
After breakfast drive to Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary which is about 20 Kilometers from the city. The idea of making this sanctuary was incorporated by Salim Ali the great ornithologist. He proposed the Maharaja of Mysore to declare it as a protected area. Nagarhole wildlife sanctuary It is near to the Cauvery River. It is a residence to the numerous varieties of birds and reptiles. It also has many migratory birds. The species which can be spotted are cormorants, darters, white ibis, and spoon billed storks, open billed storks, painted storks, white neck storks, kingfisher and many more. You can also spot crocodiles in the Cauvery River. Return to the hotel in the evening.
Day 05 : Mysore – Nagarhole (94 kms / 02 hrs).
Morning leave for Mysore sightseeing visit Chamundi hills, Mysore Palace whose architecture is in Indo Saracenic style. The entire Palace is exquisitely carved and very fine art of work is done. Visit St.Philomena’s church built in gothic style. Later continue your drive to Nagarhole.Nagarhole served as an exclusive hunting ground for the rulers of Mysore. On arrival check in resort for overnight stay.

Day 06 : Nagarhole
In the morning leave for Jungle safari.Nagarhole is rich in flora and fauna. It hosts a big number of elephants. The other animals which you can encounter in good numbers are tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and Sloth bear. Also found are gaur, sambar deer, chital, four horned antelope and wild boar. Nagarhole has mixed deciduous forests. Later in the afternoon return to hotel.

Day 07 : Nagarhole - Bandipur National Park 100 Km / 02 Hrs
Morning leave for Bandipur National Park. It was the creation of Maharaja of Mysore in the year 1931 AD. The massive area of Bandipur owes to its connectivity to Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary in Tamil Nadu and Wayanad Wildlife sanctuary in Kerala.Bandipur National parkThe National Park is nurtured by three rivers the Moyar, the Kabini and the Nagur. Bandipur offers numerous activities to its guest like boating, fishing, bird watching and trekking. The vegetation is very thick and has varieties of flora and fauna also.
Day 08 : Bandipur National park
Today morning leave for jungle safari with naturalist. Bandipur is famous for Tigers. It also has a large number of elephants which can be seen roaming in their natural habitat. Other animals which can be spotted are leopard, sloth bear, chevrotain, Sambar, Chital, Wild boar, barking deer, Dhole, Hyena, Gaur and four horned antelope. Bird watchers will also be not disappointed one can see Kingfisher, wood pecker, common vabbler, drongo and many more. After spending your time in jungle return to resort.
Day 09 : Bandipur - Ooty 80 kms / 02 hrs
Morning leave for one of the adorable hill station of Tamil Nadu, Ooty. It is cradling in the blue mountains of Nilgris. There are many tourist attractions in and around Ooty. Check in hotel and rest of the day free to enjoy the scenic beauty of the place. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 10 : Ooty sightseeing
Morning enjoy your breakfast in the resort and later leave to explore Ooty and its vicinity. Visit Rose Garden which has nearly 2000 varieties of roses covering an area of 10 acres. Also see the artificial Ooty Lake which was made by John Sullivan in 1824 AD. Do not miss the highest point of Nilgris Doddabetta.Another interesting place to be seen is St.Stephen’s church constructed in 1829 AD. In the late afternoon return to hotel. Rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the serene ambience of your resort.
Day 11 : Ooty - Bangalore 290 kms / 06 hrs.
Today morning head for Bangalore. On arrival check in hotel. Rest of the day relax in the hotel after a long journey. Night stay at hotel.

Day 12 : Leave Bangalore
In time our representative will provide you assisted transfer to the Bangalore International airport to board your flight back to home / next destination.

Wildlife Tour of North India

2010-07-08T01:56:00.000-07:00

Duration : 14 Nights / 15 Days
Destinations Covered : Delhi - Jaipur - Ranthambore - Bharatpur - Agra – Orchha - Khajuraho - Bandhavgarh - Kanha - Nagpur - Mumbai

The nature has gifted India with varieties of flora and fauna. It has a remarkable diversity of habitats owing to variations in its topography, latitude, longitude and distribution of rainfall. This tour is basically for those who are very much interested in the wildlife and somewhat adventurous with strong heart where you see the tiger roaming in their natural habitat.Bharatpur declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO boasts of some 364 species of birds. At Bandhavgarh and Kanha one can experience an ambience of staying in a typical jungle resort. This tour is also blended with some of the exotic sculptors of Khajuraho where the depiction of lust and love is alive in stones.

Day 01 : Arrival in Delhi
You will be met by Max representative at International airport who will greet you in traditional Indian style who will escort you to your pre booked hotel for overnight stay.
Day 02 : Delhi sightseeing
India Gate Delhi Morning breakfast at the hotel. Our guide will take you for an escorted tour of Delhi. The sightseeing tour of Delhi is segregated in two parts, Old and New Delhi. Old Delhi was the capital of Muslims between 12th and 19th centuries. Red Fort & Jumma Mosque till date stands like colossus and speaks of the glorious past. New Delhi was created during the British rule and you can have the first hand experience when you will take a stroll at Connaught place which has many buildings of the the British era. The monuments included in your sightseeing are Humayun’s tomb, Jumma Masjid, Qutab Minar, India Gate a war memorial for the British Indian Army who did not return to their home. Drive past President’s Palace. Also visit Birla temple and lotus temple. Overnight stay at your hotel
Day 03 : Delhi - Jaipur (257 kms / 5 hrs drive)
Jaipur-elephant-rideMorning head to Jaipur also called the Pink city because of the colour of the stones used for the constructions and is also the capital of Rajasthan. The drive from Delhi to Jaipur is also exciting as you get a chance to see some of the Indian villages. You can stop to capture the moments in your camera. On arrival at hotel you will have smooth check in as our representative will be assisting you. Later go for half day guided city tour. The monuments to be visited are City Palace, where in one wing the royal family resides and rest is converted into museums which have the collection of textiles and armory and many royal families’ belongings. After that visit to the Observatory built by Raja Jai Singh in the year 1728 A.D. Later visit Hawa Mahal which acted as gallery for the royal ladies to take an aerial view of the processions being taken on special occasions in the street. Evening free to take a walk in the local market near Hawa Mahal. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 04 : Excursion to Amer and Jaigarh Forts
Today after relaxed morning breakfast go for an excursion to Amer and Jaigarh forts which is on the outskirts Jaigarh Forts of the city. Amer was the old capital of Kachhwaha rulers later in 1727 it was shifted to Jaipur. Here at Amer take a ride on elephant like a Maharaja to ascend the fort. The fine intricate carvings and paintings on the walls are really a masterpiece of the Rajputana architecture. After spending some time at Amer Fort we will proceed to the next fort called Jaigarh Fort which is believed to be of 11th century and the beauty of the fort is that it houses one of the biggest cannon which is really a worth visiting. Conclude your day by visiting Gaitor, which used to be the cremation ground for the royal families. Here you can see some of the elegant chhatris and cenotaphs of various kings and queens. Rest of the day free to explore the city on your foot visiting local markets where you can purchase souvenirs for the families and friends.

Day 05 : Jaipur - Ranthambore 190 kms / 04 Hrs
After breakfast leave for Ranthambore which was once the hunting ground for the royal families is now a protected National park. Upon arrival check in your jungle resort and later in the afternoon go for Jungle safari either by canter or by jeep. If you are lucky then you can get a chance to see tigers. Rest other animals can be viewed easily. Overnight stay at jungle resort

Day 06 : Ranthambore - Bharatpur 250 KM / 05 Hrs
Beyond Your Experience in Bharatpur Bird Senturion Park TourToday morning go for Jungle safari. Later return to the hotel for breakfast and drive to Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur which is one of the Asia’s largest bird sanctuaries known for its more than 364 species of birds which includes the Siberian Crane one of the rarest species from all around the world. Check in jungle lodge and later go for rickshaw ride to watch birds. Overnight at resort.

Day 07 : Bharatpur - Agra 60 kms / 1 ½ Hrs
Head to Agra en route visiting Fateh pur Sikri which was once the capital of Akbar the Mughal King but later on it was abandoned due to scarcity of water. It houses some of the interesting buildings like Diwane Khas, house of ministers, Diwan -e -Aam, House of Commons. It has also the Jodha Bai’s Palace and Maryam’s Palace. Upon arrival check in hotel and later go for sightseeing of Agra. Visit Taj Mahal, the symbol of love built by Emperor Shah Jehan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaj. Agra Fort which is considered to be the replica of Delhi’s Red Fort is also a massive structure and is worth spending an hour there. Rest of the day free to explore the city on your own. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 08 : Agra - Jhansi (Express Train) - Orchha-Khajuraho 170 Km /03 Hrs
After an early breakfast you will be driven to the railway station to board super fast train to Jhansi.Wildlife Tour in Orchha !!! On arrival you will meet our driver at the platform who will take you to Khajuraho en route visiting Orchha which is just 11 Km from the Jhansi railway station on the route of Khajuraho. Orchha is situated on the bank of the river Betwa.Visit Orchha Fort, Ram Temple and Raj Mandir built between 1554 and 1591, which comprises of a solid single block crowned by pavilions. Later visit Jehangir Mahal.After finishing the sightseeing of Orchha leave for Khajuraho.which was once the capital of Chandela Dynasty during 09th to 13th centuries. Check in hotel. Rest of the day to relax in the hotel after a long day. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 09 : Khajuraho - Bandhavgarh 240 kms / 05 Hrs
Start your day early today; visit some of the erotic temples of Khajuraho which are divided in two segments Eastern and Western groups. Among the most famous temple in eastern group is Parasvnath temple and in western group is Kandriya Mahadev temple dedicated to lord Shiva. Later in the afternoon drive to Bandhavgarh National Park which is densely populated by flora and fauna. In the past days it was a hunting ground for the royal families. Here you can spot the tigers and other wild animals like Nilgai, Chausingha, Chital, Chinkara, Wild Boar and sometimes a fox or jackal. On arrival check in jungle resort. Overnight stay at resort.
Kanha National Park Day 10 : Bandavgarh
Today morning and afternoon free for jungle activities. Overnight stay at your resort.

Day 11 : Bandavgarh - Kanha 250 KMS / 06 Hrs
Today after morning breakfast drive to Kanha which has been rated as the best National Parks of Asia, even the author Rudyard Kipling was inspired to write his novel Jungle Book. At Kanha you can see the tigers roaming in wilderness in their natural habitat. Check in resort. Overnight stay at resort..
Day 12 : Kanha National Park
Today enjoy your full day in jungle safaris to spot the wild animals. Overnight stay at your jungle resort.
Day 13 : Kanha - Nagpur 260 kms. / 5 Hrs
Today early morning go for jungle safari to view the morning activities of the animals. You can see deer, black buck, Indian bison, leopard and many more animals.Flourish Bird Tours Mumbai !!! Later in the afternoon drive to Kanpur for overnight stay.
Day 14 : Nagpur - Bombay Flight
Morning breakfast at the hotel and later you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight for Mumbai.
Day15 : Bombay Sightseeing
After relaxed morning breakfast go for guided city tour visiting Prince of Wales museum, Dhobi ghat, to see how the Indian washerman washes the clothes. Also visit Malabar hills to get an aerial view of the city. After that go for an excursion to Elephanta caves by motor boat. The rock cut temples are dedicated to lord Shiva. Later in the evening you will be driven to International airport to take your flight back to home.

Waterfalls in India

2010-07-08T00:52:00.000-07:00

Indian peninsula is bounded on its three sides- the Arabian Sea to the west, the Bay of Bengal to the east and the Indian Ocean to the south. The country with a long coastline measuring over 6,700 kms houses some of the world’s finest beaches. Indian Beaches stretch across the shoreline of the states like - Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and West Bengal. Besides, the islands of Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar has some very exotic beaches. The tranquil beaches in India attract a huge number of tourists from far and wide. Indian beaches are ideal for every thing, be it for a romantic honeymoon, a memorable holiday, an ideal vacation or the adventurous water sports.

Adyanpara Falls

Nestled in the land of perennial springs and lush green mountains Adyanpara is acascading waterfall in the Kurmbalangod village of Nilambur taluk in Kerala. This region attracts a wide variety of exotic as well as migratory birds and is rich in wildlife. It is a charming and picteresque picnic spot.

Athirapally Falls

The magnificent Athirapally falls start calmly from the mountains, crash through gorges overhung with trees and finally plummet over 80 ft to join the Chalakkudy River in its course. Its cool misty waters surrounded by thick tropical rain forests provide a serene haven away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life

Chachai Waterfall

In the jungles of Madhya Pradesh, in an area famous for its scenic beauty,delicious mangoes and the rare white tigers lie the Chachai Falls. They are a beautiful spectacle of water falling in torrents from a height of 130 mts. The falls are situated on the banks of the river Bihad in the Chattarpur district of Madhya Pradesh

Chunchanakatte Falls

Chunchanakatte Falls is a waterfall on the river Kaveri, near the village of Chunchanakatte in Mysore district of Karnataka in India. In these peaceful and lush green surrounding the water gently cascades from a height of about 20 meters creating a soothing gurgling sound on its onward journey.

Dudhsagar Falls

The gorgeous Dudhsagar Falls drop a sheer 600 mts and are one of the highest falls in the county. Located on the border of Karnataka and Goa, its inan area of dense tropical jungle, criss crossed with delightful streams and dotted with shallow pools, inviting and safe enough for a lesiurely swim. The view from the top of the waterfall is simply breath taking.
Duduma Waterfall

The majestic Duduma Waterfall lies deep in the heartland of Orissa, averdant paradise of paddy fields and palm fringed silver beaches,temples, rivers, waterfalls and tribal people. In a quiet forest and aserene setting it truly is a hiden wonder.

Gersoppa Falls

One of the most spectacularly beautiful falls, the Gersoppa stem from the Sharavati River in Karnataka. The river plunges over a sharp cliff and falls in four cascades, the highest of which is 830 ft. It is a wild and unruly beauty of nautre right next to the city of Bombay yet far removed

Godchinamalaki Falls

The Godachinmalki Falls are located in the Belguam district of Karnataka, India. Situated in a rugged valley these charming falls first take a dipof about 25 mts and flow into a rocky pool from which they take another plunge of about 18 mts. This magical natural spot with blue green waters surrounded by forests require a little walk before it can be reached,but is well worth the effort.

Gokak Falls

6 kms from thetown of gokak in karnataka, the great Ghataprabha river meandears through the terrain before plummetting 52 mts down sheer sandstone cliffs, passing through a rugged valley and a picturesque gorge. The natural springs and hills all around add to its beauty. The dull roar of these falls echo through the mountains and can be heard from a distance.

Hogenakal Falls

The name Hogenakkal is derived from Kannada, it means smoky rocks and the falls are no less beautiful than their name. Here the gushing force of the water when falls on the rocks below looks like smoke emanating from the rocks. The immensely picteresque and awe-inspiring white
Jog Falls

The Jog falls in Karnataka are an ode to nature's power, in these wild and unspoilt surroundings, the Sharavati river crashes nearly nine hundred feet downwards, forming four cascades locally known as - king, queen, rocket and roarer. This spectacular fall is Asia's highest and during the monsoon when the river swells the water gushes down with such speed that the entire vista is covered in mists and arching rainbows cover the droplets.

Jonha Falls

Near the picteresque Johna Falls stands Lord Gautam Budha's temple and because of this famous temple these falls are also known as Gautam Dhara. Situated amidst rich foliage abundant in wildlife, it lies on the banks of the kanchi river. It is 40 km on Ranchi - Purulia road in Jharkhand.

Kiliyur Falls

These beautiful falls are nestled in the Servarayan hill range in the Eastern Ghats in Tamil Nadu. Here the excess waters of the Yercaud Lake and the other reaches of the Shevaroys Hills fall deep into the Kiliyur Valley,a breath taking 300 feet. In this wooded oasis the views of the lake,the falls and the valley are truly stupendous

Kutralam Falls

Popularly known as the 'Spa of the South', the waters of this fall pass through the forest of herbs thereby gaining medicinal properties and attracting a huge crowd of believers. Located at a distance of 160 kms from Madurai in Tamil Nadu this immense water body actually comprises of nine waterfalls, the Peraruvi (Main Falls), Chitra Aruvi, Shenbaghadevi Falls, Then Aruvi (Honey Falls), Aintharuvi (Five Falls), Puli Aruvi(Tiger Falls), Pazhaya Courtrallam (Old Falls), Puthu Aruvi (New Falls)and Pazhathotta Aruvi (Fruit Garden Falls) respectively.

Muthyalamaduvu Falls

Muthyalamaduvu,also known as Pearl Valley, is a popular picnic spot situated about 45km south of Bangalore in Karnataka. The Muthyalamaduvu Falls or the Pearl Valley Falls is a gushing stream cascading down from a height of 92 m. The drops of water strewn across the rock surface on impact lend the appearance of scattered pearls. Hence the name. The fall, its sereneambience and the lush green valley is a huge draw for visitors.

Shivanasamudra Falls

The Shivanasamudra Falls are situated 85 Kms east of Mysore, here the river Cauvery cascades down from a height of 75 meters into a deep rockygorge. The white waters that cut across deep green hills create a starkand beautiful natural contrast, it is a beautiful natural spot.

Vazhachal Falls

The Shivanasamudra Falls are situated 85 Kms east of Mysore, here the river Cauvery cascades down from a height of 75 meters into a deep rockygorge. The white waters that cut across deep green hills create a starkand beautiful natural contrast, it is a beautiful natural spot.

Kullu Valley Tourism

2010-06-23T00:56:00.000-07:00

Distance : 69km from Mandi, 270 km from Chandigarh
Population :14,500
Altitude :1,219m

¤ A Tourist Paradise

Naggar Village, Kullu valleyKullu and Manali are perhaps the two most frequentily travelled destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Thousands of pilgrims, trekkers and casual tourists pour into these towns every year. Not just that, Kullu and Manali are certainly very popular with sickeningly love-dovey honeymooners too.

Kullu, on the western banks of the torrential Beas, occupies the central part of the Kullu Valley. It has the largest settlement in the valley and doubles as the district headquarter. The charming town was made capital by the British who had settled here in the hope of making it big in tea growing. See History of Kullu Valley for more. Today the place is in the happy position of being a well-developed tourist destination without having being ruined by tourists,top on chart of Himachal tourism. Mid-March to mid-April and mid-September to mid-November are the perfect months to visit Kullu.

Tourist attraction of Ajmer

2010-04-06T21:58:00.000-07:00

The small town of Ajmer, 78 miles west of Jaipur, played a surprisingly important role in India's history. Set at the point where the rocky Aravalli Hills end and the Thar Desert begins, this was originally the stronghold of the powerful Chauhan Dynasty of Rajputs, who built India's first ever hill fort here in the 7th century, Taragarh, whose ruins you can still see today.

Tourist attraction of Ajmer

Dargah-e-Sharif Ajmer :- Located at the foot of a barren hill, the Dargah-e- Sharif is the place where the Khawaja Moin-ud-din Chisti's mortal remains lie buried. The Dargah has a beautiful marble dome and a courtyard, surrounded by a silver platform. It's believed that the tomb is a place of wish fulfillment for those who pray with devout and pure hearts. People of all religious faiths visit the Dargah and make offerings of rose and jasmine flowers to seek the blessings of the Khawaja.

Taragarh Fort :- The 7th century Taragarh Fort (Star Fort) was built by Ajaipal Chauhan, the founder of the city of Ajmer. Perched on a high hill, the fort offers a breathtaking view of Ajmer city.

Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhonpra :- The Adhai-Din-Ka-Jhonpra is a small and beautiful mosque, situated on the outskirts of Ajmer. Built by Alauddin Khilji, a Delhi Sultant king, it's one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture. The mosque is built on pillars and surprisingly no two pillars are alike. Its archways and the pillars are finely engraved with Kufi and Jughra inscriptions from the holy Quran.

Ana Sagar Lake :- A beautiful artificial lake, Ana Sagar Lake was built by Anaji between 1135-1150 AD. Later the Mughal Emperors made additional constructions to beautify the Lake. While the Baradari, a beautiful marble pavilion, was built by Shah Jehan, Jehangir added the Daulat Bagh Gardens.

Tourist attraction of Alwer

2010-04-06T21:56:00.000-07:00

Alwar is an ideal holiday destination for nature lovers. This picturesque holiday destination is surrounded by small hills of Aravali range. Moreover, you would be able to enjoy some of the best variety of animals and birds. Alwar also features one of the best wildlife sanctuaries of India. This sanctuary is positioned in Sariska, Rajasthan. Alwar is known for lush green forests, lakes, magnificent architecture etc. So, pack your bags and enjoy the great tourist attractions in Alwar. Indian Holiday offers online information about the tourist attractions in Alwar, India. Alwar is also regarded as the Tiger Gate of Rajasthan, India. A few popular tourist attractions of Alwar are Alwar Government Museum, Bala Quila, Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri, Bhartihari Temple, Bhangarh, Slilserh Lake etc.

Tourist attraction of Alwer

There are numerous tourist attractions of Alwar worth seeing. Most of these places have some history attached to them. They bring alive the royal past of the city. Some of the places to see in Alwar are:

Bala Quila :- Rajasthan sightseeing tour must include the Bala Quila (young fort), dominating the skyline of Alwar. Built atop a hill, the fort is located approximately 595m above the city. It stretches about 5 km from north to south and 1.6 km from east to west. Bala Quila contains 15 large and 51 small towers, comprising of approximately 446 loopholes for the musketry.

City Palace :- Blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the City Palace of Alwar dates back to the 18th Century. Presently, in the ground floor of the palace, government offices and district courts are functioning. The attractions of the City Palace, Rajasthan include an artificial lake constructed by Maharaja Vinay Singh in 1815. There are also a number of temples on the banks of the lake.

Inside the palace is a splendid chhatri, having Bengali roof and arches. It is known as Moosi Maharani ki chhatri. Located within this chattri is the Company garden, known as Purjan Vihar. The garden was built during the reign of Maharaja Shiv Dan Singh in the year 1868. Maharaja Mangal Singh made further additions to the garden in 1885. This garden is an ideal picnic spot in summers providing lush green surrounding, along with the cool shades of its numerous trees

Alwar Government Museum :- A part of City Palace of Alwar has now been converted into a museum. The museum houses a rare collection of Persian and Sanskrit manuscripts, arms, musical instruments, bidri work, miniature paintings, stuffed animals, exquisite brass and pottery works (from Jaipur, Multan, Bengal and Ceylon), lacquered and ivory work, etc.

Purjan Vihar (Company Garden) :- Built during the reign of Maharaja Shiv Dan Singh in 1868, Purjan Vihar is also known as the Company Gardens. This scenic garden serves as a popular picnic spot during summers. One of the most attractive features of the garden is setting known as Shimla. It was built by Maharaja Mangal Singh to provide cool shades as a relief from the scorching summer heat,

Tourist attraction of Jaipur

2010-04-06T21:53:00.000-07:00

Jaipur the capital city of Rajasthan. The very arrangement of Jaipur resembles the flavor of the Rajputs and the Royal family. In the current date, Jaipur is the main commerce centre for the citizens of Rajasthan with all basics of a urban city.

Jaipur, the Pink City, is a wonderful tourist destination of India to be in. Jaipur has many tourist attractions in the form of magnificent forts, beautiful palaces, havelis, museums, temples and colorful bazaars.

City Palace :- City Palace forms one of the most famous tourist attractions and a major landmark in Jaipur. The beautiful palace was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh during his reign. Among the various forts and palaces of Jaipur, City Palace stands apart, with its outstanding art and architecture.

Hawa Mahal :- The Hawa Mahal, which adjoins the famous City Palace wall, was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and has now become one of the major landmarks of Jaipur. The palace is shaped like a pyramid and is a five-storied building, with number of small windows and screens, with arched roofs. As one looks at this building, one realizes that the rear side of the building is comparatively very plain and lacks much of ornamentation. One is rather surprised at the contrast, since in the front there is intricate carving and much attention has been paid to even minute details yet the backside is more a mass of pillars and passages

Jantar Mantar :- Jantar Mantar at Jaipur is the largest stone observatory in the World and this feature makes it, a special destination for a traveler. Jantar Mantar of Jaipur is one of the five astronomical observatories built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the founder of Jaipur. During the period between 1727 and 1733, Jantar Mantar took its form and structure.

Amber Fort :- Amber Fort is located in Amber (Jaipur), which used to be the capital of the Kachhwaha clan, till Jaipur was made the official capital in 1727. The Amber Fort looks stunning, all-built in white marble and red sandstone. To add to its charm, Maotha Lake makes its foreground. The crystal mirror image of the Fort, on the still waters of the lake, seems to be a beautiful illusion. Amber Fort is usually pronounced as Amer Fort. In 1592, construction of the Fort was started by Raja Man Singh I. However, the Amber Fort took its present form during the reign of Raja Jai Singh I.

The outer appearance of the Fort, being rough and craggy is totally different from its core. The interior of the Fort provides a soothing and warm ambience, which is least expected from its outer appearance. The marvelous decoration of the Amer Fort is influenced by both, the Hindu and Muslim manner of ornamentation. Exquisite paintings of hunting scenes on the walls depict the temperament of the Rajputs, who were adventurous, revolutionary and self-indulgent.

Nahargarh Fort :- Nahargarh Fort is the first of the three forts built by Maharaja Jai Sawai Singh of Jaipur. The Fort stands at the top of rugged point of the Aravalis and offers a spectacular view of the City. Keeping this fact in mind, the fort was made to serve as a means of supporting the security of Amer. The term "Nahargarh" refers to "the Abode of Tigers", so it is also known as the Tiger Fort. The Fort was constructed mainly in 1734, however further additions were made to it, by the succeeding rulers in the 19th century.

Birla Mandir :- Birla Mandir or the Lakshmi - Narayan Temple, situated just below the Mooti Doongari, which is a replica of a Scottish castle, is one of the most revered Hindu temples, dedicated to Shri Lakshmi-Narayan.
Built on raised ground, it is surrounded by large lush green gardens. The temple has been constructed in white marble and has three domes, each portraying the different approaches to religion

Ishwar Lat :- ‘Swarg Suli’ or ‘heaven piercing minaret’, the tower, near Tripolia gate, built by Maharaja Ishwari Singh (1744-51). It offers one of the most breathtaking view of the city.
Central Museum :- - situated in the Ram Niwas Garden. This graceful building was founded in 1876 by Prince Albert (also known as Albert Hall). It has a rare collection of archaeological and handicraft pieces

Sisodia Garden :- Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh is a beautiful garden, located at a distance of 10 kms from Jaipur, on Jaipur-Agra Highway. Sisodia Bagh gets a prime attraction in the charming city of Jaipur. The Garden appeals more to the beholder, since it stands as a symbol of love. In 1728, Sisodia Rani Garden was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, with an intention to gift the garden, to his Sisodia Queen from Udaipur. As the name suggests, the Garden was named after the queen, who was adorable to the King.

Galta Devi Temple :- Galta is a pretty little pilgrim spot located just beyond Sisodia Rani-ka Bagh on Agra Road at a distance of 10 km. from Jaipur. This is the sacred spot where one sage Galav is supposed to have lived and meditated. As such the place is visited mainly for its temples. Just before you enter Galta, you will come across the aesthetic Balaji ka Mandir. It is a triple-storied building of pink stone, looking more like a palatial haveli (mansion). The Temple of Galtaji, which lies in a picturesque gorge amid low hills, has a huge complex. This one is also built of pink stone, with a profusion of pavilions having rounded roofs. The walls and pillars have exquisite carvings and paintings. The whole complex is so beautiful that it is more of a visual treat than a place for worship. The temple, however, has a large daily attendance.

Doll Museum :- a collection of beautiful dolls from all over the world, it is situated on Jawahar Lal Nehru Marg,

Kanak Vrindvan :- (6.5 Kms on the way to Amer) This newly restored temple and garden, near Jal Mahal, has beautiful gardens and is popular picnic place. This is also beautiful location for film shooting.

Vidhyadhar Garden :- (5 kms.) on the way to Agra, built by Viyadhar, the chief architect and town planner of Jaipur. This beautiful terraced garden has several galleries and pavilions decorated with exquisite murals, depicting Lord Krishna

Choki Dhani :- Chokhi Dhani a small village, so we can say Chokhi Dhani is a well recreated Rajasthani Village. This one is the special one of Rajasthan. Any tour to Rajasthan is incomplete without a stay at Chowki Dhani. This 5 star RESORT is a perfect place for a peaceful stay. Colors of Rajasthan have been added to spark the stay here.

Each and every corner of Chowki Dhani speaks of Rajathan. From wherever you walk into this place, it will tell you about the tales of Rajasthan, its land, its culture and its people. Live with Cultural dances of Rajasthan, handicrafts like pottery, rural attractions like camel and cow rides; palm reades, chokhi dhani of Jaipur makes for a perfect weekend destination,

Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary

2010-04-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

Location : 12-km From Paloncha, Khammam District, Andhra Pradesh.
Coverage Area : 635.4-sq-kms.
Main Attractions : Tiger, Panther, Gaur, Chinkara.
Best Time To Visit : June To October.
Accommodation : Rest House at Paloncha & Kothagudem.

Arrival Information :

Rail : Nearest railway station is at Bhadrachalam,which is about 25-km from Kinnerasani.
Road : Kinnerasani Wildlife Sanctuary is located at about 12-km from Paloncha in Khammam district of Andhra Pradesh.

This Wildlife Sanctuary lying on the Right Bank of the Godavari River forms a part of the Dandakaranya forests in Khammam district. It is situated 12-km from Paloncha, Khammam District. It extends over an area of 635.4-sq-kms It derives its name from the river Kinnerasani, which bisects the sanctuary and ultimately drains into the Godavari River. The sanctuary represents dry deciduous mixed type forests with teak, bamboo and terminals. Other species found here are Maddi, Yepi, Yegissa, Sommi Thandra, Bandaru, Amla, Mango, Tendu. Main attractions of the sanctuary are the Deer Park, Kinnerasani Dam and Reservoir with Jaladrushyam Guest house. Many perennial springs known as "Togus" flow through this sanctuary along with Kinnerasani Rallavagu.

Flora :

Dry deciduous teak forest with bamboo, terminalias, anogeissus.

Fauna :

Animals like Cheetal, Black Bucks, Chinkaras, Chousinghas, Sambhars, Wild Boars, Gaurs, Wild Dog, Hyena, Jackals, Sloth Bear, Panthers, Tigers, and a variety of bird species like Peafowl, Jungle Fowl, Qualis, Partridges, Doves, Ducks, Teals, Spoonbills, Nuktas, Open bill stork, come to nest and graze in Kinnersani lake. Reptiles like Python, Cobra, Kraite and Vipers can also be seen.

A holiday home glass guesthouse, Eco park near dam, Environmental Education Centre and Luxuriant forests along the fore shore of the Reservoir are other tourist attractions of this place.

Fair and Festivals of Andhra Pradesh

2010-04-06T21:33:00.000-07:00

Andhra Pradesh is famous for its varied culture and tradition. One of the highlight of its culture are the numerous festivals celebrated here. Most of these festivals are religious and some are organized by the government of Andhra Pradesh state. These festivals are celebrated with great pomp and gaiety.

Religious Festivals
There are various religious festivals celebrated in Andhra Pradesh. These festivals belong to different religions, but are celebrated with equal excitement and enthusiasm.

Pongal ( January)
Famous Pongal, the harvest festival, is celebrated from the 13th to the 15th of January every year. It literally means "boiling over" and is a celebration of the flourishing crops in the fields. This festival basically belongs to farming community, but today it is celebrated throughout the South India. Mainly in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

Sivaratri ( February- March)

Sivaratri, is one of the pre-historic festivals celebrated all over India in the months of February/March. This festival is devoted to Lord Shiva, the destroyer. Sivaratri is celebrated by remaining awake throughout the night, visiting the temple and listening to the Vedic recitals and their meanings.

Moharrum ( April)
Moharrum is a Muslim festival celebrated in Hyderabad. Other Muslim festivals like Milad-un-Nabi and Id are also celebrated with assemblies held at Mecca Masjid and at Dar-us-Salaam. These festivals are also celebrated with equal happiness all over the country.

Ugadi ( April – May)
Ugadi is the New Year's day in andhra culture. It is celebrated every year after the celebration of 'holi' in April-May.

Vinayaka or Ganesh Chaturthi (August- September)
Ganesh or Vinayak Chaturthi is celebrated to mark the birthday of Lord Ganesh or Vinayak. This famous festival is celebrated with excitement and enthusiasm throughout the country along with Andhra Pradesh. The duration of Ganesh Chaturthi is ten days and on the tenth day Ganesh idols are immersed in the Hussain Sagar lake.

Diwali ( October- November)

Diwali, the festival of light, is celebrated in th entire country including Andhra Pradesh. This festival is dedicated to the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. It is celebrated by decorating house with lights and burning crackers.

State Festivals

Andhra Pradesh Tourism conducts four festivals every year. These festivals help the thriving tourism in the state.

Deccan Festivals ( February)
The Deccan festival is a celebration of Hyderabad's arts, crafts, culture and cuisine. The highlight of the festival are the Pearls and Bangles fair and a food fair. The festival also includes cultural programs, food stalls, arts and craft shops etc.

Lumbini Festivals (December)
The Lumbini festival celebrates the Buddhist Heritage of andra Pradesh. This festival is celebrated in Nagarjunasagar and Hyderabad for three days from second Friday of December, every year.

Utsav (January)
The Visaka Utsav is a celebration of the arts, crafts and cuisine of Visakahapatan district. It is celebrated from the 3rd Sunday of January in every year and the duration of the festival is three days.

Dance of Andhra Pradesh
India's age old culture and tradition is incomplete, without mentioning the various dance forms having related to a particular period or environment. Similarly, every state of India boasts of its different classical and folk dance forms. Andhra Pradesh is also the proud owner of some of the most beautiful famous dance forms. It offers a variety of performing arts unique to its culture.

Kuchipudi Dance- The Classical Dance
Kuchipudi, the famous classical dance form of Andhra Pradesh derives its name from a village, situated about 60 km. away from Vijayawada. It is located just above the delta region of the river Krishna. Kuchipudi originated from a hamlet in Andhra Pradesh, called Kuchelapuri or Kuchelapuram in the 3rd century B.C.

Folk Dance :- Apart from the classical dance form, Andhra Pradesh is also known for its tribal dances. They also contribute equally to the artistic heritage of Andhra Pradesh. Since Andhra Pradesh is inhabited by many large tribes, thus, it is rich in traditional folk and tribal dances. The folk dance forms are accompanied by the folk theater the can be seen in its regional forms almost in every region of the state. Bathakamma, Gobbi, Mathuri, Dhamal, Dandaria, Dappu, Vadhyam are a few famous tribal folk arts. The dances of the Banjaras and the Siddi tribes are also famous. These dances are generally performed on the occasion of community festivals.

Veeraanatyam :- This dance form is performed by the Veeramusti community of Andhra Pradesh which claims to be the descendant of Veerabhadra. This is a vigorous dance form performed with instruments like Tambura, Soolam, Dolu, Tasha & Veeranam. This community is usually found at Draksharamam in East Godavari District. It is believed that Lord Shiva, performed an aggressive dance form, outraged at the humiliation of his consort. He plucked a strand out of his long hair and created the legendary Veerabhadra.

Butta Bommalu :- The Butta Bommalu is a typical folk dance form popular in Tanuku of West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. Butta Bommalu literally means basket toys, made of woodhusk, dry grass & cow dung. The dancers wear different mask over the head and shoulders, thus widening the range of the performer.

Dappu :- This folk dance form is performed mainly in Telangana. The highlight of this dance form is an instrument made of goatskin. It is a tambourine like drum which is beaten with sticks creating a rhythm accompanied by the ankle bells worn by the dancers. Almost 16 to 20 Dappu dancers perform at a time.

Chindu Bhagvatham :- The Chindu Bhagavatham dance is an alive dance form belonging to the Nizamabad district. The Chindu dancers wear colorful make-up along with even more colorful costumes. The instruments used for this dance form are cymbals, tabla & a harmonium.

Tappetagullu :-The Tappetagullu is popular dance form of Srikakulam & Vizianagaram districts. This is a devotional dance form, performed in order to persuade the God of rain to bless the land with rainfall. The Tappetagullu is a prefect combination of vigor, rhythm and tempo.

Lambadi : This dance form is inspired by the daily chores of a farmer, like harvesting, planting, sowing etc. The Lambadi dance form is performed by the Banjaras, a semi-nomadic tribe found all over Andhra Pradesh.

Bonalu :-The folk festival of Bonalu is celebrated in the Telangana region. On the occasion of this festival, colorfully dressed female dancers preform a difficult balancing act. These dancers balance pots (bonalu), matching to the rhythmic beats and tunes, in order to pay homage to the village deity, Mahankali.

Dhimsa :-The Dhimsa folk dance is generally performed in local fairs & festivals of Araku Valley in Vishakhapatanam district. Almost 15 to 20 tribal women dressed in typical tribal attire and ornaments, form a chain and dance to the rhythm. Some of the instruments used for this dance form are Mori, Thudum & Dappu, played by the male members of the community.

Wildlife in Andhra Pradesh

2010-04-06T21:31:00.000-07:00

Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary : - This sanctuary is located nearby Kakinada and is part of the Godavari River. There is a luxuriant Mangrove forest which homes to rare species. Animals like crocodile, fishing cat and sea turtle are found here.

Eturnagaram Sanctuary : It is situated in the Warangal District in Andhra Pradesh. It is covered with deciduous trees like teak and bamboo.
Some exotic animals like the tiger, antelope, bear and the black buck are noticed in this sanctuary.

Gundala Brahmeswara Sanctuary :- Located between the districts of Prakasam and Kurnool, this sanctuary features woods of deciduous trees like teak, albizzia, shisham and bamboo. The major animals found here are tiger, panther, monkey, chinkara and a variety of reptiles. Indira Gandhi Zoological Park : This sanctuary is very close to the Vishakhapatnam railway station.

Tourist attraction of Vijayawada

2010-04-06T21:28:00.000-07:00

Vijayawada has many interesting places that make a nice tour to the city. In the company of Granite Mountains, the historical monuments appear lively with the hoary appeal. Be it museums containing relics, splendid temples and mosques, engraved caves or modern structures, the city is full of special charms. Once visited, these attractions would become part of your most cherished memories. On your trip to Vijaywada, tourist attractions would add to the excitement of the whole journey. Scroll down to get more information about the sightseeing tours in Vijayawada.

Tourist attraction of Vijayawada

Kanaka Durga Temple :- Perhaps Kanaka Durga Temple is the most popular temple of the city. Perched on Indrakiladri Hill, the temple provides a panoramic view of Vijayawada. The presiding deity in the temple is Kanaka Durga, who is considered as the Goddess of power, riches and benevolence. There are several inscriptions inside the temple, representing different dynasties. Though all festivals are observed here with full enthusiasm, Dusshera deserves special mention. People from all parts of the region come to visit this divine temple.

Victoria Jubilee Regional Museum :- Situated on Bandar Road, Victoria Jubilee Regional Museum has been set up by the State Archaeological Department. It comprises beautiful sculptures, attractive paintings, idols, weapons, cutlery and inscriptions that date back to the 1st and 2nd centuries.
Bhavani Island :- Perhaps Bhavani Island is the largest island in Krishna River. Located near Prakasam Barrage, the island has been groomed up by Andhra Pradesh tourism. It has some cottages that offer really cozy accommodation. A boat ride to this island in itself would be an electrifying activity.

Gundala Church :- Also known as St. Mary's Church, Gundala Church was earlier an orphanage. It is to be found on the eastern side of the town on a hillock. 'Our Lady of Lourdes' is an annual event observed at the church that is attended by hundreds of people.

The Gandhi Stupa :- Perched on Gandhi Hill, the Stupa was the first memorial built in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi across the country. Here one can see the teachings of the legend inscribed on stone slabs. Gandhi Memorial Library, Planetarium, Sound and Light Show are the added attractions at the hill.

Akkana and Madanna Caves :- En route for Kanaka Durga Temple, Akkana and Madanna Caves are the rock-cut caves built in the 17th century. Akkana and Madanna were actually ministers in the court of Abdul Hasan Tanashah. These caves are accompanied by one more cave that dates back to the 2nd century and houses trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara.

Rajiv Gandhi Park :- Rajiv Gandhi Park is an educative park, erected by the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation. Being at the entrance of the city, the park welcomes the tourists with its impressive horticultural work. In the company of mini zoo, playing area for children and a musical water fountain, Rajiv Gandhi National Park is a favorite picnic spot amongst the people.
Malleswaraswami Temple :- In the proximity of Kanaka Durga Temple, the shrine of Malleswaraswami is sited on Indrakiladri hill. Lord Mallikarjuna is known by the name of Malleswara in the Puranas. The idol inside the shrine is believed to have been installed by Yudhishthira (the eldest brother of the Pandavas) to commemorate their victory in the South.
Vijayeswara Swami Temple :- In the vein of other temples, Vijayeswara temple is positioned on Indrakiladri Hill in Vijayawada. The installation of deity is regarded to have been done by Arjuna to mark his victory with Lord Shiva as 'Kirata' (hunter).

Besant Road :- Besant Road is the most busy and crowded roads of Vijaywada. In and around this place, you can find about 50 cinema halls since theatres are the major source of entertainment for people.

Subramanya Swamy Temple :- One amongst the popular temples in Vijayawada, Subramanya Swamy Temple is also sited Indrakiladri Hill. One can take a flight of steps to reach the shrine. At the time of Skanda Shashti Festival, the temple receives thousands of devotees from all nearby areas.

Sri Nagarala Sri Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru Temple
Located in Chiitinagar, Sri Nagarala Sri Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru Temple is a significant shrine in Vijayawada. Dussehra, being the major festival celebrated at the temple, attracts devotees from far and wide.

Main Tourist attractions of Visakhapatnam

2010-04-06T21:18:00.000-07:00

Visakhapatnam is always delightful with its sandy beaches and natural beauty. Though the city has been heavily industrialized, it has kept its charm alive through the blue waters and coconut trees. On your tour to Vizag, you will find so many places that are worth-seeing. Varying from Buddhist excavation sites to primeval temples, golden beaches to green forests, interesting museums to vantage points, this city has ample of places to make your trip really good one. So making your itinerary for sightseeing tours, the tourist attractions of Vishakapatnam have been jotted down here.

Tourist attraction of Visakhapatnam

Ramakrishna Beach :- Ramakrishna Beach is the most popular beach of Visakhapatnam. With its serene waters and tranquil atmosphere, the beach offers a lovely vista of the countryside. In the past few years, it has gained immense popularity amongst the tourists.

Rishikonda Beach :- Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Rishikonda Beach is the perfect destination for people on a holiday. The untouched sandy stretches and warm waves of the ocean make this beach definitely worth-visiting.

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park :- Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is one amongst the largest zoos of India, sited in the natural surroundings of a reserve forest. Sprawled in an area of 625 acres, the park was named after Indira Gandhi - the former Prime Minister of India. It was opened to the public in the year 1977.

Kailasagiri :- Perhaps Kailasagiri is the most beautiful places in the expanse of Vizag. Perched on a hilltop, it is an interesting place that certainly looks like the abode of God. It also offers spectacular view of both Rishikonda and Ramakrishna Beach. Actually a hill park, Kailasagiri boasts of numerous attractions like Shiva Parvati Statue, Shanku Chakra Naama, Floral Clock, Jungle Trails, Food Courts, 7 Wonders of Vizag, Shiva Temple, Titanic View Point, Shanti Ashram, View Points, Art Gallery, Road Train, Gliding Base Point, Children Play Park, Conference Hall, Telescopic Point etc. Over and above, the pleasant atmosphere and scenic beauty make this place worth-visiting.

Dolphin's Nose :- Indeed Dolphin's Nose is the famous landmark in Visakhapatnam. With a height of 357 meters, the landmark is a rock in the shape of a Dolphin's nose. It's a promontory and also has a lighthouse, which is conceivably the oldest lighthouse in India. Another interesting point about this lighthouse is that its beam can be seen from even 64 km out at sea.

Mudasarlova Water Works and Park :- About 10 km from Vishakhapatnam, Mudasarlova Park is actually sited in a valley encircled by hills. The attraction of the place is made by a lake that supplies water to the park, where slides and sports are attracting tourists and city-dwellers. It also has a Golf Course, which is owned by the East Point Golf Club.

The Harbour & the Three Hills :- Vishakhapatnam boasts of embracing the natural harbour of the country. Dotted with trees and hills, this harbour is one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. In the company of three hills, it presents a wonderful vista. Another interesting fact is that each hill has one place of worship, dedicated to three major religions in the world. In the north, Dargah Konda comprises a mosque, while Venkateshwara Konda in the south has a temple of Lord Venkateshwara. Roman Catholic Church of Mother Mary founds its place on the Ross Hill. Amidst these hills, there is a jungle trail, meandering over three acres of dense forest. It's a nice place to go for trekking.

Submarine Museum :- Submarine Museum is a nice place to feel real-life experience at submarines. It is the only museum in India as well as the Asia to build a submarine. Actually, the museum has been crafted out of a real submarine of Indian Navy. Here, you can get to know about the working inside the submarine.

War Memorial :- To be found opposite Submarine Museum on the Beach Road, War Memorial was built to commemorate the victory at the sea in the Indo-Pak war of 1971. The Naval Museum established here exhibits a fighter plane, a tank and few missiles.

Matsyadarshini :- Aquarium Sited near R.K Beach, Matsyadarshini Aquarium has a nice collection of marine fishes and freshwater fishes. Its, out of the ordinary, façade has an entrance doorway, which resembles the open mouth of a giant white-tipped shark. 'Kala Shrusti' is a handicraft shop located on the top of building.

Bavikonda :- Dating back to the 2nd-3rd century, Bavikonda is a Buddhist excavated site. A drive of about 8 km from the city would bring you to this place, situated along the beach road. In the earlier times, the wells at the hill were used to collect rainwater for drinking purposes. Pottery, Roman coins and Satavahana coins were some of the artifacts found here. Further excavations revealed various stupas, monasteries, platforms, relic caskets, tiles, stuccos, iron objects, moulded bricks, coins, etc.

Mangamaripeta :- Mangamaripeta, a small hamlet, is situated about 16 km from Visakhapatnam. It is known for Thotlakonda, a hill embracing a Buddhist complex. At an elevation of 128 meters above ground, this complex was discovered by an aerial survey conducted by the Indian Navy. Dating back to 200 BC and 200 AD, Thotlakonda was under the sway of Kalingas and used to serve as the promotional centre of Buddhism.

Main Tourist attractions of Tirupati

2010-04-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

Tirupati,the Lord Venkateshwara, Tirupati seems to be frozen in the ancient times. Located in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh, it is visited by numerous devout pilgrims from all parts of India. This temple of Lord Venkateshwara is one of the richest temples in the world and is also known for its historical significance. On your travel to Tirupati, don’t miss out some of the finest pilgrim spots that are located here. Some of the well-known tourist attractions in Tirupati are:

Tourist attraction of Tirupathi

Sri Venkateswara Temple:- This temple is one of the most visited ones and proudly owns the title of being the richest in the entire world. Perched on the seventh peak of the Tirupati Hills, the temple features the ancient scriptures like Shastras, Puranas and Sthala Mahatyams. This temple is said to be the only way to salvation (Moksha) in the Kali yuga (Dark Age) and a visit to this temple is recommended even in the ancient scriptures.

Sri Govindarajaswami Temple:- This temple is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Tirupati. It features an impressive Gopuram easily visible from a distance. In the year 1130 AD Saint Ramanujacharya sanctified the temple. Within the temple complex you will come across museum and a collection of shrines of Sri Parthasarathy, Godadevi Aandal and Pundarikavalli. Sayanamurti (Lord in a sleeping posture) is the chief deity.

Sri Kodandaramaswami Temple:- It is located in the heart of Tirupati and the presiding deities of this temple are Sita, Rama and Lakshmana. This magnificent temple was built during the tenth century AD by a Chola king. This temple, according to legend, celebrates the visit of Sri Rama. The main festivals celebrated in this temple are Ugadi and Sri Ramanavami.

Sri Kapileshwaraswami Temple:- This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is at the foot of the Tirumala Hills. Here, you will also find the holy waterfall called Kapila Teertham (Alwar Teertham). It is the sole Shiva Temple in the town of Tirupati and houses the shrine of Sri Kapileshwaraswami. It is one of the most recommended places to visit in Tirupati and should not be missed out at any cost.

Tiruchanur :- This charming place is home to the well-known temple of Sri Padmavathi Devi (Goddess Lakshmi), the wife of Sri Venkateswara. Peple are of the belief that a visit to Tirupati temple is gratifying only after paying reverence to Sri Padmavati Devi Temple. Don’t miss out this hallowed place on your tour to Tirupati.

Main Tourist attractions of Hyderabad

2010-04-06T21:10:00.000-07:00

Hyderabad the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, spells magic for it combines the old with the new, retaining its old culture and hospitality while driving itself to conquer new frontiers, particularly in the realm of information technology as well as tourism. Over the past few years, Andhra Pradesh tourism has emerged as a frontrunner in regards to the creation of new tourist attractions and infrastructure. It often called the gateway to the South, blends the north and south, blends the north and south Indian identities

Out of all the states of erstwhile Deccan - Bijapur, Berar, Bidar and Golconda - Golconda was by far the most powerful. Ruled by the Qutub Shahis, the capital Bhagyanagar was named after a royal beloved Bhagmati, who later as the wife of Quli Qutub Shah became Hyder Mahal and thus was born Hyderabad.

Main Tourist attractions of Hyderabad

Char Minar :- One of the most important landmarks of Hyderabad with four graceful minarets. The monument was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah in 1591 to commemorate the eradication of plague, shortly after he had shifted his capital from Golkonda to what now is known as Hyderabad.

Golconda Fort :- Golkonda (or Golconda), a ruined city of south-central India, is situated west of Hyderabad, capital of ancient Hyderabad state (13th to 15th century). In America many towns are named after this fort. The most important builder of Golconda was Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah Wali, the fourth Qutb king. Ibrahim was following in the spirit of his ancestors,

Mecca Masjid : - (Mosque) Mecca Masjid in Hyderabad, India is one of the oldest and the biggest mosques in India. Built by Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah, the 6th Sultan of Hyderabad began building it in 1617 under the supervision of Mir Faizullah Baig and Rangaiah Chowdary.

The Chowmahalla Palace : - It is situated just at a walk able distance from charminar. It was the seat of Asaf Jahi dynasty, where the Nizam entertained his official guests and royal visitors. Initiated in 1750 by Nizam Salabat Jung and designed along the lines of the Shah's palace in Isfahan,

The Salarjung Museum :- One of the oldest Museum of Hyderabad is the third largest museum in India housing the biggest one-man collections of antiques in the world. It is well known throughout India for its prized collections belonging to different civilizations dating back to the 1st century.

The Falaknuma Palace : - It is one of the finest palaces in Hyderabad, India. It is located in Falaknuma area, 5km. from Charminar was built by Nawab Vikar-ul-Umra, the then Prime Minister of Hyderabad.[1] Falaknuma literally means "Star of Heaven" in urdu. Since the palace was the private property of the Nizam family until recently, visitors weren't allowed,

The Taramati Baaradari Palace : - This palace is located in Hyderabad, India, that was built under the Seventh Sultan of Golconda, Abdullah Qutub Shah as an ode to his favorite courtesan, Taramati.Taramati was to Abdullah Qutub Shah, what Bhagmati was to his grandfather Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah, the Founder of Hyderabad,

Birla Temple : - It is built on a 280-feet high hillock called the Naovath Pahad on a 13 acres plot. The construction of the temple took 10 years and it was consecrated in 1976. Birla Mandir is a magnificent Hindu temple of Lord Venkateshwara located in Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is built entirely in white marble by the Birla Foundation. Birla Science Museum Next to Birla Mandir,

Qutb Shahi Tomb :- The Qutub Shahi Tombs is the burial ground of the seven kings of the Qutb Shahi dynasty are situated at Ibrahim Bagh Tolichowki near Golconda. The tombs are very popular among tourists coming to Hyderabad.

Hussain Sagar (Lake) :- Hussain Sagar lake is situated in Hyderabad, India built by Hazrat Hussain Shah Wali in 1562, during the rule of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah. It is a man-made lake is also famous for the 19-metre tall Buddha statue on a platform island called "Rock of Gibraltar" in the middle of the lake, and for the Tank Bund which consists of beautiful gardens and statues of famous personalities

Huda Lumbini Park :- This is one of the popular park in the Hyderabad city. The main attraction of this park was the Musical fountain. It is now replaced by the 1500 seater Laserium, the first of its kind in the state.

Nehru Zoological Park :- This zoo is among the largest in India, houses a large variety of animals, birds, nocturnal species, aquatic and amphibian species etc,

The Snow World :- It is the World’s Biggest and India’s 1st Snow Theme Park. Spread over 17,000 square feet area, Lower Tank Bund Road, behind Indira Park, Hyderabad it is yet another landmark in twin cities. Snow World has an indoor "Cryo Zone" full of attractions from a natural snowscape

The Ramoji Film City :- Hyderabad (RFC) is the world’s largest integrated film studio complex at over 2,000 acres of land. It is also a popular tourism and recreation centre, containing both natural and artificial attractions. It is situated on Hyderabad - Vijayawada, highway, about 25 km from Hyderabad. A Japanese garden, the ETV planet (a multi-purpose editing suit), a pool, artificial waterfalls,

Hill Stations in India Tourism

2010-02-08T22:46:00.002-08:00

India is a favorite tourist spot and has picturesque hill stations.
It is a perfect tourist destination for nature lovers.

The misty, mystical and serene hill stations in India are a perfect holiday option and are found in most parts of the country. Most of the hill stations or resorts of India are situated at heights ranging from 600 m above the sea level to 3500 m above the sea level.

These hill stations are popular with both Indian and foreign tourists and offer a relaxing and wholesome break from the heat and dust of the cities. To make these hill stations a luxury trip for tourists, there are various hotels and resorts to cater to lodging requirements. Indian Hill Resorts offers world-class accommodation facilities to the travelers at reasonable rates and invite them to enjoy a relaxing holiday in the hill stations of India. These hill stations act as travel guides to the world of peace and serenity.

Here one can walk across the fields of wild flowers and see the blooming apple orchards, witness the rushing streams cascade down the mountainside, and watch the serenity of the snow-capped Himalayas. Go mountaineering, camping, trekking and paragliding in these hill stations of India and have a holiday of a lifetime. Some of the popular hill-stations in India are Gangtok, Darjeeling, Dharamshala, Dehradun, Auli, Kasauli, Kashmir, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar, Mount Abu, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Dalhousie, Kullu, Lonavala, Manali, Coorg, Coonoor, Khajjiar, Mussoorie, Nainital, Ooty, Shimla and Srinagar.

Hill Stations in India

* Almora Hill Station
* Amarnath Hill Station
* Chamba Hill Station
* Dalhousie Hill Station
* Darjeeling Hill Station
* Dharamshala Hill Station
* Gulmarg Hill Station
* Kodaikanal Hill Station

* Leh Hill Station
* Mount Abu Hill Station
* Munnar Hill Station
* Mussoorie Hill Station
* Nainital Hill Station
* Ooty Hill Station
* Panchgani Hill Station
* Shillong Hill Station

* Shimla Hill Station
* Srinagar Hill Station
* Kaza Hill Station
* Tabo Hill Station
* Karnataka Hill Stations
* Hill Stations in Kerala
* Hill Stations in Maharashtra
* Hill Stations in West Bengal

Almora Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:46:00.001-08:00

Almora is one of the most popular hill stations of Uttaranchal and is in a shape of a horseshoe.
It is one of the five districts in the newly carved state of the Uttaranchal and is situated at the height of 1,638 meters. It is also known, as the cultural capital of Kumaon. It is surrounded by four hill ranges, each having temples on top of its peak. These temples are of goddesses Banari Devi, Kasar Devi, Sayahi Devi and the temple of Sun god.

Known for its scenic beauty, here you can conveniently enjoy the snow-clad peaks of Himalayas together with beautiful blue and green ridges. It offers breathtaking views that ensnare many tourists and makes this hill station one of the most beautiful hill stations in North India.

There are many places in and around Almora that are a must see for any tourist. The Chitai Temple dedicated to Lord Golu is very famous with people from Kumau. People hang little bells in this temple once their wishes are fulfilled. A beautiful pine forest surrounds it. The 1000-year old temple, Nanda Devi Temple is one of the main attractions of Almora. Its has beautiful carvings on its walls and young people from various neighboring areas come here to participate in the dance festival, which is held every year. Other beautiful places in Almora include Deer Park, Bright End Corner and Kasar Devi Temple.

There are also many picturesque places around Almora that are good for sight seeing. Some of these places are Kalimath (5 km), Koshi (12 km), Katarmal (17 km), Binsar (30 km), Jageshwar (34 km), Gannath (47 km), kausani (51 km), Baijnath (70 km) and Bageshwar (90 KM).

Amarnath Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:45:00.002-08:00

One of the holiest Hindu shrines in India is Amarnath. This beautiful hill station is dedicated to Lord Shiva , his wife Parvati and their son Lord Ganesha .
During the month of 'Sawan', an ice stalagmite forms a natural Shiv Ling . This lingam is believed to increase and diminish according to the shape of the moon. There are two smaller lingams by its side dedicated to Parvati and Lord Ganesha.

The Amarnath Yatra is organised every year by the Jammu and Kashmir Government during the month of "sharavan" i.e. in July - August. Chandanwari is the starting point of the Amarnath Yatra and the destination is Amaranth Cave , which is supposed to the abode of Lord Shiva. One can reach Chandanwari by car or by bus but from Chandanwari onwards the track becomes much steeper and can be accessed only on foot or by pony. Located 11-km from Chandanwari is the lake of Sheshnag , after which 13-km away is the last stop, Panchtarni . The Amarnath cave is 6-km away from there. Even if one's visit to Pahalgam is not during the period of the Yatra, one can still take a pony ride up to Sheshnag Lake and can return back by late night.

For the "Yatra" to Amarnath one has to trek a height of about 14,500 ft. Surrounded by beautiful valleys and mountains, one can enjoy the serenity of this hill station. It is a journey that will rediscover the nature and its marvels.

For performing this Yatra, one is required to get registered. Jammu & Kashmir Government does the registration and makes extensive arrangements every year for the successful completion of the pilgrimage. It also registers the pony owners and Dandi Walas . It also provides for camps en route, and ensures safe, comfortable and speedy progress of the travelers.

Chamba Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:45:00.001-08:00

Chamba is a beautiful town located in the picturesque valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most beautiful hill resorts and one of the best tourist spot in India .
Chamba lies on the banks of the River Ravi and is 56 km from Dalhousie. The beautiful valley of Chamba looks spectacular with its valleys of wild flowers and stunning sunsets. Apart from its captivating beauty, it also houses many magnificent and ancient temples, which are a source of attraction for all tourists. The Laxmi Narayan Temple of Chamba catches the attention of many tourists. It has six temples in the complex, three of which are dedicated to Lord Vishnu and other three to Lord Shiva. The architecture of the temples is an example of the Hindu shikhara style of architecture. However, the local flavor is distinctive in the temple and makes the carvings here unique. The temple was built in the 10th century AD and was renovated in the 16th century. To the northeast of the Laxmi Narayan temple lays the small Surara temples and Brajreshwari Devi temple , which is dedicated to the Goddess Durga. This temple is also constructed in the traditional shikhara style and is known for intricate carvings on its surface. Chowgan , the grassy promenade at the heart of the town, is the focus for many local festivals.

Then there is Chamunda Devi Temple , which is located on a hill overlooking the town of Chamba and is a 30 minutes climb. This temple is dedicated to Chamunda, the enraged form of Goddess Durga. The entire wooden ceiling of this temple is embroidered with elaborate carvings portraying floral motifs and different deities. The Sui Mata Temple is located between the Chamunda Devi temple and Brajreshwari Devi temple, and is dedicated to Sui Mata. She is believed to be a local princess, who gave her life for the people in Chamba. Colorful paintings within the temple depict the life of Sui. Other temples to visit in Chamba are the Radha Krishna Temple, Harirai Temple, Sitaram Temple and Champavati Temple .

The Rangmahal is another must see in Chambal. It houses the Himachal Emporium , from where the tourists can buy handicraft items. The Bhuri Singh Museum has a good collection of artifacts and miniature paintings belonging to this region. St Andrew's Church and Gandhi Gate are also worth visiting. The picturesque Chamba valley is also home of a number of important places like Dalhousie, Khajjiar and Bharmaur.

Dalhousie Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:44:00.001-08:00

Dalhousie, standing at the foot of the spectacular Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas is a hill station of its own kind. Spread over five hills of Kathlog, Portreyn, Moti Tibba, Bakrota and Balun , Dalhousie has tranquility with its own typical flavor. With its attractive cottages and villas, it covers an area of just 13 sq km. The hills here are covered with the deodar and pine trees. All in all, Dalhousie is a destination straight out of a dream. The spectacular scenic grandeur and unspoilt nature, attracts tourists from all over the world. The majestic mountains and the rice fields make Dalhousie a paradise for the nature lovers and the adventure seekers.

Named after the famous British Governor - General, Lord Dalhousie, this hill station has charming architecture and scenic beauty of both plains and the snow-capped views of the mountains. The colonial-era buildings, low roofed stalls and hotels are spread across this picturesque town. The pine-covered slopes around it are crisscrossed with paths and treks that are ideal for short walks. The lush greenery of the town comprises of the lofty pines, deodars, oaks , and the beautiful red and pink rhododendron plants. Walnuts, chilies, Strawberries and the alpine flowers add to the heart-warming beauty of Dalhousie.

There are many interesting places in Dalhousie that are worth a visit. Kalatope, 8 km from the center of Dalhousie offers the best views of the splendid surroundings of the hill station. Panchpulla, literally meaning five bridges is a good picnic spot. Satdhara is largely known for its mineral water, which was once shipped to England on a regular basis. Dalhousie also houses Dainkund , the Singing Hill. The mountain winds when pass through the forest at Dainkund produce different sounds depending on the wind's velocity. These sounds range from a gentle humming to an eerie wail. The most popular walk in Dalhousie is the Figure of Eight of Portreyn , it begins from the Portreyn Mall and crosses the meeting places of Subhash Chowk and Gandhi Chowk .

Apart from being a place of major tourist attractions, Dalhousie is also a starting point for visiting superb nearby places as well. Khajjiar, Chamba, Palampur, Baijnath, Bir, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala and Triund are the nearby attractions of Dalhousie.

Dharmshala Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:43:00.002-08:00

Dharamsala, popularly known as "Scotland of India" is a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It is well known for its Tibetan settlement and for being the Headquarters of the Dalai Lama in India.
A nearby snowline with numerous streams makes the surroundings very attractive. The colorful temple and Gompas, which reflect the culture of Tibet, adds attraction for the visitor. The mountains enfold it from three sides while the valley stretches in front.

Covering a wide area, it is divided into two parts: Lower Dharamshala and Upper Dharamshala. Lower Dharamshala is a busy commercial center, and Upper Dharamshala is the town that retains a British flavor and colonial lifestyle. Its suburbs are still called McLeod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj.

McLeod Ganj has a strong Tibetan influence; monks in deep red are a common sight in this town and it is also the headquarters of the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama settled here after his flight across the Himalayas following the Chinese invasion of Tibet. The Namgyal Monastery, known as little Lhasa is a major attraction in McLeodganj

The charming church of St. John with stained glass windows is located in the wilderness of Dharamshala and was the final resting place of Lord Elgin, a British Viceroy of India. Numerous ancient temples like Jwalamukhi Temple, Brijeshwari Temple and Chamunda Temple also lie on the plains below. The Kangra museum is worth a visit as it gives an overview of the rich past of the region.

Other important places to see in Dharamshala include Machhrial And Tatwani, Dal Lake, Kareri Lake, Dharamkot, War Memorial, Bhagsunath, Kunal Pathri, Chinmaya Tapovan, Sujanpur Tira and Andretta.

A busy bazaar town, Dharamsala has established itself as the travelers base camp, which come to explore the nearby mountains. The Kotwali Bazaar provides all the color and unconventional behavior of a small town and a simple life style. The central Tibetan Administration Offices are located here and you can also attend lectures & classes on Tibetan culture and Buddhism. One can even trek to snow point after an early morning's start.

Gulmarg Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:43:00.001-08:00

Gulmarg, a beautiful hill station that lies at a distance of 56 kilometers from Srinagar, Kashmir, is among the most favorite holiday destinations.
The word "Gul" means flowers, and hence the name Gulmarg stands for "a meadow of flowers". This is an apt description for this hill station, as a trip to this land will transport one to a beautiful world of flowers. Flowers that bloom here include bluebells, daisies, forget-me-nots and buttercups. Gulmarg is located in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir at an altitude of 2730 meters above sea level. The snow-capped peaks add to the grandeur of the land.

Gulmarg's green golf courses and the gondola lift are very popular tourist attractions. The beautiful and panoramic 18-hole golf course that is situated at a height of 2,650 meters above the sea level offers tourists a temporary membership. If one does not want to actually play the game, he can admire the spectacular lush green land slopes that incline gradually. The newly constructed Gondola lift offers a ride high above the mountains and pine-clad slopes of the region and provides for an attractive view of Gulmarg. Tourist places like Khilamarg, Kongdori and seven springs offer enjoyable rides on pony from Gulmarg. A little below Gulmarg, one comes across the holy shrine of Baba Reshi, a Muslim Saint.

In winter, the stunning Gulmarg turns into a skiing resort. Khilanmarg is an important skiing center. The skiing season commences in December and goes on till the month of April. The most favorite tourist sports here include Skiing, Trekking and Heliskiing. Heliskiing is where a helicopter takes one to the chosen peak from where one can choose his own descent route. Gulmarg also acts as a trekking base for those who trek to the Pir Panjal Range, Nanga Parbat and Khilanmarg. Gulmarg offers facilities for hiring trekking equipment and local guides. The places to see in Gulmarg are the picturesque Gulmarg Biosphere Reserve and the Alpather Lake. The Gulmarg biosphere reserve offers one of the most attractive wildlife tour packages and the Alpather Lake is a beautiful lake at the base of the Apharwat Mountain. It remains frozen till the month of June. The Alpather Lake and the melting snow and ice from the Apharwat Mountain form the Ningli Nallah, which is also one of the prime tourist attractions for those who travel to Gulmarg.

Kodaikanal Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:42:00.002-08:00

Kodaikanal, a popular hill resort in Tamilnadu is situated at an altitude of 2100 meters. Abundant in natural beauty, Kodaikanal is a treat to the eyes. Also known as Kodai, it is a favorite hill destination for holidayers and honeymooners

Kodaikanal is a delightful hill station that has retained its untouched and pure beauty and has many magnificent landscapes. Its amazing waterfalls and cascades offer breathtaking views. The forest surrounding the hill station provide great trekking trails and gives an option of around 17 trekking routes of different lengths.

Kodaikanal boasts of its famous Neel Kurinji Flower or Strobilanthus Kunthanus. This flower blooms once in every twelve years and gives a bluish purple sheen to the hill slopes of Kodaikanal. This flower last bloomed in 1992.

This hill resort of Kodaikanal offers some of the most spectacular spots. One can experience the colonial India at the Kodai Club. It houses the period fireplace, the piano, the Leigh Hunt prints, the library stocked with books by Evelyn Waugh, Anthony Trollope, and the bar with stuffed heads of bison, tigers, deer-horns. Its restaurant has old English plates and a glowing hearth-fire.

But one of the most attractive spot is the lake in the heart of Kodaikanal, which offers activities like boating and angling. The 5 km path around it is also perfect for a leisurely stroll. Dolphin's Nose, another famous tourist spot is just 8 kms away from Kodaikanal. It is a flat projecting rock offering a breathtaking view of the gaping chasm below.

Other famous tourist spots in and around Kodaikanal include the Perumal Peak, Kukal Cave, Coaker's Walk, Golf Course, Pillar Rocks, Bryant's Park, Orchid House, Kurinji Andavar Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, Bear Shola Falls, Green Valley View, Shenbaganur Museum and the lovely star shaped Berijam Lake.

Leh Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:42:00.001-08:00

Leh, the capital of Ladakh is a fascinating hill station. Lying amidst the snow-capped hills of Himalayas with many monasteries and colorful markets, it is also the Buddhist capital of North India.
At a height of 11,000 feet, there are many strikingly beautiful and majestic mountains here, which slowly merge into an oasis of green fields.

But that is not all; it has enough to offer to the varied interests of the tourists it attracts from all over the world. The sport and adventure lovers may indulge in hiking, trekking, river rafting, polo and archery. The quieter ones may try out meditation at the Mahabodhi Meditation center.

The must visit place in Leh is the Leh Palace, which is a miniature version of the Potala in Lhasa. Above the palace, at the top of the Namgyal hill, is the Victory Tower, built to commemorate Ladakh's victory over the Balti Kashmir armies in the early 16th century. Then there are Buddhist gompas like the Namgyal Tsemo Gomapa, Soma gompa and the Sankar gompa, which are also a must see. One may also climb up the Shanti Stupa to get a better view of the neighboring exotic locales.

Shopping is an exciting experience in Leh. You can shop for turquoise and silver jewellery that come from Tibet and Burma. Souvenirs of the local handicrafts and traditional clothes can be picked up from the Ladakh festival or from the bustling bazaar. Popular souvenirs picked up by tourists include, Thangka paintings, small prayer wheels, music bowls, Ladakhi carpets, rugs, shawls and stoles.

Mount Abu Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:41:00.002-08:00

Mount Abu, situated at an altitude of 1220 m above the sea level and is the highest point on the Aravalli Ranges. Mount Abu literally means the 'Hill of Wisdom' and is a green oasis located in the lush green-forested hills.
It is in direct contrast to the barren desert of Rajasthan where it is situated. It is the only hill station in Rajasthan and stretches along a 22 km long and 6 km wide plateau.

Mount Abu is known worldwide for its exquisite Dilwara Jain Temples. These temples date back to 11th and 13th centuries. These temples are the best examples of Jain architecture in India. The interiors of the temple are extravagantly carved on white marble. The Vimal Vasahi Temple and Tejpal Temple are the most remarkable among all.

This hill station is also very famous for its Nakki Lake. The lake derived its name from the legend that the gods dug out the lake with their nails.

An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, Adhar Devi Temple, is located 3 km to the north of Mount Abu. It is built in a natural crack in a rock.

Other must visit places in and around Mount Abu include Guru Shikhar (15 km), Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple (11 km), Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary (8 km), Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University and Museum. Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary is home to species of birds, panthers, sambhars and wild boars.

Munnar Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:41:00.001-08:00

Munnar, literally meaning three rivers in Tamil, is one of the most popular hill stations in India and is situated at the merging point of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala .
It lies in the God's own country Kerala. At an altitude of 1524 meters, it is just 136 kms from Cochin. Its highest peak is Anamudi at 2695 meters and is an ideal trekking desination.

It is famous for its lush green surroundings, winding lanes, lakes, waterfalls, streams, reservoirs, forests and tea plantations. The quiet surroundings of Munnar attract travelers and tourists from all parts of the world. The low-flying clouds and mist filled valleys offer spectacular views to the tourists. Among the exotic flora that is found in the forests and grasslands of Munnar is the famous Neela Kurinji flower, which blooms once in every twelve years.

This hill station of Munnar is also a heaven for an adventure-seeking traveler as it offers facilities like that of paragliding, hang gliding and rock climbing . One can also enjoy nature walks, treks and bird watching tours along the meandering roads of Munnar.

Besides being a hill resort, Munnar is also known as a center for tea trade. There are over thirty teagardens in and around Munnar. It has some of the highest tea estates in the world. One of the places to visit is the Kundale Tea Plantation , where one can learn everything about tea plantation and processing.

There are many tourist places in and around Munnar. The Mattupetty Lake is one of the major tourists attractions around Munnar and is at a distance of 13 kms from Munnar. The Top Station is a vintage point around Munnar offering enchanting views of the attractive landscapes and the valley. 17 kms from Munnar is the Rajamala Wildlife Sanctuary , where one can spot variety of animals. The animal lovers must also visit the Eravikulum National Park (19 kms), which is renowned for its mountain goat of the Nilgiri tahr. Other important tourist spots in and around Munnar are Echo Point, Pothamedu, Pallivasal, Nyayamakad waterfalls, Valara waterfalls, Chithirapuram, Attukal, Lock Heart Gap , Anayirangal and Marayoor.

Mussoorie Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:40:00.002-08:00

Referred to as Queen of Hill Stations, the incredible holiday destination Mussoorie is located in Uttranchal in North India. Mussoorie is situated at an altitude of 2,500 meters on the Himalayan foothills.
It gets its name from a shrub, Mansur, which is abundantly found in this place.

The nearby snow-clad peaks offer breathtaking scenic beauty to this beautiful hill station. The modern bungalows, malls and well-laid gardens located on the small hills around the area attract tourists from around the world.

The heart of this hill station is its Mall. It has series of shops that sell beautiful handicrafts that tourists can buy as souvenirs. Every evening Mall is crowded with both locals and tourists who come to shop and enjoy the beautiful sunset. The Kulri Bazaar and the Library Chowk of the Mall are very famous.

From the Mall one may take a ropeway and visit the Gun Hill. It has been given this name as in the old days a gun kept at the top of this hill was fired at mid-day to denote the time. Gun Hill is the most important tourist spot of the hill station. Here tourists can experience the enchanting view of the great Himalayan peaks and get a bird's eye view of Mussoorie. They can also get their photographs clicked in various costumes.

Other important places to see in Mussoorie include Municipal Garden, Childer's Lodge, Camel's Back Road and Clous End. There are also many famous and beautiful places around the hill station. One of such popular tourist destination is Kempty Falls, which is located 15kms from Mussoorie. Jharipani Fall, Bhatta Fall, Nag Devta Temple, Mussorie Lake, Van Chetna Kendra, Jwalaji Temple, Naga Tibba, Dhanolti, Surkhanda Devi and Lakha Mandal are some other must see places near Mussoorie.

Also, the major Hindu pilgrimages like Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, Yamunotri, Haridwar, Rishikesh are not far from this beautiful hill station.

Nainital Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:40:00.001-08:00

Known for its numerous lakes, Nainital is also called the " Lake District " of India. It is situated at an altitude of 1,938 meters and is located in the state of Uttranchal.
There has been a long debate as to how the hill station got its name. Some believe that the hill station derived its name from the goddess Naina. There is also a temple dedicated to Naina Devi in Nainital. Others say that it is probably the Naini Lake in Nainital that lends its name to the hill resort.

The hill station of Nainital offers several places of interest to the tourists. The natural beauty and the charm of this beautiful hill station make it a popular tourist destination. The most popular landmark in Nainital is the Naini Lake . This lake offers enchanting beauty and tourists can enjoy boat rides on the lake. Nainital Boat Club also offers yachting facilities at the Lake.

Other must see place in Nainital is Cheena Peak or the Naina Peak . It offers breath-taking views of the Nainital Valley and the snow-capped Himalayas. The Hanumangarh temple in Nainital is also very famous. It has an observatory nearby which offers beautiful night view of the moon. The British Cemetery, St. John Church and Dorothy's Seat on the Tiffin peak are other places worth seeing in Nainital.

From Nainital one can also visit the famous Sat Tal, Bhim Tal and the Naukuchiya Tal . Sat Tal is a cluster of seven small lakes and is 21 km away from Nainital. Bhim Tal is located at a distance of 23 Km from Nainital and is the largest lake around Nainital. It offers water sports facilities. The Naukuchiya Tal, which is located 27 km from Nainital, is another place worth visiting. It derives its name from the nine corners of the Lake. Other places of interest around Nainital include Khupratal (12 km), Sattal (23 km), Kainchi (20 km), Kilbury (12 km), Kausani (120 km), Ranikhet (63 km), Almora (67 km) and Corbet National Park (120 km).
Nainital also offers a variety of recreations to its visitors. Horse riding is the most favorite recreation for tourists. Nainital also has some of the best trekking routes of the Himalayas. One can enjoy boating, trekking, skiing, mountaineering and mountain biking on this beautiful hill station.

Ooty Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:39:00.001-08:00

Udhagamandalam or Ooty is a beautiful hill station, nestled in Nilgiri Hills and located in the midst of four high hills: Doddabetta, Snowdon, Elk Hill and Club Hill .
The Nilgiri range varies between 2280 m and 2290 m. The highest peak, Doddabetta is located at an altitude of 2623 meters. Ooty is one of the best tourist destinations and is also called "Blue Mountains" . This famous hill station is situated at the crossroads of Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka.

This picturesque hill station of Ooty is blessed with nature's generosity. It has luxuriant hills, lush green valleys, a dense flora and fauna and untouched natural beauty. The enchanting hill resort attracts tourists throughout the year.

Ooty is also very famous for its numerous tea estates . South Indian Tea has gained recognition far and wide making India the fifth largest tea-producing belt in the world after China. A tour to Ooty during the Tea festival makes the excursion more worthwhile, as tea lovers from various parts gather here to celebrate and enjoy this festival. Tea and Tourism Festival is celebrated every year in the month of January or Februry and is jointly organized by the Government of India, Department of Tourism, Government of Tamil Nadu and Ministry of Tourism. In this festival many cultural programmes and visits to tea estates and factories are held.

Apart from coffee and tea plantations, Ooty is also dotted with trees like conifers, eucalyptus, pine and wattle .

Panchgani Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:38:00.000-08:00

Panchgani is a quite and delightful hill station situated at an altitude of approx. 1335 m and is just 98 kms from Pune in Maharashtra.
Panchgani derives its name from the five hills it is situated on. It is also called �Mecca of Maharashtra' .

The picturesque beauty of this hill station is enchanting and attracts tourists throughout the year. Walk on the lush green paths, with view of River Krishna snaking through beautiful valleys and gentle hills of Panchgani is truly a nature lover's delight.

There are many places in Panchgani that are a must see. One of the most famous places in Panchgani is its Table Land . Situated around 60 mts high, Table Land is a flat stretch of laterite rock and is the second longest mountain plateau in Asia. Many large caves are seen from here, the most popular one being the Devil's Kitchen . It is believed that the Pandavas stayed here for a while and used this place to cook their food.

Parsi Point is also one of the places which is a must see for every tourist in Panchagani. It is actually the windiest point in Panchgani and is situated on the road to Mahableshwar. Another important place is an enjoyable water sports center, Tapola.

Other places that are worth a visit in Panchgani are Bhim Chula, Harrisons valley, Sydney Point, Dhoom Dam, The Lingmala Falls and Rajapuri Caves.

Panchgani Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:37:00.001-08:00

Shillong Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:36:00.002-08:00

Shillong is a beautiful hill station located at the height of 1496 meters. It is capital of Meghalaya and is also called � Scotland of the East '. It is known world wide for its golf course, which is not only one of the wettest but also one of the best golf course in the country.

Shillong has beautiful lakes and waterfalls and is placed among green mountains and pine forests. Though comparatively lesser known, this hill station offers clean, serene, cool and pollution free environment to tourists.

There are no major monuments in Shillong, but its scenic beauty covers up for it. Its breathtaking views attract tourists from all over the world. The Shillong Peak offers a birds eye view of the hill station and is an ideal spot to observe its spectacular splendor. Cherrapunjee one of the wettest places on earth and located at an attitude of 1300 meters is also situated just 56 kms from this hill station.

Some of the important tourist spots of Shillong include Ward's Lake, Botanical Garden, Golf Course, State Museum, Butterfly Museum, Lady Hydari Park, Sohpetbneng Peak, Thadlaskein lake, Jakrem Hill Resort, Dawki Border, Sweet falls, Bishop falls, Beadon falls and Elephant falls. Some of the significant churches in the hill station are Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Grotto Church and All Saints Church.
The hill station of Shillong is also popular for its fascinating boat race on the Umgot River . This boat race is held annually during the spring season and it attracts many tourists.

Shimla Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:36:00.001-08:00

Shimla is a beautiful Hill station in the lap of Himachal Pradesh and is also its capital.
It is located at an altitude of 2213 m. Shimla derives its name from goddess 'Shayamla Devi' , another form of Goddess Kali. Shimla has been blessed with natural beauty and is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. Its green valleys, the beauty of its trees, pine, oak and deodar and its beautiful weather attract the tourists throughout the year. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an atmosphere, which has given Shimla Hill Station the title of " Queen of Hills ". Though Shimla has a regular flow of tourists throughout the year, maximum tourists come in May and October. In December, tourists flock to Shimla to enjoy the pleasant snowfall.
Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old buildings, charming iron lampposts and Anglo-Saxon names. Besides the old Tudor and Georgian cottage-pattern houses erected by the British, new edifices have also been constructed in Shimla. Shimla is also famous for its flowers like lily, rhododendron and many undiscovered and anonymous beauties.

Apart from its natural attractions, Shimla is also famous for its architectural buildings, wooden crafts and apples. The Mall, The Gaiety Theatre, Himalayan Bird Park, Kufri, Chail, Nalderao, Fagu, Viceregal lodge, Himachal State Museum, Sanjauli, Temples and Daranghati Sanctuary are just some of the famous tourist spots of the hill station. Shimla is also famous for its adventure sports, which include trekking to the Kullu valley and trout fishing at the Pabbar River . The more adventurous can also opt for skiing at the Narkanda and Kufri . The nine-hole golf course at Naldehra is also a major draw for the tourists.

Srinagar Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:35:00.001-08:00

Srinagar, located in the heart of the Kashmir valley is the summer state capital of Jammu and Kashmir. This spectacular hill station is at an altitude of 1,730 m above sea level. The river Jhelum passes through Srinagar city.

The shimmering Dal Lake, Anchar Lake and Nagin Lakes and the charming rows of houseboats floating on them enhance the picturesque setting of Srinagar. The blossoming gardens, aquatic sports activities such as kayaking, canoeing, water surfing and angling, exquisite handcrafted souvenirs and the nearby resorts make Srinagar a cherished spot for tourists.

Srinagar's largest and famous lake, Dal Lake, has the maximum number of houseboats. These houseboats are of all categories, from deluxe to the D class. These houseboats are accessible by smaller boats called shikaras . While staying in a houseboat one can even shop from the tiny wooded shops on shikaras that carry vegetables and fruits, flowers, tailors, doctors, bakers, etc.

There are woods of fir and chinar , pastures of flowers, mustard and saffron, fruit orchards, gardens and parks, and ancient monuments that add to the charm and magnificence of Srinagar. Srinagar is in itself a tourist center and also the take-off point for excursions to other places of interest.

Kaza Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:34:00.002-08:00

In the exotic valley of Spiti is located the hill station of Kaza. The Kaza hill station is infact the chief town and the center of administrative importance of the valley of Spiti.

Kaza hill station is a very calm and quiet place in Himachal Pradesh. The hill station of Kaza is bifurcated into two- old town and new town.

The new town of Kaza houses some of the government buildings. The famous Ki Monastery is located at a distance of 11 kilometers from Kaza hill station. This monastery is the most renowned and the biggest monastery of the valley of Spiti.

The amazing hill station of Kaza can be reached from Shimla by covering 425 kilometers. The Kaza town is the sub-divisional headquarter of the Spiti valley.

A PWD rest house is also there at Kaza for the guests. Besides there is a private hotel for boarding and lodging of the tourists. At a time Kaza used to be the head quarter of Nono in Spiti valley.

Kaza hill station is very well linked up with Manali and Shimla of Himachal Pradesh. But during the winters, the excessive snowfall cuts off this connection. Kaza is located in the vicinity of the Shimla and Kullu airports. Moreover, one can also avail buses and cabs from Manali and Shimla.

A well known monastery that is located closely to Kaza hill station is the Thang Yud. This was built in the 14th Century. Tourists visiting the Kaza hill station do visit this monastery.

Tabo Hill Station

2010-02-08T22:34:00.001-08:00

Tabo hill station is located in the beautiful valley of Spiti that is in Himachal Pradesh. This place is famous for the Tabo monastery. The monastery is situated at an elevation of 3050 meters above sea level.

The Tabo monastery was founded by Rinchen Zangpo, the noted scholar, to develop it into a center for advanced studies. This well known scholar contributed this great monastery of Tabo hill station in 996 AD.

This monastery of Tabo was built to serve as the educational institution for the eastern region of Spiti. The Tabo hill station is located at a distance of 50 kilometers from Kaza hill station.

The Tabo monastery on the hill station of Tabo has an enormous collection of wonderful paintings and scriptures. The walls of this monastery have been very beautifully curved that resembles the paintings of the Ajanta cave. There are sixty 'lamas' or religious teachers who work for the cause of this monastery.

An unique feature of this Tabo monastery is that it is solely constructed with mud and blocks of bricks. There are also statues inside the monastery that depicts Lord Buddha being done in a purely Kashmiri art form. Tabo completed its 1000th anniversary in the year 1996.

The Buddhist monk Dalai Lama executed the Kalachakra Initiation Ceremony at Tabo hill station in the months of July and August.

The Tabo hill station gives a spectacular view of the snowclad mountain ranges. Shimla and Kullu are the airports that are closest to the Tabo hill station.

Karnataka Hill Stations

2010-02-08T22:33:00.001-08:00

Karnataka hill stations are one of the major attractions of Karnataka. From the breathtaking views of Chikmagalur to the quite retreats of Madikeri, from the stunning Coorg to the woody Biligiri, Karnataka hill stations have something for everyone. Some of these hill stations are also sites of historical and religious significance. But it is the tranquil and scenic beauty of the Karnataka hill stations that attract the visitors from all over the world.

Karnataka hill stations are largely located in the various ranges of the Western Ghat mountains. Each hill station is different from the other and provide great opportunities for the visitors to lose themselves in the serene lap of nature. There are forests and valleys, picturesque settings and tranquil mountain walks. Some of Karnataka's hill stations are very old and date back to the ancient times of Indian history. Some of them were favorite summer retreats for the Muslim and the British rulers, whereas some of them have been developed in the recent times. Together, they provide the perfect mountain experience to the visitors.

Most hill stations in Karnataka are located in and around the Baba-Budan range like Kermana Gundi. Chikmagalur is a popular hill town on the south of the magnificent Baba-Budan ranges. Kudremukh and Gangamoola are extremely popular hill stations in the Chikmagalur district. Hill stations close to the towns of Bangalore and Mysore include the Nandi Hills and the Bilirirangana Hills. The Coorg district in Karnataka is also famous for its hill stations. Madikeri is one of the most popular hill stations of Karnataka located in this region.

* Nandi Hills
* Kemmanagundi
* Madikeri
* Biligirirangana Hills
* Kudremukh
* Coorg
* Agumbe
* Kundadri
* Chikmagalur
* Kodachadri

Hill Stations of Kerala

2010-02-08T22:32:00.000-08:00

Kerala Hillstations Tours present yet another facet of God's Own Country. The high and rugged Western Ghats endow the state with a number of Hillstations, which unlike the rest of the state have a high rate of tourist influx during the summer months.

If you seek to beat the heat or enjoy the cozy comfort of Nature or wish to trek on the woody mountain trails or I you are simply answering the "call of the mountains", get away to one of these beautiful chilly places in Kerala. The undulating paths, the rich variety of flora and fauna available, the beautiful gorges and valleys and the sparkling silver streams that skip and dance through the rocks, the settling clouds that one can walk through and the fresh plucked green tea, brewed hot- this is the irresistible lure of the land. Maps Of India is your guide in planning your unforgettable holiday in the mountainous retreats of Kerala.

* Devikulam Tours: Located at a distance of about 13 kms from Munnar, this hilly destination is an arcade of natural beauty with its lush foliage, exotic plant and animal life and rustic mountain life. The lakes and their mineral springs and quaint charms make Devikulam an ideal weekend getaway.

* Idukki Tours: Spectacularly rich in natural beauty, Idukki is a veritable paradise of flora and fauna. Known for its spice and tea plantations, the raging rivers and the beautiful wildlife sanctuaries, Idukki is a pristine haunt for the city weary traveler.

* Munnar Tours: Munnar is as lovely and as beloved as the indigo "Neela Kurinji" blossoms that bloom in this region, once every 12 years. Most tourists favor Munnar and that is understandable given the panoramic views, the clean surroundings and the refreshing mountain pastures.

* Ponmudi Tours: About an hour's drive from the state capital, Ponmudi is a quaint hill station at an altitude of 915 m from sea level. The gurgling mountain streams, the bloom of orchids and other mountain efflorescence and the rich spice plantations make a tour to Ponmudi therapeutic to both the body and soul.

* Vagamon Tours: Vagamon, reveals itself at firs glimpse as a trekker's paradise. The various pilgrimage spots, the woody landscape and the mountain paths are all testimony that Vagamon is best viewed on foot. An increasingly popular tourist destination, Vagamon is a cultural hub in Kerala.

* Vythiri Tours: Vythiri in Wayanad is known for its forested green landscape and is a treasure trove of tropical flora and fauna. The plantations, the breathtaking natural loveliness of the region and the charming mountain air give us the impression that no other place on earth can exude the essence of nature better than this rustic locale.

Hill Stations in West Bengal

2010-02-08T22:30:00.000-08:00

The West Bengal hills are one of the major tourist destination in India. The hill stations situated in the lap of nature attract tourists not only from Bengal but also from other parts of India and abroad. The hilly region of north Bengal is a part of the eastern Himalayan range. The tourism industry is well developed and it encourages tourists to visit the places in north Bengal. The tourists can travel to these hill stations by road, rail or airway. There are an array of deluxe, luxury and budget hotels in this region to choose from. These hotels offer a number of facilities to their guests.

The hills of West Bengal are famous for the gorgeous beauty of the surrounding places. The snow capped mountain tops and the scenic pleasure of watching the sun rise and sun sets beyond the hill tops is really divine. The jungles of north Bengal are also sites of tourist attraction. The wildlife sanctuaries and the reserved forests of Jaldapara, Buxa, Chapramari and Gorumara are mostly visited by the tourists and the nature lovers. The huge tea estates are a pleasure to visit in the hilly region.

There are a number of places of interest that can be visited in the West Bengal hills. The monasteries, pagodas, parks and the shopping centers are situated in the West Bengal hills. The tourists interested in adventure sports can take part in the different activities of camping, trekking, hiking, hand gliding and river rafting.

The people of the West Bengal Hills are very simple and rustic. The population of this region is heterogeneous as people from different regions have come to settle here. The population comprises of mainly the Bhutanese, Nepalese, Sikkimese and Bengalees. There are a number of tribal people residing in the West Bengal Hills.

To find out more on the West Bengal Hills please click on the following links:

* Darjeeling
* Kurseong
* Kalimpong
* Mirik
* Dooars Valley
* Lava and Lolaygaon
* Siliguri

Maharashtra Hill Stations

2010-02-08T22:26:00.000-08:00

Hills Stations in Maharashtra are in abundance with the foothills of the Western Ghats running throughout the state sometimes coming to the vicinity of the sea and sometimes extending towards the cities. Away from the hectic city lives the Hills Stations of Maharashtra offer a perfect holiday in a nature infested, pollution free environment.

The major Hill Stations of Maharashtra are:

Amboli: Situated at an altitude of 690 m above the sea level, Amboli is the last hill resort of the Sahyadri Hills before the coastal plain begins. Amboli falls in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra and has steep mountains and dense forest.

Bhandardara: The serene beauty of the Arthur Lake, historic Ratangadh Fort, ancient temple of Amriteshwar, Wilson Dam, Radha Falls and a deep quiet valley, Bhandardara has everything the nature could offer.

Chikhaldara Hills: The history of Chikhaldara Hills goes back to the pages of Mahabharata. It is believed that Bheema killed Keechaka here and threw him down the valley. Being the only coffee growing area in Maharashtra, Chikhaldara Hills is also famous for its Melghat Tiger Project too.

Jawhar: Jawhar, famous for its Warli paintings, is one of the few tribal kingdoms of Maharashtra.

Khandala, Lonavala and Karla: Khandala and Lonavala are situated on the slopes of the Sahyadri Hills 5km away from each other on the Mumbai Pune highway. Karla is about 12 km away from Lonavala. Nature is at its best in these beautiful hill stations with profound and long stretch of lush green valleys.

Mahabaleshwar: Situated at an altitude of 1372m in the Satara District, Mahabaleshwar is also known as the Queen of Hills. This is the best holiday destination in Maharashtra as it has a magnificent climate and scenic beauty.

Malshej Ghat: The favorite attraction of Malshej Ghat is the migratory flamingoes during the monsoon. The dense forest of Malshej Ghat adds to the beauty of its country side.

Matheran: Vehicles are banned in this hill station, making Matheran a place to breath fresh air. The two hour toy train ride to this 800m high hill station is an experience of unforgettable adventure.

Panchgani: Panchgani derives its name from the 5 hills surrounding it. It is located at an altitude of 1334m and is just 38m below Mahabaleshwar. The breathtaking view of the Krishna River and a pollution free environment attracts many tourists throughout the year to Panchgani.

Panhala: Every part of Panhala has a haunting history of the Marathas. At an altitude of 977m Panhala offers a magnificent climate.

Toranmal: Toranmal is a quiet and serene hill station situated at an altitude of 1461m above the sea level.

Getting there:Private cars, taxis, buses are all available. Package tours to these Forts are also available. Frequent train services are available from Aurangabad and Mumbai and also other cities of Maharashtra. Airports are also there in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Aurangabad.

Amarnath Yatra Tours

2010-02-04T00:58:00.001-08:00

"The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organized travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality"

Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, ritual and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time.

Shiva is known to have made his home in the Himalayas. He built no house nor shelter, not for himself or his bride. He was an ascetic, and yet married; he could be both for "he was the wild god sporting in the forest or taking his ease on a cloud."

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in the Amarnathji cave. Unknown to them, a pair of mating pigeons eavesdropped on this conversation and having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).

Yatra Arrangements at Pahalgam

The trek to Amarnathji, in the month of Shravan (July - August) has the devout flock to this incredible shrine, where the image of Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite, and which waxes and wanes with the moon. By its side are, fascinatingly, two more ice - lingams, that of Parvati and of their son, Ganesha.

According to an ancient tale, there was once a Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik who was given a sack of coal by a sadhu. Upon reaching home he discovered that the sack, in fact, contained gold. Overjoyed and overcome, Buta Malik rushed back to look for the sadhu and thank him, but on the spot of their meeting discovered a cave, and eventually this became a place of pilgrimage for all believers. To date, a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims are given to the descendants of Malik, and the remaining to the trust which manages the shrine. Yet another legend has it that when Kashap Reshi drained the Kashmir valley of water (it was believed to have been a vast lake), the cave and the lingam were discovered by Bregish Reshi who was travelling the Himalayas. When people heard of the lingam, Amarnathji for them became Shiva's abode and a centre of pilgrimage.

The Yatra Procession

Whatever the legends and the history of Amarnathji's discovery, it is today a very important centre of pilgrimage and though the route is as difficult to negotiate as it is exciting, every year, thousands of devotees come to pay homage before Shiva in one of his famous Himalayan abodes.

Situated in a narrow gorge at the farther end of Lidder valley, Amarnathji stands at 3,888 m and is 45 km from Pahalgam and 141 km from Srinagar. Though the original pilgrimage subscribes that the yatra be undertaken from Srinagar, the more common practice is to begin the journey from Pahalgam, and cover the distance to Amarnathji and back in four or five days. Pahalgam is 96 km from Srinagar.

Since the base point for the pilgrim's trek is picturesque Pahalgam, a large tented township springs up to accommodate the pilgrims. All intermediate halting places have the same kind of facilities as are provided at Pahalgam, and a Yatra Officer is appointed to conduct the pilgrimage.

Trek to Amarnathji Cave

"For those who journey with faith, it is a rewarding experience, this simple visitation to a cave-shrine, the home of the Himalayan mendicant who is both destroyer and healer, the greatest of the Hindu God"

The trek from Pahalgam to Amarnathji cave is on an ancient peregrine route. The 45 - km distance is covered in four days, with night halts at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawjan) and Panchtarni. The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari (16 km) is now covered by motor transport. The pilgrims camp here or at Pahalgam on the first night out.

The first day's trek of 13 km from Chandanwari is through spectacular, primeval countryside. The main centre of attraction on this trek is Sheshnag, a mountain lake which derives its name from its seven peaks, resembling the heads of a mythical snake. The journey to Sheshnag follows steep inclines up the right bank of a cascading stream and wild scenery untouched by civilisation. The second night's camp at Wawjan overlooks the deep blue water of Sheshnag lake, and glaciers beyond it. The lake is also associated with legends of love and revenge, and at the camp these are recounted by campfires, to the stillness of a pine-scented, Himalayan night.

The second day's 12 km trek steadily gains height, winding up across Mahagunas Pass at 4,600 m and then descending to the meadow - lands of Panchtarni, the last camp enroute to the holy cave.

From Panchtarni to Amarnathji is only 6 km, but an early morning's start is recommended for there is a long queue awaiting entrance to the cave. The same day, following darshan, devotees can return to Panchtarni in time for lunch, and continue to Wawjan to spend the fourth night out; or continue further to Zojibal, returning to Pahalgam on the 4th day.

Entrance to the cave is regulated, and darshan a hasty affair for there are many others waiting outside to pay homage before the awesome Shivalingam. The devotees sing bhajans, chant incantations, and priests perform aarti and puja, invoking the blessing of Shiva, the divine, the pure, the absolute.

Do's and Dont's for the Yatris

Pilgrims are advised not to pay more than the specified rates for either services or their provisions. It is important to observe discipline on the trek and keep moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. Officials of the State Police, Health, Tourism, Food & Supplies and other concerned Departments are deployed on duty to help the pilgrims. You must also ensure that you are physically fit for the journey, and have yourself medically examined. Remember that you have to cross Mahagunus pass which is at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level.

Please ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables remain with you at all times. Also ensure that the Ponywalla, labourer or Dandiwalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these alloted at fixed rates at the base camps. Do not overstrain on steep gradients: do not relax at points where there are warning notices; don't break traffic discipline or try to overtake other on difficult stretches. Aged, infirm, ailing and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permitted to proceed beyond Pahalgam.

DO’S
1.

Please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to perform thejourney as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 14, 000 ft. Haveyourself medically examined and certified fit for the journey and forwardthe medical certificate to the registering authority designated fory our area of residence.
2.

Do carry sufficient heavy woolens including sweaters, (full as well as half sleaved), drawers woolen trousers, gloves, monkey caps etc. other items to be carried include wind cheater, light rain coat, a sleeping bag orblankets or a set of bedding items water proof tent, a torch with sufficient batteries, a walking stick with proper hand grip. Ladies are advised not go on the journey in Saris, instead pants or salwar suits with drawers should be used.
3.

Do carry some eatable like biscuits, candy, milk powder, sugar, assorted dry fruits, honey and some tinned food with you. Also carry water bottle, plastic plate, tumbler, Spoons, etc.
4.

Ration and firewood quota has been especially arranged for you at all stations enroute, against payment.
5.

Make sure that the ponywalla, the labourer, the dandywalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these allotted at fixed ratesby competent authority at the same camp.
6.

Do ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables etc. remain with you all time, if you let them ramain behind you are likely to be unnecessarily inconvenienced.
7.

Do observe discipline on the trek and keep on moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. The officials of the Police, Tourism, Health, Food & Supplies and other Departments are there to help you to perform the journey comfortably.
8.

Do carry sufficient money to pay your accommodation at Pehalgam and at other stations enroute to the Holy Cave and for meeting other personal requirements.
9.

All medical facilities during the Yatra are free. However, do carry your personal medical kit also.
10.

Carrying/use of alcohol enroute the Yatra is strictly prohibited.

DON'TS
1.

Do not overstrain on steep gradients.
2.

Do not relax at points where there are warning notices.
3.

Do carry some eatable like biscuits, candy, milk powder, sugar, assorted dry fruits, honey and some tinned food with you. Also carry water bottle, plastic plate, tumbler, Spoons, etc.
4.

Do not pay more than the prices/rates fixed for porters, ponies, dandies, rations firewood, accommodation etc. Note:-
Aged, infirm, ailing, and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permittedto proceed beyond Pehalgam. No Yatri will be allowed without aregistration card.

Useful Tips on the Yatra

The Yatra is organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Govt., in the month of Shravan, and commences mainly from Pahalgam on specified dates. In recent years the route from Baltal has also been thrown open for the pilgrims to approach the holy Cave.

Dress: Pilgrims are advised to carry sufficient wollens such as sweaters, drawers, wollen trousers, monkey cap etc. Other items could include wind cheaters, rain coat, sleeping bag or blankets, umbrella, waterproof boots/shoes, walking stick, torch etc. Ladies are advised not to go on the trek in saris, instead pants or Salwar suits with drawers should be used.

Medical Assistance: Medical posts manned by qualified doctors and nursing staff are established enroute to cater to the needs of the pilgrims, free of cost. However, pilgrims are advised to carry along any medicines specifically prescribed for them.

Provisions: Essential rations are available at fair price rates from the specially established Govt. Depots at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtami, Numerous wayside tea-shops and small restaurants are set up by private parties. However, pilgrims are advised to carry with them biscuits, toffees, tinned food etc. to cater to their immediate needs. Firewood or gas can be obtained at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawajan), Panchtami and near the Cave.

Insurance: In view of the hazardous nature, pilgrims are advised to insure themselves before proceeding on the Yatra.

Accommodation: Good tented accommodation with allied facilities are set-up during the Yatra period. These are provided on the basis of payment of fixed rates

Registration: Registration of pilgrims is undertaken about a month ahead of the date fixed for commencement of Yatra

The Yatra is organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Govt., in the month of Shravan, and commences mainly from Pahalgam on specified dates. In recent years the route from Baltal has also been thrown open for the pilgrims to approach the holy Cave.

Dress: Pilgrims are advised to carry sufficient wollens such as sweaters, drawers, wollen trousers, monkey cap etc. Other items could include wind cheaters, rain coat, sleeping bag or blankets, umbrella, waterproof boots/shoes, walking stick, torch etc. Ladies are advised not to go on the trek in saris, instead pants or Salwar suits with drawers should be used.

Medical Assistance: Medical posts manned by qualified doctors and nursing staff are established enroute to cater to the needs of the pilgrims, free of cost. However, pilgrims are advised to carry along any medicines specifically prescribed for them.

Provisions: Essential rations are available at fair price rates from the specially established Govt. Depots at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtami, Numerous wayside tea-shops and small restaurants are set up by private parties. However, pilgrims are advised to carry with them biscuits, toffees, tinned food etc. to cater to their immediate needs. Firewood or gas can be obtained at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawajan), Panchtami and near the Cave.

Insurance: In view of the hazardous nature, pilgrims are advised to insure themselves before proceeding on the Yatra.

Accommodation: Good tented accommodation with allied facilities are set-up during the Yatra period. These are provided on the basis of payment of fixed rates

Registration: Registration of pilgrims is undertaken about a month ahead of the date fixed for commencement of Yatra

Yatra Arrangements at Pahalgam

The trek to Amarnathji, in the month of Shravan (July - August) has the devout flock to this incredible shrine, where the image of Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite, and which waxes and wanes with the moon. By its side are, fascinatingly, two more ice - lingams, that of Parvati and of their son, Ganesha.

According to an ancient tale, there was once a Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik who was given a sack of coal by a sadhu. Upon reaching home he discovered that the sack, in fact, contained gold. Overjoyed and overcome, Buta Malik rushed back to look for the sadhu and thank him, but on the spot of their meeting discovered a cave, and eventually this became a place of pilgrimage for all believers. To date, a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims are given to the descendants of Malik, and the remaining to the trust which manages the shrine. Yet another legend has it that when Kashap Reshi drained the Kashmir valley of water (it was believed to have been a vast lake), the cave and the lingam were discovered by Bregish Reshi who was travelling the Himalayas. When people heard of the lingam, Amarnathji for them became Shiva's abode and a centre of pilgrimage.

The Yatra Procession

Whatever the legends and the history of Amarnathji's discovery, it is today a very important centre of pilgrimage and though the route is as difficult to negotiate as it is exciting, every year, thousands of devotees come to pay homage before Shiva in one of his famous Himalayan abodes.

Situated in a narrow gorge at the farther end of Lidder valley, Amarnathji stands at 3,888 m and is 45 km from Pahalgam and 141 km from Srinagar. Though the original pilgrimage subscribes that the yatra be undertaken from Srinagar, the more common practice is to begin the journey from Pahalgam, and cover the distance to Amarnathji and back in four or five days. Pahalgam is 96 km from Srinagar.

Since the base point for the pilgrim's trek is picturesque Pahalgam, a large tented township springs up to accommodate the pilgrims. All intermediate halting places have the same kind of facilities as are provided at Pahalgam, and a Yatra Officer is appointed to conduct the pilgrimage.

Trek to Amarnathji Cave

"For those who journey with faith, it is a rewarding experience, this simple visitation to a cave-shrine, the home of the Himalayan mendicant who is both destroyer and healer, the greatest of the Hindu God"

The trek from Pahalgam to Amarnathji cave is on an ancient peregrine route. The 45 - km distance is covered in four days, with night halts at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawjan) and Panchtarni. The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari (16 km) is now covered by motor transport. The pilgrims camp here or at Pahalgam on the first night out.

The first day's trek of 13 km from Chandanwari is through spectacular, primeval countryside. The main centre of attraction on this trek is Sheshnag, a mountain lake which derives its name from its seven peaks, resembling the heads of a mythical snake. The journey to Sheshnag follows steep inclines up the right bank of a cascading stream and wild scenery untouched by civilisation. The second night's camp at Wawjan overlooks the deep blue water of Sheshnag lake, and glaciers beyond it. The lake is also associated with legends of love and revenge, and at the camp these are recounted by campfires, to the stillness of a pine-scented, Himalayan night.

The second day's 12 km trek steadily gains height, winding up across Mahagunas Pass at 4,600 m and then descending to the meadow - lands of Panchtarni, the last camp enroute to the holy cave.

From Panchtarni to Amarnathji is only 6 km, but an early morning's start is recommended for there is a long queue awaiting entrance to the cave. The same day, following darshan, devotees can return to Panchtarni in time for lunch, and continue to Wawjan to spend the fourth night out; or continue further to Zojibal, returning to Pahalgam on the 4th day.

Entrance to the cave is regulated, and darshan a hasty affair for there are many others waiting outside to pay homage before the awesome Shivalingam. The devotees sing bhajans, chant incantations, and priests perform aarti and puja, invoking the blessing of Shiva, the divine, the pure, the absolute.

Do's and Dont's for the Yatris

Pilgrims are advised not to pay more than the specified rates for either services or their provisions. It is important to observe discipline on the trek and keep moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. Officials of the State Police, Health, Tourism, Food & Supplies and other concerned Departments are deployed on duty to help the pilgrims. You must also ensure that you are physically fit for the journey, and have yourself medically examined. Remember that you have to cross Mahagunus pass which is at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level.

Please ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables remain with you at all times. Also ensure that the Ponywalla, labourer or Dandiwalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these alloted at fixed rates at the base camps. Do not overstrain on steep gradients: do not relax at points where there are warning notices; don't break traffic discipline or try to overtake other on difficult stretches. Aged, infirm, ailing and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permitted to proceed beyond Pahalgam.

DO’S

•Please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to perform the journey as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 14, 000 ft. Have yourself medically examined and certified fit for the journey and forward the medical certificate to the registering authority designated for your area of residence.

•Do carry sufficient heavy woolens including sweaters, (full as well as half sleaved), drawers woolen trousers, gloves, monkey caps etc. other items to be carried include wind cheater, light rain coat, a sleeping bag or blankets or a set of bedding items water proof tent, a torch with sufficient batteries, a walking stick with proper hand grip. Ladies are advised not go on the journey in Saris, instead pants or salwar suits with drawers should be used.

•Do carry some eatable like biscuits, candy, milk powder, sugar, assorted dry fruits, honey and some tinned food with you. Also carry water bottle, plastic plate, tumbler, Spoons, etc.

•Ration and firewood quota has been especially arranged for you at all stations enroute, against payment.

•Make sure that the ponywalla, the labourer, the dandywalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these allotted at fixed rates by competent authority at the same camp.

•Do ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables etc. remain with you all time, if you let them ramain behind you are likely to be unnecessarily inconvenienced.

•Do observe discipline on the trek and keep on moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. The officials of the Police, Tourism, Health, Food & Supplies and other Departments are there to help you to perform the journey comfortably.

•Do carry sufficient money to pay your accommodation at Pehalgam and at other stations enroute to the Holy Cave and for meeting other personal requirements.

•All medical facilities during the Yatra are free. However, do carry your personal medical kit also..

•Carrying/use of alcohol enroute the Yatra is strictly prohibited.

DON'TS

•Do not overstrain on steep gradients.

•Do not relax at points where there are warning notices.

•Do not break traffic discipline or try to overtake others in difficult stretches of the route.

•Do not pay more than the prices/rates fixed for porters, ponies, dandies, rations firewood, accommodation etc. Note:-
Aged, infirm, ailing, and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permitted to proceed beyond Pehalgam. No Yatri will be allowed without a registration card.

Useful Tips on the Yatra

The Yatra is organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Govt., in the month of Shravan, and commences mainly from Pahalgam on specified dates. In recent years the route from Baltal has also been thrown open for the pilgrims to approach the holy Cave.
Dress: Pilgrims are advised to carry sufficient wollens such as sweaters, drawers, wollen trousers, monkey cap etc. Other items could include wind cheaters, rain coat, sleeping bag or blankets, umbrella, waterproof boots/shoes, walking stick, torch etc. Ladies are advised not to go on the trek in saris, instead pants or Salwar suits with drawers should be used.
Medical Assistance: Medical posts manned by qualified doctors and nursing staff are established enroute to cater to the needs of the pilgrims, free of cost. However, pilgrims are advised to carry along any medicines specifically prescribed for them.
Provisions: Essential rations are available at fair price rates from the specially established Govt. Depots at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtami, Numerous wayside tea-shops and small restaurants are set up by private parties. However, pilgrims are advised to carry with them biscuits, toffees, tinned food etc. to cater to their immediate needs. Firewood or gas can be obtained at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawajan), Panchtami and near the Cave.
Insurance: In view of the hazardous nature, pilgrims are advised to insure themselves before proceeding on the Yatra.
Accommodation: Good tented accommodation with allied facilities are set-up during the Yatra period. These are provided on the basis of payment of fixed rates.
Registration: Registration of pilgrims are undertaken about a month ahead of the date fixed for commencement of Yatra.

Traditional Route

From Jammu : How to Reach Amarnath Holy Cave :

Though it is tough route still nearly one and a half lac pilgrims visit every year . The number of pilgrims is increasing every year. The journey from Jammu onward is by road and there are two routes . The details are given here.

JAMMU - PAHALGAM - HOLY CAVE.

Jammu to Pahalgam (315 km) - The distance between Jammu to Pahalgam can be covered by Taxi / Buses. These are available at Tourist Reception Centre, J & K Govt., Raghunath Bazaar only early in the morning. But one can also come to Srinagar by air and then move to Pahalgam by road

PAHALGAM - HOLY CAVE.

It is 96 KM from Srinagar .This distance can be covered by car,bus or taxi. Pahalgam is known all over the world for its beauty. It is small town situated on the banks of Lidder River. It is surrounded by high mountains. All essentials can be bought here. Good Hotels are available for accommodation. However the arrangements for stay and Langar are also made by the Non Government Service Organisations.

CHANDANWARI:

The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is 16km. The route is good .It can be covered by road transport also. Mini buses are also available from Pahalgam to reach Chandanwari. The trail runs along the Lidder River . The route is scenic. Food is available here. Pilgrims camp at Pahalgam or Chandanwari on the first night .

PISSU TOP :

As the Yatra proceed further from Chandanwari one climbs a height to reach Pissu Top. It is said that to be first to reach for darshan of Bhole Nath Shivshankar there was a war between Devtas and Rakshas . With the power of Shiv , devtas could kill the rakshas in such large number that the heap of their dead bodies has resulted in this high mountain.

SHESHNAG:

This second day's trek of 12 kms from Chandanwari is through Pissu Top and spectacular, primeval countryside, and reaches Sheshnag - a mountain which derives its name from its Seven Peaks, resembling the heads of the mythical snake. The Journey to Sheshnag follows steep inclines on the right bank of a cascading stream and wild scenery untouched by civilisation. The second night's camp at Sheshnag overlooks the deep blue waters of Sheshnag lake, and glaciers beyond it. There are legends of love and revenge too associated with Sheshnag, and at the camp these are narrated by campfires . The stillness of a pine scented Himalayan night increases your inner joy. Yatris can take bath and get their fatigue alleviated. It is beautiful and scenic.

PANCHTARNI:

From Sheshnag one has to climb steep height up across Mahagunas Pass at 4276 mtrs.(14000 ft) for 4.6 KM and then descending to the meadow lands of Panchtarni at a height of 3657 mtrs (12000 ft). The last camp enroute to the Holy Cave is made here on third day. Here one faces cold winds which cause the skin to crack . Hence cold cream / Vaseline are very useful for protection of skin. Some Yatris are also effected by deficiency of oxygen .Some may get the feeling of vomiting . So dry fruit like Allu Bukhara ,sour and sweet eatables like Lemon are useful to control these symptoms . The route to Mahagunas is full of rivulets , water falls , springs . Panchtarni is a very beautiful place in the feet of BHAIRAV MOUNT. Five Rivers flow here . It is said that the five rivers origanated from Lord Shiva's Hairs (Jataon). Pilgrims camp at Panchtarni on the 3rd night.

THE HOLY CAVE SHRI AMARNATH:

The Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath is only 6 kms from Panchtarni. As there is no place to stay hence the pilgrims start in the early hours of the morning after their stay at Panchtarni. On the way to The Holy Cave one comes across the Sangam of Amravati and Panchtarni. Some pilgrims take bath at Amravati near holy cave to become pious before going for Darshan. Near the cave is found white soil known as Bhasam. It is the most beloved soil of Shiv ji . The pilgrims apply this Holy soil to their body and then go for Shivlingam Darshan. There are two smaller Shivlings one of Maa Parvati and other of Shri Ganesh. It may be noted that after having early Darshan of the Shivlinga at Holy Cave one can return to Panchtarni well in time the same day . Some pilgrims camp at Panchtarni while others continue their journey and reach back Sheshnag by the same evening.

Jammu - Baltal - Holy cave (414km)

Jammu - Baltal (400km).

The distance between Jammu and Baltal can be covered by Taxis / Buses available at Tourist Reception Centre, J & K / bus stand or one can come to Srinagar by air and then reach Baltal by road. The road route followed is :

JAMMU - Udhampur - Kud - Patnitop - Ramban - Banihal - KaziGund - Anantnag - Srinagar - Sonamarg - Baltal.

The journey from Jammu to Baltal which is about 400 kms. is full of beautiful Sites and one can experience of being in Heaven , a Paradise on earth. Passing through beautiful valleys, steeped mountains, one is sure of forgetting , oneself as a person ,for a while . A thrill, which is obviously there in every pilgrim gets enhanced while passing through this way owing to the Darshan of Holy Cave. In nutshell, a journey which can go down to your memory throughout the lifetime.

Baltal to Holy Cave

From Baltal Holy Cave is just 14 Kms.

This distance can be covered by foot / Ponies. However, Dandies are also available for handicapped and old aged pilgrims.
The width of the pebbled (kuchha) road is a bit narrow as compared to the Chandanwari-Holy Cave route, moreover , there are some steep rises & falls on the way , as compared to the Chandanwari route, but pilgrims can return back to base camp Baltal through this route only in one day.

Amarnath Yatra

2010-02-04T00:58:00.000-08:00

"The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organized travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality"

Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, ritual and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time.

Shiva is known to have made his home in the Himalayas. He built no house nor shelter, not for himself or his bride. He was an ascetic, and yet married; he could be both for "he was the wild god sporting in the forest or taking his ease on a cloud."

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in the Amarnathji cave. Unknown to them, a pair of mating pigeons eavesdropped on this conversation and having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).

Yatra Arrangements at Pahalgam

The trek to Amarnathji, in the month of Shravan (July - August) has the devout flock to this incredible shrine, where the image of Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite, and which waxes and wanes with the moon. By its side are, fascinatingly, two more ice - lingams, that of Parvati and of their son, Ganesha.

According to an ancient tale, there was once a Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik who was given a sack of coal by a sadhu. Upon reaching home he discovered that the sack, in fact, contained gold. Overjoyed and overcome, Buta Malik rushed back to look for the sadhu and thank him, but on the spot of their meeting discovered a cave, and eventually this became a place of pilgrimage for all believers. To date, a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims are given to the descendants of Malik, and the remaining to the trust which manages the shrine. Yet another legend has it that when Kashap Reshi drained the Kashmir valley of water (it was believed to have been a vast lake), the cave and the lingam were discovered by Bregish Reshi who was travelling the Himalayas. When people heard of the lingam, Amarnathji for them became Shiva's abode and a centre of pilgrimage.

The Yatra Procession

Whatever the legends and the history of Amarnathji's discovery, it is today a very important centre of pilgrimage and though the route is as difficult to negotiate as it is exciting, every year, thousands of devotees come to pay homage before Shiva in one of his famous Himalayan abodes.

Situated in a narrow gorge at the farther end of Lidder valley, Amarnathji stands at 3,888 m and is 45 km from Pahalgam and 141 km from Srinagar. Though the original pilgrimage subscribes that the yatra be undertaken from Srinagar, the more common practice is to begin the journey from Pahalgam, and cover the distance to Amarnathji and back in four or five days. Pahalgam is 96 km from Srinagar.

Since the base point for the pilgrim's trek is picturesque Pahalgam, a large tented township springs up to accommodate the pilgrims. All intermediate halting places have the same kind of facilities as are provided at Pahalgam, and a Yatra Officer is appointed to conduct the pilgrimage.

Trek to Amarnathji Cave

"For those who journey with faith, it is a rewarding experience, this simple visitation to a cave-shrine, the home of the Himalayan mendicant who is both destroyer and healer, the greatest of the Hindu God"

The trek from Pahalgam to Amarnathji cave is on an ancient peregrine route. The 45 - km distance is covered in four days, with night halts at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawjan) and Panchtarni. The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari (16 km) is now covered by motor transport. The pilgrims camp here or at Pahalgam on the first night out.

The first day's trek of 13 km from Chandanwari is through spectacular, primeval countryside. The main centre of attraction on this trek is Sheshnag, a mountain lake which derives its name from its seven peaks, resembling the heads of a mythical snake. The journey to Sheshnag follows steep inclines up the right bank of a cascading stream and wild scenery untouched by civilisation. The second night's camp at Wawjan overlooks the deep blue water of Sheshnag lake, and glaciers beyond it. The lake is also associated with legends of love and revenge, and at the camp these are recounted by campfires, to the stillness of a pine-scented, Himalayan night.

The second day's 12 km trek steadily gains height, winding up across Mahagunas Pass at 4,600 m and then descending to the meadow - lands of Panchtarni, the last camp enroute to the holy cave.

From Panchtarni to Amarnathji is only 6 km, but an early morning's start is recommended for there is a long queue awaiting entrance to the cave. The same day, following darshan, devotees can return to Panchtarni in time for lunch, and continue to Wawjan to spend the fourth night out; or continue further to Zojibal, returning to Pahalgam on the 4th day.

Entrance to the cave is regulated, and darshan a hasty affair for there are many others waiting outside to pay homage before the awesome Shivalingam. The devotees sing bhajans, chant incantations, and priests perform aarti and puja, invoking the blessing of Shiva, the divine, the pure, the absolute.

Do's and Dont's for the Yatris

Pilgrims are advised not to pay more than the specified rates for either services or their provisions. It is important to observe discipline on the trek and keep moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. Officials of the State Police, Health, Tourism, Food & Supplies and other concerned Departments are deployed on duty to help the pilgrims. You must also ensure that you are physically fit for the journey, and have yourself medically examined. Remember that you have to cross Mahagunus pass which is at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level.

Please ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables remain with you at all times. Also ensure that the Ponywalla, labourer or Dandiwalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these alloted at fixed rates at the base camps. Do not overstrain on steep gradients: do not relax at points where there are warning notices; don't break traffic discipline or try to overtake other on difficult stretches. Aged, infirm, ailing and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permitted to proceed beyond Pahalgam.

DO’S
1. Please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to perform thejourney as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 14, 000 ft. Haveyourself medically examined and certified fit for the journey and forwardthe medical certificate to the registering authority designated fory our area of residence.
2. Do carry sufficient heavy woolens including sweaters, (full as well as half sleaved), drawers woolen trousers, gloves, monkey caps etc. other items to be carried include wind cheater, light rain coat, a sleeping bag orblankets or a set of bedding items water proof tent, a torch with sufficient batteries, a walking stick with proper hand grip. Ladies are advised not go on the journey in Saris, instead pants or salwar suits with drawers should be used.
3. Do carry some eatable like biscuits, candy, milk powder, sugar, assorted dry fruits, honey and some tinned food with you. Also carry water bottle, plastic plate, tumbler, Spoons, etc.
4. Ration and firewood quota has been especially arranged for you at all stations enroute, against payment.
5. Make sure that the ponywalla, the labourer, the dandywalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these allotted at fixed ratesby competent authority at the same camp.
6. Do ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables etc. remain with you all time, if you let them ramain behind you are likely to be unnecessarily inconvenienced.
7. Do observe discipline on the trek and keep on moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. The officials of the Police, Tourism, Health, Food & Supplies and other Departments are there to help you to perform the journey comfortably.
8. Do carry sufficient money to pay your accommodation at Pehalgam and at other stations enroute to the Holy Cave and for meeting other personal requirements.
9. All medical facilities during the Yatra are free. However, do carry your personal medical kit also.
10. Carrying/use of alcohol enroute the Yatra is strictly prohibited.

DON'TS
1. Do not overstrain on steep gradients.
2. Do not relax at points where there are warning notices.
3. Do carry some eatable like biscuits, candy, milk powder, sugar, assorted dry fruits, honey and some tinned food with you. Also carry water bottle, plastic plate, tumbler, Spoons, etc.
4. Do not pay more than the prices/rates fixed for porters, ponies, dandies, rations firewood, accommodation etc.

Note:-
Aged, infirm, ailing, and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permittedto proceed beyond Pehalgam. No Yatri will be allowed without aregistration card.

Useful Tips on the Yatra

The Yatra is organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Govt., in the month of Shravan, and commences mainly from Pahalgam on specified dates. In recent years the route from Baltal has also been thrown open for the pilgrims to approach the holy Cave.

Dress: Pilgrims are advised to carry sufficient wollens such as sweaters, drawers, wollen trousers, monkey cap etc. Other items could include wind cheaters, rain coat, sleeping bag or blankets, umbrella, waterproof boots/shoes, walking stick, torch etc. Ladies are advised not to go on the trek in saris, instead pants or Salwar suits with drawers should be used.

Medical Assistance: Medical posts manned by qualified doctors and nursing staff are established enroute to cater to the needs of the pilgrims, free of cost. However, pilgrims are advised to carry along any medicines specifically prescribed for them.

Provisions: Essential rations are available at fair price rates from the specially established Govt. Depots at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtami, Numerous wayside tea-shops and small restaurants are set up by private parties. However, pilgrims are advised to carry with them biscuits, toffees, tinned food etc. to cater to their immediate needs. Firewood or gas can be obtained at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawajan), Panchtami and near the Cave.

Insurance: In view of the hazardous nature, pilgrims are advised to insure themselves before proceeding on the Yatra.

Accommodation: Good tented accommodation with allied facilities are set-up during the Yatra period. These are provided on the basis of payment of fixed rates

Registration: Registration of pilgrims is undertaken about a month ahead of the date fixed for commencement of Yatra

The Yatra is organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Govt., in the month of Shravan, and commences mainly from Pahalgam on specified dates. In recent years the route from Baltal has also been thrown open for the pilgrims to approach the holy Cave.

Dress: Pilgrims are advised to carry sufficient wollens such as sweaters, drawers, wollen trousers, monkey cap etc. Other items could include wind cheaters, rain coat, sleeping bag or blankets, umbrella, waterproof boots/shoes, walking stick, torch etc. Ladies are advised not to go on the trek in saris, instead pants or Salwar suits with drawers should be used.

Medical Assistance: Medical posts manned by qualified doctors and nursing staff are established enroute to cater to the needs of the pilgrims, free of cost. However, pilgrims are advised to carry along any medicines specifically prescribed for them.

Provisions: Essential rations are available at fair price rates from the specially established Govt. Depots at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtami, Numerous wayside tea-shops and small restaurants are set up by private parties. However, pilgrims are advised to carry with them biscuits, toffees, tinned food etc. to cater to their immediate needs. Firewood or gas can be obtained at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawajan), Panchtami and near the Cave.

Insurance: In view of the hazardous nature, pilgrims are advised to insure themselves before proceeding on the Yatra.

Accommodation: Good tented accommodation with allied facilities are set-up during the Yatra period. These are provided on the basis of payment of fixed rates

Registration: Registration of pilgrims is undertaken about a month ahead of the date fixed for commencement of Yatra

Yatra Arrangements at Pahalgam

The trek to Amarnathji, in the month of Shravan (July - August) has the devout flock to this incredible shrine, where the image of Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite, and which waxes and wanes with the moon. By its side are, fascinatingly, two more ice - lingams, that of Parvati and of their son, Ganesha.

According to an ancient tale, there was once a Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik who was given a sack of coal by a sadhu. Upon reaching home he discovered that the sack, in fact, contained gold. Overjoyed and overcome, Buta Malik rushed back to look for the sadhu and thank him, but on the spot of their meeting discovered a cave, and eventually this became a place of pilgrimage for all believers. To date, a percentage of the donations made by pilgrims are given to the descendants of Malik, and the remaining to the trust which manages the shrine. Yet another legend has it that when Kashap Reshi drained the Kashmir valley of water (it was believed to have been a vast lake), the cave and the lingam were discovered by Bregish Reshi who was travelling the Himalayas. When people heard of the lingam, Amarnathji for them became Shiva's abode and a centre of pilgrimage.

The Yatra Procession

Whatever the legends and the history of Amarnathji's discovery, it is today a very important centre of pilgrimage and though the route is as difficult to negotiate as it is exciting, every year, thousands of devotees come to pay homage before Shiva in one of his famous Himalayan abodes.

Situated in a narrow gorge at the farther end of Lidder valley, Amarnathji stands at 3,888 m and is 45 km from Pahalgam and 141 km from Srinagar. Though the original pilgrimage subscribes that the yatra be undertaken from Srinagar, the more common practice is to begin the journey from Pahalgam, and cover the distance to Amarnathji and back in four or five days. Pahalgam is 96 km from Srinagar.

Since the base point for the pilgrim's trek is picturesque Pahalgam, a large tented township springs up to accommodate the pilgrims. All intermediate halting places have the same kind of facilities as are provided at Pahalgam, and a Yatra Officer is appointed to conduct the pilgrimage.

Trek to Amarnathji Cave

"For those who journey with faith, it is a rewarding experience, this simple visitation to a cave-shrine, the home of the Himalayan mendicant who is both destroyer and healer, the greatest of the Hindu God"

The trek from Pahalgam to Amarnathji cave is on an ancient peregrine route. The 45 - km distance is covered in four days, with night halts at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawjan) and Panchtarni. The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari (16 km) is now covered by motor transport. The pilgrims camp here or at Pahalgam on the first night out.

The first day's trek of 13 km from Chandanwari is through spectacular, primeval countryside. The main centre of attraction on this trek is Sheshnag, a mountain lake which derives its name from its seven peaks, resembling the heads of a mythical snake. The journey to Sheshnag follows steep inclines up the right bank of a cascading stream and wild scenery untouched by civilisation. The second night's camp at Wawjan overlooks the deep blue water of Sheshnag lake, and glaciers beyond it. The lake is also associated with legends of love and revenge, and at the camp these are recounted by campfires, to the stillness of a pine-scented, Himalayan night.

The second day's 12 km trek steadily gains height, winding up across Mahagunas Pass at 4,600 m and then descending to the meadow - lands of Panchtarni, the last camp enroute to the holy cave.

From Panchtarni to Amarnathji is only 6 km, but an early morning's start is recommended for there is a long queue awaiting entrance to the cave. The same day, following darshan, devotees can return to Panchtarni in time for lunch, and continue to Wawjan to spend the fourth night out; or continue further to Zojibal, returning to Pahalgam on the 4th day.

Entrance to the cave is regulated, and darshan a hasty affair for there are many others waiting outside to pay homage before the awesome Shivalingam. The devotees sing bhajans, chant incantations, and priests perform aarti and puja, invoking the blessing of Shiva, the divine, the pure, the absolute.

Do's and Dont's for the Yatris

Pilgrims are advised not to pay more than the specified rates for either services or their provisions. It is important to observe discipline on the trek and keep moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. Officials of the State Police, Health, Tourism, Food & Supplies and other concerned Departments are deployed on duty to help the pilgrims. You must also ensure that you are physically fit for the journey, and have yourself medically examined. Remember that you have to cross Mahagunus pass which is at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level.

Please ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables remain with you at all times. Also ensure that the Ponywalla, labourer or Dandiwalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these alloted at fixed rates at the base camps. Do not overstrain on steep gradients: do not relax at points where there are warning notices; don't break traffic discipline or try to overtake other on difficult stretches. Aged, infirm, ailing and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permitted to proceed beyond Pahalgam.

DO’S

•Please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to perform the journey as the Yatra involves trekking at an altitude of 14, 000 ft. Have yourself medically examined and certified fit for the journey and forward the medical certificate to the registering authority designated for your area of residence.

•Do carry sufficient heavy woolens including sweaters, (full as well as half sleaved), drawers woolen trousers, gloves, monkey caps etc. other items to be carried include wind cheater, light rain coat, a sleeping bag or blankets or a set of bedding items water proof tent, a torch with sufficient batteries, a walking stick with proper hand grip. Ladies are advised not go on the journey in Saris, instead pants or salwar suits with drawers should be used.

•Do carry some eatable like biscuits, candy, milk powder, sugar, assorted dry fruits, honey and some tinned food with you. Also carry water bottle, plastic plate, tumbler, Spoons, etc.

•Ration and firewood quota has been especially arranged for you at all stations enroute, against payment.

•Make sure that the ponywalla, the labourer, the dandywalla is properly registered and carries a token. You can get these allotted at fixed rates by competent authority at the same camp.

•Do ensure that ponies carrying your luggage and eatables etc. remain with you all time, if you let them ramain behind you are likely to be unnecessarily inconvenienced.

•Do observe discipline on the trek and keep on moving slowly and steadily. Adhere to the instructions issued by the Yatra Officer from time to time. The officials of the Police, Tourism, Health, Food & Supplies and other Departments are there to help you to perform the journey comfortably.

•Do carry sufficient money to pay your accommodation at Pehalgam and at other stations enroute to the Holy Cave and for meeting other personal requirements.

•All medical facilities during the Yatra are free. However, do carry your personal medical kit also..

•Carrying/use of alcohol enroute the Yatra is strictly prohibited.

DON'TS

•Do not overstrain on steep gradients.

•Do not relax at points where there are warning notices.

•Do not break traffic discipline or try to overtake others in difficult stretches of the route.

•Do not pay more than the prices/rates fixed for porters, ponies, dandies, rations firewood, accommodation etc. Note:-
Aged, infirm, ailing, and insufficiently clothed persons will not be permitted to proceed beyond Pehalgam. No Yatri will be allowed without a registration card.

Useful Tips on the Yatra

The Yatra is organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Govt., in the month of Shravan, and commences mainly from Pahalgam on specified dates. In recent years the route from Baltal has also been thrown open for the pilgrims to approach the holy Cave.

Dress: Pilgrims are advised to carry sufficient wollens such as sweaters, drawers, wollen trousers, monkey cap etc. Other items could include wind cheaters, rain coat, sleeping bag or blankets, umbrella, waterproof boots/shoes, walking stick, torch etc. Ladies are advised not to go on the trek in saris, instead pants or Salwar suits with drawers should be used.

Medical Assistance: Medical posts manned by qualified doctors and nursing staff are established enroute to cater to the needs of the pilgrims, free of cost. However, pilgrims are advised to carry along any medicines specifically prescribed for them.

Provisions: Essential rations are available at fair price rates from the specially established Govt. Depots at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtami, Numerous wayside tea-shops and small restaurants are set up by private parties. However, pilgrims are advised to carry with them biscuits, toffees, tinned food etc. to cater to their immediate needs. Firewood or gas can be obtained at Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawajan), Panchtami and near the Cave.

Insurance: In view of the hazardous nature, pilgrims are advised to insure themselves before proceeding on the Yatra.

Accommodation: Good tented accommodation with allied facilities are set-up during the Yatra period. These are provided on the basis of payment of fixed rates.

Registration: Registration of pilgrims are undertaken about a month ahead of the date fixed for commencement of Yatra.

Traditional Route

From Jammu : How to Reach Amarnath Holy Cave :

Though it is tough route still nearly one and a half lac pilgrims visit every year . The number of pilgrims is increasing every year. The journey from Jammu onward is by road and there are two routes . The details are given here.

JAMMU - PAHALGAM - HOLY CAVE.

Jammu to Pahalgam (315 km) - The distance between Jammu to Pahalgam can be covered by Taxi / Buses. These are available at Tourist Reception Centre, J & K Govt., Raghunath Bazaar only early in the morning. But one can also come to Srinagar by air and then move to Pahalgam by road

PAHALGAM - HOLY CAVE.

It is 96 KM from Srinagar .This distance can be covered by car,bus or taxi. Pahalgam is known all over the world for its beauty. It is small town situated on the banks of Lidder River. It is surrounded by high mountains. All essentials can be bought here. Good Hotels are available for accommodation. However the arrangements for stay and Langar are also made by the Non Government Service Organisations.

CHANDANWARI:

The distance from Pahalgam to Chandanwari is 16km. The route is good .It can be covered by road transport also. Mini buses are also available from Pahalgam to reach Chandanwari. The trail runs along the Lidder River . The route is scenic. Food is available here. Pilgrims camp at Pahalgam or Chandanwari on the first night .

PISSU TOP :

As the Yatra proceed further from Chandanwari one climbs a height to reach Pissu Top. It is said that to be first to reach for darshan of Bhole Nath Shivshankar there was a war between Devtas and Rakshas . With the power of Shiv , devtas could kill the rakshas in such large number that the heap of their dead bodies has resulted in this high mountain.

SHESHNAG:

This second day's trek of 12 kms from Chandanwari is through Pissu Top and spectacular, primeval countryside, and reaches Sheshnag - a mountain which derives its name from its Seven Peaks, resembling the heads of the mythical snake. The Journey to Sheshnag follows steep inclines on the right bank of a cascading stream and wild scenery untouched by civilisation. The second night's camp at Sheshnag overlooks the deep blue waters of Sheshnag lake, and glaciers beyond it. There are legends of love and revenge too associated with Sheshnag, and at the camp these are narrated by campfires . The stillness of a pine scented Himalayan night increases your inner joy. Yatris can take bath and get their fatigue alleviated. It is beautiful and scenic.

PANCHTARNI:

From Sheshnag one has to climb steep height up across Mahagunas Pass at 4276 mtrs.(14000 ft) for 4.6 KM and then descending to the meadow lands of Panchtarni at a height of 3657 mtrs (12000 ft). The last camp enroute to the Holy Cave is made here on third day. Here one faces cold winds which cause the skin to crack . Hence cold cream / Vaseline are very useful for protection of skin. Some Yatris are also effected by deficiency of oxygen .Some may get the feeling of vomiting . So dry fruit like Allu Bukhara ,sour and sweet eatables like Lemon are useful to control these symptoms . The route to Mahagunas is full of rivulets , water falls , springs . Panchtarni is a very beautiful place in the feet of BHAIRAV MOUNT. Five Rivers flow here . It is said that the five rivers origanated from Lord Shiva's Hairs (Jataon). Pilgrims camp at Panchtarni on the 3rd night.

THE HOLY CAVE SHRI AMARNATH:

The Holy Cave of Shri Amarnath is only 6 kms from Panchtarni. As there is no place to stay hence the pilgrims start in the early hours of the morning after their stay at Panchtarni. On the way to The Holy Cave one comes across the Sangam of Amravati and Panchtarni. Some pilgrims take bath at Amravati near holy cave to become pious before going for Darshan. Near the cave is found white soil known as Bhasam. It is the most beloved soil of Shiv ji . The pilgrims apply this Holy soil to their body and then go for Shivlingam Darshan. There are two smaller Shivlings one of Maa Parvati and other of Shri Ganesh. It may be noted that after having early Darshan of the Shivlinga at Holy Cave one can return to Panchtarni well in time the same day . Some pilgrims camp at Panchtarni while others continue their journey and reach back Sheshnag by the same evening.

Jammu - Baltal - Holy cave (414km)

Jammu - Baltal (400km).

The distance between Jammu and Baltal can be covered by Taxis / Buses available at Tourist Reception Centre, J & K / bus stand or one can come to Srinagar by air and then reach Baltal by road. The road route followed is :

JAMMU - Udhampur - Kud - Patnitop - Ramban - Banihal - KaziGund - Anantnag - Srinagar - Sonamarg - Baltal.

The journey from Jammu to Baltal which is about 400 kms. is full of beautiful Sites and one can experience of being in Heaven , a Paradise on earth. Passing through beautiful valleys, steeped mountains, one is sure of forgetting , oneself as a person ,for a while . A thrill, which is obviously there in every pilgrim gets enhanced while passing through this way owing to the Darshan of Holy Cave. In nutshell, a journey which can go down to your memory throughout the lifetime.

Baltal to Holy Cave

From Baltal Holy Cave is just 14 Kms.

This distance can be covered by foot / Ponies. However, Dandies are also available for handicapped and old aged pilgrims.
The width of the pebbled (kuchha) road is a bit narrow as compared to the Chandanwari-Holy Cave route, moreover , there are some steep rises & falls on the way , as compared to the Chandanwari route, but pilgrims can return back to base camp Baltal through this route only in one day.

Himalayas Tourism

2010-02-04T00:51:00.000-08:00

This majestic land offers the highest mountain trails, roads and bridges for the adventurer; highest wildlife reserves which abound with the most exotic birds, animals, flowers and herbs for the naturalist; age old temples, exquisite villages, traditional architecture still in its pristine beauty and the tribal lifestyles of its inhabitants.

Himalayan Adventure:

Trekking
Trekking in the Himalayas is an enjoyable experience. There are difficult treks as well as easy treks, long and short treks. Vehicles, helicopters, Balloons and aircrafts are also available to explore the Himalayas. There are various trekking routes like Garhwal, Ladakh, Himachal and Kumaon.

Mountaineering
This a mountaineer's delight yielding every kind of challenge a climber could look for, unparalleled in scope for high adventure. Mountaineering is best here.

Skiing :Skiing in Himalayas is done from Jan- March only.Presetnly only one ski slope has electric lifts. i.e in Auli in Gharwal Himalayas. Much of the skiing is done in Auli, Gulmarg, Kufri, Gulmarg, Manali and Nepal.

Camping: Himachal Pradesh offers many places and very serene camping places. High altitude camping is preferred at Laka Glacier (Dhauladhar Range -it is near Triund-Macleod Ganj area ) , Glacier of ladakhi-Manali, it is easy and safe.

Dharamshala: Dharamshala is perched on the high slopes in upper reaches of Kangra Valley. It is charming town with elegant bungalows nestling in thick conifer forests. Dharamshala is also the home of Dalai Lama, spiritual head of Buddhists.

Rishikesh: At the foot of the Himalayas, with the holy Ganges moving through this ancient town, Rishikesh is a haven of peace, spirituality, meditation and the world capital of yoga. It has numerous ashrams, some of which are internationally recognized as centers of philosophical studies, yoga and meditation.

Manali: Surrounded by towering peaks at arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline, never more than few hours drive from the town nestling at comfortable 2,050 meters. It is the center of flourishing orchard industry a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks.

Lahaul Spiti Valley: Two sub-divisions, Lahaul and Spiti comprise the trans-Himalayan district of Himachal Pradesh. Crossing Manali, beyond the Rohtang Pass at 3980 metres on an ancient trade route; the strange haunting beauty welcomes you.

Darjeeling: Known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations' Darjeeling is at the height of 2134 meters, offering magnificent view of Himalayan panorama including the Kanchenjunga peak. Tiger hill top, offering a breathtaking view of sunrise over Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga. Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Ropeway, a 2 kms-long journey between Darjeeling and Takvar, with fantastic overview of hills, undulating valleys and tea gardens.

Himalayan Destinations

2010-02-01T22:25:00.000-08:00

India Himalayas

2010-02-01T22:16:00.000-08:00

Himalayan States In India: Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Sikkim & North Eastern States.
Major Adventure Sports: Mountaineering, Trekking, River Rafting, Skiing
Major Peak: Kangchenjunga

Himalayan range covers the entire northern part of India, nestling five major states of the country within it. The ancient Indian pilgrims who have travelled in these mountains since time immemorial coined a Sanskrit word for the Himalayas meaning “Abode of Snow”.

Some of the reasons why people have been so fascinated by the Indian Himalayas is because of the Hindu pilgrim routes, the low valleys that abruptly rise up in high mountain ranges, the lovely trekking hikes, densely forested areas lying just a mountain range away from barren cold deserts, and the lovely people of the mountains with their unique hospitable lifestyles.

Major Indian Himalayan Regions

Jammu & Kashmir :
SrinagarJammu and Kashmir are really three regions: the foothill plains of Jammu; the lakes and blue valleys of Kashmir rising to alpine passes, the high altitude plains and starkly beautiful mountains of Ladakh, which lies beyond those passes. It's enough to move one to poetry. Srinagar is Kashmir's summer capital and Jammu, the winter capital. Among the most attractive part that this Indian state has is the adventure oppurtunities that can be seggragated into trekking, mountaineering and Trans Himalayan Jeep Safari.

What can make a mountaineering expedition, an adventure one could never forget? If its done on the glaciers that are still craving to be explored. The Himalayan range offers some of the most rigorous mountaineering challenges one can ever come across. The glaciers of Ladakh and Kashmir regions can test one's survival to the fittest and most testing of them all is the Siachen glacier, known as the largest glacier outside the Polar Regions.

Himachal Pradesh :
Himachal PradeshHimachal Pradesh is the land of snow, lofty peaks, cascading streams, alpine meadows & lush fruit-laden valleys. Many parts of the Himachal state have a distinctly Austrian look with conifer-clad mountains, chalet-like huts with overhanging balconies and serene blue valleys watered by snow-fed streams. Shimla the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is still very much a Raj township in appearance and atmosphere.

Himachal also store numerous wonderful hill stations, which are particularly cool in summers. Shimla, Dalhousie, Kullu, Manali and Kufri are a few of the hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh which offer breathtaking scenery and countless options of adventure sports. Dharamshala, where the Dalai Lama lives, is another important centre on the tourist map.

Uttaranchal :
Lying in the north of the vast and bountiful expanse of India and cradled in the awesome beauty and calm serenity of the stately Himalayas, Uttaranchal - the "Devbhumi" that has attracted tourists and pilgrims from world over since time immemorial. Comprising of eight hill districts and an area and population that equals the state of Himachal Pardesh, Uttaranchal is an expression of divinity, austerity, meditation, penance and attainment.

Uttaranchal is a paradise for adventure sports. The sheer variety ranging from Mountaineering, Trekking, Skiing, Skating, Water Sports to Aero Sports like Hang Gliding, Paragliding make Uttaranchal one of the most attractive destinations for adventure sports not only in India but the world over.

Sikkim :
SikkimA former kingdom , Sikkim is now the 22nd State of India. It is rooted to the Himalayan Massif like a scale on the neck of a Dragon. One of the smallest states of India, it is bounded by Nepal to the west and Bhutan to the east; by the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and northeast and by West Bengal to the south.

Shrouded in heavy mist, the guardian deity Kangchenjunga both protects and terrifies the inhabitants of the magical kingdom of Sikkim. An awe-inspiring mass of rock clothed in dazzling white snow, this Himalayan giant in the world’s third highest peak at 8,590m (28,199ft). The name itself means ’house of five treasures’ represented by its five soaring summits

The North Eastern States - Seven Sisters :
The reason has so much to see, so much to experience and so much to write about that it would take volumes. The region of northeastern India will whet the appetite of the traveller, the tourist, the anthropologist, the observer. It is impossible to describe the nuances that make this area unique, challenging and interesting. Get to any one place and the result will be that you will return for more.

The seven sisters comprise of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram. While the seven sisters are unique in their own way, the major Himalayan destination over here is Arunachal Pradesh. The state provides abundant scope for angling, boating, rafting, trekking and hiking. Besides, there are a number of wild life sanctuaries and national parks where rare animals, birds and plants will fascinate the visitor.

Sikkim

2010-02-01T22:12:00.000-08:00

Location: Eastern Himalayan Region
Capital: Gangtok
Major Peak: Kangchenjunga
Best Time To Visit: March To May & October To December

Kangchenjunga Peak - Sikkim's Guardian Deity

Shrouded In Heavy Mist, the guardian deity Kangchenjunga both protects and terrifies the inhabitants of the magical kingdom of Sikkim . An awe-inspiring mass of rock clothed in dazzling white snow, this Himalayan giant in the world’s third highest peak at 8,590m (28,199ft). The name itself means 'House of Five Treasures’ represented by its five soaring summits. These treasures are the gold lacquered on it by the rising and setting sun, the silver from its mantle of virgin snow, and the jewels of the scriptures containing the teachings of the Gods and enlightened reincarnates.

Omnipresent and mystical , Kanchenjunga finally yields to nature’s power and sheds ite monsoon veil in Autumn. Sikkim’s inhabitants celebrate this re-awakening with great pomp and ceremony during the Pang Lhabsol Festival. It then becomes easy to believe the myth that a great God created, from beneath the slopes of this sacred mountain, the original man and women from whom all Sikkimese are descended.
SikkimGlimpses Of Sikkim
A former kingdom , Sikkim is now the 22nd State of India . It is rooted to the Himalayan Massif like a scale on the neck of a Dragon. The various ethnic groups have their own nomenclature - the Nepalese call it “Sukhim” or “New Home”, to the Tibetans it is known as “Denzong” or “the Valley of Rice”, and to the Lepchas, Sikkim’s original inhabitants , it means “Nye-Mal-Ale” or “Heaven”.

The state’s 64-km width is squeezed between the mountainous kingdoms of Bhutan and Nepal to the east and west respectively. The high plateau of China’s province of tibet lies 40-km to the north and India’s Bengal state to the south. Within Sikkim’s 113-km north - south delineation the altitude rises steeply from 253m to 8,595 (800 ft to 28,199 ft) and encompass allmost all the climatic zones found on earth.

Sikkim is divided into four districts - East, West, North and South. The most populated area is the eastern district which contains the capital town Gangtok, followed by the southern and western districts , and finally the sparsely populated northern area with its inhospital climate and steep ridges.

Climate Of Sikkim
The climate varies with elevation and ranges from tropical in the low valley bottoms to Arctic-like conditions of perpetual snow and ice in the higher reaches. The annual rainfall varies from 50-200 inches, mostly during May-October months, and snow in the upper levels often accumulates to a thickness of 30m. The best time to visit this state is during the months of March to late May and from October to December.
-(Hotels in Sikkim)- -(More info onTrekking in Sikkim)-

Gangtok - Sikkim's Capital Gangtok - Sikkim's Capital
Sikkimese life is centred around Gangtok. Its Buddhist past is the root of its appeal for visitors, and remains evident at the impressive Institute of Tibetology, the Enchey Monastery, Pemayengtse and the marvellous Rumtek Monastery not far away, the last a thriving centre of Mahayana Buddhism. Sikkim's pride, the orchid, is nurtured at the Orchid Sanctuary and other sites in and around Gangtok.

People & Culture Of Sikkim
The population of Sikkim is divided into three distinct ethnic groups - Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese - each adding their unique cultural colour. Out of these, the Nepalese form three-quarters of the population. There are also small groups of Indians from various parts of the country including a community of Muslims and a handful of Tibetan refugees. Despite the diversity, the Sikkimese people live in peace and harmony.

The state's cultural life is related to Tibetan religious and aesthetic traditions. The cultural climax of the year comes with the 2-day Phanglhapsol festival, when masked dances are performed in honour of Kanchenjunga, presiding deity and the mountain. There are also many secular folk dances. The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology has one of the largest collection of Tibetan books in the world. Many Buddhist monasteries are repositories of artistic treasures, including wall paintings, Tankas or Thangkas, and bronze images.

River Rafting Adventure Sports In Sikkim
Sikkim, offers a holiday that is more like a voyage of adventure and discovery. When the misty rain wraps the slopes in lacy wisps of clouds, you will find yourself trekking at 14,000 ft or more. If you are more enthusiastic about the thrills of untamed waters, then go for some Rafting or Kayaking experience in Teesta River. And as the mountain scopes of Eastern Himalayas are so luring, how about having a mountaineering expedition and conquering those virgin peaks, which are craving to be explored! The ones looking for safari trips check out the Yak Safari's that is an unforgettable experience in itself.

Himachal Pradesh

2010-02-01T22:02:00.001-08:00

Location: Western Himalayan Region
Capital: Shimla
Languages Spoken: Hindi & Pahari
Best Time To Visit: May to Mid-October

Himalayan Beauty Of Himachal Pradesh

For sheer geographical diversity, few places in the world are as richly endowed as Himachal Pradesh. Low rolling bills, just a couple of hundred metres above sea level, climb on to touch the core of the Himalaya mountains. Here lie peaks that are several thousand metres high and never lose their perennial snows. Then, past these forbidding heights, lie the visually stunning cold deserts of the Trans Himalaya.

Climate Of Himachal Pradesh
The State can be divided into two regions: the Southern part, which is almost as hot as the plains and the northern region having a temperate summer and a winter with extreme cold and heavy snowfall. The rainfall is around 180 cms. Best time to visit Himachal is during the months Mid-May to Mid-October.

Hill Resorts Of Himachal Pradesh
Himachal also store numerous wonderful hill stations, which are particularly cool in summers. Shimla, Dalhousie, Kullu, Manali and Kufri are a few of the hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh which offer breathtaking scenery and countless options of adventure sports. Dharamshala, where the Dalai Lama lives, is another important centre on the tourist map.

Jammu and Kashmir

2010-02-01T22:02:00.000-08:00

Location: Northern Most Part Of India
Three Main Regions: Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh
Languages Spoken: Dogri, Kashmiri, Hindi & Ladakhi
Best Time To Visit: Jammu - October To February
Kashmir - May To October & November To February
Ladakh - Mid June To September

Jammu Kashmir is the first Himalayan state of India, but its not another hill land of India. Jammu and Kashmir is really three regions: the foothill plains of Jammu; the lakes and blue valleys of Kashmir rising to alpine passes, the high altitude plains and starkly beautiful mountains of Ladakh, which lies beyond those passes. It's enough to move one to poetry. Among the most attractive part that this Indian state has is the adventure oppurtunities that can be seggragated into trekking, mountaineering and Trans Himalayan Jeep Safari.

Kashmir is one of india’s most beautiful and touristically popular regions and has been since the time of the great Moghul emperors. It’s probably most famous for the houseboats on picturesque Dal Lake you’ve not really been to Kashmir until you’ve not really been to Kashmir until you’ve stayed on one - but there’s a lot more to the Kashmir Valley than just lazing on board.

Around the capital, Srinagar, there are a number of interesting mosques, temples and forts and, of course, the delightful Moghul Gardens - laid out in formal patterns hundreds of years ago and every bit as beautiful today. But you have to get away from Srinagar, up to the hill stations around the valley, to really enjoy Kashmir. Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg are all delightful in themselves, but they also serve as the jumping off points for Kashmir’s many Trekking possibilities.

Jammu
Jammu, the second largest town in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, and is situated 290-km from capital city of Srinagar on the south-eastern slopes of the Shiwalik range. In winter it becomes the headquarters of the Jammu & Kashmir administration and many Kashmiris move here for the winter because the temperature drops.

Ladakh
LadakhLadakh's landscape has more in common with the lunar landscape than any other place on earth. Being in a complete rainshadow region, cut off from the monsoon clouds by the Great Himalaya and a host of subsidiary ranges, it is a cold high altitude desert where the wind, water from the minimal winter snows, and chemical reactions within the rocks themselves, have carved a fantastic, sometimes grotesque, landscape.

Climate Of Jammu & Kashmir
The climate is one of opposites: while in summer time the heat builds upto breaking point in the foothills, people of Ladakh and Kashmir wait for the snow to melt.on the high passes. From October onwards, Jammu becomes a much more pleasant destination. However, the best time to enjoy vale of Kashmir and the adventures of Ladakh region is between the months of May and September.
People And Culture Of Jammu & Kashmir
The majority are Muslims living in the Kashmir valley; culturally and ethnically, the closest links are with peoples in the northwestern highlands of the Gilgit district in the Pakistani sector. While Hindus dominate the Jammu region and Ladakh is majorly influenced by the Trans-Himalayan Buddhism.The Kashmiri language is influenced by Sanskrit and belongs to the Dardic branch of Indo-Aryan languages also spoken by the hill tribes of Gilgit. The great majority of the population resides in the lower reaches of the valley.

The ancient caves and temples of Kashmir, reveal a strong link with Indian culture at the beginning of the Christian Era. At one time the classical dances of the south are believed to have been practised. These arts survived only in folk forms and were performed principally at marriage ceremonies. The popular Hafiza dance performed by Kashmiri women to the accompaniment of Sufiana Kalam was later replaced by the Bacha Nagma, performed by young boys dressed like women. The Bhand Jashna or the "festival of clowns", a 300- to 400-year-old genre of Kashmiri folk theatre performed in village squares, satirizes social situations through dance, music and clowning.

Water Skiing Adventure Sports In Jammu & Kashmir
In the summer season Kashmir offers a series of a little less rigorous adventure sports, such as Water Skiing, on Srinagar's Dal and Nagin Lakes, a popular part time in the valley. Water trekking is calculated to delight anyone wanting to explore the valley in a boat. A Gondala, locally known as Shikara, takes sightseers along a five-day route along rivers and lakes situated within the valley. Enjoy spending nights camping along the way. Trout fishing is another delightful water sport in Kashmir and fishing season lasts all through summer.

What can make a mountaineering expedition, an adventure one could never forget? If its done on the glaciers that are still craving to be explored. The Himalayan range offers some of the most rigorous mountaineering challenges one can ever come across. The glaciers of Ladakh and Kashmir regions can test one's survival to the fittest and most testing of them all is the Siachen glacier, known as the largest glacier outside the Polar Regions.

Uttaranchal

2010-02-01T21:58:00.000-08:00

Location: Western Himalayan Region
Capital: Dehradun
Languages Spoken: Kumaoni, Garhwali
Best Time To Visit: April to June & September To Mid-November

Lying in the north of the vast and bountiful expanse of India and cradled in the awesome beauty and calm serenity of the stately Himalayas, Uttaranchal - the "Devbhumi" that has attracted tourists and pilgrims from world over since time immemorial. Comprising of eight hill districts and an area and population that equals the state of Himachal Pardesh,, Uttaranchal is an expression of divinity, austerity, meditation, penance and attainment.

Nanda Devi is the highest mountain situated completely in India, and forms part of the main axis of the Great Himalayan Range. To the North of the Himalayas, the Zanskar range forms a formidable divide between India and Tibet. To the south of the Himalayan range the main tributaries of the Ganges and the Kali River form rugged gorge country before cutting though the Shivalik range, where the peaks rarely exceed 3,000m.

The Peak Regions
KumaonThe Great Himalayan Range forms the backbone of the Garhwal and Kumaon regions of Uttaranchal. In Eestern Garhwal, it includes the Swargarohini range with Swargarohini I (6,252m) at the head of the Tons River, and the Bandarpunch range, including Bandarpunch (6,316m) forming the main divide between the headwaters of the Yamuna and the Bhagirathi Rivers.

The main Himalayas extends to the Gangotri region, where a huge concentration of peaks almost encloses the Gangotri glacier. The peaks include Yogeshwar (6,678m), Sri Kailash (6,932m) and Mana Parbat (6,794m) to the North; and Kedarnath (6,490), Kedar Dome (8,831m) and Bhirigupanth I (6,772m) to the south. Up at the head of the glacier, the Chaukhamba range, including Chaukhamba I (7,068m), provides an impressive divide between the headwaters of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Rivers.

To the east of Badrinath, the peaks of Nilgiri Parbat (6,474m), Ghori Parbat (6,708m) and Hathi Parbat (6,727m) are the highest of the Himalayan peaks, while to the North, Kamet (7,756m), Mana Peak (7,272m), Abl Gamin (7,355m), and Mukut (7,242m) are some of the 7,000m peaks forming the main axis of the Zanskar range.

Climate Of Uttaranchal
With the exception of the remote valleys to the North of the Great Himalayan Range, the Uttaranchal region is subject to the Indian monsoon. The monsoon begins by mid-June, with the first heavy rainfall generally occurring by the first heavy rainfall generally occurring by the first week of July. Rain continues through August until the first week of September.

The first of the winter snows falls in mid to late October. Heavy snowfall on the main Himalayan range during the winter months, and it is not until the beginning of May that the snow starts melting. To the south of the Himalayan range, some of the valleys, including the Har Ki Dun, enjoy milder climates. At lower altitudes the snowfall is not so severe, still the best time to visit Uttaranchal is from April to June, and after the Monsoon, from September to mid-November.

Pilgrimage Centres In Uttaranchal
KedarnathSacred pilgrimages of different religions including the world famous “Char Dham” or the four Hindu pilgrimage destinations of Shri Badrinath - Kedarnath - Gangotri - Yamunotri; the sacred Sikh pilgrimage of Hemkund - Lokpal, Nanakmatta and Meetha - Reetha Sahib and Piran Kaliyar have drawn pilgrims and seekers for spiritual fulfillment to Uttaranchal. Kailash Mansarovar, Tholingmath are all in the Chinese occupied Tibet, but for the people of yesteryears, these were some of the most important landmarks in Uttaranchal.

Garhwal & Kumaon
Uttaranchal is undoubtedly India’s most beautiful canvas. Studded with green strokes, wild splashes and quaint highlights. What makes Uttaranchal a holidayer’s delight are the sketches of Kumaon and Garhwal. Enchanting, captivating in their own ways. Mesmerising, spellbinding to the last kilometre. Unspoilt, untouched and unbelievable. If Kumaon is a green table spread, Garhwal is a challenger’s delight. If Kumaon plays host to clear lakes, chirpy forests, floral rainbows, garhwal flaunts its snow-clad peaks, quaint retreats and infinite mountain rivers.

Uttaranchal is undoubtedly India’s most beautiful canvas. Studded with green strokes, wild splashes and quaint highlights. What makes Uttaranchal a holidayer’s delight are the sketches of Kumaon and Garhwal. Enchanting, captivating in their own ways. Mesmerising, spellbinding to the last kilometre. Unspoilt, untouched and unbelievable. If Kumaon is a green table spread, Garhwal is a challenger’s delight. If Kumaon plays host to clear lakes, chirpy forests, floral rainbows, garhwal flaunts its snow-clad peaks, quaint retreats and infinite mountain rivers.

Cultural Heritage Of Uttaranchal

Culturally, Uttaranchal has a rich a vibrant heritage. There are several local fairs and festivals like Jhanda Mela, Surkanda Devi Mela, Magh Mela, Nanda Devi Mela, Chaiti Mela, Purnagiri Mela, Piran Kaliyar Mela, Joljivi Mela and Uttarayani Mela, incicative of the immense possibilities for cultural tourism in Uttaranchal.

Culturally, Uttaranchal has a rich a vibrant heritage. There are several local fairs and festivals like Jhanda Mela, Surkanda Devi Mela, Magh Mela, Nanda Devi Mela, Chaiti Mela, Purnagiri Mela, Piran Kaliyar Mela, Joljivi Mela and Uttarayani Mela, incicative of the immense possibilities for cultural tourism in Uttaranchal.

Adventure Sports In Uttaranchal

Auli
The queen of hills, Mussoorie, the lake district of India - Nainital, Kausani, Pauri, Landsdowne, Ranikhet, Almora, Pithoragarh, Auli, Munsiyari and many more attractive tourist destinations are part of Uttaranchal.

The queen of hills, Mussoorie, the lake district of India - Nainital, Kausani, Pauri, Landsdowne, Ranikhet, Almora, Pithoragarh, Auli, Munsiyari and many more attractive tourist destinations are part of Uttaranchal.

Wildlife In Uttraranchal
Along with the world-famous Corbett National Park, Uttaranchal has several breath taking destinations for wildlife tourism. These are the Rajaji National Park, Govind Pashu Vihar, Asan Barrage, Chilla and Saptarishi Ashram, the last four being a delight for bird watchers.

Uttraranchal has a flora and fauna, which is diverse as well as rare. Making this state an ideal location for Eco-Tourism. Eco tourism includes Jungle Safaris, Trekking on forest trails, Nature Walks, catch and release of Mahaseer and other fish species. However, the utmost priority in all these activities is given to retaining the ecological fragility of the region.

Travel to Bhutan Himalayas

2010-02-01T21:55:00.000-08:00

Location: 150-km From Siliguri To Phuntsholing, Bhutan Border
Average Altitude: 7,554m
Capital: Thimphu
Best Time To Visit: March To August

Bhutan often reversed as the 'Land of the peaceful Dragon' is still regarded as one of the last "Shangri-La" in the Himalayan region because of its remoteness, it's spectacular mountain terrain, varied flora and fauna and it's unique ancient Buddhist monasteries. It is relatively unexplored pockets of Asia, which allows only limited number of discerning travelers to enter the country with special travel visa permits.

Bhutan's isolation has resulted its culture and traditions remaining much the same for many hundreds of years. Our weekly departure allows you to experience the stunning beautiful alpine valley flanked by step slopes and terraced pastures dotted with temple.

Festival (Tsechus ) are held in Bhutan through out the year at difffrent locations. These festivals are celebrations of faith, legends, mythsand history of Bhutan in ancient rituals of colorful dance and music. To coincide a visit to Bhutan during the festive season will be even better way to observe the uniqude culture.

Bhutan : ( Druk yul )

The Capital City of Bhutan ThimphuPopulation : 6,00,000 ( 1995 )

Capital : Thimpu

Location : Bhutan lies between 89o and 92o E and 27o and 28o N.

Time : 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard time.

Language : Dzongkha

People : There are two main population groups in Bhutan: the Dukpa ( 67 % ) of Tibetan and Monpa origin and Lhotsampa ( 30 % of Nepalese origin ). The rest 3% comprise of indigenous tribal groups such as Toktop, Doya and Lepcha of SW Bhutan.

Religion : Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism is the state religion but also Nyingma school is also well represented in the central and eastern districts.

Climate : The monsoon starts in mid June and lasts untill end of September. The climate within the mountain varies greatly according to precipitations and wind conditions. In the Duars Plain and upto 1500m. The climate is sub-tropical with high humidity and heavy rain fall. The climate of mid- mountain belt varies, such that low- lying parts of Punakha, Mongar, Tashigang, and Lhuntse have cool winter and hot summer, where as the higher valleys of Ha, Paro, Thimpu, Tongsa and Bhumthang ranging from 3,000 - 4,000m endure a temperate climate with cold snowy winter and some - what cooler summers.

Clothing : Cotton and light woolen in summer ( June - Sept ). Heavy wollens and jackets the rest of the year. Take an umbrella and comfortable shoes for the monsoon.

Economy : In 1995, the per capita income was estimated as US 500 with the annual growth at 5%. Although these figures places Bhutan among the least developed nations, the country is unlike others within that category as no faine, little malnutrition, food housing, exists. Over 91% of the population depends on agriculture and livestock rearing which together account for some 50% of GDP, despite the fact that only 2% of the land is arable.

Money : The National currency is Ngultrum ( Nu ) 100 Chetrum = 1 Nu. Exchange rate is approximately US $ 1 - Nu 35. Indian ruees circulate at par.

Travel to Nepal Himalayas

2010-02-01T21:50:00.000-08:00

Location: 5-km From Bhairawa, Gorakpur, India-Nepal Border
Capital: Kathmandu
Altitude: 4,877m-8,848m
Best Time To Visit: Throughout The Year

Nepal - a country of amazing extremes, is the home of the World’s highest mountains, historic cities and the forested plains where the lordly tigers and the great one-horned Rhinoceros trundle at ease. in fact enchantment is everywhere for anyone in search of Shangrila!

Nepal, a sovereign independent Kingdom, is bounded on the North by the Tibetan Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China, the East-south and West by India. The length of the kingdom is 885-kms East-West and it’s breadth varies from 145-241-kms North-South. The country can be divided into three main geographical regions:

Nepal Himalaya Region:
The altitude of this region ranges between 4877-m.- 8848 m. it includes 8 of the highest 14 summits in the world, which exceed altitude of 8,000m including Annapurna, Dhaulagiri and others.

Nepal Mountain Region:
Nepal Himalaya RegionThis region accounts for about 64% of total land area. It is formed by the Mahabharat range that soars up to 4,877m and the lower Churia range.

Nepal Terai Region:
The low-land Terai occupies about 17% of the total land area of the country.

History Of Nepal
Nepal - a country with a long historical tradition is an amalgamation of a number of medieval principalities. Before the campaign of national integration launched by King Prithivi Narayan Shah the Kathmandu valley was ruled by the Malla kings, whose contributions to art and culture are indeed great and unique. In 1768 A.D. the Shah dynasty ascended the throne of the unified kingdom. His majesty king Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev, was tenth king in the Shah dynasty.

The new democratic constitution of the kingdom was promulgated on November 9, 1990. Nepal is one of the founder members of South Asian association for Regional Cooperation or SAARC, of which the third summit was held in Kathmandu in November 1987

Nepalese People
Nepal has a population of more than 18 million people made of different races living in different regions with diverse culture, languages and dialects. The Gurungs and Magars live mainly in the west. The Rais, Limbus and Sunuwars inhabit the slopes and valleys of the eastern mid hills. The Sherpas live in the Himalayan region. The newars constitute an important ethnic group of the capital valley Kathmandu. There are Tharus, Yadavas, Satar, Rajvanshis and Dhimals in the Terai region. The Brahmans, Chhetris and Thakuris are spread generally over all parts of the kingdom.

Religion And Culture of Nepal
Nepalese People
Hinduism and Buddhism constitute two major religions of Nepal. A remarkable feature of Nepal is the religious homogeneity what exists, particularly between the Hindu and Buddhist communities. Apart from the Hindus and Buddhists, Muslim from the third largest religious group.

The exquisite medieval art & architecture of the Kathmandu valley vividly reflect the artistic ingenuity and the religious tradition of the people.

Climate Of Nepal
Nepal has four climatic seasons
(a) Spring : March-May
(b) Sumer: June-August
(c) Autumn: September-November
(d) Winter: December-February.

There is no seasonal constraint on travelling in and through Nepal. Even in December and January, when the winter is at its severest, there are compensating bright sun and brilliant views.

How to Reach Nepal

Air:
There are 15 International carriers operating to and out of Kathmandu International airport. There are ten passenger airlines operating to almost 30 destination in nearly all parts of Nepal - remote airfields to major hub cities. Today it is possible to reach most of the tourist destinations by air. Some of the major tourist destinations in Nepal operated by domestic airlines are:

* POKHARA - 35 minutes flight from Kathmandu: The lake town and the gateway to the Annapurna Sanctuary.
* JOMSOM - 20 minutes flight from Pokhara: The remote village of the Serchans and gateway to remote Mustang.
* BHARATPUR - 20 minutes flight from Kathmandu: Located in the Royal Chitwan National Park, the reserve of the Royal Bengal Tiger and the Great One Horned Rhinoceros.
* LUKLA - 35 minutes flight from Kathmandu: Gateway to the Sagarmatha National Park, Mount Everest, and many of the other famous Himalayan peaks.
* NEPALGUNJ - 65 minutes flight from Kathmandu: Gateway and hub airport to west Nepal and route to the Bardia National Park and Dolpo / Phuksundo National Park.

Helicopter Services:
Nepal with its high mountains and beautiful scenic countryside is known as "Helicopter Country." The helicopter services industry in Nepal is now well established with many types and categories of helicopters. The pilots are very experienced professionals with thousands of flying hours experience in Nepal.

Rail:
Nepal-Janakpur-Jayanagar Railway (NJJR) operates a freight and passenger service in the eastern Terai.

Roads:
Buses, mini-buses and three-wheeler tempos ply on fixed routes at regular intervals. The services, are fairly frequent. The last city buses stop running around 8 pm. City buses that ply within Kathmandu and go to Patan as well as those going to Kirtipur, Banepa, Dhulikhel and Thankot, leave from the City Bus Park located at the eastern side of Tundikhel parade ground. Trolley buses to Bhaktapur leave from Tripureswor near the football stadium. Their are no international Car Rental agencies in Nepal and even the locals usually have a driver assigned to their personal car rather than deal with the terrible traffic conditions around the city.

General Info on Nepal

Language:
The Capital City of Nepal - KathmanduNepali, serves the purpose of the Kingdom’s Lingua-Franca in Nepal. The educated people speak and understand English as well.

Clothing:
Clothing depends on place and time, however, it is recommended to have both light and warm clothing. In the mountain areas warm clothes are generally a must.

Licensed Guides:
All the travel agencies of Kathmandu have licensed English speaking guides, however, many agencies have also guides who can speak other international languages for the convenience of tourists. As unlicensed guides are not allowed to serve clients, it is advisable to confirm that your guide has valid license. To have a quality service it is recommended to arrange the sightseeing programmes only through the government registered travel agencies.

Travel to Tibet Himalayas

2010-02-01T21:47:00.000-08:00

Location: 470-kms From Bhutan
Average Altitude: 4,000m
Capital: Lhasa
Best Time To Visit: April To November

About Tibet & The Trans-Himalayas
Tibet, one of the extra ordinary destinations where indeed adventure lurks around every corner. Its name the "Roof of the world" is not a mere statement. The valley bottoms of tibet are highter than the highest mountains elsewhere.

The Trans-HimalayasAdventure on the road is never short on the beautiful Trans-Himalaya drive of over 970-kms, through four mountain passes, promising a panorama of a cultural and scenic diversity unsurpassable anywhere. The Buddhist monasteries of Drepung, once the largest; the Jokhang- a spirtual centre, and the awesome palaces of the dalai lama. Norbulingka or the Summer Palace and the Potala - the Traditional Seat are some of the highlights of visit.

Adventure on the road is never short on the beautiful Trans-Himalayan drive of over 970-kms, through four mountain passes, promising a panorama of a cultural and scenic diversity unsurpassable anywhere. The Buddhist monasteries of Drepung, once the largest; the Jokhang- a spirtual centre, and the awesome palaces of the dalai lama. Norbulingka or the Summer Palace and the Potala - the Traditional Seat are some of the highlights of visit.

Climate In Tibet

Lhasa - The capital city of Tibet
Tibet has got the harshest climate in the world. It is cool in summer but freezingly cold in winter. The average temperature in north Tibet is subzero and winter hits in October till the coming May or June, July and August are the best time to visit the area, enjoying warm temperature, intense sunshine, beautiful scene and festive events.

How to reach Tibet
To get to the Tibetan capital, Lhasa, foreign travelers usually start from Chengdu in Sichuan, Xining in Qinghai or Kathmandu in Nepal:

Air:
1) Chengdu, Sichuan to Lhasa Direct daily flights are available between Chengdu, Sichuan, and Lhasa. You can easily get a ticket through a travel agency in Chengdu. There is also a comfortable 2-hour flight twice weekly between Chongqing and Lhasa.

2) Kathmandu to Lhasa From April to November there are 2 flights a week available between the Nepalese capital and Lhasa. Schedule air services fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa, and back every Tuesday and Saturdays with additional flights on Thursdays from July. This flight last a little over one hour and gives you a panoramic view of the Himalayas. However, individual travelers can get neither a visa nor an air ticket, which are only available to members of an organized group.

Road:
1) Xining, Qinghai via Golmud to Lhasa, this bus trip is tough going and takes a minimum of 2 nights and 3 days along the Qinghai-Tibet Highway. Although uncomfortable this is still the most popular route for travelers sticking to land transportation.

2) Kathmandu via Dram (Khasa) to Lhasa As with the Qinghai-Tibet Highway, the China-Nepal Friendship Highway is a popular route for travelers. This route brings you close to a number of famous sights, such as Shigatse, Gyantse, and the Everest Base Camp. It takes 5-7 days of traveling over the Tibetan Highlands to get to Lhasa via this route. This overland trip also subjects individual travelers to the same restrictions as access by air from Nepal.

Genreral Info on Tibet
Clothing: Light-weight clothes May through October and warm layered clothing from November to April

Borders: India, Nepal (1,236-kms), Bhutan (470-kms) and Mayanmar

To Tibet Altitude
Zhangmu 7,000 ft
Xegar 13,800 ft
Xigatse 12,600 ft
Lhasa 13,050 ft

Note:
Season for Tibet is from the end March to end November each year. From end November to end March it gets too cold and flights do not operate during this period. Flights operate from first week April to end November every year.

Acess to Tibet is limited to organized groups. Visa applications have to be made through a registered travel agency in Nepal. A visa for China does not entitle you to travel in Tibet.

Himalayan Wildlife Travel and tourism

2010-02-01T21:41:00.001-08:00

Common Flora : Chir (Pine), Oak, Deodar, Fir, Rhododendron, Birch, And Juniper
Forests : Sal, Teak And Shisham
Common Fauna : Tigers, Elephants, Wild Boar, Crocodiles, Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep And Musk Deer.
Tourist Attractions : Jim Corbett National Park, Namdhpha National Park, Kaziranga National Park

The Himalayan region displays great variety in flora and fauna. It is also where rare medicinal herbs are said to grow. In the Terai - the Himalayan foothills, there are luxuriant tropical forests of Sal, Teak And Shisham. As one climbs, one encounters a variety of Chir (Pine), Oak, Deodar, Fir, Rhododendron, Birch And Juniper. At higher altitudes the Juniper becomes a bush.

Blossoming Blooms
Where the tree-line ends, the ‘Buggyals’ or alpine meadows begin to unfold like a green, velvet carpet. Himalayan flowers of rare beauty are seen here in abundance, their soft petals adorned with raindrops reflecting the delicate hues of sunrise and sunset. These meadows have been aptly described as the “Eden of Flowers”. In the upper hills of Garhwal region Lilies and Potentillas change the landscape dramatically from a weird barren wasteland to a heavenly pasture within a short distance.

It is difficult to imagine today that these Himalayan slopes were densely wooded less than a century ago. While Himalayan forests are not as lush as the rain-fed South Indian forests, they do attain an impressive magnificence in the unspoilt upper regions.

Wilds Of The Hills
Wildlife in the Terai comprises Tigers, Elephants, Deer, Wild Boar, Crocodiles and Pythons. At greater heights dwell more exotic species like the elusive Snow Leopard, the sure-footed Blue Sheep and the famous Musk Deer.

Avifauna
Birds with colourful plumage like the Monal Pheasant are common to the eastern central and the western segments. It is surprising that many of these species have survived, despite the ruthless destructions of their habitat.

Himalayan Wildlife Travel

2010-02-01T21:41:00.000-08:00

Romantic Kerala Tourism

2010-01-27T00:58:00.000-08:00

Day 01 - Munnar

You are greeted on arrival at the Kochi International Airport/Railway station by The Travel Planners representative and thereafter depart for Munnar (130 kms / 4 hrs) enjoying the scenic beauty & the marvelous waterfalls, high mountains with the low flying clouds passing by. Arrive Munnar and check in at hotel. In the evening you can go for sightseeing of Munnar and witness tea gardens spread like a green carpet over hundreds of kilometers, lush green hills, a place so difficult to describe, very low population too far from pollution, most of the area covered by Tata tea. Overnight at Bracknel Forest - Super Deluxe Room

Day 02 - In Munnar

Morning sightseeing in Munnar which includes Raja Malai, a top peak of Munnar where you may see Neel Thar (mountain goats), Pothamedu, Devikulam, Mattupetty, Eco-Point etc. You can also enjoy boating in the Lake (optional). Overnight at Bracknel Forest - Super Deluxe Room

Day 03 - Kumarakom (4.5 hrs drive)

Morning proceed to Kumarakom which has a panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands and extensive rubber plantations. On arrival check into a beautiful Backwater Resort and rest of the day free to relax at the Resort. Overnight stay at Lake Song - Punnamada Room.

Day 04 - Houseboat (Cruise from Kumarakom to Alleppey)

Today morning after breakfast get ready to check in to the Houseboat (2 km drive from the reost). At 12 Noon, check into a Traditional Kerala Style Houseboat and Cruise through the backwaters. It will be a fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters. Stay overnight in the Houseboat (Deluxe A/c)

Day 05 - Trivandrum - Poovar (4 hrs drive)

Today morning after breakfast Houseboat will drop you at Alleppey and drive to Trivandrum. Afternoon you can go for sight seeing of Trivandrum, which includes the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, Napier Museum and Kuthiramalika Palace and Veli lagoon. Overnight at Poovar Island Resort - Land Cottage.

Day 06 - Trivandrum - Poovar

Full day relax in the beach and stay overnight in Poovar Island Resort - Land Cottage.

Day 7 - Departure - 30 Minutes drive to Trivandrum Airport

Morning after breakfast transfer to Airport or Railway Station for the onward Journey.

Tourist Places in Mauritius

2010-01-17T20:40:00.000-08:00

Mark Twain was so impressed by this natural paradise, that he remarked later, that Mauritius was made before heaven and heaven was a copy of the place. The small island is located in South West Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa. It is one of the most captivating island destinations of the world. Tourism in Mauritius is today a major contributor towards the country’s revenues.

History:
The Republic of Mauritius was being visited by the early sea-farers, and the earliest records appear from the 10th century AD. The Europeans arrived much later, including the Portuguese navigator Pedro Mascarenhas, credited for the discovery of the islands (1505), the Dutch who established a permanent settlement here (1638), and the French who took over the islands in 1715, renaming it as Isle de France. The British gained control of the island in 1810, after the French surrendered to them during the ongoing conflict between the two countries. Mauritius gained its independence in 1968, and became a part of the commonwealth in 1992. The island was proclaimed a republic on 12th March 1992.

Geography and Climate:
The island is located about 900 kilometers from Madagascar, off the South East Coast of Africa. The island is 65 kms long and 45 kms wide. The climate is tropical and temperature varies between 19 degrees, to 34 degrees centigrade. Summer months are wet and humid, lasting between November and May, while the dry winter starts from June and lasts till September. The region is prone to cyclonic activity and Mauritius has seen some major cyclones in the last century.

Tourism :
Tourism in Mauritius has taken off towards the end of the 20th century, the government having realized the immense potential. The Mauritius tours offer a fantastic tourism experience of the island and its surroundings. The beautiful scenery and the large number of exciting activities offered to tourists make Mauritius one of the most sought after tourist places in this part of the world. The tourist attractions in Mauritius include beautiful sandy beaches, quaint fishing villages, ruins of old European settlements, and wildlife parks. The island and the region surrounding it support a large number of wildlife species. The marine life is one of the major attractions of Mauritius. Some of the well known tourist attractions in Mauritius are – Chamarel waterfalls, Casela Wildlife Park, Yemen Reserve, Grand bay, Triolet Shivala, and the Balaclava ruins. The beaches of Mauritius include Grand Bay, Pereybere, Belle Mare, and Blue Bay.

Tourist Attractions in Maldives

2010-01-17T20:37:00.000-08:00

A wonder world draped in vibrant hues of the sea and sun - Maldives entices you with its monumental, travel tourist, cultural and folk splendor.

Places To See In Maldives
There are around 1190 islands in Maldives of which just 200 are inhabited. In fact about 88 islands in Maldives are Luxury Resorts that offer you a dreamlike tropical experience. Chill out on the lovely palm laced beaches or be an active participant in water sport activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, vacation attractions, underwater coral watching, water scooters, travel attractionand other exciting water sports as you holiday in Maldives.

See the grand National Museum in Male and tour the Grand Friday mosque and Islamic Center. Enjoy the splendid recreational options offered at the various atolls as you discover the splendor of the enchanting tourist attractions in Maldives.

There is a cinema hall or two on the main island Male, though the area is fairly un touched by urban influences. You feel as though in paradise while you enjoy the fascinating tourist attractions of Maldives with Tourism in Maldives.

Baa Atoll, Fuamulaku and Kudahuvadhoo are other interesting tourist attractions in Maldives that definitely qualify in the 'must see' category. Several islands in Maldives have exotic spas that offer you an experience of a lifetime.

Find out more about tourist attractions in Maldives by clicking on the page links mentioned below:

Bhutan Tourism

2010-01-17T20:36:00.000-08:00

Bhutan with its amazing natural beauty and culture offers a number of tourist places that are sure to delight any visitor. This last Sanghri La (utopian paradise) has so much to offer that a tourist is often spoilt for choice. Speaking of the important tourist places in Bhutan, we first need to delve a little into its geography. Bhutan is divided into 20 districts but most of them are not open to tourists. So the main places to visit in Bhutan include Paro, Thimpu, Punakha, Trongsa, Mongar and Lhuntse.

Paro happens to be one of the most important tourist places to visit in Bhutan. This wonderful valley boasts of the Paro Dzong (fort) that was built in 1646 and presently houses government offices and religious institutions. The Ta Dzong National Museum, Drukgyel Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang temple (permit needed to enter) and the Paro Taktsang are the attractions offered by Paro. Another important Bhutan tourist place is Thimpu, the administrative capital of Bhutan. It offers many interesting tourist attractions like the Trashichhodzong, spectacular scenic views, National Library, the National Institute of Traditional medicine, the Zangto Pelri Lakhang temple and so on.

Other interesting tourist places of Bhutan include the Gangteng Valley in Wangdiphodrang, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Wangdichholing Palace, Ura valley, the Kuenga Rabten Palace, the Ta Dzong Tower and so on. All these Bhutan tourist places boast of their own charm and identity that draws tourists. Besides, all these interesting tourist places of Bhutan also offer an insight into a culture that has hitherto remained undiscovered by many. So come, visit the Bhutan tourist places that are sure to leave their mark on your memory with their beauty and inherent charm.

Bhutan Tourist Places:

Bhutan with its amazing natural beauty and culture offers a number of tourist places that are sure to delight any visitor. This last Sanghri La (utopian paradise) has so much to offer that a tourist is often spoilt for choice. Speaking of the important tourist places in Bhutan, we first need to delve a little into its geography. Bhutan is divided into 20 districts but most of them are not open to tourists. So the main places to visit in Bhutan include Paro, Thimpu, Punakha, Trongsa, Mongar and Lhuntse.

Paro happens to be one of the most important tourist places to visit in Bhutan. This wonderful valley boasts of the Paro Dzong (fort) that was built in 1646 and presently houses government offices and religious institutions. The Ta Dzong National Museum, Drukgyel Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang temple (permit needed to enter) and the Paro Taktsang are the attractions offered by Paro. Another important Bhutan tourist place is Thimpu, the administrative capital of Bhutan. It offers many interesting tourist attractions like the Trashichhodzong, spectacular scenic views, National Library, the National Institute of Traditional medicine, the Zangto Pelri Lakhang temple and so on.

Other interesting tourist places of Bhutan include the Gangteng Valley in Wangdiphodrang, Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, Wangdichholing Palace, Ura valley, the Kuenga Rabten Palace, the Ta Dzong Tower and so on. All these Bhutan tourist places boast of their own charm and identity that draws tourists. Besides, all these interesting tourist places of Bhutan also offer an insight into a culture that has hitherto remained undiscovered by many. So come, visit the Bhutan tourist places that are sure to leave their mark on your memory with their beauty and inherent charm.

Tourist Places in Sri Lanka

2010-01-17T20:29:00.000-08:00

Although a small island, Sri Lanka, formerly called Ceylon, is resplendent with captivating natural beauty that has mesmerized generations of visitors. It is also acknowledged for its rich culture and natural resources and has been left with the imprints of a number of settlers and colonists such as Indians, Dutch and the British. As quite aptly pointed out by Marco Polo, Sri Lanka is one of the best islands of the world characterized by palm-fringed beaches, lush green mountains and a typical tropical climate. The important cities of Sri Lanka are Colombo, Anuradhapura, Jaffna, Kandy, Negombo, Nuwara Eliya and Polonnaruwa. Get ready to set out for a spectacular journey that will remain etched in the sweetest of your memories.

Colombo is the capital city as well one of the prime tourist destinations of Sri Lanka offering a number of tourist attractions including National Museum of Colombo which is a must visit place in the city. This city was under the influence of the Portuguese, Dutch and the British and still retains its colonial ambience at many places. There are also a number of other things to watch in Sri Lanka that include the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which is a stunning fifth-century palace-fortress perched on top of a rocky outcrop. Temple of the Tooth is also a UNESCO recognized tourist attraction. The other attractions include the Dambulla Cave Temples, the Dutch Fort of Galle, ancient capital of Anuradhapura, statue of reclining Buddha at Polonnaruwa, Yala National Park and Negombo (a fishing village).

The festivities and celebrations of Sri Lanka are also the indicators of its rich culture and heritage. Sinhala and Tamil New Year Festivals are gala occasions celebrated by the Sinhala and Tamil people. Esala Perahera (A-suh-luh peh-ruh-ha-ruh) is the splendid festival of Esala, which is held here with numerous ceremonies. The people are clad in impressive costumes, and the atmosphere is full of revelry. Don’t miss out to be a part of these festivals when you travel to Sri Lanka.

To provide accommodation to tourists, the key towns of Sri Lanka have a number of hotels in all the major categories to cater to the various demands of the tourists. Whether you are looking for a luxurious accommodation or a reasonably priced one, you can get them all in Sri Lanka. The hospitality and warmth extended by the committed and caring staff is par excellence and your sojourn will certainly be a pleasant experience. Sri Lanka can only be reached by by air and the most important access point into the country is the capital city Colombo, offering connections to the various global destinations such as Europe, Asia, Australia and the Middle East. Sri Lanka is also well connected with the Indian towns such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Trichy, Thiruvananthapuram and Mumbai.

Tourist Places Beyond India

2010-01-17T20:21:00.000-08:00

The rich historical backdrop; the several artistic and architectural manifestations; the vast array of communities, religions; the huge variety of flora and fauna attract several tourists from various nooks and corners of the world. The tourist attractions in India are numerous and varied; but there are several tourist places beyond India that are worth exploring on your tour to India.

Extended tours to the neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Maldives, Mauritius and Nepal can be equally rewarding, if not more. Some of the choices of tourist places beyond India are discussed as follows:

# Tourist Places in Sri Lanka
Formerly called Ceylon, the country of Sri Lanka is located in the crystal waters of the Indian Ocean. An island just few kilometers away from the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka has a host of tourist attractions. Colombo, the capital city of the country offers a huge range of places of interest in the forms of Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, mosques, churches, museums and art galleries. The century-old Clock Tower, the British colonial buildings, the old Parliament in Fort, and the several Buddhist and Hindu temples are some of the must visits in this city. Cities of Anuradhapura, Galle, Hikkaduwa, Kandy and Sigiriya are other attractions here. more...

# Tourist Places in Maldives
The country of 1190 islands, Maldives, located in the eastern end of India, is a lovely place of exotic beaches, crystal waters of blue and turquoise tones and delightful vacations. The country is one of the choicest tourist destinations for travelers around the world. Predominantly an Islamic country, it offers several historical and religious landmarks as sightseeing options. The tourist resorts and hotels are numerous and of various categories, providing efficient and hospitable services. more...

# Tourist Places in Mauritius
Port Louis, Curepipe, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Gardens, South of Port Louis Belle Mare, Black River Gorges National Park and Rodrigues Island are some of the most attractive places to be visited while you are on a tour to Mauritius. The various options of accommodation in Mauritius are strategically located and provide proficient services and hospitality to the guests. more...

# Tourist Places in Nepal
Bordering the Tibetan Plateau, and stretching as much as 800 km east to west, Nepal, at the foot of the Himalayas, is ruled by the king. Kathmandu, the capital city, is a beautiful place to be in and the scenic beauty is something not to be missed. more...

# Tourist Places in Bhutan
Tucked between Tibet to the north, the Indian territories of Assam and West Bengal to the south, and Arunachal Pradesh to the east and Sikkim to the west, the country of Bhutan offers tourist attractions like Thimphu,Bumthang,Paro,Phobjika Valley,Laya,Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and Trashigang. more...

Apart from exploring the various tourist destinations in India, do try to visit the tourist places beyond India while you are touring the country.

Travel Agents and Tour Operators, Services,Vizag Tourism India

2010-01-14T20:42:00.000-08:00

Tourism Services, vizag tour operators, araku tour, vizag and araku trip , vizag and araku site seeing.

Visakhapatnam

The land of the golden beaches was just over half a century ao a small fishing village. One would be amazed at the manner in which this port city with a natural harbour developed into one of the fastest growing cities in Asia.

Vast stretches of beaches right next to the city on one side and undulating green hills on the other have made Vizag, as it is endearingly called, a tourist haven.

An ideal destination, it caters to the religiousminded, the Buddhist pilgrim, the fun-lovers and adventure-seekers. A number of beaches and a long stretch of road along the sea-shore up to Bheemunipatnam town, the second oldest municipality in the country, are a pleasure to experience.

No trip to Vizag is complete without a sojourn at Araku, 110 km away, a lovely valley nestled amidst the high Eastern Ghats. Simhachalam temple, Rishikonda beach, the Dolphin's Nose hillock projecting into the sea enchantment unlimited - that is Visakhapatnam.

How to Reach This Place

Road : Visakhapatnam is 650 km from Hyderabad and 350 km from Vijayawada. Regular bus services are available to Hyderabad, \Tijayawada, Bhubaneswar, Chennai and Tirupati.

Rail : Visakhapatnam is a major junction on the commercially important ChennaiKolkata rail line. As such the city is well connected by rail with New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Daily express trains are available to all these four maj or cities.

Air : Connected with Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, New Delhi and Bhubaneshwar. Indian Airlines flies daily to Hyderabad and five times a week to Chennai, New. Delhi and Kolkata.

Travel Agents and Tour Operators
Access India Travel
Access India Travel provides Visakhapatnam travel guide.
Address : 3/4 Windsor Mansion, Janpath Lane , New Delhi, Delhi - 110 001 India
Phone No. : 23723353/23353208/23730786 Fax : 23323906
Website : http://www.accessindiatravel.com/

Incredible India Tourism
Incredible India Tourism offers south India travel guide including Visakhapatnam.
Address : E - 80 Basement, Amar Colony Lajpat Nagar - Iv , Delhi, Delhi - 110024 India
Phone No. : 26226286,43021781,43021782 Fax : 26294303
Website : http://www.incredibleindiatourism.com/

Kalachakra 2006
Kalachakra 2006 offers kalachakra tour packages in Vishakhapatnam.
Address : Chapri House, 88-sec 23 Huda , Gurgaon, Haryana - 122 017 India
Phone No. : 5073072/5076965 Fax : 5073073
Website : http://www.kalachakra2006.theindiancenter.com/

South India Holiday Packages
South India Holiday Packages provides taxi, car, cab, coach hire services in Visakhapatnam.
Address : # 002, Soundarya Excellency, 3rd Main, Old Binny Mill Road, Ganganagar Extension , Bangalore, Karnataka - 560 032 India
Phone No. : 23438821/23548814
Website : http://www.trade2gain.com/south-india-holiday-packages/

South India Tours
South India tour operators offers travel packages for Visakhapatnam.
Address : Mpm Nivas Complex, I Floor No. 20 Salai Road, Woraiyur , Trichy, Tamilnadu - 620 003 India
Phone No. : 4040130 Fax : 4220439
Website : http://www.southindia-tours.net/

South-India-Tourism
South India Tourism offers travel agents for Visakhapatnam.
Address : No. 4, Annai Avenue, Vasanth Nagar Extn. Srirangam , Trichy, Tamilnadu - 620 006 India
Phone No. : 91-431-2437183/2435219
Website : http://www.southindiatourism.locateindia.com/

Travel Locate India
Travel Locateindia offers travel agents and tour operators information in Visakhapatnam.
Address : F-211, Street No. 2, Pandav Nagar , Delhi, Delhi - 110 091 India
Phone No. : 22799377/22799379 Fax : 22799482
Website : http://www.travel.locateindia.com/

Viajes India, New Delhi
Viajes India travel agents offers travel packages in VIsakhapatnam.
Address : Office No -721, S.g. Mall, 7th Floor, Sector- 09, Rohini , New Delhi, Delhi - 110 085 India
Phone No. : 27562836 Fax : 27562836
Website : http://www.yatraindia.com/viajesindia/

Web Advertisers
Web Advertisers offers travel agents information in Visakhapatanam.
Address : F-211, Street No. 2, Pandav Nagar (mayur Vihar-i) , New Delhi, Delhi - 110 092 India
Phone No. : 22799377/22799379 Fax : 22799482
Website : http://www.web-advertisers.com/

Adventure Tours India
Adventure Tours India offers travel packages in Visakhapatnam.
Address : Chapri House, 88-sec 23 Huda (new Delhi Suburb), Gurgaon - 122 017 India
Phone No. : 5073072/5076965/5073073 Fax : 26368604
Website. : http://www.eindiabusiness.com/company/53579/adventure-tours-india.html

Easy Tour
Easy Tour provides tour operator services in Visakhapatanam.
Address : Gg Ii / 51a, Vikaspuri, Delhi - 110 018 India
Phone No. : 9891245344
Website. : http://www.eindiabusiness.com/company/62652/easy-tour.html

Chail Tours

2010-01-03T21:22:00.000-08:00

Make the best use of your vacations by going on Chail Tours. Located just 45 kms away from Shimla, Chail is a beautiful hill station having nature’s bounty. Chail was the summer capital of Patiala. Built on three hills, Chail is a hiker’s delight. We, at IndiaHolidayPackages.com are here to enlighten you with information and booking of Chail Tours.

Sidh Baba ka Mandir, Chail Palace, Cricket Ground and Chail Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the Tourist Attractions in Chail worth visiting during Chail Tours. The enchanting beauty surrounding Chail with its pine and deodar trees won’t fail to enchant you during Chail Tours.

Munnar

2010-01-03T21:18:00.000-08:00

Location

Munnar is settled at an altitude of 1524 m covered by the lush greenery of the Kannan Devan Hills. It is at a distance of 130 km from Kochi in the eastern part of Kerala.

Sight Seeing

Munnar is an ideal summer getaway from the heat, dust and stress of the cities. Munnar boast of some of the highest tea plantations in the world. The highest peak of South India, Anaimudi with an altitude of 2,695 m, is visible from Munnar. The British built the Christ Church in 1910 AD. Built of stone, the church is known for its stained glass windows. There are several brass plaques in the church placed in the memory of the tea planters. Eravikulam National Park is at a distance of 16 km from Munnar. The park offers natural habitat to Elephants, Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-Tailed Macque. Rajamala Hills surrounds the national park. At a distance of 10 km from Munnar is Mudapetty Dam. It is a favorite picnic spot among the tourists. Munnar is place if you are interested in adventure sports like paragliding.

By Air: The nearest airport is at Kochi, which is 130 km west of Munnar.

By Train: The nearest railway station is at Kochi, which is 130 km west of Munnar.

By Road: Munnar is well connected by surface network with major town and cities like Kochi, Madurai and Coimbatore.

Alleppey Houseboat Tour

2010-01-03T21:16:00.000-08:00

Alleppey

Day 01: Arrival in Alleppey
Day 1 of your Alleppey Houseboat Tour starts with a pick up from Alleppey Finishing Point Jetty sharp at 1200 hours. After that you will cruise through Pallathuruthy River, Pullangady and finally reach Champakulam. Have lunch and visit the Champakulam Church, which is more than 200 years old. Also visit the famous snake boat known as Champakulam Chundan and Kottaram temple. After that head to Munnattumugham for a night stay. On your way have a stoppage at Nedumudy and visit the local market for a small shopping spree during Alleppey Houseboat Tour.

Day 02: Departure from Alleppey
Begin the second day of your Alleppey Houseboat Tour with a healthy breakfast after which the cruise will start on its way through some small villages like Kainakary, Pallathuruthy and Kuppapuram to reach Alleppey Finishing Point Jetty at sharp 1000 hours. From there you can either get transferred to the airport or railway station to head for your home back or you can choose to explore other Kerala destinations. Here ends your Alleppey Houseboat Tour.

WISH YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010

2009-12-31T20:56:00.000-08:00

Kerala Wildlife Sanctuaries

2009-11-18T22:26:00.000-08:00

Nestled in lush forest of the Western Ghats in Kerala are fourteen wildlife sanctuaries. And skirting these exotic destinations are some of the most delightful trekking trails in the country. Some of them adventurously exciting, others enchanting in equal measure. All washed in the spice-scented air of endless acres of plantations. Tea, coffee, cardamom, vanilla, pepper, oranges, mangoes…

Thiruvananthpuram Wildlife - Kerala, Kerala Travel Agents {short description of image}Thiruvananthpuram Wildlife

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary (50 km from Thiruvananthapuram) Main attractions: Elephants, sambar deer, leopards and lion tailed macques.

Kollam Wildlife

Shenduruni Wildlife Sanctuary (66 km from town on the Kollam-Shencotta road) : Main attractions: Elephatns, tigers, leopards, bears, lion tailed macques.

Kottayam Wildlife

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 km from Kottayam town, on the banks of the Vembanad Lake) Main attractions: Local birds like the water fowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, herons and the water duck, as well as the migratory Siberian duck.

Idukki Wildlife

Periyar Tiger Reserve One of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries, Thekaddy is noted for its geomorphology, wildlife and beautiful landscape.

Ernakulam Wildlife

The sanctuary was designed by Dr.Salim Ali, the renowned omithologist. He is reported to have identified 167 birds and his student, Dr. Sugathan, 207, In addition, the Bombay Natural History Society has identified 253 species here.

Thrissur Wildlife

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary (35 km from Thrissur): Main attractions: Fauna: Leopards, elephants, bears, wild pips, wild bisons, tigers etc. Flora: Evergreen forests. Semi evergreen forests. Leaf shedding forests.

Palakkad Wildlife

Silent Valley National Park (40 km from Mannarghat): Main attractions: Elephants, tigers, wild boars, flying squirrels, lion tailed macaques and king cobras.

Wayanad Wildlife

Main attractions: Fauna: Mammals: Elephants, tigers, panthers, jungle cats, civet cats, monkeys, wild dogs, bisons, deer, bears etc. Reptiles: Monitor lizards and a variety of snakes are seen. Birds: Peacocks, babblers, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers, jungle fowls are a few of the various types of birds seen here.

Palakkad Wildlife | Thrissur Wildlife | Ernakulam Wildlife | Idukki Wildlife | Kottayam Wildlife | Kollam Wildlife | Thiruvananthpuram Wildlife | Kerala... God's Own Country

Palakkad Wildlife

2009-11-18T22:24:00.002-08:00

Silent Valley National Park (40 km from Mannarghat):
Main attractions: Elephants, tigers, wild boars, flying squirrels, lion tailed macaques and king cobras.

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Main attractions:

Fauna:

Mammals: Bonnet macaques, lion, tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs, loris, tigers, lwopards, jungle cats, mongoose, focen, bears, elephants, gaurs, Nilgiri tahrs, spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, wild boars, pangolins etc.

Reptiles: Crocodiles, varanur pond terrapins, cane trutiles, geckoes, skunks, chameleons, snakes like king cobras, spectacled cobras, kraits, vipers, pythons, green keel backs, rat snakes, vine snakes.

Fishes: Arals, brals, vatudis, thilopias, noovis, mooshus, poochittis, kollotties, exypriuses, tarals, mahaseer etc. Capped kingfisher, great Indian bombills, broad billed rollers, back woodpeckers.

Flora: Neem, nanjanathi, sandal, dendrocalamus and bamboosa arundinacea, teak, vengal, muzhukanjiram, maruthu, vaka, mulluvenga, rosewood, manjakadambu pala, elavu, vembu, aval, vanteak… A gaint teak, 40 m high and 6.4 m in girth and apthy named kannimaram the first tree, stands as a monuments of the past.

Trekking trails: Dhoni, Seethakundu and Govindamalai hills.

Thrissur Wildlife

2009-11-18T22:24:00.001-08:00

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary (35 km from Thrissur):

Main attractions: Fauna: Leopards, elephants, bears, wild pips, wild bisons, tigers etc. Flora: Evergreen forests. Semi evergreen forests. Leaf shedding forests. Trekking trails: Many paths up the rocks and into the forests of the Sanctuary.

Ernakulam Wildlife

2009-11-18T22:23:00.001-08:00

The sanctuary was designed by Dr.Salim Ali, the renowned omithologist. He is reported to have identified 167 birds and his student, Dr. Sugathan, 207, In addition, the Bombay Natural History Society has identified 253 species here.

Main attractions: Birds: Indian rollers, cuckoos, common snipes, crow pheasants, jungle nightjar, kites, grey drongos, Malabar trongons, woodpeckers, large pied wagtails, baya sparrows, grey jngle fowls, Indian hill mynas, robins, jungle babblers, sunbirds and darters. Rare Birds: Crimson-throated barbets, bee-eaters, shrikes, fairy bluebirds, grey-headed fishing eagles, black winged kites, night herons, grey hornbills and Malabar hornbills.

Idukki Wildlife

2009-11-18T22:21:00.002-08:00

Periyar Tiger Reserve
One of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries, Thekaddy is noted for its geomorphology, wildlife and beautiful landscape. This sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978, Entry to the Periyar Wildlfie Sanctuary: 0600-1800 hrs

Main attractions:

Flora: Over 1800 flowering plants including 171 grass species. 143 species of orchids. The only south Indian conifer Podocarpus Wallichianus grows here.

Fauna: Mammals: 35 species including wild elephants, gaurs, langur, sambar deer and wild boars that can be sighted from the boats, the Nilgiri tahr in the higher rocky areas, the endangered lion tailed macaque confined to the evergreen interiors, bonnet macque, Malabar giant squirrel, flying squirrel, tiger, jungle cat, sloth bear etc.

Birds: 265 species including migrants. The hombill, stork, woodpecker, kingfisher, raptor, darter, cormorant, grackle, cluster etc.

Reptiles: Cobra, viper, krait, a number of non poisonous snakes, bicoloured frogs and crocodiles.

Pisces: The Periyar lake and streams have several species of fish including the masher, the famous endangered game fish of India. The otter, the only mammal of the lake, can be frequently spotted form the boat.

Plantations: Tea, cardamom, cloves, vanilla, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, cumin, garlic, star anise etc. Trekking trails: Mangaladevi hills, Mullakudy, Thannikudy, Vellimala etc.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary (40 km from Thodupuzha): Main attraction: animals: Elephants, gaur, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, tigers, wild boars etc. Birds: Jungle fowls, mynas, laughing thrushes, black bulbuls, peafowls, woodpeckers, kingfishers etc. Snakes: Cobras, vipers, Kraits and a number of non poisonous snakes.

Eravikulam National Park (15 kms north of Munnar):
Main attractions: Anamudi (2694 m), the highest peak south of the Humalayas, is on the southern side of the park. This is one of the wettest areas of the world.

Fauna: Tigers, panthers, wild dogs, civet cats, jungle cats, sloth bears, Nilgiri Langurs and wild boar. The atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is seen in the park. Half the world population of the endangered Nilgiri Tahr live here (1317 of them according to the '91 census).

Visiting time: 0700-1800 hrs. visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.

Nearby trekking trails: Palkulamedu, Parakulam, Kulamavu, Anaward, Painavu, Anamudi.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Main attractions: Elephants, gaurs, panthers, spotted deer, sambars, gizzled gaint squirrels, Hanuman langurs, peacocks, star tortoises and Travancore evening browns.

Best time to visit: Almot throughout the year except during Oct - Nov. Visiting: 0700-1800 hrs. visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.

Kottayam Wildlife

2009-11-18T22:21:00.001-08:00

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 km from Kottayam town, on the banks of the Vembanad Lake)

Main attractions: Local birds like the water fowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, herons and the water duck, as well as the migratory Siberian duck.

The best time to bird watch: Between June and August. (Migratory birds: November- February) Boats: Houseboats and motor boats are available on hire for bird watching cruises on the lake.

Kollam Wildlife

2009-11-18T22:20:00.001-08:00

Shenduruni Wildlife Sanctuary (66 km from town on the Kollam-Shencotta road) : Main attractions: Elephatns, tigers, leopards, bears, lion tailed macques.

Thiruvananthpuram Wildlife

2009-11-18T22:18:00.000-08:00

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary (50 km from Thiruvananthapuram)
Main attractions: Elephants, sambar deer, leopards and lion tailed macques.

Neyyar wildlife Sanctuary (30 km from Thiruvananthapuram)
Main attractions: Elephants , gaurs, sloth, bears, Nilgiri tahrs, lion safari park.

Trekking Trails: Agasthyarkoodam (Thiruvananthapuram), the second highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890 m above sea level.
(Rcommended season for trekking: December to April)