Incredible India! Mandu - The city of Joy in Madhya Pradesh

Fast Facts About Mandu

Located in the State of : Madhya Pradesh

District: Dhar

Famous As / For : Heritage, History

Languages Spoken: Hindi, English

Best Time to Visit Mandu: July to March

Average Temperatures at Mandu: Summer 33 to 44°C, Winter 10 to 27°C

Altitude of Mandu: 633 metre

STD code of Mandu: 07292

Earlier known as the CITY OF JOY and now called the LOST WORLD, Mandu is built on the edge of the Malwa Plateau overlooking the narmada valley and is around 20 sq kms in area. It is a fort city with the fort housing a number of palaces, mosques, reservoirs, ravines and having 12 gates. This is a 10th century creation by Raja Bhoj. Mandu is located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. Its main attraction is its ruined forts and structures. The tourists find the rich history behind the ruined structures very interesting.

Fairy tale love story of a Muslim Prince with a local poor shepherd girl, brings the mythological face to Mandu. Mandu, a small town on the edge of Malwa Plateau, is surrounded by forests and has a historical significance. History tells that the founder of this cute, beautiful town was Raja Bhoj and was once a royal retreat. Architectural marvel is the main attraction in this city, with reminiscence of ancient architecture, way back to 10th century is still visible. Mandu has finest examples of Afghan architecture in India. The entire Mandu region has a number of wonderful palaces, baths, attractive canals and artistically crafted pavilions bringing out the age old fairy tale love story with its all beautiful pop and pomp. Rock cut caves with enchanting paintings decorating the walls and ceilings are added attractions.

Antiquity and Artistry merges here to bring the some of the marvelous structures, the massive gateways to Mandu is an example of this ancient artistic excellence. It is city of monuments with some of them are Alamgir, Bhangi, Rampol Darwaza, Jehangir Gate and Tarapur Gate. Mandu is one of the few places where the very rare Baobab tree grows. Mandu welcomes the visitors will all her charm and heritage; this is a price worthy place to visit. Mandu is the perfect honeymoon destination as it is the city of love and delight.

Tourist Attractions in Mandu

Key attractions are the architecture of the era, a swaying palace, ship-like harem, pavilions, stunning collection of ruins (including a royal palace & mosque) and the Nil Kanth palace (pilgrimage place for Lord Shiva devotees).

How to Reach Mandu

Mandu is about a 100 kms from Indore and thus well connected by rail and air.

By Air: Indore Airport or Ahilyabai Holker Airport is the nearest airport to Mandu. Mandu is about 100 km from the airport and taxi charges costs about Rs 2000. Indore is a domestic terminal and connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur and Ranchi with limited flights.

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Ratlam Railway Station, which is about 120 km away from Mandu. This is an important junction in the western railways and served by trains from different parts of the country.

By Bus: Mandu is connected by State owned buses to many cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states. Many private bus services are available to Mandu from cities of Madhya Pradesh and rest of India. Regular deluxe and semi deluxe buses are available from Indore (100 km), Bhopal (278 km), Ratlam (125 km) and Ujjain. Deluxe buses charges about Rs 3 per km.

Hotels in Mandu

Tourists visit the town of Mandu round the year, hence it would be ideal if the hotel is booked in advance. Most of the luxury hotels are situated on the outskirts. The most luxurious ones have fantastic facilities such as the swimming pools, night bars, multiple cuisines and air conditioned lobbies. The cost for a night’s stay is around Rs. 2500. The mid-range hotels are much cheaper. The cost of accommodation is around Rs. 800 to Rs. 1500 for a day. Budget hotels are the cheapest and can be found everywhere. They provide both a/c and non a/c rooms. The basic facilities usually fits the budget as it could cost you only Rs. 500 for a day’s stay.

Some of the famous hotels in Mandu are Hotel Rupmati (Mandu) and Jheera Bagh Palace (Mandu).

Incredible India! Anaimalai - A Seculded Hill Station of Tamil Nadu

Fast Facts About Anaimalai

Located in the State of : Tamil Nadu

District: Coimbatore

Famous As / For : Wildlife / Historic link

Languages Spoken: Malayalam, English

Best Time to Visit Anaimalai: November to May

Average Temperatures at Anaimalai: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 22 to 33°C

Altitude of Anaimalai: 2695 metre

STD code of Anaimalai: 04253

Situated in the Coimbatore Hills district in the state of Tamil Nadu, Anaimalai is the biggest draw for tourists in this area. Anaimalai is renowned for the remarkable beauty of the natural landscape and varied shades of green make up the dense forest of this area. The village of Anaimalai exists near an abundant supply of wildlife. Animals like panthers, crocodiles, tigers, elephants, spotted deer, civet cats, and wild boars are found in the region. Numerous birds can also be sighted in the area. It is possible to spot such birds as the Malabar pied hornbill, black headed oriole, rocket-tailed drongo, tree pie, spotted dove, and red whiskered bulbul. In fact, the vary name of this village invokes thoughts of wildlife, since the name's translation means elephant hill.

Anaimalai itself also has some incredibly interesting history. The village is one of the eight sacred Jaina hills. Right by the village there is a natural cavern that contains numerous berths that are located both inside and outside of it. There is a Brahmi inscription on the outside wall that is dated back to the 1st or 2nd century. This inscription states that the berths were gifts from Nathan of Kunrattur made in honor of three monks named Eri Aritan, Attuvay, and Arrattakayipan. This is a rather unusual find since this village was not known for being a lama center until the 9th century. It was around that time that several stone sculptures started to be carved into the rocks by devout local people.

Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary also called Anaimalai Sanctuary is the prime attraction of the village. Other attractions in and around Anaimalai include Mt. Stuart Block, Top Slip, Kolikamuthi Elephant Camp, Varagaliar Elephant Camp, Parambikkulam and Thoonakkadavu. Adventure seekers can enjoy trekking amidst the dense forest along the thrilling trails. So, plan a trip to Anaimalai in Tamil Nadu to experience a wonderful combination of nature and adventure accompanied with rich history.

Hotels in Anaimalai

Limited accommodation is available at Anaimalai. There are tourist lodges and budget hotels with very basic facilities at Anaimalai. ARV’s Lodge on Masani Amman Kovil Street is a good place to stay at Anaimalai. Rooms are available at a cheap rate of Rs. 400 per day.

How to Reach Anaimalai

By Air: The nearest airport is Coimbatore Airport, about 95 kms. away, which is served by flights from important cities of the country. After reaching at Coimbatore Airport, you can hire a taxi that will cost you about Rs. 1200.

By Rail: Coimbatore (50 km) and Cochin (100 km) are the nearest railheads from Anaisalai. Express and mail trains connect these railway stations with rest of the country.

By Bus: Tourist and govt buses are available for Anaisalai from Chennai, Bangalore, Cochin and nearby cities.

Incredible India! Porbandar (Gujarat) - The Birthplace of Mahatama Gandhi

Porbandar is a coastal city in the state of Gujarat, perhaps best known for being the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and Sudama (Friend of Lord Krishna). Onshore explorations in and around Porbandar brought to light for the first time the remains of a late Harappan settlement dating back to the 16th - 14th century BC, which is similar to that from Dwarka. This is another evidence to suggest that the Harappan legacy of maritime activity continued till the late Harappan period on the Saurashtra coast.

The discovery of ancient jetties along the Porbandar creek signifies the importance of Porbandar as an active centre of maritime activities in the past. The Indian mythology says its the birthplace of Sudhaama (Friend of Lord Krishna), hence its being referred to as Sudhaamapuri or Sudhamapuri. Porbandar was also formerly the seat of the eponymous princely state in British India. It is believed that Porbandar was discovered on Rakshabandhan day.

A picturesque sea port, it has various places of sightseeing interest, including a pleasant beach with beach villas. Other places of interests are Gandhiji's Kirti Mandir, Sudama Mandir, Bharat Mandir, Planetarium, Chowpati, Arya Kanya Gurukul etc. The Sudama Mandir is in reverence to the childhood friend of Lord Krishna, this temple was constructed between 1902 and 1907. It is said that funds were exhausted while this temple was being constructed and the people of Sudamapuri decided to raise the required funds by hosting various drama shows.

Madhavpura lies 60 kms. from Porbandar. It is believed that Lord Krishna and Rukmini got married overhere. A large fair is held in March - April.

Daily bus service is available form Porbandar to Rajkot, Dwarka, Ahmedabad, Jamnagar, Vadodara, Surat & Mumbai. Daily trains link to Rajkot (via Jamnagar), Bhanwad, Okha and Mumbai (Via Ahmedabad, Vadodra and Surat). There are also trains to Delhi, Motihari and Howrah. It lies 395 kms from Ahmedabad and 178 kms from Rajkot. Airport Authority of India has built a new terminal building at Porbandar. The Porbandar Airport has daily flight to Mumbai operated by Jet Airways.

Incredible India! Mahabalipuram - A Historic City of Tamil Nadu

Mahabalipuram lies on the Coromandel Coast which faces the Bay of Bengal, close to Chennai. This is an elegant place to watch which a well established sea port was during the 7th and 10th centuries of the Pallava dynasty. This was the second capital of the Pallavas who ruled Kanchipuram. Formerly, mahabalipuram was known and called as Mahabalipuram. The former name of this place ‘Mahabalipuram’ has a history. A very rude cruel king Mahabali reined this place and in a fierce battle king Mahabali was killed by Lord Vishnu and the place was named after the dead, arrogant kind Mahabali.

The richness in mahabalipuram was not known to many, as these pallavas did not outlet and expose their quality and innovative creations to the outer world for obvious reasons. The aestheticism in mahabalipuram was hidden until the late 185h century. What is special about mahabalipuram? Of course every one can point out the rock - cut caves, temples made from a single rock, temples and strives of different structures, and bas-reliefs which are so artistic and sheer creativity. Mamallpuram is referred as an ‘open-air museum’. The great pallava kings Narasimha I and Rajasimha have well preserved these stylistic qualities that one enjoys in mahabalipuram even in the present day.

The beauty of the place is not only due to these architecture but the vast casuarinas trees, the silvery sandy beach the classical hand male crafts around have made them all to form what is a collective splendor. Any visitor who visits mahabalipuram will remain startled and intoxicated with the grandeur. They feel hand hearted and more out from this historical and fascinating tourist spot.

Incredible India! Madikeri - A Beautiful Hill Station of Karnataka

Fast Facts About Madikeri

Located in the State of : Karnataka

District: Kodagu

Famous As / For : Hill Station, Fort, Trekking

Languages Spoken: Kannada, Kodava, Byari

Best Time to Visit Madikeri: October to April

Average Temperatures at Madikeri: Summer 23 to 31°C, Winter 16 to 23°C

Altitude of Madikeri: 1525 metre

STD code of Madikeri: 08272

Earlier known as Mercara, Madikeri is the picturesque capital of Coorg and draws leisure travelers and adventure seekers from far and near. Located in the hills of Karnataka, the hill station is present in the Kodagu region in the state. Tourists flock to Madikeri during the peak season in order to revel in the beauty of the place. In fact, it seems the time has stopped at Madikeri for feasting the eyes of its visitors. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this hilly town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views altogether make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.

Dotted with a cluster of red-roofed dwellings and a bustling bazaar, the town situated at an elevation of 1525 m, has a charming old-world feel. Madikeri town is full of trekking options with some of the most picturesque trek routes in Karnataka a perfect gateway for a leisure holiday. Raja's seat perched atop a hill is where the kings of yore spent many pleasant evenings watching the golden sunset. Madikeri Fort is one of the major attractions of Madikeri.

Also referred to as the land of the Kodavas, Madikeri is inhabited by Kodavas wearing distinctive dresses, the men wearing wraparound robes called the Kupya and the women with a distinctive style of wearing the sari. Kodavas have many distinctive practices such as carrying ceremonial knives, and martial war dances. The culture also includes communal gatherings where drink, dance and special meat dishes seasoned with Garcinia are central attractions. The locals in Madikeri celebrate many festivals like Kailpodhu, Kaveri Sankramana, Puttari and Dasara. Karaga Festival also starts during the time of Navarathri. Madikeri Dasara procession is a very beautiful procession of mantapas.

Modes of Transport in Madikeri

Traveling around the town of Madikeri is quite hard, though. This is because not many modes of transport are available within the hill station of Madikeri . Some of the places of interest in this region can be easily covered by walk. While traveling in Madikeri, however, you may need to visit the nearby regions as well, like the Abbey Falls.

Taxis - In order to cover tourists destinations without any problems, you can opt for taxis in the hill station of Madikeri. There are no major taxis or car rental agencies available in the hill station of Madikeri, however you can rent a car or call a taxi from one of the nearby tourist locations. All the places of interest around the region are almost twenty five (25 km) to thirty kilometers away (30 km). Opting for a taxi can cost you around Rs 1000 to 1200, but the ride will be comfortable.

Accommodation in Madikeri

There are hotels, resorts, and homestays in Madikeri that offers comfortable stay to guests. Some of the popular accommodation options in Madikeri include Coorg Hallimane, Veera Bhoomi Tourist Village, Misty Heights Hotel Madikeri , Madikeri Medium Range Hotels , Hotel Coorg International Madikeri, Madikeri Resorts, Misty Wood Resort, Parumpara Holiday Resort and Madikeri Homestays

Incredible India! Malshej Ghat - A Monsoon Getaway from Mumbai

Fast Facts About Malshej Ghat

Located in the State of: Maharashtra

District of : Thane, 150 km away from Mumbai

Famous for/as: Hill Station

Languages Spoken at Malshej Ghat: Marathi, Hindi and English

Best Season to visit Malshej Ghat: October to Mar

Average Temperatures at Malshej Ghat: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 12 to 33°C

Altitude of Malshej Ghat: 700 m

STD code of Malshej Ghat: 02132

Set at an elevation of 700 metre above sea level, Malshej Ghat is a beautiful hill station in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Although Malshej Ghat is a fascinating tourist destination enjoying a rejuvenating climate most of the year, but the monsoon season brings amazing charm. The charming hill resort draws visitors with its numerous lakes, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque mountains. Along with nature lovers, Malshej Ghat is also a favoured destination for adventure seekers, like hikers and trekkers.

A typical woody countryside, Malshej Ghat is distinguished for its rich flora and fauna, historic forts landed on rocky mountains, enthralling rivers, meandering waterfalls, resorts and sanctuaries. The verdant valleys and woody forests of Malshej react to the call of the Monsoon by displaying the beauty of its lakes and dancing waterfalls, and the misty at its zenith. The beauty and charm of this marvelous hill station is more visible when it is under heavy fog and dark clouds. But what makes Malshej Ghat so illustrious is the large folk of migratory birds coming from Siberia. The mating dance of the pink-legged Flemingo birds is an eye-catching spectacle.

Flemingo Hill Resort and sanctuary is a prime location in Malshej Ghat wherein tourists gather to see the luxurious greenery, and glittering lakes amidst of the rugged mountain. This hilly resort exhibits the beauty of the nature in its full grandeur. Malshej Ghat is such an amazing hill station, which entice the tourist with the wonders of all the seasons. The lush greenery and the tremendous cascades mesmerize the city dwellers to get away from the hustle of modern life.

So, this monsoon head towards the hill station of Malshej Ghat. While packing your bags don’t forget to take sufficient (extra) clothes including rain coat.

How to Reach Malshej Gate

Reaching Malshej Ghat is very convenient and its easily accessible from Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra. The nearest airport is Mumbai Chatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is at a distance of 150 km away from Malshej Ghat. Mumbai is one of the major airports in India which is connected to all airports in India and many international destinations. Pre-paid taxi services are available from Mumbai to Malshej Ghat costing about Rs 3000.

Kalyan Railway station and Kaljat railway station are the nearest railway stations to Malshej Ghat. These railway stations are well connected to Mumbai and other cities in India. Tourist taxi services from railway station to Malshej Ghat are available. Malshej Ghat is well connected by Maharastra state transport corporation buses to all major places in and around. Regular and frequent public bus services are available from Mahuli Fort to Mumbai and Kalyan.

Incredible India! Shivpuri - A Little Explored Destination of Madhya Pradesh

Fast Facts About Shivpuri

Located in the State of: Madhya Pradesh

District of : Shivpuri

Famous for/as: Wildlife / Amazing Flora & Fauna

Languages Spoken at Shivpuri : Hindi and English

Best Season to visit Shivpuri: October to May

Average Temperatures at Shivpuri: Summer 32 to 42°C, Winter 15 to 28°C

Altitude of Shivpuri: 468 m

STD code of Shivpuri: 07492

Once the summer capital of the Scindias of Gwalior, Shivpuri is a historic town situated in Madhya Pradesh. Shivpuri has rich historic connection and even today provides a glimpse of its past through its old but imposing structure. Magnificent royal mansions with Victorian style architecture, majestic hills, palaces, lustrous greenery, Shivpuri is a delight for all. Besides these, exquisite royal palaces of Shivpuri with its glittering whiteness present an eye-catching spectacle to the viewer.

Along with its impressive mansions and palaces, Shivpuri is also famous for its rich and varied wildlife. In fact, the impassable forests of this historic town were the hunting grounds of the Mughal emperors. Shivpuri is surrounded by deep woody forest that is the treasure houses of rich flora and fauna. An adventurous trip through the wilderness of the jungle paths is indeed very challenging. The renowned wildlife sanctuaries that preserve the endangered animal and bird species add special charm to Shivpuri’s natural beauty. Adventure lovers can opt for short trips through the challenging paths, amidst of lush vegetation that provides fabulous views of a ruined fort, three Hindu temples, and a monastery.

Hence, must plan a visit to Shivpuri that presents a fine blend of old and new. Shivpuri, though bears a modern look, the glimpses of its royal heritage hangs all around the city. Remnants of ancient mansions, magnificent palaces, hunting lodges and the royal streets give a majestic look to the surroundings. The rolling hills and the pleasant climate of Shivpuri altogether makes it as a fast emerging tourist destination. Exploring the town of Shivpuri becomes an easy affair with the availability of taxis, auto rickshaws and buses.

Incredible India! Hosur - A Little Explored Destination in Tamil Nadu

Fast Facts About Hosur

Located in the State of: Tamil Nadu

District of : Krishnagiri

Famous for/as: Temples / Temple town

Languages Spoken at Hosur : Tamil

Best Season to visit Hosur: October to March

Average Temperatures at Hosur: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 19 to 32°C

Altitude of Hosur: 879 m

STD code of Hosur: 04344

An old temple town, Hosur is situated in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Hosur is located in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu adjacent to the border of Karnataka. Hosur is quite close to Karnataka’s capital Bangalore, just 40 kms away and easily accessible by buses and taxis. Besides a temple town, Hosur is now a special economic zone and is also an up and coming manufacturing industry town. Hosur is also known as an agricultural town and enjoys an excellent climate.

Considered among the oldest inhabited places in Tamil Nadu, Hosur has very ancient historic connection. In fact, archeologists have found many Neolithic, Monolithic and Paleolithic sites in Hosur. There are many cave paintings and carvings that have been found in the town of Hosur and it is an interesting place to visit. There are many interesting sites, buildings and temples that can be seen in Hosur and the town is also famous for its excellent golf course. The Hogenekkal Falls that is located near Hosur is also another interesting place to visit especially during the winter season.

Incredible India! Una - A Little Explored Destination of Himachal Pradesh

Fast Facts About Una

Located in the State of : Himachal Pradesh

District of : Una

Famous for/as: Hill Station / Hill Resort

Languages Spoken at Una : Himachali and Hindi

Best Season to visit Una: All through the year

Average Temperatures at Una: Summer 15 to 30°C, Winter 0 to 24°C

Altitude of Una: 369 m

STD code of Una: 01975

The prize state of Himachal Pradesh is bestowed with many beautiful hill stations including world famous Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala. Although a little known, Una is a must visit hill resort in Himachal Pradesh. Far from the maddening crowds of the city, Una is located in the southwest region of Himachal and provides a welcome break to all to enjoy a relaxing holiday amidst natural surroundings.

However, the hill station of Una has gained wide popularity due to availability of large number of temples and many places of religious significance. Hence, besides fulfillment of religious purpose the pilgrims get an excellent chance to experience the mother nature closely at Una. On the other hand, the common travelers along with enjoying the unspoiled nature can experience the charming culture of the area especially during the festive season.

Once you are in Una, you can visit the Chintpurni Temple, which is a very popular temple in the region. This temple has been constructed entirely of stones and is dedicated to the main deities of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman. A fair is held in this temple every year during the month of August, and pilgrims from around the country congregate here during this time. You can also visit the Dera Baba Rudru Temple during your trip to Una, and this temple, located at a distance of 10 kilometres from the main town, houses a fire that has been burning for many years now.

You can also visit the Dhyunsar Mahadev temple and Shiv Bari in the town of Una. Shiv Bari is revered by Hindus as this is said to be the site where Dhronacharya used to conduct a school of archery.

Incredible India! Varkala - A Little Explored Destination of Kerala

Fast Facts About Varkala

Located in the State of : Kerala

District: Thiruvananthapurm

Famous As / For : Serene Beaches

Languages Spoken: Tamil & English

Best Time to Visit Varkala: October to March

Average Temperatures at Varkala: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 12 to 33°C

STD code of Varkala: 0470

A little known coastal town, Varkala is situated in the ‘God’s Own Country’ – Kerala. The beautiful town of Varkala comes under the administrative control of Thiruvananthapuram District. Interestingly, Varkala is a place where the hills are located close to the sea. Besides this, there are several natural fishers and springs that are located in the town that attracts the tourists from far and near. The beaches of Varkala are relatively untouched and they are clean as well.

Papanasam Beach is one of the main beaches in Varkala, which is thronged by tourists in large number. Varkala Beach is a popular beach and there are various activities such as paragliding and parasailing that can be experienced at this beach.

There is also a famous temple at Varkala called the Jannardana Swamy Temple. This temple is over 2000 years old and it is one of the main attractions of the place. The temple is home to an old bell that was taken from an ancient shipwreck of a Dutch Freighter.

Kapil Lake is another tourist site that is located close to the beach. Anjengo Fort is a historic place that is located nearby and it is a popular destination for many tourists. Varkala Tunnel and the Lighthouse are other places of tourist interest in Varkala.