Golden Chariot - Karnataka's first luxury train

A journey aboard on luxury train has always been a fascinating experience. However, if you get a chance to spend a week long vacation on train the adventure increases many fold. Palace on Wheels, Deccan Odyssey, and Heritage on Wheels are such trains which offer the luxurious journey. The Golden Chariot is the latest addition in the list of India’s luxury trains.

Introduced by KSTDC (Karnataka Tourism Department) few months back, the luxury train has become very much popular among the tourists. Named after the popular stone chariot in Hampi, in South India the train travels trough historic heritage sites, magnificent palaces, rich and varied wildlife and golden beaches of Goa. The Golden Chariot’s 7 Nights / 8 Days journey starts every Monday from Karnataka’s capital city Bangalore and finally ends at Bangalore as well.

On your journey you will traverse through Mysore, visiting Srirangapatna, Mysore Palace, Nagarhole National Park (Kabini) and the historical sites of Shravanabelagola. Further you visit Belur-the 11th century cradle of Hoysala architecture and a world heritage site, Halebidu, Hamp. Thereafter you enter into the triangular heritage site of Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole, and finally reach the Golden Beaches of Goa before coming back to Bangalore.

Golden Chariot Journey Details
Places Covered : Bangalore - Mysore - Kabini - Hassan - Hospet - Gadag - Goa - Bangalore

Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days

Facilities in the Golden Chariot
Golden Chariot is equipped with all the contemporary luxurious amenities, you will yourself like Maharaja. In fact, while traveling you get a wonderful chance to experience the royalty of the bygone era. Highlights of the train are :

Coaches – Each coach of the train has been named after the dynasties that ruled Karnataka. The coaches have been named as Kadamba, Hoysala, Rastrakota, Ganga, Chalukya, Bhahamani, Adhilshahi, Sangama, Shathavashna, Yudukula and Vijayanagar. Every coach has fully air-conditioned 26 twin beds, 17 double bed cabins and 1 cabin for the physically challenged.

Each cabin is equipped with Wi-Fi, LCD television, DVD with 6 satellite channels, wardrobe, vanity/writing desk and private bathroom with luxurious amenities and accessories. The chambers in which you travel narrate tales of the Mysore Maharajas. Admire the intricate carvings on the ceiling, the wall panels and furniture inspired by Mysore and Hoysala architecture.

Restaurants – The Golden Chariot has two restaurants namely Nala and Ruchi serving a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. Enjoy the culinary delights of South India in 4-seater and 2-seater dining cabins amidst the interiors inspired by the timeless aesthetics of Hampi and Halebid.

Madira (Lounge Bar) – Madira the lounge bar aboard serve invigorating range of spirits alongwith life performance of local artisans. Order the liquor of your choice and relax in the bar, enjoying the soothing music in the royal interiors modeled after the Mysore Palace.

Conference Coach – Conference Coach can accommodate 30 persons and is equipped with 42 inch LCD television and high-speed internet surfing area.

Gym Coach – Gym Coach has fully equipped gymnasium, and ayurveda and spa centre as well. While on board discover age old traditions and cures to modern day stress. The coach has two massage rooms for exhilarating rejuvenation experience. For those who prefer a local flavour - Ayurveda massages are provided.

Kalka - Shimla Railway now a world heritage property

UNESCO on Monday (July 8) approved Kalka - Shimla narrow gauge railway as new World Heritage Site. Built in the 19th century, Kalka – Shimla railway became one of the four Mountain Railways of India being included in World Heritage list. Other railways include the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway in Tamil Nadu State. Kalka – Shimla Railway is the ultimate victory of style and serendipity over speed and in this route journey is as important as the destination. An extraordinary engineering feat, Kalka - Shimla Railway has its heritage as well cultural values.

Considered as the greatest narrow gauge engineering feat in the country, Kalka – Shimla railway line was opened on November 9, 1903 by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India. Still the line doesn’t go faster than 25 km per hour, but according to the railway authorities, in comparison to British period more people are using the line today. The journey begins at Kalka, the track rises from 640 mtr (Kalka) to 2,060 mtr (Shimla), the train passes over 864 bridges, under 102 tunnels (longest tunnel Barog – 1.1 km) and around 900 sharp curves and bends.

The scenery along the Kalka – Shimla route is spectacular – flanked by lofty hills, the line cross through the sides of steep cliffs and ventures over arch bridges. The toy train begins its corkscrew ascent immediately above the small town of Parwanoo and enter into the forested hills. After an hour the track straightens out, curving in and out of the hills. There are 18 stations along the way, Barog is the most popular among them. From Barog to Kandaghat, the train crosses the beautiful places of Solan and Saloghra. The final climb of the train starts at Kandaghat, through lush oak and rhododendron forests, Finally, Shimla comes into view as the train winds its way through the picturesque hills to the alpine reaches of the lower Himalayas.

An another interesting aspect of the Kalka – Shimla railway is the age-old communication system, which is still in use. Block phones and control phones are being used by the stations en-route, the former established links between two stations, while the latter helps to keep in touch with other important stations. Beside, the Red and green lanterns, used as signals in British period are still part of the operating system.

Mountain railways is one of the major tourists attractions of India. Developed by the British East India company, about hundred year ago, mountain railways even today serve as the most convenient mode of transport to reach the hill stations. In fact, mountain railways have become the precious jewell in crown of the Indian Railway. Addition of Kalka- Shimla Railway in World Heritage list is a big achievement for Indian Railways. According to reports the Railways are now planning to offer special tour package on Kalka – Shimla rail line.

Deccan Odyssey, Maharashtra’s own Palace on Wheels

One of the luxurious trains of India, Deccan Odyssey is commonly referred as ‘Maharashtra’s own Palace of Wheels’. Deccan Odyssey offers guided tour to some of Maharashtra’s unexplored and less-explored destinations alongwith contemporary services on board.

Run by the Maharashtra State Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), the train is maintained by the Taj group of hotels. Deccan Odyssey derives its name from the rocky, undulating terrain of Deccan plateau. All the coaches are named after forts, monuments and historic sites, except the bar, which is called Mumbai High. Each coach has its own lounge, where you can sit during journey. To keep you entertained there are TV – cum – conference room, restaurants, bar, spa, salon and a gym.

Travelling in Deccan Odyssey is one of the most luxurious ways to closely observe the lives of people living in the virgin, un-touched tourist spots of Konkan, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Pune, Aurangabad and beach paradise Goa.

Deccan Odyssey leaves Mumbai every Wednesday evening and returns to its origin following Wednesday morning. Leaving from Mumbai’s CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminal) the train winds its way through Konkan, Sindhurdurg, on to Goa, through the Deccal plateau and then on to Aurangabad. Last destination of the train is Nasik.

The train makes two stops along the Konkan coast that allow tourists to discover the backwaters of Maharashatra and the golden beaches of Ganapathiphule and Tarkarli Beach Resort, as well as visit some of the most famous sea forts of Maharashtra. From here the train runs south to Goa where people on board get the chance to explore the exquisite churches of Old and also relax on one of its serene beaches.

Further it turns around and pushes north to Pune, and then covers the heritage circuit of Ajanta and Ellora vaces, with stops at Jalgaon and Aurangabad respectively. While returning back to Mumbai the train swings past Nasik, where passengers get to toast the Maharashtrian odyssey at the Sula Winery.

Tickets for Deccan Odyssey are priced at Rs 15,000 a day all inclusive, except drinks and use of health spa.

Monsoon Hot Spots in India

Monsoon has already knocked the door of India and people across the country welcomed the rainy season with open arms. Couple of days back heavy rainfall was recorded in national capital New Delhi and nearby areas. Early arrival of monsoon has surprised the met department as they were expecting rain by last week of June. One of the important seasons of India, monsoon has its special significance as it provides relief from the scorching summer heat. In fact, monsoon season in India has now also become popular become among the global trotters. For last few years, Monsoon tourism has emerged as new tourism theme in India.

Travel freak from India and foreign countries throng some of the special locations of India to enjoy the rainy season at its best. India’s capital New Delhi is a famous destination for monsoon season, God’s own Country Kerala, Kolkata and Karnataka are another hot spots. While some visit the Nilgiri hills in South India to see the lush tea gardens and mystic charm around.

Delhi – One of the most famous tourist destinations of world, Delhi is a evergreen place. Delhi is full of places to enjoy the monsoon rains. India Gate, a war memorial situated on Rajpath is the favoured place among the city people and the outsiders as well. During the monsoon season the parks surrounding the monument, turns lush green. Besides, the artificial lakes also get full of water, providing exciting boating opportunity. You can see people enjoying the rains with their families and friends. Purana Quila (Old Fort) in Delhi is another famous place. You can enjoy the boating across the lake adjacent to the fort. Boats are available on rent for half-hour to one-hour at nominal charges. In addition to these, Delhi has a number of parks and gardens where people reach to take a refreshing bath in monsoon rain.

Kolkata – Also called the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata is one of the four metros of India. Once the capital of India, Kolkata is the capital of state of West Bengal. Due to its location close to the Bay of Bengal, Kolkata receives heavy rains during monsoon. The city has number of spots where people enjoy the rainy season. Victoria Memorial, Alipore Zoo, Maidan are some of the places where you can see large crowd during rains.

Kerala – God’s own country – Kerala is full of natural wonders. Beaches, backwaters, wildlife, rivers and lakes are some of the attractions of Kerala. During the monsoon these natural wonders become more charming. Some of the must visit places in Kerala are Munnar, Wayanad and Kumarakom. A boat cruise across the Kerala backwaters, is once in a lifetime experience. Periyar lake inside the Periyar Wildife Sanctuary also offers exciting boating option. One can see a variety of wildlife while cruising the lake. Apart from these, Ayurveda in Kerala during monsoon is a thrilling experience. In fact, an Ayurveda vacation in Kerala during monsoon is the finest way to refresh, rejuvenate and renew your body and soul. Tour operators in Kerala offer ‘Monsoon Holiday Packages’ for tourists, covering all important destinations of the state. Monsoon tour packages are available on various options, so feel comfortable and enjoy the rainy season in Kerala this year.

Karnataka – South India state of Karnataka also draws large number of tourists during monsoon. Mangalore, Gokrana and Chickmagalur are some of the famous places of Karnataka that can be visited in monsoon season. Situated on the western coast of Karnataka, Mangalore is a small town of narrow winding streets, lofty coconut trees, quaint gable-roofed houses, beautiful beaches, temples and churches. The heady fragrance of the Mangalore ‘Mallge’, the aroma os spicy cocont curries and hustle and bustle of life around a seaport, add more to the charm of the city. Gokarna is a small hill town, located at a distance of 453km from Bangalore.

An ancient Shaiva Centre, Gokarna is said to be as important as Kashi and Rameshwar. Mahabaleshwara is one of the important temples here. However, Swaswara, a CGH Earth resort on the Om Beach is highlight of Gokarna which captures solitude, serenity and the ambience of its pristine beaches. Chickmagalur is situated 250 kms from Bangalore, amidst the Bada Budan Hills. A calm and serene hill station, Chickmagalur boasts of scenic vistas, gentle slopes and rugged mountain trails that are a delight for trekkers.

In addition to above mentioned, there are several destinations in India where you can enjoy monsoon season in a very exciting way. So, choose any destination of India this monsoon to experience the nature’s precious gift on your own.

Tsunami Tourism new tourism theme

After Eco-Tourism, now Tsunami Tourism is projected as a new theme by the Government of Tamil Nadu. The new theme of tourism is named after the natural disaster tsunami which killed thousands along the Indian coast on December 26, 2004. Four years after the horrible cyclone, the Tamil Nadu government is looking for options to turn the tsunami-affected villages into memorials of the disaster.

According to government officials the aim of Tsunami tourism is to preserve the memories of pre-tsunami days and educate visitors about the impact of the disaster. Beside, Tsunami tourism will also prevent the tsunami affected places completely being forgotten in the future. Tsunami affected areas which are supposed to develop as places of tourist interest include Mamallapuram, Poompuhar, Marina, MGR Thittu and Chinnavaykal.

As the intial step, the Cuddalore district administration has identified Chinnavaykal and MGR Thittu islands vacated by fishermen after the tsunami - as the locations to be developed into tourist attractions. The tourism department of Tamil Nadu is planning to obtain funds under the eco-tourism category to develop these islands. Tamil Nadu's tourism secretary, Irai Anbu said, "We will partly fund the projects."

Meanwhile, Ravichandran, the president of Killai town panchayat under which the tsunami-affected islands fall, said the panchayat has submitted a Rs 5 crore proposal to the district administration to build a theme park on MGR Thittu island. Ravichandran said, "The park will preserve memories of the disaster and educate students and tourists about the damage a tidal wave can cause to coastal areas. We don't want these places to be forgotten in the future, like the ancient port of Poompuhar, which was said to be destroyed by a tsunami wave."

Tsunami Tourism will be a hit or not let the time to decide it. But the unique concept of tourism will provide an excellent chance to tourists to get a close look of the worst affected areas. In addition to this, visitors will surely remember the Tsunami affected areas for longtime.

Incredible India Campaign Becoming Rural

Launched about two years ago, by Department of Tourism, Govt of India, Incredible India campaign got awesome response from tourists across the globe. The unique campaign played a major role in the growth of tourism industry of India. Seeing the success of Incredible India campaign, the Indian Government has decided to add over a dozen of rural tourism sites to attract global travellers. According to an official of tourism department, the new sites are going to be added to the ‘Incredible India’ campaign with the aim to provide a glimpse of real India to tourists from world over.

This past week speaking at a rural workshop Tourism Secretary S. Banerjee said, "While 36 rural tourism sites have been earmarked to come up in the country, of which 15 have already come up, another 14 will start functioning from this October." Banerjee mentioned that "Rural tourism is being given the ministry's highest priority, as it is an innovative tourism product and also benefits the community. Rural tourism products all over the country have now received a fresh, wider projection with 14 more rural sites getting ready, after the first 15 of the ministry's 36 UNDP-partnered rural sites became ready last year."

Elaborating further he said, "The employment potential of tourism has been widely accepted. It not only has socio-economic benefits for rural communities, it also gives support to languishing arts and crafts while showcasing the rich culture and diverse cuisine of the sites. The focus is on promoting tourism that is sustainable, in harmony with the surroundings and promotes art, craft and culture."

Meanwhile Banerjee advised the stakeholders to find effective marketing arrangements, including tie-up with the travel trade at the regional, national and international levels. According to Banerjee the Rural Tourism sites that are almost complete include Hodka (Kachchh district in Gujarat), Kumbalanghi (Ernakulam district in Kerala), Naggar (Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh) and Ballavpur Danga (Birbhum district in West Bengal).

Other sites that would be complete by October 1st this year are Kazhugumalai (Thoothukudi district in Tamil Nadu), Jageshwar (Almora district in Uttarakhand), Nagarnar (Bastar district in Chhattisgarh), Raghurajpur (Puri district in Orissa), Anegondi (Koppal district in Karnataka) and Mukutmonipur (Bankura district in West Bengal).

Eco tourism - An Emerging Travel Theme

One of the recent travel themes, Eco-tourism is gaining popularity across the world day –by- day including the India. Eco-tourism includes programs that minimize the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Consecrated with the aim to preserve the diversity of the world’s natural and cultural environments, Eco-tourism is now considered the fastest growing market in the tourism industry. According to the World Tourism Organization (WTO) with an annual growth rate of 5% worldwide and representing 6% of the world gross domestic product, 11.4% of all consumer spending – Eco-tourism is rapidly growing.

What is Eco-tourism?
Eco-tourism means making as little environmental impact as possible and helping the sustain the indigenous populace, thereby encouraging the preservation of wildlife and habitats when visiting a particular place. Eco-tourism has been described by the International Eco-tourism society as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people."

Goals of Eco-tourism
Saving the environment around you and preserving the natural luxuries and forest life, is the prime goal eco-tourism. Whether it's about a nature camp or organizing trekking trips towards the unspoilt and inaccessible regions, one should always keep in mind not to create any mishap or disturbance in the life cycle of nature.

Eco-tourism also focuses to encourage and support the diversity of local economies for which the tourism-related income is important. With support from tourists, local services and producers can compete with larger, foreign companies and local families can support themselves. Besides all these, the revenue produced from tourism helps and encourages governments to fund conservation projects and training programs.

Other goals of Eco-tourism include historical, cultural, biological and cultural conservation, preservation, sustainable development etc. Eco-tourism focuses on local cultures, wilderness adventures, volunteering, personal growth and learning new ways to live on our vulnerable planet.

Professionals Involved in Eco-tourism
Many professionals have been involved in formulating and developing eco-tourism policies. Eco-tourism professionals come from the fields like Geographic Information Systems, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Photography, Marine Biology and Oceanography, National and State Park Management, Environmental Sciences, Women in Development, Historians and Archaeologists, etc.

Do’s & Don’ts
In the recent time India too is gathering momentum with more and more travel related organisation's are addressing the needs of the eco-tourists and promoting eco-tourism in the country. Some basic do's and don'ts of eco-tourism in India are as follows :

Do’s
- Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles, tins, plastic bags etc. These must not litter the environment or be buried. They must be disposed in municipal dustbins only.

- Observe the sanctity of holy sites, temples and local cultures.

- Cut noise pollution. Do not blare aloud radios, tape recorders or other electronic entertainment equipment in nature resorts, sanctuaries and wildlife parks.

- In case temporary toilets are set-up near campsites, after defecation, cover with mud or sand. Make sure that the spot is at least 30 meters away from the water source.

- Respect people's privacy while taking photographs. Ask for prior permission before taking a photograph.

Don'ts
- Do not take away flora and fauna in the forms of cuttings, seeds or roots. It is illegal, especially in the Himalayas. The environment is really delicate in this region and the bio-diversity of the region has to be protected at all costs.

- Do not use pollutants such as detergent, in streams or springs while washing and bathing.

- Do not use wood as fuel to cook food at the campsite.

- Do not leave cigarettes butts or make open fires in the forests.

- Do not consume aerated drinks, alcohol, drugs or any other intoxicant and throw bottles in the wild.

- Do not tempt the locals, especially children by offering them foodstuff or sweets. Respect local
traditions.

- Polythene and plastics are non biodegradable and unhealthy for the environment and must not be
used and littered.

Eco-tourism Spots in India
Eco-Tourism in India is still at a very early stage, but conscious efforts are made to save the fragile Himalayan Eco System and culture and heritage of the indigenous people. Holiday Camping, Hotel accommodation are gathering momentum amongst the metropolis traveller. A plethora of holiday camping options are available in the Himalayan belt, where soft adventure tourism is packaged with holiday camping to create an acceptable eco-tourism product. Some of the important eco-tourism related spots in India include :

Eco-Tourism Pioneers in Kerala - http://www.tourindiakerala.com/


Eco-Tourism Pioneers in South India - http://www.junglelodges.com/


The Himalayan Trout House - Tirthan, Himachal Pradesh - http://www.questrails.com/


The Camp Kyari (one of the finest models of Eco-tourism in the country) - Village Kyari, Ramnagar - http://www.wildrift.com/


Camp Lunagarh - Mori, Uttaranchal - http://www.treknraft.com/


The Himalayan River Runner Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal - http://www.hrr.com/


The OAI Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal - http://www.oai.com/


The Leopard Beach Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal - http://www.snowleopardadventures.com/

For more info about eco-tourism spots in India visit the website :

http://ecoclub.com/india.html

Medical Tourism – Experience Incredible Care of India

For the last few years, Medical Tourism has emerged out as one of the strong reasons to visit India. With a special tag of exceptional quality, affordability, speed and availability, medical tourism in India has got awesome response worldwide. Nowadays, Medical Tourism is drawing people from all over the world, who get cured from various kinds of ailments alongwith visiting popular destinations of India. Seeing the boom in medical tourism, the upmarket hospitals are polishing their act and re-inventing their services.

Department of tourism Indian government says, for a life of health and a vacation of a lifetime, the only destination is India. Fact is that medical tourism is not just a heart-tugging, boundary melting activity, but India is rightly positioned to do this and it has become extremely profitable for tourism industry. India medicine system provides a complete balance of physical, mental and emotional health, not offered by any other country. Whatever is the ailment, the care is not too far, this is the promise of the life-giving land.

USP of India
India’s USP in the field of medical tourism include the reasonable cost, zero or minimal waiting time for major surgeries, internationally qualified and experienced specialties. Other specialties of India are latest surgical equipment and infrastructure like the da Vinci surgical system, personalised nursing care and hospitality. Besides, Indian doctors can consult specialists from across the globe, send photos or have a video conference to get the best results for complicated cases.

Post Medical Holidays
Options for post medical procedure holidays are aimed at complete recuperation of mind, body and soul. In fact, post medical holidays are suggested in consultation with doctors and are organised in breath-taking locations at beaches, by rivers, up in cool soothing hill stations or five star jungle resorts.

Compared Rates and Cure Results
A heart surgery costs $30,000 in the US, while it costs $6,000 in India. Similarly, a bone marrow transplant costs $26,000 in India as compared to $250,000 in the US. Death rate for coronary bypass patients is 0.8 per cent and the infection rate is 0.3, which is below the first world average of 1.2 per cent and 1 per cent respectively.

Indian Medicine System
India offers holistic medicinal services and treatment is based on the physio, psycho, socio, nutritional, ecological, environmental and spiritual needs of each patient. Further, India’s holistic therapy integrates traditional, medical systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homeopathy. Besides, complementary therapies like yoga and acupuncture to hasten healing is also provided.

How to get Medical Visa
The Indian government has set up a system to fast-track medical visas and National Accreditation Health Board to maintain international standards of cure. Medical visa is granted to those seeking medical assistance in reputed specialised hospitals across the country. Foreign national who desires to go for treatment under the Indian System of Medicine, his can may also be considered. Initially the visa is granted for the period of one year or the period of treatment, whichever is less. Medical visa can be extended for a further period of upto one year. Family members / attendant of the patients coming to India for treatment may be granted miscellaneous visa co-terminus with the ‘Medical Visa’ of the patient. Known as ‘MX’ visa, these may be granted to spouse or blood relations of the patient.

Somnath - Abode of Lord Shiva

One of the 12 Jyotirlings – places where Shiva is believed to reside, Somnath is a place of great significance for Historian and the pilgrims as well. Situated close to Prabhas Patan in Gujarat, Somnanth is known for its temples. Historically, Somnath was demolished a number of times by Mahmud of Ghazni. However, the present day temple was last reconstructed in the year 1950. At the time of country’s independence only relics of the deserted temple stood at the site. Sardar Ballabh Bhai Patel visited Prabhas Patan and pledged to reconstruct the temple. On advice of Mahatama Gandhi, Sardar Patel set up a trust for collecting donations to construct the temple. Today, a statue and a plaque outside the temple entrance commemorate Sardar Patel’s role in its reconstruction.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Somnath temple is believed to one of the 12 places in the country where Shiva reside. Devotees also believe that this Jyotirling is the first to emerge out amongst the entire dozen lingas. Legend has its that Soma, the Moon God, married the 27 daughters of King Daksha. Of all the sisters, Rohini was pretties and dearest to Soma. So, the other 26 sisters complained about this to their father, the king cursed Soma – the moon – to wane steadily. As the moon dimmed and nights became darker, panic spread. All the gods rushed to Shiva for help, who perform Soma to perform penance. Soma built a lingam on the seashore in Prabhas and worshipped Shiva for six months. At last, Shiva granted Soma a boom that he would wax and wane cyclically every month. Later the place came to be known as Somnath, as the word means Soma’s lord – Shiva.

Other Temples in Somnath
Of all the temples at Prabhas Patan, Somnath is the most popular and magnificent temple. Somnath temple is also the youngest temple, dates back to up to 800 years old. Just 100 yards from Somnath temple is a small temple built by Ahilya Bai Holkar, queen of Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh. Further down the road lies Triveni Ghat – a confluence of the sea and three rivers namely Hiran, Saraswati and Kapila. Parallel to Hiran there is a row of temples, the most important among them is a small cupola called Dehotsarg. Dauji ki Gufa (Balram’s Cave) is another temple close to it. Prabhas Patan also has a sun temple, which looks older than any other surviving structures there.

Factfile
Somnath is situated at a distance of about 400 km from Ahmedabad, which can be covered by road or rail. State transport buses and private luxury coaches connect Somnath to important places of Gujarat. As there is no direct bus service to Somnath, so you have to reach Porbandar first. From Porbandar bus services are available to Veraval. You have to take auto-rickshaws to cover the seven km stretch between Somnath and Veraval.

Vaishno Devi – Proceed on the Sublime Journey

If faith can move up above the lofty mountains, then go with faith and scale those tough mountains, that is asked of you. The ‘divine call’ of Goddess Vaishno Devi draws scores of devotees to ascend steep pathways and serpentine queues through snow-covered mountains and lush green forests around, to the sacred and mystical shrine. A common belief is found that when Mata Vaishno Devi sends a ‘Call’ to her devotees, then pilgrims finds themselves compelled to move towards the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi, chanting ‘Jai Mata Di’.

Hindus belief that anyone who walks the Himalayan trail to shrine of Vaishno Devi, to seek a boon does not return disappointed. Shrine of Mata Vaishno resides in a holy cave in the shape of three natural rock formations called Pindies. Nestling on top of the Trikuta hill at a height of 1,700 mt is the sacred cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. Situated at a distance of 61 km from Jammu, the cave is 30 mts long and just 1.5 mt high. Interestingly there are no statues or idols inside the holy cave, while at the end of the cave are shrines dedicated to the three forms of the mother Goddess namely Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasarasvati.
Pilgrims can enter inside the shrine in small groups through a narrow opening.

The aarti is performed twice a day at the shrine. The pujaris (priests) perform aarti before the holy deity, first inside the sanctum sanctorum and then outside the cave. The jyoti (divine lamp) is lighted and the puja thaali used in aarti is brought outside the holy cave. After the bhajan, the chief priest comes out from inside the sanctum and distributes prasad and charanamrit to the devotees. Rejuvenated with the aarti, the devotees rush to the cave for a darshan of the pindies. It is believed a privilege to have a darshan (glimpse) during the auspicious days of Navratra.

Essential Amenities Available for Pilgrims on Way to Shrine
For making the yatra a comfortable and satisfying experience the Shrine Board and the state government have made essential arrangements for pilgrim on way to shrine. On the entire stretch from Banganga to Bhawan, over 70 shelter sheds have been constructed, the path is inlaid with tiles and illuminated with vapour lamps. At regular distances over 100 toilet blocks with over 600 seats, including Western type seats have been constructed.


Around 125 water points and 50 water coolers have been installed on the trek to provide clean drinking water to the pilgrims. Along the route at vantage viewpoints around 20 restaurants have been constructed. Well-equipped medical centres and shops selling toiletries, provision items, camera rolls, medicines, shoes, caps, raincoats, walking sticks and eatables can be found along the trek route. Banks, police stations and post offices can be found at important locations.

Reaching the Vaishno Devi Shrine
Katra the base camp is about 50 km from Jammu and 650 km from Delhi. From Katra, Vaishno Devi shrine is 13 km up. Buses and taxis are available to Katra from Jammu at regular intervals. A walk along the pleasant and relatively easy mountain path takes you from Katra (2,500 ft) to Saanjhi Chhat (6,200 ft), from where you descend to 5,200 ft where Bhavan, the shrine complex is situated.

Air Deccan helicopter service connects Katra with Saanjhi Chhat, the highest point in the mountain trek. From Saanjhi Chhat the routes get divided to Bhawan and Bhairon Mandir. One should keep in mind that from the helipad, Bhawan is about 2 kms away, and it is difficult to find any other means to cover that distance.

Another option is the battery operated van from Adhkuwari, which runs from the midpoint of the Yatra, after one has covered the initial distance of 6 km by traditional means. The other option is the traditional palki (palanquin) carried by four persons.