Monday, August 6, 2018

Historical Tourism- Module NO 11

MAJOR RELIGIOUS DESTINATIONS IN INDIA
PURI
Puri is located on the eastern side of India in the province of Orissa. Lying on the coastal strip in the Puri district, the destination is 60 kilometre from the city of Bhubaneswar. This coastal city lies on the golden triangle of Orissa, connecting with Konark and Bhubaneswar. The city of Puri is known for its historic immemorial, sanctorum, architectural magnificence, balanced climate and divine significance.


Counted among the most sacred pilgrim centres for Hindus in India, the destination is a seat of Lord of Universe, Jagannath, as per testimony of Skanda Purana. Honoured with the famous Jagannath shrine, the spiritual city is also known as Jagannath Puri. Positioned along the coast of Bay of Bengal, the city is one of the frequented tourist destinations in India. All the cities of the triangular axis have well-known pilgrimage venues, exotic landscapes, beaches, historical sites that attract travellers throughout the year. 



Besides, the destination is a repository of art and architecture of India with testaments dating back to 3rd century B.C. This ancient town has ruins and testaments belonging to the period from 3rd century B.C. to 17th century A.D. The spiritual city attracts devotees along with tourists from around the world for witnessing attractions like Temple of Child Krishna at Indradyumna Tank, Atharnala Bridge and Sudarshan Crafts Museum.

The city also has the famous Sun Temple of Konark. One of the major highlights of the city is Rath Yatra (Car or Chariot festival), which is hosted every year in the city. Puri Rath Yatra 2012 starts on 21st June at Jaganath Temple, Puri, Orissa. The festival marks the journey of Krishna known as Jaganath in this region, from Gokul to Mathura. Three huge chariots carrying the idols of Jaganath, his brother Balbadra, and his sister Subhadra are pulled along the streets from the Jaganath temple to the temple of Gundicha Mandir. On the ninth day, Rath Yatra is repeated in the opposite direction.

Pilgrims and tourists throng to the destination to cherish the international event besides an annual Puri Beach Festival held in the month of November. The coastal city gained fame after Chodaganga Deva who built the temple of Purusottama Jagannath after winning a war. Over the years, association with Lord Rama, influenced renaming of city to Purusottama Kshetra, also known as Purusottama Puri, which exists as Puri at present. Among well-known attractions in and around, Puri features Chilka Lake, a large inland saltwater lake, Puri Beach, Gundicha Ghar and the Childlike Wildlife Sanctuary. Over the years, the coastal city has emerged as an industrial centre with major industries like rice milling, handicrafts and fish curing. The pleasant weather of the coastal city all round the year makes it an ideal destination for the travellers. With mild summers and cool winters, October to March is considered the best time to  visit Puri.

HARIDWAR
Haridwar or 'the Gateway to the Gods' is located in the state of Uttarakhand in northern India. Haridwar is considered as one among the ‘sapta-puris’ (seven sacred cities) and is an important pilgrim destination. Haridwar is located at a distance of about 214 km from Delhi and 28 km from Rishikesh. Hindi, Punjabi, Garhwali and English are the languages used in the area. Geographically, Haridwar stands as a gateway to the three other Char Dham destinations of Uttarakhand which are Rishikesh, Badrinath, and Kedarnath.
The history of Haridwar dates back to the period of King Vikramaditya. Haridwar is referred to as Mayapuri, Gangadwar, and Mokshadwar in the ancient Hindu texts and epics. The ancient holy city of Haridwar is considered as old as Varanasi and according to legend; gods left their footprints in Haridwar. The main pilgrimage spots in Haridwar are located along the banks of the River Ganga. Pilgrims who visit Haridwar have the custom of floating floral lamps on the River Ganges to commemorate the deceased ancestors.
Haridwar is also the venue for the famous Kumbh Mela which takes place only once in 12 years. There are many historical shrines in Haridwar some of which are mainly located along the banks of the River Ganges. Some prominent spots among them are Har-Ki-Pauri, Chandi Devi Temple, Mansa Devi Temple at Bilwa Parvat, Vaishno Devi Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Maya Devi Temple, Bhimgoda, Shanti Kunj, etc. The tomb, Piran Kaliar of Shabir Shahib in Roorkee is also visited by hundreds of tourists. Besides being a popular pilgrim destination, Haridwar is a fast growing industrial city as well.
The city houses the Bharat Heavy Electricals India Ltd. Haridwar also has the first technical institute of India, the University of Roorkee, which is now known by the name of IIT Roorkee. Gurukul Kangadi Vishva Vidyalaya is another popular learning centre at Haridwar on Haridwar – Jwalapur bypass road where education is imparted in the traditional Gurukul technique of ancient India. Veda Mandir, which exhibits ancient relics, is also situated within the precincts of the Gurukul Kangadi University. The proximity of Haridwar to Rishikesh, Sapt Sarovar, Triveni Ghat, Kanva Rishi Ashram, Chila Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. has made Haridwar a popular destination among holidaymakers. The best time to visit Haridwar is from September to March.
AJMER
Ajmer, formerly known as Ajmere or Ajaymeru is a city in Ajmer district of Rajasthan. The city was founded by the rulers of the Chauhan dynasty who ruled it for several decades, with Prithviraj Chauhan being one of its most illustrious rulers. At a distance of 135 km from the capital city of Jaipur, Ajmer is surrounded by the Aravalli range and is located at the slopes of the Taragarh hill. The city is guarded by the mammoth Taragarh Fort which is one of the country’s oldest hill forts, and is at the summit of the Taragarh hill providing a breathtaking view of the city below.
Ajmer is famous for the Dargah Sharif of the great Sufi Saint Khwaja Muinuddin Chishti. Located at the foot of the Taragarh hill, the site is visited by thousands of devotees from all religions and sects who come here to offer their prayers. Especially during the festival of Urs, believers from all around the globe throng the holy site with the hope of getting their wishes fulfilled by offering prayers to the Saint. The Anasagar is a beautiful artificial lake located at the north of the city. The Bardani pavilions which surround the lake and the adjoining parks add to the beauty of the location and are popular for outings and picnics.
The Ajmer Museum, which was once the residence of the Mughal Emperor Akbar, has a range of unique sculptures and armour of the Mughal and the Rajput dynasties preserved here for visitors to see. The city has several other attractions like Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra, which is the remains of an old mosque and is a unique example of Indo-Islamic architecture, the Nasiyan (Red) Temple which is a well known Jain temple, the Nimbark Peeth, Nareli Jain temple, among many others.
The city of Ajmer has been the hot seat for culture and education from ages. The British established the prestigious Mayo College, an institute set up exclusively for the erstwhile Indian nobility, which is now considered to be one of the best schools in the country. Ajmer is also the gateway to the holy city of Pushkar, which is just 11 km away from here. Pushkar is famous for the Lord Brahma temple and the sacred Pushkar Lake, and the town has become a favourite spot for domestic and international tourists. The best time to visit Ajmer is during the winter season when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for exploring the city.
SABARIMALA
Sabarimala is one of the most visited pilgrim centres of India. Every year 40 million devotees come here to worship Lord Ayyappan. Sabarimala is located in Pathanamthitta, a district in the Travancore region, in the state of Kerala. The place is famous for rubber plantations and wood industries. The meaning of Sabarimala is the mountain of Sabari, who was a prominent Hindu mythological character.
Sabarimala is the most famous and important religious destination in Kerala. Surrounded with forests and streams, Sabarimala is situated on the banks of the holy river Pampa, amidst Sahyadri Mountains in Western Ghats, and is 468 metres above sea level. The temple of Ayyapan is nestled within 18 hills and forests. Temples are situated in each of the hills, some of which are Nilackal, Karimala and Kalaketi. According to legend, Sabarimala is the place where Lord Ayyappan sat for meditation after killing the demoness, Mahishi. The temple can be visited by men of all ages; however, women between the age of 10 and 50, are prohibited to enter the temple, as Ayyappan is a Bramachari i.e. one who follows celibacy. Before the pilgrimage, devotees need to take a vratham of 41 days, which means they have to wear a garland made of Rudraksha or Tulsi beads and refrain from non-vegetarian food, alcohol, use of abusive language, haircut, shaving and many other activities. Devotees generally come here to settle shani-dosha and make life better.
Sabarimala town, though uninhabited by people, remains busy with pilgrim’s inflow, thus, resulting in the presence of various hotels and shops. A shrine of a Muslim saint name Vavaru Swamy is one of the attractions of this place. Reaching Sabarimala is challenging as the path to Sabarimala goes through the forests and hilly route, which stretches around 45 kilometres and consists of wild animals and reptilian creatures. It takes several hours to reach the temple and can be quite exhaustive. Nowadays, there is an alternate path available to reach a certain point by vehicles. However, after that point, vehicles are prohibited and devotees have to walk for about 4 kilometres to reach the temple. The nearest airports to reach this place are located in Kochi and Trivandrum. Trivandrum International Airport is about 175 kilometres and Nedumbassery International Airport at Kochi is190 kilometres from Sabarimala. The nearest railway station to this place is at Chengannur, which is at a distance of around 93 kilometres from the place. The best time to visit Sabarimala is between the months of November to April, when most of the temples’ festivals are celebrated.

SRAVANABELAGOLA
Sravanabelagola, a chief pilgrim centre, is located in the midst of Mysore and Hassan. The township is situated in Hassan District, in the state of Karnataka. Surrounded by Vindhyagiri and Chandragiri ranges, the township is situated at an altitude of 3,350 feet above sea level. The town was established in the 9th century by the Ganga rulers of southern Karnataka. There are several ancient testimonies in the form of religious monuments on the Vindhyagiri and the Chandragiri ranges belonging to the Ganga and Hoysala period.
Bahubali statue, the world's tallest monolithic figurine of the Jain saint, Lord Gomateshwara, is the chief attraction of Sravanabelagola. The 17 metres tall statue with religious inscriptions Page 1/4 1 2 3 4 5 exhibits architectural and sculptural excellence of the Gangas of Talakad. Mahamastakabhisheka, a major Jain festiva,l is celebrated with great enthusiasm every 12 years. Devotees from all around the world throng the destination to participate in the festival organised in honour of Gomateshwara Bahubali. The township provides a glimpse of the cultural diversity of Karnataka comprising of English, Hindi and Kannada speaking communities.
Sravanabelagola is well connected with Hassan through roadways. It is situated at a distance of 52 km from Hassan town.. The railhead of Hassan is served by several express and passenger trains having operations all across the country. Bengaluru International Airport, at a distance of 140 km, is connected with various parts of the world and is nearest to the destination. Sravanabelagola experiences moderate climate, identical to the southern region of India. The climate is pleasant from October to March and is the ideal time for a visit.

MALAYATTOOR CHURCH

Situated about 47 km from Kochi, Malayattoor is famous for the Catholic Church, located on top of the Malayattoor hill, at a height of 609 m. Dedicated to St. Thomas the apostle of Jesus Christ, thousands of pilgrims gather here for the annual festival of 'Malayatoor Perunnal', held during the months of March /April. Sailing in an Arab merchant vessel, St. Thomas is believed to have landed at Kodungalloor port in Kerala, in AD 52. It is believed that St. Thomas took the initiative for establishing a Christian community at Malayattoor. In his journey through the length and breadth of the land, St. Thomas founded churches in Kodungalloor, Quilon, Niranam, Nilakkal, Kokkamangalam, Kottakavu and Paalayoor.
Blessed by natural bounties Malayattoor offers ideal environs for those seeking spiritual happiness. Nowadays, the hill shrine at Malayattoor has emerged as the largest pilgrim centre in the name of St. Thomas in India. Here, the big and auspicious occasion is the feast of St. Thomas, which is observed on the first Sunday after Easter, when thousands throng the shrine for his blessings. Those interested in the architecture of the church would find it highly interesting. It has a combination of Greco-Roman architecture with the altar designed in traditional Greek style, and the front portion of the church following the traditional Roman Catholic Church architecture. Behind the central altar, one can find the carvings, designs and paintings, which include the five joyful mysteries of Jesus Christ. The church has separate facilities for confession and adoration.
The ancient baptismal pond and the traditional pulpit are of historical relevance. From the hill side, one can watch the soothing sight of the smooth flowing Periyar river, which itself would make the minds of pilgrims calm and serene. The church provides facilities for bathing in the river.
According to a custom observed here, pilgrims shave their hair and beard before bathing in the river.Devotees arriving at the shrine make several types of offerings. Some climb the hill carrying cross in their shoulders; women folk would carry long brooms with them with prayers for prosperity. Some pilgrims carry stones on their heads, an offering that is meant to remove burdens from their lives. There are various religious rituals in the parish church and at the top of the mount. Some of the services include high mass, ordinary mass, Novena, Adima, Vedi Litany etc.
Places to visit at St. Thomas Mount.
Besides the main shrine, visitors to Malayattoor can also find interesting sites in and around the hill top.                        
Marthoma Mandapam.

A very elegant and attractive building with a blend of Greco-Indian architecture, it is here that the precious relics of St. Thomas are preserved. Located at the peak of the mount, the building is erected in such a way that the relic is placed twenty steps above the ground, symbolically representing the twenty years of St Thomas's missionary works in south India.

Sannidhi
Among the structures on top of Malayattoor hill, this one has modern architectural touch, and is situated at the Northern most part of the mount. Here, the main attraction is the Piyatha sculpture moulded at the top of the chapel. The Sannidhi is the most spacious place for worship on the mount.

Golden Cross.
Kurishumudi is where one can find the Golden Cross believed to have formed when St. Thomas knelt on a rock and signed a cross with his finger. He remained there praying for a long time, and ultimately a golden cross appeared on the spot.
Footprints of St Thomas.
One of the most curious sights at the mountain is the permanent footprint and the marks of knees of St. Thomas imprinted on the rock.
The ancient chapel struck by the elephants.
An ancient chapel at Kurishumudi, it was attacked by tuskers in the past when it used to be surrounded by thick jungle. Deep tusk marks can still be found on the back wall of the chapel.
The miraculous water spring.
 A well, situated near the ancient chapel at the top of the mount is believed to be the spot from where St. Thomas quenched his thirst during his time of prayer. Feeling thirsty, he struck the rock from which fresh water started flowing. Pilgrims consider the water in the well to possess divine power to heal ailments.
With its recent recognition by Vatican as an international pilgrim centre, this famous shrine at Malayattoor dedicated to St. Thomas would be extending its healing touch and spiritual bliss to more visitors and for those who come to enjoy its serenity.


MAJOR CULTURAL DESTINATIONS IN INDIA
SANTINIKETAN
Santiniketan is a cultural town in West Bengal, near Bolpur, which is 180 km from Kolkata. This small cultural town was a vision of the famous Bengali poet and Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. The Vishwa Bharati University or ‘the University Town’, as it was known in early days was an attempt of Tagore’s efforts that even today attracts significant number of visitors to the place. With a rich cultural past, Santiniketan is a famous tourist attraction, especially for art and literature lovers, as this is the place where Tagore created many of his literary classics. The destination has a distinct culture and heritage of its own which can be experienced in the various festivals it celebrates like Poush Mela, Basantotsava and Rabindra Jayanti.
The Poush Mela, which is held in the month of December every year, is a major attraction of Santiniketan. Since the Poush Mela draws a large number of people, accommodations need to be booked well in advance. Almost all hotels hike their tariffs during this time. The fair is also a good place to buy local handicrafts like Santinekatani leather work, batik prints, dokra work and jewellery. An upcoming event in Santiniketan is the Basantotsava ‘Spring Festival’, which heralds the spring season and is held during Holi. To be held around 8th March, 2012, it is a good time to visit the university town. Students are dressed in yellow costumes and welcome spring through Tagore's songs and dances. A lot of open-air programmes are held during this time.
Accommodation, again, is hard to find at the time as there is a huge rush and it is essential to make arrangements well in advance. Room rates are also higher at this time. Accommodation options, in the form of guesthouses, hotels, resorts and lodges, are available in and around Santiniketan, especially Bolpur. Youth hostels are available at Bolpur and Bakreswar. There is a WBTDC tourist lodge as well as a guest house run by the Vishwa Bharati. Santiniketan is included in the popular cultural-religious tourist trio, which is a circuit that includes Bakreswar and Tarapith too. The trip originates at Santiniketan, and from there moves towards Bakreswar and then finally Tarapith. The destination has seen a significant change since the time of Tagore. The once deserted place that was known as Khoai, has now transformed into a town, with many large houses and bungalows. Though the idyllic existence of the past has diminished, the existence and feel of a college town still remains.
Apart from the University, some places that attract visitors at Saantiniketan include the Chhatimtala, which was the meditation centre of Maharishi Debendranath and got its name due to the many Chhatim trees here. Other places of interest are the Upasana Griha, Dehali, Mrinali, China Bhavan, Santiniketan Griha, Shyamali, Black House, etc. Page 2/12 Santiniketan can be reached from Kolkata by train within four hours. The nearest rail station is Bolpur, about 2 km away. Rickshaws are available from the station to the destination. Santiniketan can be visited throughout the year, but spring and winter see a lot of tourists due to the Basantotsava and Poush Mela respectively.

WARDHA
Wardha is one of the 35 districts in the state of Maharashtra, which is located on the south of River Wardha. It is located at an average elevation of 234 metres above sea level and is spread over an area of 6310 sq km. The destination was a part of Nagpur District till 1862 and later the headquarters of the Wardha District was established near Pulgaon at Kaotha. Located in the north-east part of the state, Wardha is surrounded by Amravati District in the north and west and Yavatmal District in the south. Further, the east and south-east parts of the district are bounded by Nagpur District and Chandrapur District respectively. The rich land of Wardha was ruled by many kingdoms including Chalukyas, Rajputs, Mauryas, Satavahanas, Vakatakas and Sungas.
Wardha was included in the territory of the Bahmani Kingdom in 1351. With the fall of this dynasty in 1518, the region came under the rule of Imad Shahi princes. It was also invaded by the Mughals, Marathas, Peshwas and the Nizam. Following the invasion of Muslim dynasties, the region came under the British Empire before India got its independence in 1947. Wardha also played a vital role in establishing Gandhiji's ashram, which served as a base for various independence movements for India’s freedom. The cultural heritage and tradition of Wardha is as rich as its history.
Some of the prominent festivals celebrated in Wardha include Holi, Dussehra, Diwali, Navratri and Ganesha Chaturthi. It is also known for the encyclopaedia written on Warhadi, the dialect of Marathi commonly spoken in Vidarbha. It was written by Professor Devidas Sote, who lived in Wardha. Wardha is frequented by tourists for its attractions like Sewagram-Bapu Kuti. It is the place where Mahatma Gandhi stayed and continued his struggle for freedom. Tourists travelling to Wardha can spend time at Parandham Ashram, Geetai Mandir, Laxmi Narayan Temple and Vishwa Shanti Stupa. Visitors travelling to Wardha can reach Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur, which is located about 59 km away. The destination is served by Wardha Railway Station, which is connected with major towns and cities of the country. Ubda Bus Stop is the nearest bus station in Wardha, which is located 35 km from the city centre of Wardha. Owing to its geographical location, Wardha experiences hot breezes in summers and mild winters. The ideal time to visit Wardha is during the winter season because of its dry climactic conditions.

THUNCHAN MEMORIAL TRUST



Thunchathu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, the 16th century poet, is known as the father of Malayalam language-the principal language of the Indian state of Kerala. His works also popularised the writing system adopted by him, which is the current Malayalam alphabet.
Thunchan Parambu derives its name from Thunchathu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, who rendered in his own distinctive poetic style the stories of great epics viz. the Mahabharata and the Ramayana.
The Government of Kerala constituted the Thunchan Memorial Management Committee in 1964 in order to propagate the vision and values of the great poet and to promote Malayalam language and literature. The Thunchan Memorial Trust was formed in 2001 to independently expand these activities under the leadership of legendary writer Mr. M. T. Vasudevan Nair.
The Thunchan Memorial Trust has facilities that include a Saraswathi Manadapam, a granite structure, an auditorium with a seating capacity of 500, an open-air stage, cottages for guests, dormitory, dining hall and two ponds. The research library here has a collection of around 15,000 books and 120 manuscripts. Computer and Internet facility are also available here. The University of Calicut has recognised it as a research centre and students, research scholars and those who love the language frequent the centre from all over the country.
The National Manuscript Mission has designated Thunchan Memorial Trust as its Manuscript Resource Centre to survey, document and electronically report manuscripts of north Kerala. The Thunchan Literary Museum was set up here in October 2008 and is the only one of its kind in any Indian language. The museum depicts the different stages of development of the Malayalam language.

The Thunchan festival held annually during the first week of February has emerged as a major cultural events in the country. The five-day festival is attended by eminent writers and scholars. Literary seminars, poetry reading sessions, cultural discourses, dance and music performances are the highlights of the festival. And during the festival time, the iron stylus with which Ezhuthachan wrote his poems is taken out in a grand procession.

The centre is also popular in connection with Vidyarambham, the ritual in which children are initiated into the world of letters. Eminent literary personalities lead the ritual held as a grand event on the Vijayadashami day.


MAJOR HISTORICAL DESTINATIONS IN INDIA

Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves

Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves One of the earliest groups of Jain rock-cut shelters, the caves of Udayagiri (Hill of Sunrise) and Khandagiri (Broken Hills) command a unique position in the filed of history, rock-cut architecture, art and religion. The two hills rise abruptly from the coastal plain, about six km west of Bhubaneswar, separated by a highway.

Called lena, in the inscriptions, the caves of Udayagiri and Khandagin are essentially dwelling retreats or cells of the Jain ascetics, opening directly into the verandah or the open space in front. Mostly excavated near the top of the ledge or boulder, they simply provided dry shelter for meditation and prayer, with very little amenities even for small comforts. The height being too low, does not allow a man to stand erect. 

Each cell was tenanted by several monks. The cells are austerely plain, but their facades are encrusted with sculptures depicting auspicious objects worshipped by Jains, court scenes, royal processions, hunting expeditions and scenes of daily life. The austere later additions, when Jainism no longer enjoyed royal patronage in this part, show 24 Jain tirthankars. At present, all the important caves have been numbered for to avoid confusion in nomenclature.

UDAYAGIRI

From Bhubaneswar, Udayagiri is the hill on the right and access to its 18 caves is provided by a flight of steps. The largest and the most beautiful, Cave 1, Rani Gumpha or Queen's Cave, off the pain path to the right is double storeyed. Excavated on three sides of a quadrangle with fine wall friezes and some recently restored pillars, not exactly architectural marvel, but has some beautiful sculptures. 

 

The right wing of the lower storey consists of a single cell with three entrances and a pillared varandah. On the walls, flanking the terminal pilasters of the verandah, are carved two dwara palas (sentries). The pilasters of entrances to the cell are embellished with side pilasters crowned by animals. Over them there are toranas (arches) relieved with religious and royal scenes-couple standing reverentially with folded hands, a female dancer with accompanying female musicians, etc. 

 

The main central wing, consisting of four cells, has themes apparently indicating victory march of a king, starting from his capital and returning back after passing through various lands. At the angles, where the right and left wings meet, are two small guard rooms which are lavishly decorated-springs cascading down the hills, fruits laden trees, wild animals, sporting elephants in lotus pools, etc. 

 

In the better preserved Upper Storey there are six cells, one each in the left and right wings and four in the rear. All the four cells of the main wing are provided with two doorways each, flanked by two pilasters, from which springs a ornately carved torana (arch) with auspicious Jain symbols (snake and lotus), and friezes depicting scenes laid in wild surroundings story reminiscent of Dushyanta's first meeting with Sakuntala, a dance performance for the royal couple, etc. 

 

Cave 2, Chota Hathi Gumpha, or Small Elephant Cave, is notable for its facade having masterly carving of six vigorous elephants flanking its entrance. Cave 4, Alakapuri Gumpha, contain sculptures of a lion holding a prey, in its mouth, and pillars topped by pairs of winged animals, some human and some bird headed. Cave 5, Jaya Vijaya Gumpha, is double storeyed and a bodhi tree is carved in the central apartment. The high sanctity of the tree is represented by an umbrella over it and being worshipped by a couple on either side. 

 

Cave 9, Manchapuri and Swargapuri up the hill and around to right house a damaged relief, the subject of which is worship of some Jain religious symbol. The assemblage on the right is a group of four, votaries with folded hands, dressed in long dhotis, scarves and heavy kundalas (ear rings). The second crowned figure from the left is thought to be the Chedi King, Vakradeva, whose donative inscription occurs on the roof-line of the facade of the cell to the right side of the varandah.

 

Cave 10, Ganesh Gumpha, about 50 m from the top of the steps takes its name from the figure of Ganesh carved on the back of its right cell. The carvings tell the story of the elopement of Bassavadatta, Princess of Ujjayini, with King Udayan of Kausambi in the company of Vasantaka. Proceeding to the top of the Udayagiri Hill by a pathway to right, the visitor will reach the ruins of an apsidal structure, unearthed in 1958. This Chaitya hall was the place of worship by the monks and in all probability once housed the legendary Kalinga-Jina that Kharavel recovered after it had been removed by Nanda king of Magadha.

 

KHANDAGIRI


Coming down to the main road by a flight of steps in front of Cave 17 of Udayagiri and going up the road for about 15m, the visitor will find a track to his left leading to the summit of the Khandagiri hill. Following this track for a few meters, brings you at Cave 1 and 2, known as Tatowa Gumpha or Parrot Caves, known so from the figures of parrots carved on the arches of their doorways.

Guarding the entrance to Cave 1, are two sentries in dhotis and scarves and armed with swords. Between the two arches of the doorways providing entrance to cell is a one line inscription calling the cave that of Kusuna. Cave 2 is more spacious and its decorations more elaborate. On the back wall of the cell are Brahmi inscriptions in red pigment, of the first century BC to first century AD, presumably scrawled by a monk in attempt to improve his handwriting. .


Farther ascending by the same flight of steps, the path goes to Cave 3, Ananta Gumpha or Snake Cave after the figures of twin serpents on the door arches. It is one of the most important caves on the Khandagiri hill on account of its unique motifs in some relief figures of boys chasing animals including lions and bulls, geese with spread wings holding in its bill the stalk of a lotus bud or a blue lotus, a royal elephant flanked by a smaller one carrying lotus flower, a female figure driving a chariot drawn by four horses and the Lakshmi in a lotus pool being bathed with water from pitchers held by two elephants. 

On the back wall of the cell is carved a nandipada on a stepped pedestal flanked on either side by a set of three symbols-a triangle headed symbol, a srivatsa and a swastika, auspicious to the Jains. Cave 7, Navamuni Gumpha, called so due to the figures of nine (nava) tirthankars carved on the back and right walls and Cave 8, Barabhuji Gumpha, named so from two 12 armed (bara-bhuj) figures of sasana-devis carved on the side walls of the verandah, both also have relief of Hindu deities. .

The last noteworthy Cave out of 15 Caves of Khandagiri, Cave 9, like Cave 8 was also reconverted in medieval times. Ranged along the three sides of the chamber is the relief of 24 robeless tirthankars. Except for the three standing images of Rishabnath, the rest of images exhibit some crude workmanship.

The 18th century, Jain Temple, at the top of the hill dedicated to Rishabnath, was most probably built on the site of an earlier shrine. The temple enshrines some old tirthankars and affords a panoramic view across the plains. The site, every year, late in January, for a week attracts holy men who assemble on the hillside to intone verses from Hindu epics and meditate. A lively fair comes up at the foot of hills attracting crowds who enjoy the religious spectacle and the shops set along the roadside do brisk business.

MAHABALIPURAM
Mahabalipuram is a tourist destination situated in Tamil Nadu, which has many beautiful places. It is known for its historical monuments, sculptures, scenic beauty, culture and tradition. Mahabalipuram is placed along the Coromandel Coast facing the Bay of Bengal. It is an attractive tourist spot. History of Mahabalipuram The name ‘Mahabalipuram’ is derived from a myth. The place was ruled by a very arrogant and cruel king named Mahabali who was later killed by Lord Vishnu and this place is named after that King Mahabali. The Gupta dynasty declined and Pallavas rose to power in south India and ruled for quite some time.
The period between 650 AD and 750 AD was called as the golden age of Pallavas and they were powerful and intelligent thinkers. During their rule, great poets, saints, artisans, scholars, artists and dramatists emerged in the region. Mahabalipuram has unique and beautiful sculptures and paintings, which reflect the talent and skill artisans from the era possessed. Their creativity and innovation can be seen in the best possible form as they explored new styles and innovations eliciting the best in art and architecture. Mahabalipuram is not only known for its architecture, but also known for its casuarinas trees and silver sand beach. These attractions are an integral part of Mahabalipuram tourism.
Things to do in Mahabalipuram The Pallavas did not expose their creations, as they were not exposed to the outer world and were kept hidden until the late 185th century. Mahabalipuram has temples made out of a single rock, temples of different structures and artistic bas-reliefs, which is the largest in the world. The great architecture is a delight to the visitors even today and attracts devotees from far off places. Mahabalipuram has two low hills whose either sides have excavates temples called Mandapas. It has unique architecture with different sculptures (Nandi, Lion and Elephant), rathas (cut out temples) and a palace. One of the prominent festivals celebrated here is the Mamallapuram Dance Festival, which is organised by the Department of Tourism every year at the ancient 7th century Centre for Pallava Culture and Arts. As part of the festival, various dance forms are showcased including Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Odissi.
There is a lot more to Mahabalipuram tourism and travellers can explore history by opting for Mahabalipuram holiday packages. Travelling to Mahabalipuram To reach Mahabalipuram, tourists can take flights, trains or travel by road. The nearest airport to Mahabalipuram is in Chennai, located close to 60 km away. The nearest railhead is in Chengalpattu, close to 30 km from Mahabalipuram. Tourists can also drive down from nearby Page 2/12 cities such as Bangalore. The best time to visit Mahabalipuram is between October and March. Accommodation options in Mahabalipuram Hotels in Mahabalipuram range from beach resorts, luxury hotels to guesthouses, lodges and budget hotels.

HAMPI
Hampi is a village located in the north of Karnataka, amongst the ruins of the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Vijayanagara. The town lies on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, 74 km away from Bellary. It is located atop a rugged terrain, 467 m above sea level. The place is a significant religious centre of the Vijayanagara Empire due to the presence of the historic Virupaksha Temple along with many other monuments of the old city. UNESCO has listed the Vittal Temple and other ruins of the town of Hampi as a World Heritage Site. History of Hampi The history of Hampi is related with the historical Kishkindha, which is known for the ‘Vanara’ or Monkey Kingdom, whose reference is also there in the epic Ramayana.
Hampi was the settlement of main areas of the Vijayanagara Empire since 1336 to 1565. After this, these areas were persecuted by the Deccan Muslim Confederacy due to the decisive location of Hampi with the Tungabhadra River on one side and hills on the other three sides. The Archaeological Survey of India and other researchers also take deep interest in the place due to its historical and architectural significance. The region of Hampi is full of large stones, out of which the statues of Hindu gods and goddesses have been crafted. The town is also an important mining site due to the presence of several mineral deposits in this region. People and Culture of Hampi The place hosts the annual Vijayanagara Festival, organised every January by the Government of Karnataka. Popularly known as Hampi Utsav or Hampi Festival. This cultural affair is a mix of dance, music, drama, processions and a host of other events which take visitors back to the grandeur of the bygone days of the Vijaynagara Empire. Along with this, the town is also famous for the Purandara Festival, which is held around the end of January to celebrate the birth anniversary of the poet Purandar, in the Vittal Temple.
The popular Virupaksha Temple situated near the Hampi Bazaar is one of the oldest monuments of the town. Its top is 50 m from the ground with its main Shrine being dedicated to the Virupaksha form of Lord Shiva. The Hemakuta Hill located at the south of this temple contains early ruins of the Jain Temples and a colossal idol of Lord Narasimha. The sightseeing areas of Hampi are divided into two regions namely the Hampi Bazaar and the Royal Centre, near Kamalapuram. The World Heritage Site of Hampi, the Vittal Temple, is located 2 km east of the Hampi Bazaar.
Located at a distance of 60 km Bellary domestic airport, serves as the closest airport. Bangalore International Airport is the nearest international Airport at a distance of 350 km. Tourists can avail taxis from Bellary to Hampi and from Bangalore to Hampi. Bangalore airport is well connected to all major cities of India. Hospet railway station, at a distance of 13 km from Hampi is the nearest railhead. Hospet is well connected to Bangalore, Hyderabad and other major cities in Karnataka and neighboring states. Hampi is well connected by road through KSRTC bus services. Accommodation options in Hampi Tourists in Hampi can avail various accommodation options, ranging from budget hotels to 5 star hotels.

AJANTA & ELLORA
Located near the city of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, the Ajanta-Ellora Caves are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ajanta and Ellora Caves are two different tourist destinations, which are often mentioned together. The reason behind this is that both are rock-cut cave monuments, which feature beautiful paintings and sculptures. The Ajanta Caves are located 107 km away from Aurangabad city, just outside the village of Ajanta. This complex comprises 29 rock-cut cave monuments, which date back to around 2nd century BC. Construction of the caves was done in two phases, the first group of caves was built around 200 BC, while the second group was built in 600 AD. Nestled in the semi-arid Sahayadri Hills above the Waghur River, the caves at Ajanta are famous for beautiful paintings and sculptures that depict tales of Jatakas. Built using only hammer and chisel, these caves served as secluded retreats for Buddhist monks, who performed their rituals in the chaityas and viharas of these caves. The artwork in the caves comprises well preserved wall paintings of Boddhisattva, Padmapani and Avalokiteshvar.
On 28th April 1819, these caves were rediscovered by a British officer, John Smith. His name along with the date is still faintly visible on the wall of Cave 9. Located 30 km from the city of Aurangabad, the Ellora cave complex is an archaeological site, which was built by the Rashtrakuta rulers. The cave complex comprises of 34 caves that were hewn out of solid rocks of the Charanandri Hills. Built between the 5th and 10th centuries, these caves are monasteries for Buddhists as well as temples for Hindus and Jains. A symbol of religious harmony of that time, the Ellora complex includes 12 Buddhist, 17 Hindu and 5 Jain caves. Caves 1 to 12 are Buddhist monasteries, chaityas and viharas, while caves 13 to 29 are the Hindu temples.
Dating back to the 9th and 10th century, caves 30 to 34 are the Jain temples. Every year in Aurangabad, the Ajanta-Ellora Festival is organised for paying tribute to the legendary caves of Ellora, Ajanta and other historical possessions of India. This grand ceremony is attended by the greatest artists of Indian art and culture. The cultural event includes performances in classical and folk dancing, singing and instrumental music. Earlier the venue for this festival was Kailash Temple of Ellora Caves; however, it has now been shifted to Soneri Mahal, which is a historical palace in the city. From the weather point of view, the best time to visit the Ajanta Caves is during monsoon season, when the sound of the Waghur River can be heard in the caves. Tourists can also visit these caves during the winter season. On the other hand, the ideal time to visit Ellora Caves is after the end of the monsoon. June through February is also considered good for planning a trip to the Ellora Caves.

FESTIVAL DESTINATIONS
ALLAHABAD
Formerly known as Prayag, Allahabad is situated on an island peninsula. Located in the southern part of Uttar Pradesh, the beautiful city stands at the confluence of three holy rivers -- Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. To the south and the west of Allahabad is the Bundelkhand region, while to the east of the city is the Baghelkhand region. According to Hindu mythology, the land was chosen by Lord Brahma, the creator, for 'Prakrishta Yajna'. Since then, the city was known as 'Prayag' and was believed to be blessed by gods. Foreseeing the sanctity of Allahabad, the place was named as 'Tirth Raj' by Lord Brahma, which means King of all Pilgrimage Centres. Besides being a major pilgrimage centre, the city also holds an important position in the formation of modern India.

When Allahabad was annexed in 1193 by Muhammad of Ghor, the city became a part of the Delhi Sultanate. In 1526, the Mughal invasion of India began, after which the city became a part of their empire. Emperor Akbar founded Allahabad by the name of 'Illhabas' in 1575 AD, meaning the City of Allah, which has now become Allahabad. During the medieval period, this holy city of Uttar Pradesh enjoyed the honour of being a religio-cultural centre of India. For a long period, the city was the provincial capital of the Mughals, which was later captured by the Marathas.

The British history of Allahabad began in 1801 AD, when the Nawab of Oudh ceded the city to the British throne. The famous Allahabad Fort, constructed by Akbar, was used by the British army for their military purposes. By 1857 AD, the city became the centre of the war of Independence and thus played a crucial role in the Indian Freedom Movement against British Rule. In 1858 AD, India was officially handed over to the British Government by the East India Company. After the first War of Independence, the city was made the capital of the United Province of Agra and Oudh. Thus, the city was the heart of the Indian Freedom Movement with Anand Bhawan being its epicentre. It was in this beautiful city that the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi proposed his program of non-violent resistance against the British to liberate India.

Synonymous to Sangam, Allahabad is one of the holy cities of Uttar Pradesh, where the Maha Kumbha takes place once in 12 years. Magh Mela is held annually, apart from the years of Maha Kumbh and Ardh Kumbh. This Magh Mela is called so, as it falls in the Magh period (Jan-Feb) of the Hindu calendar. It is believed that taking a dip at the sangam will free the devotees from sin or guilt. During this period a township will be arranged to accommodate several pilgrims on the banks of River Ganga. Millions of devotees from various parts of India participate in this auspicious mela. Allahabad is easily reachable from different parts of the country by air, rail and road. The city has a domestic airport, which is situated around 15 km away from the city centre and connected to different regions of the country. Taxis are available from the airport. Allahabad is also a major rail station and has trains connecting it to all the regions of the country. The city is well connected to regions within and around the state by state as well as private buses. Buses also connect Allahabad to Delhi and Kolkata, among other places. The best time to visit the city is from October to March. The weather is cool and suitable for exploring the region. It is best to avoid the hot summer months when the mercury can go up to 45⁰ Celsius.

THRISSUR
The name ‘Thrissur’ has evolved originally from ‘Tiru-Shiva-Peru’ which literally translates to ‘the big town of Lord Shiva’. Thrissur is officially known as the cultural capital of Kerala. One of the most well-known aspects of Thrissur is the ‘Vadakkumnathan Kshetram’ or shrine where Lord Shiva is the presiding idol. The temple is located in the heart of the city right in the centre encircling about a ‘round’ of 64 acres of land and it is also called as the Swaraj Round. History of Thrissur Thrissur (formerly known as Trichur) is also one of the first cities of Kerala. There is a myth that Thrissur was created by Lord Parasurama, the 6th incarnation of Lord Vishnu, soon after Kerala was created, by erecting the Shiva temple here. People & Culture of Thrissur .
The famed Thrissur Pooram Festival is one of the biggest, vibrant and eye-catching temple festivals of Kerala. This is celebrated every year in April or May. More than 50 caparisoned elephants are taken in a procession through the town, accompanied by the ‘Panchavadyam’ playing people. Thrissur is also known for its Onam celebrations in August or September every year. Thrissur is also known for being one of the best shopping centres for silks and gold ornaments in Kerala.
From very early on, Thrissur has been an important centre for learning Sanskrit. The renowned Shankara Acharya, who had settled here, built a temple, had imparted Advaita teachings to many people. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of low, tiled roofs, with woodwork, and there was also the famous ‘koothambalam’, or theatre hall where the dramatic art form, ‘Chakiar koothu’ was performed. The famous Kerala Kalamandiram, an art and dance school founded by the late poet Vallathol Narayana Menon, is also in Thrissur district. Things to do in Thrissur The Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy are located in Thrissur.
The Shakthan Thampuran Palace here also known as Vadakkekara Palace is maintained by the Archaeological Department. The Archaeological and Art Museum has a good assortment of wood carvings, metal sculptures and antique jewellery. Thrissur zoo is another major attraction for children. There are a lot of animals and there is a special enclosure for snakes. The Appan Thampuran Smarakam is a cultural museum found in 1976 at Ayyanthole. The Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores locally known as Puthen Palli, Vilangankunnu a hillock created by the tourism department is an amusement park. There are two other amusement parks, Dream World and Silver Storm, located nearby. Punnathurkotta is the famed exclusive Elephant sanctuary, located about 23 km from the city. Peechi Dam, about 20 km from the city is a very good picnic spot.
Chavakkad Beach one of the most beautiful beaches in Kerala, and the Bible Tower the tallest church tower in Asia can be found here. Tourists can also avail specialised Thrissur holiday packages. Travelling to Thrissur has a train station and is connected to most major cities in India. To reach Thrissur, tourists can either travel by bus, train or hire cabs. The best time to visit Thrissur is between October and February. Hotel options in Thrissur range from budget hotels to luxury staying options. Many hotels are located within the heart of the city. However, tourists can also choose to stay in resorts located in the outskirts of Thrissur.

KANNUR
Kannur is a beach town in the Kannur District of Kerala. It is also known as Cannanore, this term was coined during the British rule, and it is still used extensively today. Kannur is the largest city in the northern parts of Malabar. The city has a rich colonial heritage and many signs of this can still be seen today. Kannur is popular among travellers because of its clean beaches. Popular tourist attractions of the city include temples where many festivals are celebrated throughout the year. The architecture of the town includes the ancient St. Angelo Fort that belonged to the Portuguese in the 16th century and was demolished by the Dutch. The building is now under the authority of the Archaeological Survey of India.
Since Kannur is a coastal town, the location of the town is very well reflected in the climatic conditions as well. Kannur faces a tropical weather with extremely humid climate. Summers here are extremely hot and humid whereas the temperatures in winters are relatively mild. Kannur receives a lot of rainfall during monsoons. Travelling to Kannur There is no airport in Kannur and the nearest one is in Calicut, at a distance of 113 kilometres.
The airport of Calicut connects five other major India cities. Kannur consists of two railway stations, Cannanore and Kannur South, connecting different cities of India. Kannur is well connected by road. Government buses ply regularly from Mangalore to Kannur. Accommodation options in Kannur There are numerous accommodation options in Kannur. These include the options of staying in budget hotels to luxury hotels and to several beach resorts. Tourists can also opt to stay in beach front home stays.

LANDSCAPE DESTINATION
SHIMLA
Shimla, also known as Simla, is a tourism paradise located in the midst of Himalayan cedars and pines at an altitude of 2,205 m above sea level. Known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations', the destination is spread over an area of 18 sq km. The capital city of Himachal Pradesh is located in the northwest Himalayas, in the northern part of India. The erstwhile summer capital of the British features dense woodlands, apple orchards and beautiful landscapes. Capitalising on grand old testimonies, colonial characteristics, peace-loving environment and adventure opportunities, Shimla welcomes tourists from around the world. It offers beautiful façades from the crescent shaped ridge to the descending valleys of evergreens.

History of Shimla The word 'Shimla' originated from 'Shyamali Devi', a re-incarnation or descendant of the fearsome Goddess Kali. The altar at Jakhoo Hill was initially shifted by the British to the place known as Kali Bari Temple at present. The hill station is enveloped by seven hills that include Jakhoo Hill, Bantony Hill, Prospect Hill, Summer Hill, Observatory Hill, Invererarm Hill and Elysium Hill. The historic Hindustan Tibet Road was commissioned in 1850 commencing from Kalka to Shimla and thereafter to the Chinese ruled territory, Tibet. In 1864, the town of Shimla was declared as the summer capital of the British Empire in India. Another red-lettered event in the history of the town was when the foundation stone for the Kalka-Shimla railway line was laid here in 1903.

The route from Kalka to Shimla on the narrow gauge is a major tourist attraction. The route, along with trees of fir, pine, walnut, apricot and terraced paddy fields of corn and the famous capsicum, locally known as 'Shimla Mirch', runs through 102 tunnels. The district of Shimla has numerous rivulets, small streams and springs and provides opportunities for trekking, rock-climbing and ice-skating. Shimla holiday packages offer a chance to explore Shimla better. The hill station is dotted with structures from the colonial era such as the Auckland House, Gaiety Theatre, Gorton Castle, Peterhoff House and Viceregal Lodge. Famed for its Victorian architecture, most of the houses in the hill station are built with timber (oak) wood in Gothic style. Since ancient times, Shimla has maintained its retreating charm and became one of the major tourist spots in north India. Tourists can participate in many activities in and around Shimla.

Trekking in Shimla is a must. The ideal time for trekking is between the months of March and August when Shimla is a little warm. The Manali Mountaineering Institute conducts trekking tours in and around Shimla. Food & Shopping in Shimla For tourists not seeking any form of adventure, taking a leisurely walk on Mall Road to shop for local souvenirs, enjoying some street food or watching a film at the Gaiety Theatre is recommended. Visit Indian Coffee House for some hot coffee and snacks. Ashiana and Goofa, two restaurants run by the State tourism department, serve authentic Himachali cuisine, which is worth a try. Shimla is also known as a haven for fresh fruits.

Tourists can try some local fresh produce like guava, strawberry and litchis. Places like the Mall Road are great for shopping. State run shops like the Himachal Emporium on Mall Road offer local handicrafts, Himachali shawls and woolens. Located near Mall Road is the Lakkar Bazaar, famous for selling locally made wooden handicrafts and furniture. Travelling to Shimla The city is a popular holiday retreat during the summer season from April to August. However, it is also frequented in the winter months of December and January, when the hill station is covered with snow.

Shimla can be visited throughout the year, as various activities can be enjoyed in different months. Shimla can be reached by air, rail and by road. The Jubbarhatti Airport is 25 km away. Daily flights ply between Delhi and Shimla. Kalka is 96 km from Shimla and is the nearest railhead connected to the hill station. It takes close to six hours by train to reach Shimla from Kalka. Tourists can also travel to Shimla by road. The drive is scenic and the National Highway from Delhi to Shimla is well maintained. Taxis and buses also ply on the route and it takes an eighthour drive to reach Shimla from Delhi. Accommodation options in Shimla Shimla is a popular hill station and is thronged by tourists during the peak season. It is advisable to book holidays in advance. Hotel options in Shimla range from 5-star hotels, resorts to budget options like guesthouses, lodges and budget hotels.

OOTY
Ooty, the colloquial of Ootacamund, is a popular hill station of South India in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu. Also known as Udhagamandalam, it is a municipality and the district capital. The town lies at an altitude of 2286 m and has been remarked as the ‘queen of hill stations’ by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The natural surroundings of Ooty include landscapes, dense forest reserves and national parks. This hill station is popular for its tea farming as well as oil extraction industry, wherein the oil is obtained from its eucalyptus trees, lemon grass, geranium, clove and camphor.
Ooty covers an area of 36 sq km and contains the highest point of Southern India, the Doddabetta Peak. The name of the place was derived from the Toda word ‘othakal-mund’ that means ‘the house of single stone.’ It is believed that the part of Ooty was handed to Mr John Sullivan, the tenth Governor of Coimbatore by Todas to develop the city. Before independence, British army was sent to Ooty to rest and recover after the war. There is no such historical data that talks about Ooty being ruled by some dynasty. The Old Ooty has some historical connections with the Toda tribes. Ooty has also been named as the summer capital of the Madras Presidency and used to be a popular summer retreat of Britishers during the colonial days.
The beauty and significance of the Nilgiri Hills was covered in a book written by Jacome Forico, who was the first European to visit the place, in 1603. People & Culture in Ooty The destination also experiences a wide array of festivals and events all year long that depict its cultural identity and history. Most of the popular festivals of India including the Buddhist and Hindu ones are celebrated in Ooty. The significant festivals include the Summer Flower Festival held at the Botanical Garden that remains the main highlight of the place, during the season. In addition, the Tea and Tourism festival held in January every year also attracts thousands of tourists.
A major attraction is the mountain train journey to Ooty on a ratchet and pinion track. The journey covers 46 km and the train starts from Kallar, near Mettupalayam and passes through steep curves and long tunnels along deep ravines full of green vegetation, streams and tea gardens. The Ooty Lake is a major attraction of the hill station and is popular for boating. Another famous attraction includes the Government Museum, which contains the history of the Nilgiri Page 2/12 District. Other popular tourist attractions of Ooty include the Deer Park, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, the Rose Garden, Ooty Botanical Garden, the Stone House, etc. Travelling to Ooty Ooty can be easily accessed by major cities of Karnataka and other parts of Tamil Nadu. Peelamedu Airport, Coimbatore serves as the closest airport to reach Ooty, which is at a distance of about 104 kms. From Coimbatore, tourists can hire taxi to Ooty which would cost about Rs. 2500.
Also, there are regular bus services from Coimbatore to Ooty. Other Airports close to Ooty are Bengaluru International Airport, which is at about 310 kms away and Chennai International Airport at a distance of about 560 kms. The main railway station to reach Ooty is Mettupalayam, a small town at the foothills of the Niligiris. There are regular train services from Chennai and Coimbatore to Mettupalayam. A train called 'Niligiris Express' starts at night from Chennai and reaches Mettupalayam the next morning around 6.30. From here, tourists can hire taxi or board a bus to reach Ooty.
Ooty is well connected with most of the South Indian cities by bus. There are regular bus services from Mysore, Bangalore, Madurai, Kanyakumari and from some cities of Kerala. The over-night Volvo buses and state owned buses serve to Ooty from cities of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Travelling within Ooty Within Ooty, its best to hire taxis or cabs to visit surrounding areas and they cost around Rs. 500 - Rs.750 for a day trip. Accommodation Options in Ooty Ooty offers an array of accommodation options to the tourists. Hotels in Ooty range from luxuries hotels to budget hotels.

 ALAPPUZHA (ALLEPPEY)
Connoted as the ‘Venice of the East’ by Lord Curzon, Alappuzha is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in Kerala. Located in Alappuzha district of Kerala, this town is also known as Alleppey. Situated at a distance of 155 km from Thiruvananthapuram and around 62 km to the south of Kochi, the destination is famous for its backwaters. History of Alleppey The history of the place dates back to the 16th century. In 1762, Alleppey was founded by the Dewan of Travancore, Raja Kesavadas. During this time, there was only one canal through the strip of sand between the Arabian Sea and Vembanad Lake.
However, soon, the town grew into a bustling waterway. Both banks of the canal were dotted with several commercial establishments, shops and factories. This attracted merchants from other parts of India to the region. The town was amongst the busiest trade centres, which had a port along the Malabar Coast. Traders travelling to the destination from across the world came in search for souvenirs and black gold. By the mid 19th century, more land was available along the sand strip due to the receding sea. This further provided more opportunities for trading vessels to travel to Alleppey. The first coir factory in this town was established in 1859. The factory was engaged in the production of coir yarn on a loom, which was developed by an English captain. The opening of this factory was followed by the establishment of several British-owned weaving factories.
By 1816, Alleppey was chosen by the Church Missionary Society to set up its local headquarters. Three years later, in 1819, the first Anglican Church was constructed in Alleppey. Later, in 1851, the town also received the honour of housing the first post office. People & Culture of Alleppey Today, this town is known for its coir carpet industries as well as a centre for prawn fishing. The networks of canals and bridges along the silver beach make Alleppey one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Kerala.
The historic Aranmula Snake Boat Race, which is an annual event, also attracts a lot of tourists to Alleppey. Alleppey is also known for its Ayurvedic massage centres. Many centres are run by a team of Ayurvedic doctors where they conduct wellness programs for tourists. Things to do in Alleppey Alleppey is famous for its backwaters and also has other attractions such as temples, churches and lakes. Travellers can either opt for Alleppey packages or just explore the town as a backpacker. Apart from the backwaters, another highlight of the region is Karumadi, which is located at a distance of 3 km from Alleppey. This village is visited by large number of tourists as it is home to a large, black granite statue of Lord Buddha known as Karumadi Kuttan.
Other tourist places in Alleppey include the Pandavan Rock, Mullakkal Rajeshwari Temple, Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, St. Andrew's Church, St Sebastian's Church and Champakulam Church. Food & Shopping in Alleppey Though there are not many options for shopping in Alleppey, its local coir industry is famous and coir products can be bought from local manufacturers or shops. Houseboats in Alleppey offer cruises along the backwaters. Some offer the facility of cooking on board, which provides a chance for tourists to taste authentic local cuisine.
Fish constitutes a major part of the staple diet of the locals and restaurants too offer some local favourites such as fish curries and biryani. Bakeries on Mullakkal Road offer an array of baked goods like puff pastries, cookies and sweet treats like homemade ice cream. Travelling to Alleppey Alleppey can be reached by rail, air and road. The nearest airport is in Cochin. From Cochin, tourists can take a train to reach Alleppey. The station in this town is also connected to bigger cities like Bangalore, New Delhi and Mumbai. Almost all major bus operators have buses plying between Alleppey and Cochin. It takes a two-hour bus ride to reach Alleppey from Cochin. Taking an overnight bus from Bangalore or Coimbatore is also an option.
Tourists have many attractive options when it comes to hotels in Alleppey. Right from heritage hotels, sea-facing resorts to Kerala houseboats; the list is endless. And for those looking for affordable options to stay, there are a few hotels that are located in the main city of the destination too. The best time to visit Alappuzha extends from the month of August to February. However, to enjoy different activities, the best time also varies. For instance, for sightseeing, the ideal time to visit the destination is from December to February. For tourists, who want to be a part of festivals in Alleppey, the ideal season to visit is from August to November.

 GIR
 Sasan-Gir or the Gir Forest National Park is located in the Indian state of Gujarat. Spread across an area of 1412 square km, this sanctuary was established in 1965 to protect the dwindling population of lions. Today, it is the only place where Asiatic Lions can be found, and that makes it one of Asia’s most important protected areas. The Gir National Park experiences a tropical monsoon climate with extreme hot and humid conditions during the summer months of May to August. The sanctuary remains closed to visitors during the summer months. Apart from being the only home of the reclusive Asiatic Lions, it also has various other species of flora and fauna, which give it a rich bio-diversity. It is estimated that this reserve in Gujarat has more than 38 species of mammals, approximately 300 species of birds and 2000 insect species. Of the mammals, the Asiatic Lion was counted at 411 a few years back.
Various efforts have been undertaken by the government and nature enthusiasts to preserve the rare species of lion. One of these efforts has been setting up of the Lion breeding programme. Under this program, breeding centres for the Asiatic lion have been set up in various parts of the state to increase their population. The centre also studies the behaviour of the Asiatic Lion and carries out advanced studies on this lion species. Things to do in Sasan-Gir The sightseeing attractions of Sasan-Gir include a vast range starting from Sasan-Gir National Park, which is the most popular attraction in the place. This national park has been confirmed as the safest place for breeding the endangered species of Gir lions. It is home to 400 species of flora and 2375 species of fauna.
Another important attraction in the place is Kamleshwar Dam, which is situated in the centre of Sasan-Gir National Park. This dam is built over Hiran River, which is one of the seven rivers that drain in the area of Gir Sanctuary. Tourists can opt for Sasan-Gir holiday packages for a wholesome wildlife experience. The concerted efforts have reaped rich dividends with the population of Asiatic lions going up from 15 in 1990 to over 400 presently. However, this has posed a new problem for the authorities. Now, many believe that the Gir National Park is overpopulated and a part of the lion population must be relocated to a new place. A popular site, which was recommended for this initiative, is the Palpur-Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary, lying 65 away from the princely state of Junagadh, does not have well designated tourist areas. To overcome this problem and to protect the ecology of the area, interpretation zones have been set up to allow tourists to get close to nature while still protecting the wildlife. Travelling to Sasan-Gir The rich flora and fauna of the region and the opportunity of spotting one of the rarest species of lions attracts a lot of tourists each year to Sasan-Gir.
Sasan-Gir does not have  a train station. To reach Sasan-Gir, board a train to the nearest station is Junagadh, at a distance of 23 kms from Sasan-Gir. The best time to visit the destination is between December and March. Accommodation options in Sasan-Gir There are many hotel options in Sasan-Gir for tourists. Travellers can choose from lodges, camps and resorts within the sanctuary to budget hotels located close to the wildlife sanctuary.

SILENT VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
Silent Valley National Park is situated in the Kundali Hills, along the Western Ghats. This park is surrounded by the Nilgiri Forests in the north and Nilambur Forests in the south. The Palghat Forests and Attappadi Reserve Forests are located on the western and eastern side of the park, respectively. This park is located at an average elevation of around 3600 ft above sea level. It provides a home to different animals like elephants, tigers and lion-tailed macaques. This park was threatened in the 1970's due the construction of a Hydel Power Project. Environmentalists protested on a wide scale and it led to the re-notification of the Silent Valley. Afterwards, it was raised to the status of a National Park in 1984. Later in 1986, the park was included in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve as its core area.
This national park is home to 34 species of mammals, more than 150 species of birds and about 200 species of butterflies. Around 1000 species of flowering plants are found in the park, out of which, about 110 species belong to the family of orchids. Over 400 species of moths and 128 species of beetles can be spotted in the forest area.

River Kunthi that originates from the Nilgiri Hills flows through the forest. The Nilgiri wood-pigeon, Malabar parakeet, grey-headed bulbul, broad-tailed grassbird, rufous babbler and white-bellied shortwing are some of the resident birds of this park.

The park is inhabited by the great Indian hornbill, which is counted among the rare and endangered bird species of India. One can also spot tigers, leopards, sambar, wild boars and gaur.

SILENT VALLEY NATIONAL PARK, PALAKKAD

The Silent Valley National Park with an area of 237. 52 sq km is located in the Northeastern corner of Palakkad district. It rises abruptly to the Nilgiri Plateau in the North and overlooks the plains of Mannarkkad in the South. Extremely fragile, a unique preserve of tropical evergreen rain forests which is a veritable nursery of flora and fauna, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.
The core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is the Silent Valley National Park. Despite its name, the Silent Valley (the clamour of Cicadas is conspicuously absent here) is a rich storehouse of biodiversity. It is a true Garden of Eden for students of life sciences, professional scientists and field biologists.
Perhaps, nowhere else can one find such a representative collection of Western Ghats biodiversity - more than 1000 species of flowering plants which include about 110 species of orchids, more than 34 species of mammals, about 200 species of butterflies, 400 species of moths, 128 species of beetles of which 10 are new to science, about 150 species of birds including almost all the 16 endemic birds of southern India. The River Kunthi descends from the Nilgiri hills, from an altitude of 2000 m above sea level, and traverses the entire length of the valley and rushes down to the plains through the deep gorge. The River Kunthi never turns brown and is always crystal clear, perennial and wild. The evapo-transpiration from these forests is much higher than from any other surface. This cools the atmosphere, helps easy condensation of water vapour, causing summer rains in the plains.
VEDANTHANGAL BIRD SANCTURY
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in India. This is an amazing place for those who love birds and watch them. Vedanthangal is 85 km from Chennai. Vedanthangal Sanctury is located in the Kanchipuram district of Tamilnadu. Vedantangal Bird Sanctury is at its best from November to February. Thousands of birds breed at Vedantangal during this season. Breeding birds like Cormorants, Egrets, Grey Heron, Open-billed stork, Darter, Spoonbill, White lbris, Night Herons, Grebes, Grey Pelican etc visit the Sanctuary.
The sanctuary is protected by the local people for well over 250 years. Guano, best natural fertilizer, is produced in the lake by thousands of birds who breed in the sanctuary. This fertilizer is very much useful for cultivation in and around the sanctuary. Vedantangal Sanctuary is an excellent place to spend some leisure time away from the noise and pollution of the city. This is an evening get away for people who visit Mahabalipuram and Chennai. One can take bus from Chennai to Chengalpet and then travel to Vedantangal by private buses. It is an enchanting experience seeing thousands of birds sitting on the trees and bushes in the sanctuary.
A bird watcher would love this place for sure. The migrating birds come from far-off lands like Siberia, Australia, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for nesting and breeding. There are some watch towers in the Vedantangal sanctuary where you can get a closer view of the birds from the top. If you have binoculars, it will be best. There is a stationed binocular on one of the towers, which gives the best view. These water-filled areas seen on the right-side photo gave a very good shot. When we visited Vedanthangal, it was February, and there were a lot of birds. The water in the lake was green in color and it gave a wonderful view. Vedantangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the popular tourists destinations near Chennai.




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