Somnath

Introduction and history: The town of Somnath is located in western coast of Gujarat. Is has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, which makes it one of the most important pilgrimage centers in India. According to Hindu mythology it is believed that the temple was created by Moon God himself. In the past few centuries multiple attacks in India destroyed some portion of the temple and remains of the temple of Somnath has withstood the shocks of time and still remain as a great example for imposing architecture. The construction of the present form of temple began in 1950.Its beautiful sight facing the blue Arabian Sea is a treat to watch.

What to see and when to go: The Someshwar Mahadev temple is the main attraction of this place, which stands tall among the temples of India. The pinnacle rides to a height of 155 feet and the kalash atop the shikhar weighs 10 tonnes. The flag mast is 37 feet long, which gives an account of how mammoth the temple is. In historical times the temple, the third to be precise, was raged to the ground by Sultan Mohmad of Ghazni. Bhalka Tirth, Junagarh Gate, Mai Puri, Jama Masjid, Bhidiyo Pagoda and Mai Puri are some of the other attractions. October to March is the ideal time to visit Somnath.

Accommodation: Even though Somnath is one of the important tourist destinations, no luxury accommodation is available. For the pilgrims and tourists, there are other options available in form of guesthouses and rest houses at budget pricing starting as low as 300 rupees per day.

Mode of Transport: The nearest Airport is at Keshod, which is located at 47 Kilometers from the temple. It is connected with Mumbai with frequent flights. Veraval railway station located at 5 Kilometers is the closest Railway station. It is well connected with Mumbai and Ahmadabad. Multiple transport buses and private luxury coaches are available from all parts of Gujarat connecting Somnath.

Related links:

• Tourist information: http://www.gujarattourism.com/
• Somnath temple website : http://www.somnath.org/

See also (nearby places): Dwarka, Bordi, Daman, Udvada, Palghar and Silvassa are nearby tourist attractions.

Thrissur

Introduction and history: Thrissur, located in central Kerala adds to the cultural bonanza of the state. This cultural trove has a rich history. ‘Thiru-shiva-perur’, which literally translates to ‘The city with the name of the Lord Siva’ is well known for the celebration of the splendid Pooram festival. Beautifully caparisoned elephants parade the city with the deity in a colorful procession. Its source of inspiration is the Vadakkunathan deity (Vadakunnathan, Lord of the North, is a name of Siva).The city also plays host to numerous cultural centers. Raja Rama Varma gave a boost to the development of the city.

What To See : Thrissur Thaikat Mooss, Punkunnam Siva temple, Kottapuram Siva temple Vadakkunnathan Temple, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Kerala Sahitya Academy, Kerala Lalitakala Academy, Kerala Sangeetha Nadaka Academy. The best season to visit Thrissur is between September to May. Pooram festival is celebrated during April or may. Visit to the Archeological and Art Museum, Thrissur Zoo is something that should not be missed out by travelers. Thrissur also offers great shopping experience.

Accommodation: Hotels covering all ranges are readily available ranging from 500 to 2000 rupees and more.

Related links:
• Tourist information: www.thrissur.com

See also (Nearby places): Guruvayoor temple and Athirappy waterfalls.

Palakkad

Introduction and history: Known as the ‘Gateway of Kerala’ Palakkad is near the Palghat gap of the Western Ghats. Etymologically Palakkad is derived from the words ‘Pala’ and ‘Kadu’ where the former is a tree with sweet scented flowers and the later meaning forest. Beautiful Mountains and trees form its landscape. The place has a rich history that is evident in the many monuments and festivals celebrated here. The Palakkad district borders between Tamilnadu and Kerala.

Places of Attraction and Seasons to visit: Hyder Ali and remnants of Tipu Sultan’s fort are major tourist attractions. There are also numerous dams and canals that serve as ideal picnic spots. Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Palakkad fort, Nelliyampathy, Jain temple, Malampuzha garden, Mangalam Dam are some of the major attractions in Palakkad. September to February is the best time to visit this place. Apart from the tourist destinations, Palakkad is also famous for its Wildlife safaris, Trekking, Boating and shopping.

Accommodation: Hotels in Palakkad come to suit all pockets. There are multiple options for accommodation which includes Ayurvedic and Heritage Resorts, Luxury Hotels, Budget Hotels, Economy Hotels, and Guesthouses. The prices range from as low as 100 rupees and can go up to 3000 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Coimbatore is the nearest Airport to Palakkad, which is located at 55 Kilometers distance. It has two major railway junctions, which is well connected with all major destinations in Southern railway. Besides, NH 47 passes through it.

Related links:
• Official website: http://palakkad.nic.in
• Tourist information: http://palakkadtourism.org/
See also (Nearby places): Thrithala, Attappady, Dhoni Hills, Kanjirapuzha and Malayalappuzha.

Alleppey

Introduction and history: Alleppey remains prominent on the tourist trial of Kerala as one of the major centers for backwater boat trips. The large network of crisscrossing canals lined with coconut trees has earned it the name ‘The Venice of The East’. It is well known for its coir industries. Alappuzha or Alleppey is also home to Kuttanad, The rice bowl of Kerala, one of the very few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. Alleppey was a historic trade centre having connections with ancient Greece, Rome and other parts of India. It is mentioned in the Sangam era.

What to see and when to go: Kuttanad, Ambalapuzha Temple, Mullakkal Rajeswari Temple, Karumadikkuttan, Block Kayal. The lighthouse at the beach is one of the major tourist attractions. Apart from temples mentioned above, Alleppey is famous for its ancient churches, which stands as a testimony of past. Poomkavu Church is one of the ancient churches of the past. August is the best time to visit as that is when the famed Snake boat races are held. Backwater cruises on the Punnamada Kayal and visits to the Alleppey beach are some of the major tourist attractions.

Accommodation: Being a tourist destination, the town has a wide range of hotels and resorts. Accommodation prices range from 1000 to 3000 rupees. Houseboats can also be rented. This comfortable stay costs 5000 for non A/C and up to 20,000 for A/C houseboats.

Mode of transport: Cochin is the nearest international airport, which is 64 kilometers away. Alleppey is also well connected by trains to different cities by direct trains. For nature lovers the train journey from Cochin should not be missed out as it passes through most beautiful backwaters and country sides in Kerala. It is connected to all important cities by roads and inter-state by houseboats.

Important links:
• Official website: http://www.alappuzha.com
• Tourist information: http://www.atdcalleppey.com
See also: Champakulam, Krishnapuram Palace and Mararikulam

Varkala

Introduction and history: Varkala is a small but picturesque town in southern Kerala. It is best known for its unique tertiary sedimentary formation cliffs off the Arabian Sea coast that are considered as a geological monument. Apart from beautiful beaches, it is famous for the 2000 year old Janardhanaswamy (Vishnu) temple. Hence it is also known as Dakshina Kashi. Taking a dip in the Papanasam beach is considered to be auspicious. The town is famous for is Sivagiri Mutt founded by the great Hindu reformer and Philosopher Sree Narayana Guru.

What to see and when to go: Papanasam Beach, mineral water springs, the Sivagiri Mutt, Janardhana Swamy temple and Anjengo fort. The best season is from October to March. In line with Kerala’s Ayurvedic history, massages and treatment is something very special at Varkala. Viewing the sunrise and sunset views at the beach is a great scene for nature lovers.

Accommodation: Varkala offers various options for accommodation. Expensive and middle-class hotels are available in the price range of 500 to 1500 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Trivandrum is the nearest Airport which is the 57 kilometers away. The national highway number 47 (NH-47) connects Varkala with almost all major cities in South India. It has its own railway station, which is well connected with Trivandrum with frequent train. Auto Rickshaws are available in aplenty. Bicycles can be rented for traveling local areas in the city. If living around the cliff/beach area, majority of places can be easily done on foot.

Related links:
• Kerala Tourism: http://www.keralatourism.org/
• Tourist information: http://www.varkkala.com

See also: Trivandrum, Kanyakumari, Cochin, Munnar and Alleppey.

Kottayam

Introduction and history: Kottayam which literally means ‘the interior of a fort’ is located in Kerala. Kottayam’s history traces back to 18th Century where it was ruled by the Rajas of Thekkumkoor who ruled from Thazhathangadi. After the British invaded India, Kottayam continued to be ruled under the Princely State of Travancore. The city has contributed in several ways to the nation. Being the first place to secure 100% literacy is its major success. Rubber plantations and print media help its economy. The city has a long history as the famous Vaikom Sathyagraha by Mahatma Gandhi was held here.

What to see and when to go: Vaikom temple, Thirunakkara Mahadeva temple ,Marmala waterfalls, Temple at Ettumanoor, Mosque of Erumeli, Poonjar Palace, St Mary’s Forane Church, Elaveezha Poonchira, wagamon and Aruvikuzhi waterfalls. September to April is the best time to visit this place.

Things to do: Apart from spending time in the tourist destinations mentioned above, Cruising in the boats is one of the major attractions of Kottayam. It offers various shopping options which include famous sarees produced from here.

Accommodation: Kottayam offers various accommodation options from budget to luxury. Comfortable stays available from 500 to 4000 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Cochin is the nearest international airport, which is 65 Kilometers from Kottayam. Cochin has frequent flights connecting various domestic and international locations. Kottayam is well connected by rail and road with nearby major stations which include Trivandrum and Cochin. Both private and government operated buses are available connecting it to nearby tourist destinations.

Related links:
• Official website: http://www.kottayam.nic.in
• Tourist information: http://www.kottayam.com
See also (nearby places): Bharananganam, Kumarakom, Pathiramanal, Thazhathangadi, Vembanad lake, Bird sanctuary, Wagamon, Vaikom, Kurisumala and Elaveezhapoonchira.

Nanjundeshwara Temple

Introduction: Built during the 9th century, it is one of the ancient temples of Karnataka, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The name arises from the legend that Lord Shiva drank poison for the welfare of the world. It is located in the Mysore district of Karnataka.
The temple boasts of excellent Dravidian style architecture. Thousands of pilgrims throng the Temple each day and many take a dip in the divine waters of Kapila River. It is believed that sage Gauthama stayed here for some time and installed a Lingam. The residing deity of the temple was later called Hakim Nanjundeshwara; a title given by the Great Tippu Sultan who had faith in the God. Legend has it that his favourite elephant was cured of illness by The Lord. The Vaidhya Nanjundeshwara is said to be a healer for his believers.

What to see and when to go: The temple is famous for the Pachche Lingam (Emerald Shivaling) donated by Tippu. The temple is famous for its ‘Maha shivarathri’ festival, held during February or early March during every year. The Chariot festival of Nanjundeshwara held twice every year, locally known as Dodda Jathre and Chikka Jathre, is colourful and celebrated by the localities. Apt time to visit the temple is during the winter months.
Shopping for the unique variety of bananas is something that should not be missed out by food lovers. The place is renowned for Ayurvedic parlours as well.

Accommodation: There is lot of hotels available depending on the budget. The accommodation price per day will vary from 600 to 7500 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: The nearest airport to the city is the Bangalore International Airport at Bangalore, which is situated about 130 kilometres from the city. Mysore city has a railway station and three railway lines connect it to the cities of Bangalore, Hassan and Chamarajanagar. The city is also well connected by National Highway to the state border. The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and other private agencies operate buses from Mysore. Within the city, buses offer a cheap and popular means of transport. Auto-rickshaws are also available for intra-city commute.

Related links:
• Official website: http://mysore.nic.in/
• Mysore tourist information: http://www.mysoretourism.org/

See also: Srirangapatna, Ranganthittu, Shivanasamudra falls, Talakad, Bylakuppe and Bangalore city are some of the nearby tourist destinations.

Puri

Introduction and history: Puri is one of oldest and important tourist destinations in Orissa, which is famous for the Lord Jagannath temple. Puri also hosts the site of the Govardhana matha, one of the four cardinal institutions established by Adi Shankaracharya. In 1903, Sri Yukteswar established an ashram in Puri. In summary it is an ancient city, having a lot of spiritual history.

What to see and when to go: The Temple of Lord Jagannath was built during the 12th century, by Chodaganga Deva sprawls for many kilometres around. It is the tallest temple (65 metres) in Orissa.In front of the main gate the monolithic pillar, called Aruna Stambha. The temple is mainly famous for its annual ‘Ratha Yatra’, when the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, are brought out of the temple, and placed in a chariot procession. There are also a number of holy tanks like Narendra, Markandeya, Sweta Ganga and Indradyumna. There are many Monasteries locally known as Mathas also of tourist interest. Puri beach is another major attraction. October to April is the best time to visit Puri.

Accommodation: Puri offers multiple accommodation facilities starting with luxurious resorts facing the beach. Budget accommodation is available starting as low as 350 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport, which is 100 Kilometers away from Puri. It has a well connected railway station and national highway (NH-5) passing thro the place. For local travel taxis can be hired on demand.

Related links:
• Official information: http://puri.nic.in/
• Tourist information: http://www.orissatourism.gov.in

See also (nearby places): Konark, Chilika, Bhubaneswar and Gopalpur Beach are nearby tourist attractions.

Holy City Of Varanasi

Introduction And History : Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is situated on the western bank of Ganges. The name Varanasi has derived from two streams; The Varuna on the north side of the city and the Assi, a small trickled on the south. This city has been a symbol of Hindu renaissance, Knowledge, philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts. The history of Varanasi is very old but it however lives in the form of old manuscripts and the folk traditions; however most importantly through its people.

What to see and when to go: Varanasi has 7 km long sweep of about 100 bathing ghats along the western bank of Ganges. Most tourist attractions are Ramnagar , Chunar Fort , Ram Nagar Fort and Palace , ABC Art Gallery , Banaras Hindu University (B.H.U) , Asoka Pillar , Vishwanath temple (Golden Temple) , Durga Temple , Kedareshvara Temple , Sankat Mochan Temple , Shoal Temple and Chausath Yogini Temple . The best time to visit this holy city is from October to March.

Things to do: With a rich and cultural heritage, Varanasi rewards its visitors will a glittering array of festivals, with plenty of things to do, and fun events to get involved with. One of the biggest of all the annual events staged in Varanasi is without question the cities ever-popular Ganga Festival (Ganga Mahotsav), which takes place over a period of five days each October or November.

Accommodation: Varanasi finds its place with delight in every heart. The hotels and rest houses are available as per your pocket. It ranges from a lodge near bank of Ganges to five start hotels.

Mode of transport: It is very well connected through rail, road and air routes across the India. Cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws are the most widely available public transport within Varanasi. If the pocket permits, taxi and cabs are also available.

Related links:
• Tourist information: http://www.varanasicity.com/

See also (nearby places): Jaunpur, Kaimur Sanctuary, The Mukha waterfall, Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary, Chunar Fort at Chunargarh, Vindhyavasini, Asthbhuja and Kalikhoh temples at Vindhyachal, Tanda Fall, Wyndham Fall, Kaushambi, Shrines at Allahabad, the Lucknow city.

Khajuraho Temples

Introduction and history: Built over a period of hundred years, from 950 to 1050 AD, the temples of Khajuraho were never underwent massive destruction by early Muslim invaders between 1100-1400 AD. Only 22 of the original 85 temples still exist. The murals depict the life and times of the Chandelas, and celebrate the erotic state of being. They testify to not only the mastery of the craftsman, but also the extraordinary breadth of vision of the Chandela Rajputs under whose reign, these temples were constructed. Visiting Khajuraho is a unique experience and is an exciting location for conservationists, students, environmentalists, culture lovers or simply those in search of an exotic destination with multiple attractions.

What to see and when to go: The temples of Khajuraho are grouped into three geographical regions: western, eastern and southern. There are two temples in southern and six each in western and eastern regions. Khajuraho dance festival and Mahashivratri are the festivals worth experiencing. The best time to visit these temples is from September to March.

Things to do: Apart from visiting the temples at nominal fee of Rs 10 for Indians and $5 for foreigners, the sound and light show on the history is the must watch as it is embodied with the voice of Indian legend actor Amitabh Bacchhan. The fee for this show is Rs 50 for Indians and Rs 200 for foreigners.

Accommodation: Accommodation at Khajuraho is ranging from budget to deluxe. Hotels in there offer good accommodation at your price.

Mode of transport: Khajuraho airport is just 5 km from the city centre and has flights bounded to Agra, Varanasi and Kathmandu. Mahoba, Satna and Jhansi are the nearest railway stations. Khajuraho is connected by regular bus services from Mahoba, Harpalpur, Satna, Jhansi, Gwalior, Agra, Jabalpur and Bhopal. Khajuraho is 590 kms from Delhi.

Related links:
• Tourist information: www.khajuraho.org.uk

See also (nearby places): Benisagar Lake, Ranguan Lake, Pandav Waterfall, Ranch Waterfalls, Rajgarh Palace, Panna, Dhubela Museum, Ajaygarh Fort, Kalinjar Fort, Panna Diamond Mines, Panna National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Angling at Benisagar and Ranguan lake and Boating at Benisagar lake.

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