Think of cultural holidays, the first name that comes to mind is of India. India, unlike many popular tourist destinations around the world, doesn’t cater to just one or two kinds of holidaying. With a wide range of natural forms and varied kinds of culture and lifestyle, India is nothing less than a wonderland.
Being one of the top five tourist hotspots of the world, India justifies its popularity in each and every way. Not just for international tourists, India tourism attracts lakhs of domestic tourists as well. No matter which tourist destination you choose, travelling in India is sure to add some colours and charm to your life.
The country has 28 states and the 7 Union Territories with each state promising a unique experience. Tourists are in for a treat irrespective of the place they decide to visit. From Andaman & Nicobar to Jammu & Kashmir to Rajasthan to West Bengal to Himachal Pradesh to Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh to Maharashtra, etc. India presents exciting travel opportunities.
The country has umpteen numbers of tourist destinations with each presenting a unique experience. The list of destinations is endless. Few of the destinations that are quite popular are:
Agra
Region: North India
State: Uttar Pradesh
Nearest Metro City: 210 km from New Delhi
Nearest Airport: Agra Airport (Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport)
A trip to India is incomplete without visiting Agra. The city in the state of Uttar Pradesh boasts of the world famous Taj Mahal. One of the New Seven Wonders of the world and one of three World Heritage Sites, Taj Mahal is the mausoleum of Mugal Emperor Shah Jahan’s favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
Shah Jahan built Taj Mahal. Its construction was completed in 1653 which took 22 years (1630-1652). This symmetrical structure made up of white marble was a result of hard work of more than 20,000 workers, masons and jewellers. The beauty of the monument is unmatched to any other and makes for a memorable experience. The city of Agra has many other monuments as well. Fatehpur Sikri and the Agra Fort will also amaze you with their sheer beauty and architectural excellence.
Jaipur
Region: North India
State: Rajasthan
Nearest Metro City: 268 km from New Delhi
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (Sanganer airport)
Popularly called as the pink city, Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan. The city was called the same after it was painted in the colour of pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in the year of 1853. It is a famous tourist destination and if you want to have a glimpse of royal India and its rich history, Jaipur is one of the best destinations to visit in India.
There are many monuments and forts standing beautifully and luring many tourists to such an extent that tourism has become one of the most important sources of the city’s economy. Some of the popular tourists spots in the city of Jaipur are Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, Rambagh Palace, Chandra Mahal, The City Palace, Diwan-e-Aam, Central Museum (Albert Hall Museum), etc.
Jammu & Kashmir
Region: North India
Union Territory: Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest Metro City: 702 km from New Delhi
Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (Nearest to Jammu) and Srinagar Airport (Nearest to Kashmir)
A paradise on Earth, Kashmir is a place everyone must visit at least once in their lifetime. The beauty of the land is not unknown to any. Snow clad mountains, refreshing lakes, open clear blue sky and a soothing atmosphere welcomes you to one of the most memorable vacations.
There has been a drop in its tourism because of the few on-going issues in recent decades. But with the help of the Government, the place is again popular amongst nature lovers. There are many important tourist spots in Jammu & Kashmir. Some of these are Raghunath Temple, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Mansar Lake, Bahu Fort & Gardens, Gulmarg, Mughal Gardens and Pahalgam, etc.
In the famous words of Mark Twain, Varanasi is “older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend”. The city presents a spiritual and religious picture of India in a unique way. Not just for religious tourists, the city of Varanasi located in the state of Uttar Pradesh presents a memorable experience for each and every one.
The city has high mythological importance in the Hindu religion. Sun rays shimmering across the holy Ganges early in the morning, the temples and shrines by the banks of the rivers filling the air with holy chants and hymns and positivity along with the aroma of incense makes the morning in Varanasi unforgettable.
The sight on the ghats of Ganges is sure to mesmerise each and every one. The city is one of the most important pilgrimage centres for not just Hindus but also for those following Buddhism and Jainism. One can easily spot saints totally absorbed in the beliefs and faiths, who have found peace away from the world. Visiting Varanasi rejuvenates you in an unusual way which is unexplainable.
Jodhpur is a city with vivid art, culture and heritage, surrounded by dusty desert. Forts and palaces dominate the list of must places to visit in Jodhpur, but equally attractive are the blue houses. Over half of the houses in Jodhpur are painted blue or they have a blue roof (or blue doors at least). And this blue cover has earned Jodhpur the nickname – The Blue City.
However, it’s the charm of majestic Mehrangarh Fort which pulls tourists towards the city. The architecture of the fort and the palaces and temples under its aegis is exemplary. Also, the landscape surrounding the area has numerous lakes and gardens to visit.
If you want to experience the vibrant blues up close, visit the Brahmpuri area. And then, you have Ghanta Ghar (clock tower) and the surrounding Sardar Market to explore the tastes and traditions of Jodhpur.
Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jaswant Thada and Phalodi Fort are some other places to visit in Jodhpur and nearby.
You can explore the art and culture during a Bishnoi village safari or dive deep into the history in the government museum. The city is dotted with numerous temples too. And if endless desert fascinates you, you will find a desert safari tour too.
So, check this list of 25 tourist places to visit in Jodhpur and plan your trip accordingly.
Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort was built by Rao Jodha in 1459, and it is one of the biggest forts in India. It has several huge gates, including Jayapol (victory gate built by Maharaja Man Singh) and Fatehpol (victory gate built by Maharaja Ajit Singh). And the thick walls of the fort contain several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards.
Inside the fort, you’ll also find a museum. It has royal palanquins, arms and other artefacts belonging to the kings.
You’ll need a day to explore Mehrangarh Fort in depth. And from the top of the fort, you can enjoy the beauty of Jodhpur.
Phool Mahal
Phool Mahal Jodhpur
Phool Mahal (or Palace of Flowers) is the most lavish palace in Mehrangarh Fort. It was built by Maharaja Abhaya Singh in the 18th century for leisure. Its design and style will provide you with a glimpse of the extravagant lifestyle of the maharajas of Jodhpur.
The palace is decorated like a beautiful flower, with a pleasing splash of colours. The pillars and ceilings are adorned with gold carvings. You’ll find many beautiful portraits and paintings here. And the artefacts and furniture, too, enhance the grandeur of Phool Mahal.
Sheesh Mahal
Sheesh Mahal Jodhpur
Sheesh Mahal (also known as Glass Palace) is a part of the Mehrangarh Fort. The intricate mirror work from ceiling to floor portrays the features of the royal Rajput architecture. Various colourful ornaments and craft items decorate the ceilings.
It is one of the most beautiful palaces in Jodhpur, and brightly coloured paintings complement the decor of the palace. These paintings are of various religious figures including Lord Shiva and Parvati, Lord Krishna and Lord Rama among others.
A grand chandelier further adds to the beauty of the palace.
Chamunda Mata Temple
Chamunda Mata Temple Jodhpur (courtesy:
colinhepburn)
Chamunda Mata Temple is among the oldest temples in the city which is known for its beautiful engravings too.
It is said that Rao Jodha brought the idol from its original residence at Mandore, and established it here. The temple is on the southern end of Mehrangarh Fort.
People consider Chamunda Devi as the saviour goddess of Jodhpur. And she has been revered by the royal family too. Thus, the temple is a pilgrimage site for the Hindus. Devotees come here to take the blessings of the goddess, especially during the festival of Dussehra.
The place also offers a beautiful view of the city.
Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park Jodhpur (courtesy: wesleybrandon)
Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park is right next to the Mehrangarh Fort. The desert park was created to save the ecology, the vegetation and the rock formation of the region.
Many native plants and trees of the Thar Desert were planted. And it is among must-visit places in Jodhpur with family, near the fort. It offers multiple walking trails and scenic views of the fort and town. These trails take you past rock formations and through the desert landscape.
Nature lovers will love to explore Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park. It is adored by photography enthusiasts and trekkers alike.
Ranisar-Padamsar Lake
Ranisar – Padamsar Lake Jodhpur
Ranisar Lake is another of the top places to visit in Jodhpur. It is close to Mehrangarh Fort, located on the rear of it. The serenity of the lake captivates both locals and tourists. Adjacent to Ranisar Lake is Padamsar Lake. And they have a reflection of the grand fort.
These scenic lakes were built over 500 years ago, to conserve water. And they rarely dry, even though they are in a desert area.
Ranisar Lake was built by Queen Jasmade Hadi, wife of Rao Jodha and Padamsar Lake, by the daughter of Rana Sanga of Mewar. The clean water has been a consistent source of water in the city.
Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada Jodhpur (courtesy: wesleybrandon)
Jaswant Thada is a memorial built for Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. It was built by Maharaja Sardar Singh in the year 1899, and it also serves as the crematorium for the royal Rajput family of Marwar.
The memorial is built with white marble, and it is an elegant piece of architecture. Jaswant Thada features a small lake with lush green lawns and a flower garden surrounding the building. And this memorial, as well as the natural beauty, attracts tourists who visit Jodhpur.
It is also a preferred venue for various concerts, music festivals, and folk programmes.
Toorji Ka Jhalra
Toorji Ka Jhalra Jodhpur (courtesy: bobby)
Toorji Ka Jhalra is a step-well, hidden within the maze of narrow streets of Jodhpur. It was built more than 200 years ago to serve as a source of water. Local Jodhpur sandstone was used to build the step-well, and the steps lead down to a deep pool. It helped local people when there was no rain and the water was scarce.
Kids play games and dive in the pool during the summer to beat the heat. And its creative architecture and design attract many tourists.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur
Umaid Bhawan Palace is an extensive sandstone structure built on a hilltop. It is the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur, and it is among the largest private residences in the world.
A section of this palace is a luxury hotel. And this palace is also one of the few places in the world where you can live while the royal family is also residing. It’s unlikely, though, that you’ll bump into a member of the royal family.
Umaid Bhawan Palace also has a museum. And it has a collection of objects belonging to the royal family. Alongside intriguing artefacts and crockery, the museum also has the cars owned by the former king.
Hanwant Mahal
Hanwant Mahal Jodhpur (courtesy: wesleybrandon)
Hanwant Mahal used to be the hunting palace of the maharajas. They stopped here for meals and drinks after returning from their expeditions.
Today, this palace has been converted into a five-star hotel. And it provides a royal dining experience. Here, you can enjoy delicious Rajasthani food and other delicacies in the rooftop restaurant. On some days, you can also enjoy live cultural music and folk-dance shows.
Hanwant Mahal is near Umaid Bhawan Palace. And from the top, you can see that palace, as well as get a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Ghanta Ghar
Ghanta Ghar Jodhpur
Ghanta Ghar, or Clock Tower, is a known landmark in Jodhpur Old City. It is a tall and impressive piece of architecture built in the 19th century. It is the perfect spot to know and experience the vibrant yet simple culture of Jodhpur.
You can visit this clock tower for its amazing architecture and click photos near it. And the tower is also a hangout point where you can find various street food stalls and other vendors selling arts and crafts.
Ghanta Ghar is indeed among the best places to visit in Jodhpur city. Go there in the evening, when the tower is lit up, adding to its beauty.
Sardar Market
Sardar Market Jodhpur
Sardar Market is adjacent to Clock Tower. It is named after Maharaja Sardar Singh, and you’ll find a wide range of products here. From traditional clothes and jewellery to handicrafts, you have a lot to explore.
Sardar Market is one of the oldest markets in Jodhpur, and if you want to buy some local gifts for friends or home decor items, this is the place to be.
This market is also among the best places to visit in Jodhpur for food. It has many well-known food restaurants and cafes like Janta Sweet Home, Shri Mishrilal Hotel and Gypsy Restaurant. And whether you want to try a full Rajasthani thali or take a quick bite, you’ll have plenty of options.
Brahmpuri
Brahmpuri Jodhpur
The Brahmpuri area of Jodhpur was home to the local Brahmins. This is where you’ll find most of the blue houses of Jodhpur.
The tradition of painting the houses blue started to make it easy for people to find the houses of Brahmins. The blue colour distinguished Brahmpuri from the surrounding area. And soon this blue theme had spread out from Brahmpuri to the rest of Jodhpur. Thus, the city gained the name Blue City.
Walk through the lanes of Brahmpuri as you pass one blue house after another. Observe daily life and click pictures of this impressive sight.
Sardar Government Museum
Sardar Government Museum Jodhpur (courtesy: fengwenlin)
Sardar Government Museum is on the premises of Umaid Public Park. It was built in 1909 and it is one of the most famous museums in Rajasthan.
The museum has portraits of various kings of Jodhpur. And you’ll also find some of their belongings preserved for the public display. The collection consists of miniature paintings, metallic art pieces and stone sculptures, among other things. Traditional art and craft items, royal clothes and weapons too, are in the museum.
You can also spend time in the park, visit the nearby zoo or explore the public library.
Rai Ka Bagh Palace
Rai Ka Bagh Palace was built in 1663 by one of the reigning queens of Jodhpur. The palace is octagon-shaped, and it is one of the popular tourist spots of the city. The building is decorated with intricate carvings and attractive rock-carved structures.
This place has a dome-themed architecture, and the marble-finished rooms are worth a visit. Equally spectacular are the colourful garden and greenery around.
Rai Ka Bagh Palace serves as one of the government offices today. But you must visit it to witness the architectural splendour of that time.
Balsamand Lake
Balsamand Lake Jodhpur (courtesy: phuong.sg)
Balsamand Lake is one of the charming places to visit in Jodhpur. It is a major tourist attraction. It is an artificial lake on the outskirts of the city, which serves as a water reservoir. The lake is surrounded by bushy patches and rocky pathways, and its serenity attracts many tourists.
The lake has trees surrounding it, which add to the charm of the place. There are groves of mango, papaya, pomegranate and other fruit trees. Even a variety of animals and birds are found near the lake.
You can also visit Balsamand Lake Palace during your visit. It was built as a summer palace, on the lakeside.
Mandore Garden is another among the popular places to visit outside Jodhpur. It has been the crematorium of the royals of Jodhpur, and you’ll find cenotaphs of all the important rulers here. The cenotaph of Maharaja Ajit Singh is the most popular, because of its architecture.
The garden also has many temples and memorials, including the Hall of Heroes. It has the statues and stories of many folk heroes.
And apart from all the stunning architecture and sculpture in Mandore Garden, you can enjoy a pleasant and peaceful environment here.
Bishnoi Village
Bishnoi Village Jodhpur (courtesy: thevictorians)
Bishnoi Village is about 20 km away from Jodhpur. And a Bishnoi Village safari will introduce you to the lifestyle in a Rajasthani village.
Here, you can watch how the villagers earn their living, make textiles and cook food. And you will be able to enjoy cultural activities and other activities like camel rides, desert safari and village walk. Also, art and handicraft collection are available in the local shops here.
Also, Bishnoi village area is like an oasis, and the flora and fauna are worth exploring.
Apart from all the experiences and excursions, you can also savour on Rajasthani lunch meal. And for the more adventurous ones, camping facilities can also be arranged.
Kaylana Lake
Kaylana Lake Jodhpur (courtesy: divymalick)
Kaylana Lake is a picturesque lake, surrounded by lush greenery, about 10 km away from Jodhpur city. It’s an artificial lake built in 1872 to provide fresh water to the residents.
It’s among the best places to visit in Jodhpur for couples. Here you can enjoy boating and a beautiful sunset in a peaceful and relaxed environment.
The lake is home to some exotic bird species, which makes it an ideal location for bird watching too. Also, migratory birds like Siberian Cranes and Pelicans visit the lake during winter. And while you’re here, capture some beautiful pictures of the lake and the surrounding area.
Dhawa Doli Wildlife Sanctuary
Dhawa Doli Wildlife Sanctuary Jodhpur (courtesy: mukulc)
Dhawa Doli Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular animal-spotting place near Jodhpur. It has varied biodiversity with wildlife animals like antelopes, black bucks and desert foxes. You’ll also come across nilgai, chital and sambar here.
The place is about 40 km away from Jodhpur. And it attracts nature lovers, photographers and solo travellers to spend time exploring the desert wildlife. Birdwatchers also will like the experience of this wildlife sanctuary.
The best time to visit this sanctuary is at the crack of dawn or dusk. You can find some animals during the day too, near the water bodies.
Om Banna Temple
Om Banna Temple Jodhpur (courtesy: thevictorians)
Om Banna Temple, or Bullet Baba Temple, is an unusual temple, about 50 km away from Jodhpur. The shrine is dedicated to Om Singh Rathore, a traveller who died at this site.
It’s said that he was a resident of Chotila village nearby, and he crashed his Royal Enfield Bullet into the tree. Police took the motorcycle away, but it appeared at the accident site again. After numerous failed attempts, people believed the bike had magical powers. And they started worshipping it.
The Bullet is encased in a glass case, and nearby villagers come here to take blessings for a safe journey. Offerings in the form of flowers and prayer strings are also presented.
Arna Jharna Museum
Arna Jharna Museum Jodpur
Arna Jharna Museum is a desert museum that provides a glimpse of the lifestyle of people living in the villages. It boasts of an extensive collection of brooms used in Rajasthan.
You’ll also find a space dedicated to colourful pottery and delightful puppetry in Arna Jharna Museum. It is set up in an open space in the desert, and it is an ideal place to learn about the music and culture of Rajasthan. It houses a collection of musical instruments from all corners of Rajasthan.
You can experience live Rajasthani music and folk dance here. And it also hosts various workshops from time to time.
Khejarla Fort
Khejarla Fort Jodhpur (courtesy: stefanw)
Khejarla Fort, about 80 km away from the city, is another among the historical places to visit in Jodhpur. It showcases the lifestyle and architectural taste of the Rajputs. The interior of the fort and the things have been preserved and put to display as they were. You’ll also find beautiful frescoes and carvings in the fort.
A part of the fort has been turned into a heritage hotel. And the hotel offers jeep safari and horse safari around the ruins and nearby areas. You can also enjoy exquisite local cuisine in the Khejarla Fort Hotel.
Osian
Osian Jodhpur (courtesy: jessicat)
Osian is an oasis amidst the Thar Desert. It is about 65 km away from Jodhpur, and it is known as “Khajuraho of Rajasthan” because of its temples. It is home to many Jain and Hindu temples And the Sun (or Surya) Temple, Kali Temple and Mahavira Jain Temple are among the must-visit temples in Osian.
Osian temples were built during the 7th and 8th centuries, and the Sun Temple is the oldest among them. Also, visit Sachiya Mata Temple during your trip to Osian. It offers an aerial view of the golden sand dunes and the greenery around.
Phalodi Fort
Phalodi Fort Jodhpur (courtesy: nicnac)
Phalodi Fort is a historical fort in Phalodi, about 140 km from Jodhpur. It was built in 1488, and it still is one of the best examples of the Rajput architectural style. The artistic portraits and architectural designs are proof of how talented the artists of Marwar were.
You can also explore the village life of Phalodi during your visit. The town is known as Salt City, as it has many salt industries.
And Phalodi is a tourism hub too. Tourists come here for sightseeing, shopping and exploring its rich cultural and historical legacy.
Other Places to Visit in Jodhpur
Other Prominent Places to Visit in Jodhpur (courtesy: salvatoren)
Among the other prominent places to visit in Jodhpur with family is Masuria Hill Garden. It provides a panoramic view of the whole city. And if you like wildlife, visit Machia Biological Park during your Jodhpur trip.
Nature lovers will love Jaswant Sagar Dam. It offers many recreational activities, including boating.
Another place of tourist interest in Jodhpur is Sardar Samand Lake, and the palace built on the shores. Sardar Samand Lake Palace used to be a hunting lodge, but today it’s a heritage hotel.
Also, check out Takhat Sagar Lake while you’re in Jodhpur. Guda Lake is another attraction.
And if you want to explore more architectural beauties, visit Udai Mandir. The main temple is carved out of sandstone, and it’s supported by more than 100 pillars. Ram Dwara and Siddhant Shiv Temple are other important temples in Jodhpur.
Chand Bawri step-well is another place you must visit in the city. It is said to be amongst the deepest step-wells in the country. Raas Haveli and Nirali Dhani are other places which you mustn’t miss.
Shastri Circle and Umaid Heritage Art School are also worth the time.
And to explore the vibrant handicrafts of Jodhpur, visit Tripolia Market. You’ll find colourful ethnic dresses and accessories here. You can also buy art pieces and statues here.
Takeaway
Jodhpur is a city known for its art, culture and royalty. And there are a lot more places to visit in Jodhpur for fun other than the ones aforementioned.
You can uncover countless forts, palaces and other historical spots in Jodhpur. And you can also experience the arts and culture of Rajasthan all around the city. So, plan a trip and pack your bags to enjoy the vibrancy and royalty of Jodhpur.
Mumbai is known across the world as a city that never stops, even to rest for a while. The indomitable spirit of Amchi Mumbai (Our Mumbai) has been immortalized in various books, movies and short series. The financial hub of India, Mumbai is also the capital of the state of Maharashtra. There are numerous places to visit in Mumbai – from museums and gardens to shopping hubs and seafronts.
This city enjoys an enviable coastline, adorned with paved promenades and areas to cruise and sail. Mumbai is also home to Bollywood – the country’s Hindi film industry, which is one of the largest film industries in the world. One is bound to come across a bit of stardust as one strolls through Mumbai’s posh neighbourhoods such as Bandra, Colaba or Pali Hills.
Mumbaikars love their cutting chai with a vada pav on the side. Mumbai’s street food includes spicy dishes like misal pav, pav bhaji and pani puri. Seafood is also relished by non-vegetarians – especially the elaborate preparations of Bombay Duck, pomfret and rawas (Indian salmon). The traditional soothing drink of solkadhi helps one wash down the typically heavy Maharashtrian meal.
Some of the most popular places to visit in Mumbai are near its glittering coast. Marine Drive, Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Worli Sea Face, Juhu Beach, and a plethora of other beaches such as Gorai, Versova, Manori, Vasai, Marve and Aksa are perfect for beach lovers. Apart from these, there are plenty of other attractions to see and activities to pursue in the Maximum City. With this Mumbai city tour package from Mumbai Tourism you can experience all this without any hassle.
Marine Drive
Marine Drive in Mumbai, India (courtesy: raj-rana)
One may not recognize this top Mumbai attraction if it is called by its alternate name – Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Road. However, Marine Drive remains one of the most famous places to visit in the state capital. Located in a posh suburb of South Bombay, this renowned promenade stretches on for about 3.6 km.
Marine Drive is also fondly called Queen’s Necklace as it looks like a string of elegant pearls from the top at nightfall, when the lights come up along the C-shaped esplanade. Evenings and early mornings are the best times to stroll about this walkway that kisses a part of the Arabian Sea.
One of the favourite places to visit in Mumbai for joggers and casual walkers, Marine Drive also forms a part of the 42-mile long route for the annual Mumbai Marathon.
Gateway of India
Gateway of India Mumbai (courtesy: shahrukh-khan)
If you ever plan to arrive in Mumbai through the sea route, the Gateway of India will be the first structure that you will be able to see clearly. This triumphal arch was built in 1924, commissioned by the British to commemorate their colonial rule in India.
One of the historical places to visit in Mumbai, presently, the monument is a protected structure under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
After its latest renovation, the Gateway of India is surrounded by a wide plaza where tourists often throng for selfies and professional photo shoots. There is a ledge towards the seaside edge of this area where one can sit or stand and watch the sunset and the glorious view of luxury yachts, ships and some boats sailing into the horizon.
The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, or CST, is not just a railway station. It is much more. Built in 1888, this legendary station was previously known by names such as Bori Bunder Railway Station and Victoria Terminus, often shortened to V.T.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, CST flaunts a mix of Victorian Italianate Gothic Revival architecture and Indo-Saracenic styles. During the British Rule, this structure cost USD 23,000 to be completed, which would presently amount to USD 28 million.
Located in South Bombay’s Fort area, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is now known as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, or CSMT, named after the courageous erstwhile Maratha ruler. Often featured in Bollywood movies, CSMT is worth a visit for its opulent central dome, arched entrances and exits, and 18 platforms that service local and long distance trains.
Elephanta Caves
Elephanta Caves / Island (courtesy: renzo-dsouza)
Dating back to the 2nd century BC, the Elephanta Caves take explorers into another period of time altogether. These ancient caves are located on Elephanta Island, accessible via ferry from the mainland of Mumbai.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Elephanta Caves are a mix of Hindu and Buddhist cave temples, with rock cut architecture and Buddhist stupas. One of the best places to visit in Mumbai for history lovers, the layout of these basalt caves are spread across two hills – Cannon Hill and Stupa Hill.
There are 7 caves in all, each depicting a story from the Hindu mythology, centered around the deity of Shiva. Also on display are scenes that portray the wedding of Shiva with the female deity of Parvati. Apart from sculptures and murals, there are also 2 stupas which are built according to Buddhist architectural styles.
The coastal city of Mumbai is speckled with beaches. Girgaum Chowpatty is one of many public beaches where Mumbaikars and out-of-towners love to spend some leisure time, especially around sunset.
Located close to Marine Drive, this beach offers enviable views of Nariman Point, with high-rises dotting the skyline. One can also gaze at the posh neighbourhood of Malabar Hills from Girgaum Chowpatty.
While swimming is not recommended at the beach, tourists can enjoy the local street food, experiment with photography and even play a game of football.
One of the best places to visit in Mumbai with family, you can just go jogging or strolling along this stretch of the Queen’s Necklace. Corn-on-the-cob is an irresistible snack option at Girgaum Chowpatty.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya Mumbai / Prince of Whales Museum (courtesy: sonika-agarwal)
More popularly known by its former name (The Prince of Wales Museum), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya is the largest and most important museum in Mumbai. Established in 1922, the place houses a whopping 50,000 artefacts, some dating way back to the 2nd century A.D.!
Located close to the Gateway of India, this museum has umpteen galleries and sprawls over 3 acres. CSMVS wears a Western Indian and Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, with a central dome and 3 storeys to add to its grandeur.
Browse through sections such as Natural History, Art and Archaeology. Walk past paintings, sculptures, arms, furniture, coin collections, keys, fabrics, dioramas, prints, metalware, and more. There’s a museum shop too for those looking for collectibles.
Kanheri Caves
Kanheri Caves Mumbai, India (courtesy:
sougata-sinha)
Located inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Kanheri Caves are a set of caves which are monolithic in nature. Showcasing India’s ancient rock-cut architecture, these basalt monuments date back to a period between the 1st century A.D. and the 10th century A.D.
Nomenclature-wise, Kanheri means “black mountain” from the Sanskrit root “Krishnagiri”. The caves are laden with inscriptions, paintings and carvings from Buddhist ideologies. A collection of 109 caves, Kanheri Caves also has Buddhist sculptures and stupas.
To visit Kanheri caves, you might need to hike a little bit as these are situated on a hillock. One can understand the lifestyle of Buddhist monks and students by studying the arrangement inside each cave. Some have stone plinths to sleep on (beds for ascetics) while some are congregation halls (chaityas) meant for worship.
Dhobi Ghat
Dhobi Ghat Mumbai (courtesy: lambert)
Mumbai’s famous laundry district, the Dhobi Ghat is a spectacular open-air laundromat. Located by the Mahalaxmi Railway Station, the place is also called the Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat.
Recognized as the world’s largest outdoor laundromat, Dhobi Ghat is one of the offbeat places to visit in Mumbai. It is made of countless rows of wash pens. These concrete sections are where the dhobis (washers) do all the washing for the city of Mumbai.
The wash pens are made of concrete. The laundry that arrives here is mainly from mid-scale hotels, local laundries, clubs, garment dealers, caterers and event decorators in the city.
It is estimated that more than 100,000 clothes are washed here each day by about 7000 washers. Apart from washing, the clothes undergo scrubbing, flogging with heavy flogging stones, bleaching, dyeing, drying and ironing.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Sanjay Gandhi National Park Mumbai, India (courtesy: geson-rathnow)
The only national park that you will ever come across inside a city in India, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park sprawls over 34 square miles. Established in 1996, this protected area is full of dense forest, hills and a couple of lakes.
Vihar Lake and Tulsi Lake are nestled deep inside this national park. In fact, Mumbai receives some of its water supply from these lakes.
One of the best places to visit in Mumbai with family, it is called ‘the lungs of Mumbai’. Sanjay Gandhi National Park is also known to many as Borivali National Park.
One can find more than a thousand species of flora and 5,000 species of insects here, apart from 251 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, 150 species of butterflies, 38 species of reptiles and 9 species of amphibians. The best way to explore this part of Mumbai is by opting for Mumbai Darshan by Private Cab.
Haji Ali Dargah
Haji Ali Dargah Mumbai, India (courtesy: ayse)
An unmissable structure off the Worli coast is that of the Haji Ali Dargah. This mosque, built in 1431, also contains the tomb of Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, a wealthy Sufi saint merchant from Uzbekistan.
This Islamic shrine is built according to the Indo-Islamic architectural styles, with a central dome and minarets surrounding it. The entire complex is whitewashed, and there is a tall gate to enter the shrine.
The dargah is spread over 5,000 square metres, with the tallest minaret reaching a height of 85 feet. During Muslim festivals, the entire masjid complex is lit up in green to signify purity as per the religious beliefs. On most other days, the shrine glitters on the Arabian Sea, thanks to its white marble.
Bandra-Worli Sea Link
Bandra-Worli Sea Link Mumbai (courtesy: sonika-agarwal)
Also known as the Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, this one is Mumbai’s most aspirational civil works project yet. The Bandra-Worli Sea Link sharply cuts down the time to travel from Bandra to Worli.
With a total length of 5.6 kilometres, the sea link offers a panoramic view of Mumbai’s cityscape. Straddling upscale neighbourhoods, the sea link commands a toll which can either be paid up-front via cash or card, or deducted from your FASTag account online.
The world-class Bandra Worli Sea Link is closed to pedestrians, except during the Mumbai Marathon when it opens for official participants only. This iconic bridge has four traffic lanes on each side. After a total of 10 years which the construction took, the sea link was opened in 2010.
Hanging Gardens
Hanging Gardens Mumbai (courtesy: tina-p)
Mumbai’s beautiful Hanging Gardens of Mumbai are also called Pherozeshah Mehta Gardens. Located in the high-society area of Malabar Hills, these gardens sit right at the top of the hill. Designed by Ulhas Ghapokar, Hanging Gardens have a terraced layout.
Opened in 1881, the gardens are free to enter for all on all days from 5 AM to 9 PM. The garden lies on top of the main reservoir of the city, built initially to protect the water source from the effects of the Tower of Silence nearby – an open-air Zoroastrian funerary tower where their dead are left for scavengers for the traditional excarnation.
Right at the centre of the Hanging Gardens, one will find a pretty flower clock. You can also watch the marble sundial or stand by the viewing gallery for a bird’s eye view of various parts of South Bombay.
Colaba Causeway
Shopping at Colaba Causeway, Mumbai (courtesy: karan-patil)
One of the busy shopping streets of SoBo, Colaba Causeway houses rows of little shops on British-era pavements. These roadside stores sell fashion clothing, imitation jewellery, books, shoes and a lot more. You will also come across food stalls where you can take a bite of Mumbai’s favourite street foods such as pav bhaji, pani puri or vada pav.
If you are looking for a day of shopping, head out after 9 AM as that’s when the stores begin to open, if not later by 11 AM. Many of the places close by 10 PM, so don’t be too late.
Apart from makeshift stalls, the lanes are also lined by long-standing stores that sell branded products. One can always choose between budget-style shopping or splurging. The best way to shop around the city while visiting the prominent tourist places is to book a one day Mumbai local sightseeing trip by private car.
Byculla Zoo
Byculla Zoo Mumbai, India (courtesy: shubhadanikharge)
Formerly named as the Veermata Jijabai Bhonsale Udyan, this garden and zoo was established in 1861. Notable for being the oldest public garden in the city, Byculla Zoo houses about 843 species of animals.
Also classified as a botanical garden, Byculla Zoo is one of the favourite places to visit in Mumbai for kids. The place lets one watch a collection of rare trees such as the glass pane tree. The zoo is open to visitors on all days except Wednesday when it is closed for maintenance.
For a nominal entry fee, one can enter here between 9:30 AM and 6 PM. Keep an eye out for hippopotamuses, monkeys, deer, elephants, nilgai, and a lot of other animals, apart from several birds in large cages. If you’re lucky, you might be able to see the workers feeding the animals.
Jehangir Art Gallery
Jehangir Art Gallery Mumbai (courtesy: clayhensley)
One of the chief art exhibition spaces of the city, Jehangir Art Gallery was established in 1952. The art gallery has contributed its fair share to the development of contemporary Indian art.
Apart from the main Hirji Jehangir Art Gallery, the space accommodates four exhibition galleries to showcase the skills of painters, weavers, sculptors, photographers, print-makers, ceramicists and craftsmen. There is a dedicated Terrace Art Gallery for Photography in the premises.
Along with exhibitions, Jehangir Art Gallery hosts lecture programmes, discussions and workshops on different forms of art, intended both for the layman and the trained artist with a relevant academic background.
At this art gallery in South Mumbai, aspiring artists have plenty of opportunities to meet veterans of art and experienced fraternity.
Mount Mary Church
Mount Mary Church Mumbai (courtesy: wesley-brandon)
Formally called the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, this Roman Catholic shrine in Bandra is dedicated to Jesus’s mother, Mary. The current renovated structure was built in 1904 and is accorded the status of a minor basilica. Standing 80 metres above the sea level, Mount Mary Church looks over the Arabian Sea from its vantage point upon a hill.
The church sees a lot of crowd during Roman Catholic festivals such as Christmas, feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Easter. The Bandra Fair is another celebratory affair that draws people to the Mount Mary Church.
At the bottom of the hill, one will find many street shops selling candles, rosary necklaces and other relics for the religious visitors.
Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach Mumbai (courtesy: nitishraj)
For an expansive view of the Arabian Sea, head to Juhu Beach, located in the eponymous neighbourhood. Home to many Bollywood stars, Juhu is known to be an area full of the wealthy.
Interestingly, the Portuguese called Juhu “Juvem” in the 19th century, while it was still a separate island. As you walk along the beach, you will come across many makeshift stalls that sell tea, coffee, ice cream, corn-on-the-cob, and other savoury and spicy street food.
The balmy climate at the Juhu Beach is a huge pull for tourists. The place is forever sunny except in the monsoon. The temperature generally hovers around 25 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius, offering a pleasant experience to beach walkers, picnickers and others who stroll about.
Nehru Planetarium
Nehru Planetarium Mumbai, India
Located in Worli, Nehru Planetarium is a wonderful place to spend a day with your children. This edutainment hub is a favourite place to visit in Mumbai for astronomy enthusiasts. Special events are organized for school kids and stargazing meets here.
The premises have several rooms spread across floors dedicated to different fields of Science. Interactive exhibitions invite children to cultivate their curiosity and ask pertinent questions that will broaden their understanding of basic scientific concepts.
Nehru Planetarium also has a dome theatre with a seating capacity of 500, to screen 3-D short films and documentaries. Their regular show titled ‘Biography of the Universe’ is screened in three languages – English, Hindi and Marathi.
You can also watch solar and lunar eclipses at the planetarium, the dates of which are announced well in advance.
Bandra Fort
Bandra Fort Mumbai (courtesy: dopestills)
Colloquially called Bandra Fort, this Portuguese remnant in Mumbai is also known as Castella de Aguada, which literally translates to “water castle”. Built in 1640, the fort stands at an elevation of 43 feet above the sea level.
Visitors are permitted to enter Bandra Fort between 6 AM and 6:30 PM, and the sunsets are quite alluring to watch from here! If you are a photographer looking to capture rare visuals of the Bandra Worli Sea Link, the Bandra Fort will offer a lovely vantage point for sunrise shoots. In fact, even the Bandstand area is visible from up here.
Powai Lake
Powai Lake Mumbai (courtesy: bishwambhar-sen)
Venture into suburban Mumbai to get a glimpse of Powai Lake. Part of the Powai area, this lake is actually an artificial one, built in 1799 A.D. by the British. This lake spans an area of 6.6 kilometre square.
While the surface sits at an elevation of 59.5 metres from the sea level, the maximum depth of Powai Lake is 29 feet. There is a promenade around most parts of this lake where joggers can be seen early in the morning. There are also benches to relax and viewpoints for photography.
Birdwatchers can hope to see terns, kingfishers, hoopoes, ducks, storks, doves, parakeets, swamphens, falcons, sunbirds, egrets, jacanas, herons, warblers, cormorants, kites, bulbuls, harriers, and more. Bees, butterflies, beetles and crocodiles are also often spotted at Powai Lake. The best way to experience this city is by booking a 1 day Mumbai city tour by private cab.
Film City
Mumbai Film City / Dadasaheb Phalke Chitranagari (courtesy: lisaharding)
Mumbai is the unofficial entertainment capital of the country, home to Bollywood – the wealthiest film industry in the country. It should not come as a surprise that the city houses an integrated film studio complex.
Commonly known as Film City, the place has about 42 outdoor shooting locations. Even if you are not a celebrity, you can get a tour of the entire complex located in Goregaon East. Officially called Dadasaheb Phalke ChitraNagari, Film City is one of the popular places to visit in Mumbai for movie lovers.
The Film City is spread across 520 acres of land and has 16 studios inside. Here, one will find an artificial waterfall, a temple, a garden, a prison, picnic areas, a lake, villages, fountains and mountains for filming various scenes. It is also possible to watch a live shoot during your tour.
Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum
Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Mumbai (courtesy: santoshsinha)
Established in 1855, Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum has the distinction of being the oldest museum in Mumbai. Previously called ‘Victoria and Albert Museum’, the place is a treasure trove of industrial and decorative artworks.
One can take a free public tour of the premises over the weekend with the curatorial team. An audio guide is available for those who wish to learn about the collections in various galleries in a self-paced tour.
Curio collectors should hop into the museum store to buy inspired articles made by traditional craftsmen and allied NGOs. There is a museum café as well, in case you wish to stop for a sip of coffee between gallery visits.
Among the exhibits, one will find models depicting the lifestyle and culture of the people, paintings and sculptures.
Also known as Kondivita Caves, Mahakali Caves are a group of 19 Buddhist monuments that display their ancient rock-cut architecture. These caves date back to the 1st century B.C. until the 6th century A.D.
The caves are essentially Buddhist prayer cells which are called ‘viharas’. It is here that Buddhist monks would meditate. There is also a large prayer hall, called ‘chaitya’, where the monks would gather to pray together.
The Mahakali Caves are 230 feet above the sea level, and located in Andheri East, in suburban Mumbai. For a glimpse into Buddhist mythology, head to cave-9. Although now disfigured, this cave has Buddha depictions in 7 forms from their scriptures.
Vasai Fort
Vasai Fort Mumbai (courtesy: suhaskamat)
Every traveller who loves to explore ruins must visit the Vasai Fort, located in the northern part of extended Mumbai. Also known as Fort Bassein, this protected monument is a seaside fort built in 1184 A.D.
The citadel has changed many hands over the years, being built initially by the Yadava Kingdom of Devagiri. Vasai Killa was later occupied by the Chalukya Dynasty until 1432, before coming under the rule of the Gujarat Sultanate.
In 1534, the Portuguese Empire controlled the fort, and it was alternatively called Corte de Baçaim in Indo-Portuguese creole, meaning ‘Court of Bassein’. The fort looks over the Vasai Creek, offering sweeping views of the Arabian Sea.
Built of stone, Vasai Fort has a church which now lies in ruins, apart from a statue of Chimaji Appa, the commander of the Maratha warriors who won the Battle of Vasai in 1739.
Often called the Bandstand Promenade, Bandra Bandstand is a pedestrian walkway that stretches up to 1.2 kilometres. Located in the upscale neighbourhood of Bandra, the promenade offers enviable panoramic views of the sea, and is a popular place in Mumbai for jogging or just hanging out.
Bandstand has an Artist’s Court for Sunday jam sessions by upcoming bands. For some fanfare and entertainment, stroll about Bandra Bandstand during the biennial festival of Celebrate Bandra, a cultural and culinary fair.
Mumbai Festival is another occasion for a lively experience. The promenade comes to an end at the Land’s End area where an amphitheatre is present for performance nights.
Worli Sea Face
Worli Sea Face. Mumbai
Spanning 3.5 km, Worli Sea Face extends a rare view of the Arabian Sea. This coastal promenade is not just for walkers. It doubles as a chill-out place for those who don’t mind sitting on the paved edge.
Worli Sea Face is lined by public parks such as BMC Garden and Bhagwan Gautam Buddha Udyan. Enjoy the view of the Bandra Worli Sea Link or photograph the cityscape of Mumbai from the sea face.
Makeshift juice stalls offer refreshing fruit, vegetable or herb drinks to joggers out and about on their morning and evening rounds. Arriving here is easy, thanks to the Prabhadevi Station and Parel Station that service local trains plying on the Western and Central Lines of the local train system.
Located on Laburnum Road, Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya is a museum dedicated to Gandhi ji – the leader behind India’s most successful independence campaign. Between 1917 and 1934, Mahatma Gandhi made Mani Bhavan the centre of his political activities.
Various movements that shaped the freedom struggle of India were initiated in this mansion. Some of these historic movements are Khadi Movement, Non-Cooperation Movement, Khilafat Movement, Satyagraha Movement and Swadeshi Movement.
The museum has a bust of Gandhi and a library. A photo gallery captures various important moments in the life of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, while the room that he would occupy is open to public viewing through a glass partition. The humble room has bedding on the floor, a book, and a couple of spinning wheels (charkha) which he had used for the Khadi Movement.
The famous Siddhivinayak Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity of Ganesh. This crowd-puller has an idol of Ganesha, flanked by the idols of goddesses Siddhi And Riddhi. The throne is made of gold, so are some of the domes that decorate the temple structure.
The 6-storey building has an apex dome which is gold-plated. The body of the edifice is majorly marble and pink granite while the domes are made of 5 different metals.
Shree Siddhivinayak Ganapati Mandir is open on all days of the week, but is particularly crowded during the Hindu festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. Photography is prohibited inside the temple premise, even though cell phones are allowed in silent mode. There are several entry gates to regulate the movement of worshippers.
Mahalaxmi Racecourse
Mahalaxmi Racecourse Mumbai (courtesy: anushreej)
Mumbai is one of few cities that have facilities to indulge in equestrian sports. Mahalaxmi Racecourse is a horse racing track in the Mahalaxmi area. The oval track extends along 7,900 feet, covering an area of 225 acres.
Modelled after the Caulfield Racecourse of Melbourne, Mahalaxmi Racecourse was built in 1883. The racecourse also serves as a helipad. In fact, it is the only helipad in South Bombay that is available to civilians.
There is a Grandstand where spectators are seated on race days. Dress code is strictly followed by the Royal Western India Turf Club which runs the racecourse. Horse racing can generally be watched in the month of November, and the tickets must be booked in advance since they sell out fast.
Sitting in University of Mumbai’s Fort campus, the tall clock tower is the Rajabai Tower. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rajabai Clock Tower was built in 1878. It is not hard to see that it was modelled on London’s Big Ben.
While the tower is closed to the public, one can still view this Victorian and Art Deco monument from most spots in South Mumbai. Flaunting Venetian and Gothic architectural styles, the tower scales 25 storeys and is 85 metres in height.
The tower is named Rajabai after the blind mother of a wealthy broker named Premchand Roychand who also founded the BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange). Fondly called the ‘Bullion King from Bombay’, he footed a part of the total construction cost of the Rajabai Clock Tower.
Global Vipassana Pagoda
Global Vipassana Pagoda, Mumbai, India (courtesy: santoshsinha)
One scarcely comes across Myanmarese influence in Mumbai, but this architectural marvel in North-Western Mumbai showcases the distinct Burmese style. Global Vipassana Pagoda is a meditation hall, and the largest of its kind in the world!
With a seating capacity of 8,000, this dome sits on a peninsula between the Arabian Sea and the Gorai Creek. The pagoda was built in 2008 and is made of interlocking stones that support one another. This stone dome has no pillars while still standing tall at 29 metres.
Aside from the non-sectarian meditation hall, the Global Vipassana Pagoda complex consists of a museum that showcases the life of Buddha, a library, study rooms, a guest house for resident meditators, a circumambulation path around the dome, and relics pertaining to Buddha.
Chhota Kashmir
Chhota Kashmir Mumbai (courtesy: sraj)
‘Chhota Kashmir’ literally translates to ‘Little Kashmir’ in Hindi. This is a small part of the vast Aarey Forest in the heart of suburban Mumbai. The region is so named because of the presence of a tranquil lake where one can enjoy leisure boating.
The Chhota Kashmir Boat Club facilitates the hire of boats for as little as INR 60 for half an hour. Ensconced in a green cocoon, Chhota Kashmir also has parking facilities for tourists.
Open from 10 AM to 7 PM, the premises also have other fun activities for children such as dashing cars, priced at INR 50 for 3 minutes. One of the best places to visit in Mumbai with family, the park is a nice place to relax. The ducks that totter about only make the ambience more charming.
National Gallery of Modern Art
National Gallery of Modern Art, Mumbai (courtesy: aleksandrz)
Abbreviated to NGMA, the National Gallery of Modern Art is an art exhibition venue and an art museum of sorts. Located in South Mumbai’s Cowasji Jehangir Hall, NGMA is endorsed by the Ministry of Culture for its work to educate and cultivate minds that are sensitive to different forms of art.
With a focus on modern art, the gallery holds exhibitions of contemporary artworks by renowned artists from around the country. There are also workshops and other activities periodically held to engage art enthusiasts and curious creative minds.
The museum also exhibits ancient sculptures and artworks from different civilizations, e.g., Egyptian mummies.
Versova Beach
Versova Beach, Mumbai India (courtesy: ravjotc)
Part of North-Western Mumbai, the suburb of Versova is a posh one, blessed with a gorgeous beach. Versova Beach has light and dark coloured sand interspersed with rocky portions. It is a great place to catch the sunrise in Mumbai or just photograph the vivid coloured fishing boats that are docked near the shore.
One can see the Versova Fort at a distance, across the Arabian Sea, where Madh Island exists. Versova is home to many Koli fisherfolk who earn their livelihood through fishing. One can also shop for fresh catch after strolling about the beach. The name ‘Versova’ is a distortion of the original name ‘Visava’ which means ‘rest’ in Marathi.
Other Prominent Places to Visit in Mumbai
Other Prominent Places to Visit in Mumbai (courtesy: sandip-roy)
Mumbai is a huge city, and the list of places to see is certainly not exhaustive. There are many other haunts that will fill up your time and help you make wonderful memories while you vacation in the ‘City of Dreams’.
For a family day out, head to Essel World. This amusement park is one of the most popular with both kids and adults. The adjoining Water Kingdom is a water park with multiple rides and pools with water slides and other facilities.
Interested in water flora and fauna? Taraporewala Aquarium welcomes you to India’s oldest aquarium for marine and freshwater fish, snakes, crabs and other sea creatures. One can not only watch different fishes but also touch starfish at the touch pool.
Banganga Tank is a nice hangout with a water tank where one can feed the ducks. Across the city, in Thane, Upvan Lake is another water body worth a visit, as is Vihar Lake in North Mumbai.
Parks and water bodies aside, Mumbai is home to plenty of Hindu temples. Whether it is Walkeshwar Temple or Mahalaxmi Temple or Mumba Devi Temple, one is bound to find a lot of people queuing up to worship various idols.
Those interested in money and economics will appreciate the RBI Monetary Museum which houses coins that date back to the Indus Valley Civilization. Learn about the stock markets and the evolution of currencies in India, right from the barter time to the era of paperless electronic technology.
Takeaway
Mumbai remains an enigma to almost everyone who has never visited this capital city. In fact, even Mumbaikars keep discovering new spots every new day. Mumbai is not just a city with a bunch of attraction sites thrown in. It is an emotion, a place where dreams take shape and liberty finds new meaning.
From travelling in local trains to taking the metro from one end of this elongated city to another, commuters seem to never tire of their endless days. Sightseeing places aside, high-end restaurants and upscale clubs have put Mumbai on the global radar of the coolest places to visit.
The fashion scene is also ever-evolving, with Lakme Fashion Week placing the city on par with the most fashionable cities of the world. Mumbai breathes a life of its own into those who arrive here. It cannot be defined in words, only experienced.
Pleasant weather, beautiful parks, and clean air are some features that make Bangalore one of the most travel friendly destinations in India. Officially referred to as Bengaluru, it is the capital city of the state of Karnataka. It is India’s third-largest city and is popularly known as the ‘Silicon Valley of India’. Over years the city has established itself as the hub of export and development of Information Technology of the country.
There is a wide variety of things to do in Bangalore like unwinding at the beautiful parks of the city, shopping at the malls or flea markets, exploring monuments with architecture from the Victorian-era, enjoying yummy food at the quirky eateries, and grabbing a drink at the city’s acclaimed breweries.
The bustling city has a cosmopolitan vibe and an upscale lifestyle which can be experienced at the numerous malls, clubs, and pubs across the city. You can enjoy solace from the bustle of the city at its well-maintained parks and lakes.
Bangalore is abundantly blessed with natural beauty and is fondly referred to as the ‘Garden City of India’. Cubbon Park, Ulsoor Lake, Bannerghatta National Park, Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park, Bugle Rock Park, and Lumbini Garden are the main tourist attractions of Bangalore. You can also indulge in adrenaline rushing activities like trekking, hiking, camping, and fishing at places like Ramanagara, Nandi Hills, and Narayanagiri.
A paradise for food lovers, the city boasts of its street food corners, quirky cafes, and late-night eat outs. You can satiate your taste buds at the multi-cuisine eateries across the city. The tech city’s weather is pleasant around the year, ideal to explore its old-world charm.
Here’s a list of things to do in Bangalore so that you can pick the ones that interest you the most.
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Get mesmerized by the Bangalore Palace
Bangalore Palace
The Bangalore Palace was built in 1878 by Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar and has a stark resemblance to the Windsor Castle. The charming palace has been constructed with a fine blend of Tudor and Scottish Gothic architecture. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Bengaluru.
The palace exudes a regal opulence through its architecture embellished by verdant gardens. The palace has beautifully carved wooden interiors and paintings made by Raja Ravi Varma adorn its walls. Besides being an attractive tourist spot, the palace also hosts cultural events, concerts, and weddings.
You can witness the grandeur of the palace and the preserved paintings from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Looking at the royal family pictures and other memorabilia, you can imagine the elegance of the gallant dynasties of South India in those times.
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Freshen your soul at Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park in Bengaluru (courtesy: raghujana)
Located in Central Bangalore, Cubbon Park is 300 acres of lush greenery maintained by the Department of Horticulture. The park was established in 1870 and is surrounded by several historical monuments and government buildings such as the Attara Kacheri and the Vidhana Soudha.
The park houses a wide variety of trees, groves, and flowering points. You can spend a refreshing day at the park and spend time walking, jogging, or cycling.
There are several other attractions in the park, like the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Library, Queen’s Park, the Bangalore Aquarium (India’s second-largest aquarium), the bamboo pond, and the Bal Bhavan children’s park to keep visitors of all ages engaged.
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Experience the urban life at MG Road
Book Shopping at MG Road Bengaluru (courtesy: chris9)
MG Road, also known as Mahatma Gandhi Road, is Bangalore’s most iconic spot and the busiest commercial space of the city. It is equally popular among tourists and locals alike for innumerable shopping, eating, and partying options.
Shopping at MG Road tops the list of things to do in Bengaluru. You can buy home décor products, branded apparel, toys, books, traditional handicrafts, artworks, authentic silk sarees, and fabrics.
Booklovers must visit the largest and oldest bookstore in the city, the Higginbotham. It was established in 1897 and houses the most expansive collection of books belonging to various genres.
Foodies can binge on local dishes and street food at the various cafés, food joints, and restaurants in the area. Dancing the night away at the lively pubs on MG Road tops the list of fun things to do in Bangalore. You can go bar hopping and taste the best of food and drinks at the posh clubs on Bangalore’s most exuberant street.
Visit the vibrant Lalbagh Botanical Garden in the heart of the city and explore the splendid flora and fauna at this natural preservation center. The reserve is renowned as the largest botanical garden in India. It is internationally accredited for its botanical artwork and scientific study for the conservation of a variety of plant species.
The garden was commissioned by Hyder Ali in 1760 and completed by his son Tipu Sultan. The garden features a beautiful layout including a glasshouse and a lake sprawling over 240 acres in the heart of the city.
The major tourist attractions of the Lalbagh Garden are rare and exotic plants imported from France, Persia, Arab and Afghan, the Floral Clock, and an aquarium of attractive fishes. The garden also houses a 3000 million years old rock placed by the Geological Survey of India popularly known as the ‘Lal Bagh Rock’.
Attending the famous annual flower show held in the glasshouse at the garden is among the most exciting things to do in Bangalore for nature lovers and photographers. The garden has a reputation for having the world’s largest collection of rare plants.
As you soothe your senses amidst the greenery, you can also marvel at the delightful birds residing in the garden. You can witness different species of birds such as Myna, Parakeets, Brahminy Kite, Pond Heron, Common Egret, and Purple Moorhen.
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Walk in the wild at Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatta National Park, Bengaluru (courtesy: deepamohan)
The Bannerghatta National Park is a sanctuary offering a wide variety of plants and animals unrestricted natural habitat to thrive safely. It is located 22 kilometers away from Bangalore and spreads over 1400 sq. km.
The park was established in 1971 and features Reserve Forests of Anekal Range controlled by the Bangalore Forest Division, an aquarium, Crocodile Farm, Snake Park, and a Prehistoric Animals Park. The natural reserve also houses India’s first Butterfly Park, which preserves different varieties of butterflies in a dome.
Kids have a great time watching colorful butterflies and engaging in the various fun activities at the Children’s Park. Jungle Safari at Bannerghatta National Park is a must-try activity for those looking for adventurous activities to do in Bangalore.
You can experience the thrill of spotting wild animals like the Asiatic Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger, barking deer, leopards, elephants, porcupines, jackals, and sloth bears from safari buses/jeeps. The park is a great picnic spot to visit with family and spend a day in the lap of nature.
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Reimagine luxe at UB City Mall
UB City Mall Bangalore (courtesy: mbell1975)
India’s First Luxury Mall sprawling over an area of 16 lakh square feet,UB City Mall is located in the Central Business District (CBD) of Bengaluru. The mall has 4 towers housing almost all commercial spaces including offices, banks, retail stores, a five-star hotel, serviced apartments, restaurants, party lounges, food courts, pubs, cafes, an art gallery, and an amphitheater.
You can have an experience of a lifetime with luxury shopping at high-end retail stores, enjoying ultra-fine dining, and relaxing at a world-class spa. Being at The Collection at UB City is the most affluent thing to do in Bengaluru.
You can also attend several classic national and international events hosted at the mall, like the reputed Art Bengaluru Festival. Indian & International artists showcase a wide spectrum of art forms at the event each year.
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Frolic at Wonderla Amusement Park
Wonderla Amusement Park, Bangalore (courtesy: tushargohil)
India’s biggest amusement and water park, Wonderla Amusement Park houses the best adventurous things to do in Bangalore. Situated on Bangalore-Mysore Expressway, the park is a fun spot with over 60 water rides and open rides.
Ideal for all age groups, the park has high thrill dry rides, kids rides, and numerous water rides. The park also sports India’s first “reverse looping roller coaster” for more adrenaline-pumping fun. Stringent security checks ensure the complete safety of all visitors so that you can enjoy freely.
For those interested in relaxing, the wave pool and rain disco at Wonderla Amusement Park in Bangalore are perfect options to unwind. You can also enjoy fun activities such as virtual reality shows, the musical fountain, and laser show. Their in-house restaurants serve a wide variety of Indian, Oriental, Chinese, and Italian dishes. To spend a thrill-filled weekend at the amusement park you can book their well-furnished resort.
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Shop til you drop at Commercial Street
Shopping at Commercial Street Bangalore (courtesy: audra)
For those with shopping on top of their list of things to do in Bangalore, Commercial Street is their rendezvous point. Located in the Central Business District (CBD) it is the busiest and oldest street in the city.
As you navigate through the maze of lanes, you will come across a variety of small stores and brand outlets selling almost everything you might ever need. Commercial Street is Bangalore’s most visited shopping destination and weekend hangout spot. Lively stores abuzz with customers and a shopping vibe in the atmosphere adds delight to your shopping experience.
There are stores selling everything from party wear ethnic dresses to daily wear on a budget. A wide range of accessories, footwear, stationery, jewelry, and toys is available at stores scattered along the street.
You can buy colorful dupattas in various materials at the numerous Dupatta Centers and designer bridal dresses in a varying price range. You can also pick up from the extensive collection of exquisite home décor pieces upon a bit of haggling.
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Discover yourself at Shoonya
Shoonya Multi Arts Center Bangalore (courtesy: arunjoseph)
Shoonya is a multi-arts Centre situated at Lalbagh Road. It was founded in 2014 by the Ollapally family in memory of Joseph Ollapally and is a non-profit organization promoting self-discovery through art and somatic practices.
The Centre offers numerous activities for those trying to figure out creative things to do in Bangalore. It is a thoughtfully designed space washed with light and fresh air from the surrounding palm trees.
The Centre is open to artists of any experience level and even non-artists to help them engage with their community. You can learn and practice music, art, yoga, storytelling, Tai Chi, Reiki, and other somatic practices.
Shoonya offers you an open and nourishing environment to boost your creativity and enhance holistic wellbeing. It welcomes people from diverse cultures, interests, and ages to impart knowledge and share experiences. You can also rejuvenate your body through their therapeutic massage therapies offered by trained massage practitioners.
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Ride a boat on the Ulsoor Lake
Boating at Ulsoor Lake Bangalore (courtesy: rvgp)
Sprawling over 50 hectares, Ulsoor Lake is one of the largest lakes in Bangalore and probably the oldest. It was constructed in the 19th century by Sir Lewin Bentham Bowring, the then commissioner of Bangalore.
However, its history has been traced back to the 17th century. It is believed that the lake was built by the Vijayanagara ruler Kempegowda II and was a source of water for the city in those days. Enjoying a boat ride in Ulsoor Lake is one of the most relaxing activities to do in Bangalore with kids.
You can enjoy the picturesque vistas of the lake surrounded by greenery and watch endemic birds frolicking around the lake. Birdwatchers can catch a glimpse of cranes, common Herons, and Brahminy Kites. Ulsoor Lake is a popular recreational spot among tourists and locals alike. You can enjoy a peaceful evening with friends and family strolling by the lakeside.
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Chill through the weekend at Nandi Hills
Visit Nandi Hills (courtesy: ankitraj)
The heavenly Nandi Hills is located around 60 kilometers away from Bangalore in Chikkaballapur district. At a height of around 4800 feet, it is the most popular weekend getaway for locals and tourists.
A recently discovered marvel, the hillock offers astounding views of tranquil surroundings. Atop the hill is Nandi Durga, an ancient hill fortress featuring intricately carved arches and pillars along with painted walls and ceilings.
Trekking up Nandi Hill is the most popular thing to do in Bangalore for young couples. Your hard work will be rewarded by the mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset. The Nandi Temple, Muddenahalli, Tipu’s drop, Amrita Samovar, and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple are among the nearby sightseeing places explored by visitors.
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Get enchanted by the brilliance of Vidhana Soudha
Vidhan Soudha in Bengaluru
Located in Central Bangalore, Vidhana Soudha is one of the most magnificent buildings in South India. Symbolizing the legislative sovereignty of the citizens of India, the impressive monument is home to the State Legislature and the Secretariat of Karnataka.
Former Prime Minister of India, Sri Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation brick of the building on 13th July 1951 along with Chief Minister K.C. Reddy. Pandit Nehru described it as a temple dedicated to the nation.
Constructed in around five years, the building was inaugurated in 1956. The 150 feet tall edifice is also the largest legislative building in India with 300 rooms across four floors of the building and four entrance gates.
Its imposing structure and remarkable Neo-Dravidian architecture make the building stand out among others across the city. You can marvel at the grandeur of this majestic building popular as the ‘Taj Mahal of South India’. The impressive structure sprawls over 60 acres and glorifies the heritage of our country. Bright lights illuminate the building to highlight its opulence after dusk.
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Behold the mystical Bull Temple
Visit Bull Temple Bangalore (courtesy: mbell1975)
Located in Basavanagudi, the Bull Temple is one of the oldest temples in Bangalore. The temple is popularly known as Nandi Temple as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s ride or ‘Vahana’, the holy bull Nandi. Locals refer to the temple as ‘Dodda Basavana Gudi’.
Built in the 20th century, it is the largest temple of Nandi in the world. Nandi is revered by Hindus as he is the guardian deity of Lord Shiva’s abode at Kailasagiri. The Nandi Temple was constructed by Kempe Gowda, known as the founder of Bangalore.
The temple enshrines a large sculpture of Nandi carved out of single granite rock. The 4.5 meters high and 6.5 meters long statue is maintained by regular application of coconut oil, butter, and ‘benne’.
Besides the impressive bull statue, the Dravidian architecture of the temple lures tourists. You can also seek blessings at the beautiful Ganesh temple on the same premises. The idol of Lord Ganesha in the temple is made of around 110 kilograms of butter and is replaced every four years.
The statue is artistically sculpted, and it retains its beauty throughout the tenure. Visiting the temple during the groundnut fair called ‘Kadalekai Parase’, organized by the farmers in the area is one of the most interesting things to do in Bangalore.
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Relive your childhood at Innovative Film City
Innovative Film City Bengaluru (courtesy: sunitakatoch)
Located at Bidadi on Bangalore-Mysore highway, the Innovative Film City is an Indian movie-themed amusement park. This fun-filled park spread over 58 acres offers you some exciting things to do in Bangalore.
The wide variety of attractions at the park allure tourists of all ages and even those with varied interests. The Innovative Film City offers adrenaline-pumping rides at the Aqua Kingdom amusement park, museums, and various fun zones.
You can explore the Haunted Mansion to have a heart-thumping spooky experience, Cartoon City to meet your favorite cartoon characters, Miniature City to witness the figurines of famous landmarks from across the world, and the Innovative Studio to get an insight into the world of movies and glamor.
The endless fun activities at the park involve adventure sports, go-karting, fossil hunt, mini-golf, shopping, and eating delicacies from across the globe.
The Bangalore Association for Science Education (BASE) popularizes science and offers non-formal education in the field through the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium. Learning about the earth and space through virtual displays tops the list of exciting activities and things to do in Bangalore for children & science enthusiasts.
Established in 1989 by the Bangalore City Corporation, the planetarium features an open-air science park and a large auditorium to project planetary shows and run science movies. Equipped with a large 15-meter dome, the theatre can seat around 210 people for each show which is projected through a state-of-the-art hybrid system installed in 2017.
You can experience the thrill of traveling through the universe by attending the shows organized at the planetarium and even closely observe stars through telescopes installed on the premises.
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Beat your friends at Go-Karting
Go Kart in Bangalore (courtesy: amruthpillai)
There is no dearth of fun things to do in Bangalore and that makes the city more vibrant and livelier. You can enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities such as go-karting at the various tracks in the city.
You can enjoy the heart-thumping activity of go-karting at Meco Kartopia (Bangalore’s only karting track laid as per International Standards), Red Rider Sports (featuring the longest kart track in South India and they also offer a plethora of other adventure sports), Raceway Motorsports (ideal for those on a budget).
Gang up with your adrenaline junkies to explore more go-karting places in Bangalore including Torq03, Play Arena, Grips Go Karting and Bowling, Xtreme Sports Park, Patels Inn, and Green Turf Sports Club. These clubs also offer other recreational activities such as bowling, zip lining, zorbing, paintball, and Laser Tag.
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Delve into history at Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace
Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace Bangalore (courtesy: praveenkumar)
Touring Tipu Sultan’s summer palace is the most enjoyable thing to do in Bangalore for history buffs, architects, and explorers. The palace is located inside the Bangalore Fort and is a classic example of Indo- Islamic architecture.
Located near the Krishna Rajendra (KR) Market, on the juncture of Albert Victor Road, the magnificent palace was the residence of Tipu Sultan. The fort was commissioned by Hyder Ali and was completed in 1791 by Tipu Sultan.
The elegant structure is adorned with teak pillars, gorgeous arches, ornamental frescoes, and brackets decorated with floral motifs. You can walk into the historic era of the valiant warrior of Mysore at the museum on the ground floor of the palace.
Several intriguing exhibits are on display at the museum including a portrait of the monarch, his clothes, his sword, and missiles used during the wars with the British. The palace has a serene vibe and was referred to as the ‘Abode of Happiness’ in those times.
The palace is also ideal for a stroll as it features airy balconies, a well-manicured garden, vibrant flower beds, and gleaming fountains.
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Have a family picnic at Chunchi Falls
Chunchi Falls (courtesy: sourabhhamigi)
Located around 80 kilometers from Bangalore, Chunchi falls is a 50 feet high cascade on the edge of Western Ghats. You can enjoy a scenic road-trip from Bangalore to Kanakapura to reach this beautiful spot.
The fall is situated near Sangama, the meeting point of the Cauvery River and Kollidam River, and lies en route to the rocky Mekedatu valley. Extremely popular among locals and tourists as a picnic spot, the natural charm of the place offers respite from the bustle of the city.
To get panoramic 360-degree views of the lush deciduous forest and rocky surroundings, you can stop by at the watchtower or hike to the falls. Relaxing by the plunge pool at Chunchi Falls is the best thing to do in Bengaluru with family and friends.
Though a famous spot, it is still untouched by commercialization to give you the most genuine experience of having a family picnic in the lap of nature. Make sure to carry your eatables and other necessary items. Owing to the high current, swimming is prohibited in the falls and it is advisable to leave the place before dark to avoid any accidents as crocodiles are often spotted in the area.
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Witness the astounding Shivoham Shiva Temple
Shivoham Shiva Temple Bengaluru
The grand Shivoham Shiva Temple at Kemp Fort on Old Airport Road is a renowned temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a major landmark of the city and has the most beautiful statue of Lord Shiva across the country.
The temple was built by businessman Ravi Melwani in 1995 and has been thronged by thousands of Shiva devotees since then. The mesmerizing Lord Shiva idol is 65 feet high carved in white marble featuring the deity seated in Lotus posture.
It is set amidst an artificial pool of water against a backdrop of hills symbolizing Lord Shiva’s abode in the Himalayas. The temple also houses a 32 feet tall statue of Lord Ganesha, a Navgraha Temple, and a Pratyaksh Ling.
You can seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha at the revered temple. The temple has become a major Hindu pilgrimage over the years and major festivals including Maha Shivratri are celebrated on the premises with much fanfare.
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Try kayaking at Manchanabele Dam
Kayak at Manchanabele Dam (courtesy: dhanyatmarath)
Situated 40 kilometers away from the city, Manchanabele Dam is built amidst verdant surroundings. The dam and its adjoining reservoir are located across the Arkavati River in the Manchanabele village on the outskirts of Bangalore. It is a popular hangout spot among locals and tourists alike.
The clear tranquil water amidst lush greenery covering small hills offers breathtakingly beautiful vistas. You can enjoy a spectacular sunrise or sunset with your loved ones and enjoy a fun family picnic at the dam.
The reservoir used to be open to the public for swimming but it is now prohibited since a few accidents. You can spend your day relaxing and bird watching as you enjoy picturesque views of the surroundings.
If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Bangalore, then you must try kayaking on the calm waters of the Arkavati river. You can also visit the Praani pet sanctuary which is just 10 kilometers from the dam. It inhabits pet animals who have been rescued and are now taken care of in a natural habitat.
Lumbini Gardens is a public park ideal for spending time with your family over weekends. Located on the banks of Nagawara Lake in Hebbal, the park is dedicated to Lord Buddha and named after Lumbini of Nepal.
The lake offers a serene ambiance to unwind from the stress of city life. Artistic statues and exotic plants add to the charm of the garden which is enhanced at night by attractive lighting. The park hosts numerous waterfront activities throughout the week.Children’s Play Area, Spanish Bull Ride, Twirling Vortex, Trampoline Bungee, kid’s rides, and wave pool are a few of them.
The boating club at lumbini gardens offers pedal boat and pleasure boat rides across the lake allowing visitors to enjoy the picturesque views of the surroundings. You can also stroll along the 1.5 km stretch to soak in the beauty of the lake, sparkling fountains, and abundant greenery around the place.
Among the other things to do in Bangalore, enjoying street food and local snacks at Lumbini garden is a must for foodies. The park is famous for its food stalls and house famous eateries serving local dishes such as Idlis, Vadas, Dosas, Mangalore buns, Chaat, Paani Puri, Shawarma Rolls, and Kebabs.
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Imagine touching the sky at HAL Aerospace Museum
HAL Aerospace Museum Bangalore (courtesy: rajeshdangi)
One-of-its-kind attraction of the city, the HAL Aerospace Museum is the testimony to the excellence of one of Asia’s largest and India’s most important aeronautical company. It was inaugurated in 2001 at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) premises and has been lauded as the best museum in Bangalore.
Sprawling in an area of around 4 acres, it was established to educate the public about the growth of India’s aviation sector (commercial and defence) and the contribution of HAL throughout the journey.
The museum gives visitors an all-inclusive aerospace experience backed by insights through exhibits related to the aeronautical history of HAL and India. You can also look forward to witnessing the powerful aircraft possessed by the Indian Air Force.
For a more enriching experience, you can visit the section dedicated to true-motion simulator rides and enjoy an exciting virtual flying experience.
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Attend the prayers at St. Mary’s Basilica
St. Mary’s Basilica Bangalore (courtesy: pratmeshwadekar)
St. Mary’s Basilica was built in 1182 and is the oldest church in Bangalore. It was elevated to the status of a minor basilica in 1973 and is among the 6 churches of India to be given the status.
The beautiful Gothic architecture of the church allures tourists from across the country. Built in the form of a cross, it features a 160 feet high towering façade, glass windows, and a 6 feet high statue of Mother Mary.
The main Feast of the Church is celebrated in September and is very prominent among the people of the state of Karnataka and devotees from neighboring areas. You must visit the church to witness its grandeur and pray to Our Lady of Good Health.
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Run experiments at the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum
Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum Bengaluru (courtesy: christopherhu)
Built to honor Bharat Ratna recipient Sir M Visvesvaraya, the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (VITM) is an interactive science museum.
Located on Kasturba Road in the Cubbon Park area, the museum is built over an area of 4000 square feet. It was inaugurated in 1962 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. The museum was opened to the public on the 27th July 1965 with a display of principles of “Electricity” in its first-ever gallery exhibition.
It has seven permanent exhibition halls distributed across four floors dedicated to different scientific disciplines. Visitors can understand different principles of science through exhibits and simple interactive experimentation.
The halls have models of the steam engine, Wright Brothers Airplane, Barlow’s Wheel, etc. Kids can have fun at the virtual gaming zone, planetarium, Dinosaur Alive section, and 3D Visual Display Centre. Spending a day at the VITM museum is the best thing to do in Bangalore for science enthusiasts.
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Meditate at Art of Living International Centre
Art of Living International Centre Bengaluru (courtesy: cayuill)
Built atop Panchagiri Hills, Art of Living International Centre offers ample things to do in Bangalore including spiritual and recreational activities.
Situated on Kanakapura Road around 21 kilometers southwest of the city, the Centre has been established by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar (fondly addressed as Gurudev or Guruji) in 1986. Popularly known as the “Bangalore Ashram”, the Centre is built over 250 acres of land and set against an idyllic backdrop.
It features structures such as open-air meditation spaces, lush gardens, meditation halls, a Vedic school, an amphitheater, a lake, residential blocks, an auditorium, and administrative buildings.
The Centre offers solace from the city bustle through spiritual programs including yoga, meditation, breathing techniques, spiritual practices, and Ayurveda treatments. The therapeutic atmosphere of the Ashram offers respite to tired bodies and stressed minds.
You can choose to indulge in spiritual ecstasy under the benevolent guidance of Gurudev or destress amidst nature as you walk along lush gardens lined with trees and vibrant flowering plants.
Among the multitude of activities offered by the Art of Living Centre, Bangalore you can indulge in routine yoga, chanting, and satsangs organized on the premises or book a customized package as per your needs.
The Centre aims to unite people of varied interests, cultures, ethnicity, age groups, and walks of life to transform their lives through spiritual talks. You can also offer voluntary Seva (physical or monetary service) to the other participants for attaining self-satisfaction and spiritual bliss.
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Bar hopping with friends in Indira Nagar
Bar hopping in Indira Nagar Bangalore (courtesy: daddybar)
The city’s party hub, Indira Nagar is the perfect place to experience nightlife in Bangalore. The area is dotted with posh pubs, cool clubs, swanky bars, and quirky cafés to lure party lovers and dreamy drinkers alike.
Spend an evening pub-hopping with your gang around the locality. The Black Rabbit, Vapour Pub & Brewery, Loft38, Three Dots & A Dash, Tipsy Bull, Monkey Bar, and Barebones are few places to start your evening.
There are many party places across the city but pubs and clubs at Indira Nagar are consequential to Bangalore’s night scenes known for sporting chic Insta-worthy décor, spinning heart-thumping music, serving multi-cuisine food, and mixing best drinks from across the globe.
Join the high-spirited crowds on the dance floor or relax in a cozy corner sipping craft beer, you will always find a hangout spot to spend the night unwinding as you wish. Most party places and night clubs in Bangalore regularly organize events such as Ladies Night, Karaoke, Costume Parties, Bollywood Night, and many more.
You can also join local pub crawl groups to experience socializing at the next level, visiting the city’s favorite places handpicked by locals, and indulge in the best drinks at the stocked-up bars.
Other Prominent Things to do in Bangalore
Other Prominent Things to do in Bangalore (courtesy: satheeshsankaran)
There is a lengthy list of things to do in Bangalore, as the city is blessed with natural, cultural, and technical abundance. Other than the above list, there are a myriad of activities to keep people of different age groups and interests entertained.
Get your adrenaline gushing at Dirt Mania as you experience the thrill of riding monster bikes along Kanakapura Road and near Nandi Hills. The terrain is ideal for quad biking with your gang or simply go cycling along the various tracks on the outskirts of the city.
Grab your bags and go shopping around the city. You can pick authentic silk sarees, traditional artwork, pottery, electronics, herbs, and spices at the local markets. Chickpet, Jayanagar, Brigade Road, Malleswaram, and Gandhi Bazar are some famous marketplaces of Bangalore.
Satiate your taste buds with delicious food from across the globe served at various places across the city. Authentic South Indian and Udupi dishes dominate the food scenes in the city however you can enjoy lip-smacking North-Indian, Arabian, Chinese, Japanese and Continental food at restaurants around Bangalore.
Foodies must take a food tour at the famous VV Puram Food Street, also known as ‘Thindi Beedi’ or ‘Chaat Street’. Gorge on local delicacies and street food such as Sweet Buns, Bath Masala Dosa, Bajjis, Bondas, Rasgulla Chaat, Floating Paani Puri, and top them off with a Fire Paan.
Takeaway
Topping the list of India’s most progressive cities, Bangalore or Bengaluru is blessed with a gratifying climate, a modern metro system, winsome locals, and a multitude of activities. This lively city is ideal for travelers with contrasting interests.
Everyone including backpackers, nature enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, history buffs, party lovers, tech geeks, photographers, or shopaholics can find engaging activities and things to do in Bangalore and have a memorable experience of their trip to the city. With a surge of development in the past few decades, the city has been exposed to issues like traffic congestion or rising pollution levels but Bengaluru’s exuberance has remained unaltered.
Kodaikanal is a hill station in southern India, draped in a green cover. Numerous waterfalls dot the area, and Bear Shola Falls, Silver Cascade Falls and Vattakanal Falls are among tourists’ favourites. But Kodaikanal isn’t only about waterfalls.
So, if you wonder what to visit in Kodaikanal, check the best 21 places below.
Kodaikanal is known as the Princess of Hill Stations. And from lakes to parks, and churches to temples, you have several places to visit in and around Kodaikanal.
The time after monsoon is the best to visit Kodaikanal. But because of its idyllic weather, it is popular among the tourists all around the year. The summers are pleasant, and the winters aren’t so harsh to spoil your holiday.
You can spend time boating in Kodai Lake, exploring Guna Cave, or have a fun outing in Bryant Park. And Kodaikanal also offers various options for adventure activities. You can bike around the town, go for a walk at Coaker’s Walk and trek to scenic viewpoints like Dolphin’s Nose View Point.
From serene lakes to gushing waterfalls, Kodaikanal has a plethora of tourist spots for nature lovers. And it also has places like the Shembaganur Museum of Natural History and Astrophysical Observatory where kids can learn while enjoying their holiday.
So, have a look at this brief list of places to visit in Kodaikanal, and plan your trip accordingly.
Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal Lake
Kodaikanal Lake (also known as Kodai Lake) is a man-made lake in the heart of the town. It was created, in 1863, by Sir Vere Henry Levinge, the then Collector of Madurai. And today it is among the best places to visit in Kodaikanal in evening.
The lake is surrounded by lush green Palani hills, and you can capture stunning views while boating. Fog and mist cover the lake during many winter evenings. And you might catch the rare experience of floating in a boat through the clouds. So,rent a rowboat or a pedal boat and spend some quiet time in the spellbinding beauty of the lake.
Apart from boating, you can also go for long walks on the pathway surrounding the lake. And you can also opt for biking or horse riding to get a panoramic view of this popular tourist spot. Many cycles and horses are available for hire.
Bryant Park
Bryant Park in Kodaikanal (courtesy: simianwolverine)
Bryant Park is a well-maintained botanical garden spread over 20 acres. The park has various colourful and blooming flower plants and other shrubs and cactuses on display. And it is also the venue for the magnificent flower show held every year in summer, around May-June.
The park is only a few hundred meters away from the bus stand. And it is named after H.D. Bryant, the then forest officer who built it in 1908.
Bryant Park is a favourite family picnic spot among the local people, and it is one of the most visited tourist places in Kodaikanal.
The park has numerous walking pathways and cycling tracks surrounded by trees. And it also has play areas for kids, a glasshouse and an attractive rose garden among other attractions.
Coaker’s Walk
Coaker’s Walk Kodaikanal (courtesy: ajeeshlal_lal)
Coaker’s Walk provides breathtaking glimpses of the valley clad in cloud and mist. And it is one of the must-visit places near Kodaikanal lake.
Coaker’s Walk is named after Lt Coaker, who created it in 1872. It is a walkway on a steep slope of the hills, from where you can get spectacular views of the rolling hills and the lush green valleys.
Photographers will fall in love with Kodaikanal here, and so will honeymooners. Wake up early and go for a walk to watch the golden sunrise. Near the entrance, you’ll find the Telescope House from where you can better watch the views.
Get a pack of sweet corn or peanuts and walk along soaking in the beauty of Kodaikanal. It would be a walk to remember. You can also hire bicycles to ride with your partner or friends.
Silver Cascade Falls, about 7 km away from the town, is formed by the overflowing of Kodai Lake. A wide stream of gorgeous silvery water gushes down the rocks from about 200 ft during the rainy season. And it fills the surroundings with water droplets and cool breeze.
It is situated right by the highway. And it is the perfect spot to take a break after a long drive, just before entering Kodaikanal. Capture some photos, enjoy the views and settle down with a cup of hot masala tea, before you get on for another drive.
Numerous other stalls are here, with carrots, raw mangoes and other local fruits on sale. And you can also enjoy crispy vadas, fritters and other fried snacks.
Bear Shola Falls
Bear Shola Falls @ Kodaikanal
Bear Shola Falls is a seasonal waterfall on the outskirts of Kodaikanal. It is in its full swing during the monsoon, and it can also be visited after those rainy days.
The place is situated within the dense Shola forests, and it used to be the source of water for bears. And thus, the waterfall came to be known as Bear Shola Falls.
The waterfall is for the nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to spend time away from the crowd. With water falling from the hills and birds chirping around, you can feel being a part of nature at Bear Shola Falls.
A short trek through the woods will take you to the falls. It’s a simple trek and doesn’t involve uphill walking.
Silent Valley View Point
Silent Valley Kodaikanal (courtesy: sivaramakrishnan)
Silent Valley View Point is another popular tourism spot in Kodaikanal which offers soothing views of green meadows and misty mountains. The viewpoint is inside the forest area, on the way to Berijam Lake, and you’ll need to get an entry permit from the forest department.
A short trek through the forest will lead you to the spot. And the trek opens to awe-striking views of the hilly landscape and echoing valleys. On many occasions, the views are masked by clouds. Still, photographers love to visit this place. And it’s a favourite among the trekking enthusiasts too.
Apart from getting the lovely panoramic view of the valley, you can also spot wild animals from this viewpoint.
Berijam Lake
Berijam Lake Kodaikanal (courtesy: bryan-plymale)
Berijam Lake is among the best places to visit near Kodaikanal hill station.
It is a freshwater lake, with a variety of flora and fauna in the surrounding. Go for a walk into the lap of nature and fill your soul with this breathtaking beauty.
The lake is within thick forests, and you need permission from the forest department for the visit. The forest department has minibuses to take you to the lake, and only limited other vehicles are allowed entry every day.
Berijam Lake is around 20 km away from Kodaikanal. And it is an ideal place to visit whether you’re with friends, family or alone. So, leave early for a half-day Kodaikanal tour through the scenic route.
Apart from the lake in its natural setup, you’ll also find a Hindu temple nearby.
Moir Point
Moir Point Kodaikanal (courtesy:simianwolverine)
Moir Point is among the most prominent viewpoints in Kodaikanal which you mustn’t miss. It acts as the entrance to the exquisite Berijam Lake and offers stunning views of the lush green valleys and hills around.
The viewpoint is named after Sir Thomas Moir, an engineer, and you can get photogenic views of the mist-clad peaks around Kodaikanal.
At Moir Point, you’ll find a small park and a monument for Sir Thomas Moir. And it also has a watchtower, which you can climb to get a better and wider view of the surroundings.
Various shops selling speciality home-made chocolates and other local food items are also near Moir Point.
Mannavanur Lake
Mannavanur Lake Kodaikanal (courtesy:
karthikeyan)
Mannavanur Lake is another lake, set amidst forests, in the vicinity of Kodaikanal. And if you love clicking photographs, the lake must be in your one day Kodaikanal trip plan.
It is around 30 km away from the town. And a scenic route lined with eucalyptus trees and pine trees brings you here. After driving through the forest, you’ll come across this beautiful lake. You’ll need a trek a bit to reach the lake.
And the surrounding grasslands have many other trekking trails to explore.
The area is blessed with rich flora and fauna. Along with various shrubs and trees, you can spot exotic birds and wild animals. On the way, and around the lake, you’ll also find flocks of sheep and rabbits from the nearby farms.
Apart from trekking, you can also enjoy horse riding around the lake. And if you want to go boating in Mannavanur Lake, local coracle boat rides are available.
The lake is among the most romantic places to visit in Kodaikanal.
Subrahmanya Temple (or Kuzhanthai Velappar Temple) is a small Hindu temple surrounded by beautiful hills and valleys. It is on the way to Mannavanur Lake, in Poombarai village, about 20 km away from Kodaikanal bus stand.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Lord Kartikeya) and it comes under the administration of the Palani Murugan Temple.
As per the legends, Lord Murugan came, in the form of a baby, to save a poet Arunagirinathar from a demon. And thus, the temple has been named Kuzhanthai Velappar. It means the infant God carrying the weapon Vel.
The temple resembles the architectural style of temples common in South India. And the main idol is sculpted in the standing position in the sanctum sanctorum (garbha griha). It is made with navapashanam, an amalgam of nine poisons.
Dolphin’s Nose View Point
On the Way to Dolphin’s Nose Kodaikanal (courtesy: michael-varun)
Dolphin’s Nose View Point is a favourite among the trekkers and adventure enthusiasts. It is among the top places to visit in Kodaikanal. And it offers a picturesque view of the valley after a moderate difficulty trek.
On a clear day, you can get mesmerising views of the surrounding hills and the valley below.
The trekking trail is steep, and it is about a km long. And it takes you to the viewpoint on a pointed rock which resembles a dolphin’s nose. If you want to, you can tread further towards the Echo Point to get even more splendid views.
Kurinji Andavar Temple is a Hindu temple built in 1936. It is dedicated to Lord Murugan and it is famous for the Neela Kurinji flowers in the surroundings. These blue flowering plants bloom once every 12 years. And the area seems covered with a blue carpet during those days.
The temple also acts as a viewpoint to provide breathtaking views of the valleys. You can even enjoy a beautiful view of Vaigai Dam and Palani Hills.
Another reason to visit Kurinji Andavar Murugan Temple is to shop at the charming stalls nearby. These local shops sell vibrant flowers and garlands to offer the Lord. And you can also find tribal handicraft items and souvenirs to take home.
Guna Cave is a popular cave site named so after the shooting of film Guna. The place was known as the Devil’s Kitchen earlier and the eerie cave is made of steep, dark rock formations.
Iron bars restrict access to the cave, but the surrounding itself is spine-tingling.
Huge trees with exposed roots, half-covered with fog, thrill many visitors. And it is a must-visit spot if you want adventure trekking in Kodaikanal. You can also capture some memorable photographs with your group.
From the viewpoint nearby, you can get an aerial view of the valley and the town below, usually shrouded in clouds. And you can also see Pillar Rocks from the viewpoint.
Pillar Rocks
Pillar Rocks, Kodaikanal
Pillar Rocks is a viewpoint near the Guna Cave. It is another of the awe-inspiring and must-visit tourist attractions during your Kodaikanal tour. The spot is made of three tall vertical natural rock-formations which look like giant pillars.
For most of the day, the views are covered with clouds and fog. But on a sunny and clear afternoon, you get majestic views of the surrounding mountains and echoing valleys.
You’ll also find a beautiful mini garden here. So, take your camera along and try your luck at Pillar Rocks. It is among the best places to visit in Kodaikanal for couples.
Pine Tree Forest
Pine Tree Forest, Kodaikanal (courtesy: 007roy)
Pine Tree Forest is a picturesque forest on the way to Guna Cave. Many Bollywood and South Indian movies have been shot here, and trekking through these tall pine trees would be an unforgettable experience.
The forest is ideal for a nature walk and to get the much-needed peace away from the chaos of the city.
This Kodaikanal pine forest is popular among the solo adventure travellers and photography buffs. But honeymoon couples will love this place too.
Take a long walk on the paths covered with pine cones and dried pine leaves. Collect them for souvenirs or just enjoy the relaxing moments in the lap of nature.
Vattakanal Falls
Vattakanal Falls, Kodaikanal
Vattakanal Falls is another gorgeous waterfall in Kodaikanal. Nestled in the peaceful forest, this cascading waterfall is surrounded by trees, hills and lush greenery all around. A bridge near acts as an observation point from where you can enjoy the views and click pictures.
The rainy season is the best time to see the waterfall in its full glory. And the place also offers the perfect opportunity for a short but adventurous hike through the woods. Local people and tourists come to Vattakanal Falls for a family picnic too.
You will also find a pool at its base. The water is cool but clear for a quick dip.
Vattakanal Falls is an ideal spot even for bird watchers. And photography lovers, too, will find the scenic location worth capturing in their lens.
Pambar Falls
Pambar Falls Kodaikanal (courtesy: swaminathan-m)
Pambar Falls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls in Kodaikanal. This cascading waterfall is also known as the Grand Cascade, and it is about 4 km from the Kodaikanal bus stand.
The place offers an amazing trekking experience, as it requires you to trek through a steep path to reach the falls. It is known for its natural surroundings, and trekkers as well as nature lovers like this place.
The environment near Pambar Falls is rich in fauna. And you can see many endemic birds and colourful butterflies around the spot. Also, the waterfall forms a small pond at the bottom, and you can bath and swim in its crystal-clear water.
You can also enjoy a picnic with family or friends among other activities.
80 Mile Round
80 Mile Round, Kodaikanal
80 Mile Round is a scenic trekking route shrouded in fog and mist. The trek starts near Berijam Lake, and from here, you can get a photogenic view of the lake. And the entire trekking experience, which ends in the Poombarai village, will take you around 3-4 days.
Along the way, you can enjoy and capture views of distant mountain peaks, surrounding valleys and the villages. But you might lose your way while trekking through the forest area. So, make sure you’ve a local guide during the trek. 80 Mile Round is an ideal spot for adventure lovers who want to visit Kodaikanal for trekking.
Small shops selling local snacks and hot beverages are present in many places. And as for the stay, you can book the government resorts within the forests. Apart from trekking, you can also enjoy cycling here.
The Astrophysical Observatory of Kodaikanal is in Palani Hills. And it is a paradise for astronomy enthusiasts. It is one of the oldest observatories in the world, with telescopes for visitors to observe celestial objects and the night sky.
The observatory and the adjacent Solar Observatory Museum are both parts of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. And the museum displays various images and models showcasing the solar system and different astronomical phenomena.
You’ll also find a small library within the premises.
A visit to the Astrophysical Observatory and Solar Observatory Museum would be an interesting trip for adults and kids alike.
Mother Salette Church
Mother Salette Church Kodaikanal (courtesy:
ben)
Mother Salette Church (or La Saleth Church) is a historical church, only about 2 km away from Kodaikanal bus stand.
It is the first Catholic Church to be built in Kodaikanal, around 150 years ago, and it is the oldest church here. The quaint landmark is known for its ambience and peaceful environment, adorned with majestic views.
La Saleth Church is built in memory of Lady of La Saleth. The blue-white church, built in the Tamil-French architecture style, stands tall on a small hill. And it is an ideal spot to check the surrounding views.
You can go to this church at any time of the year, but a visit on 15th August is special. On this day, a 9-day festival concludes, with a vibrant carnival. And devotees and tourists from nearby areas come here to be a part of it.
Shenbaganur Museum of Natural History
Shenbaganur National History Museum Kodaikanal (courtesy: umakant-mishra)
Shenbaganur Museum of Natural History (also known as Flora and Fauna Museum) is a small but informative museum in Kodaikanal.
The place is managed and maintained by Sacred Heart College. And here, you’ll find hundreds of preserved fossils of birds and animals on display. The museum also has a herbarium, which showcases a variety of preserved plants, including indigenous orchids.
For the lovers of palaeontology and natural history, the museum is a must-visit.
Apart from preserved flora and fauna, you will also come across local handicraft artefacts here. And therefore, the museum is one of the best places to visit to know about the traditions of South India.
Other Popular Places to visit in Kodaikanal
Other Popular Places to Visit in Kodaikanal
There are many other places to visit in and near Kodaikanal, which should be in your tour itinerary. For example, Dolmen Circle. It is a historic site which used to be the burial grounds of people from the Stone and Iron age. Then, the Lutheran Church is a Gothic-style church, with stained glass windows, modern paintings, and murals about the life of Jesus Christ.
Kodaikanal also has few other waterfalls like Fairy Falls and Thalaiyar Falls which you mustn’t miss. And if you’ve got time, also visit Green Valley View Point and Upper Lake View Point. These places are perfect not only for photography but also for various outdoor activities.
And Caps Fly Valley is one of the offbeat places to visit in Kodaikanal. Many people come here to throw their cap in the air, and see it come flying back like a boomerang.
Among the other natural tourist spots in the region are Perumal Peak, the highest peak in the region; Canopy Hill, to spot wildlife creatures and local fruit farms; and Kukkal Caves, which served as the refuge to the Palaiyar tribes. Chocolate Factory and Wax Museum are the other places which you should check during your Kodaikanal tour.
for the shopping aficionados, Anna Salai Market is the place. It is one of the top places for shopping in Kodaikanal.
And you can also go for a night safari of the town to savour the night views of popular tourist places. Camping sites on the outskirts of Kodaikanal are available if you want to spend a night in a tent and indulge in adventure activities.
Takeaway
Kodaikanal is a charming hill station and the most popular one in Tamil Nadu. And it has natural beauties in abundance. From rolling hills to green meadows and lakes to dense pine forests, you have plenty of places to spend a vacation away from the hustle-bustle of the city.
It is also the most sought-after honeymoon destination in South India.
And Kodaikanal is equally popular among the adventure lovers, backpackers and others who want a relaxing holiday with their family. From moderate trekking trails and biking pathways to beautiful parks and peaceful religious spots, it has got it all!
Nature is one of the best ways to rejuvenate oneself. Not many can disagree with this fact. In today’s hectic and monotonous lifestyle of cities and towns, an opportunity to spend a few special days with the best of nature and its forms is something that is always welcomed.
Imagine having a close interaction with rich and varied fauna and flora, having lush greenery, exotic plants around you and rarest of animals carrying on with their day to day activities when you closely watch them. Isn’t it exciting?
A vacation filled with thrill and excitement along with refreshing natural settings is what you get in Wildlife sanctuaries of India. Tourists can not just get a glimpse but also experience the world they live in and enter their territories.
Visiting a Wildlife sanctuary promises you not just wildlife but much more than that. Even if one is not a nature enthusiast, he or she will find something to keep themselves interested. Going to any of India’s wildlife sanctuaries makes for an experience worth experiencing.
India boasts of exceptionally rich flora and fauna which can be seen at these sanctuaries and national parks. There are 96 national parks and over 500 wildlife sanctuaries in India presenting tourists with a wide range to choose from.
Each sanctuary has something unique to offer you making for some wonderful touring options. You are offered with diverse and wide variety in these wildlife sanctuaries which is incomparable to any other part of the world.
Wildlife sanctuaries in India are divided on the basis of geographies, for instance wildlife sanctuaries in Assam to wildlife sanctuaries in Andaman & Nicobar to Wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, etc.
Although the sanctuaries of North and Central India are popularly known, you will find some good wildlife sanctuaries in the South such as Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandipur Tiger Reserve and Nagahole National Park in Karnataka as well along with in the North Eastern part of the country such as Dibang valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Sessa Orchid Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
The fact that you will get to experience the best of the natural and wild world is enough for nature enthusiasts to leave their comfort and luxury at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit wildlife sanctuaries is the winter season. During this time you can spot rarest of land animals and avian creatures as many migrating birds from around the world also make the country as their temporary home and also royals like tiger, leopard, barasingha, etc.
In Summer season because of the hot climate there is generally water scarcity and because of that animals mostly come out in herds to search for water. Thus many sanctuaries are closed during this time due to safety reasons of both tourists and the animals. Here are some of the best Wildlife Sanctuaries to Visit in India:
Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
Best time to visit: October to February
The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Shimoga in the Chikmagalur District of Karnataka. It is home not only to India’s 25th Project Tiger population but also some very rare and exotic species of flora and fauna. Ranked among the most picturesque wildlife sanctuaries in Asia, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary makes your heart skip a beat as you witness nature come alive before your eyes.
Named after the River Bhadra that flows through the lush deciduous forests, the sanctuary is home to 120 species of trees and 250 species of birds. You can even spot some endangered species like Malabar Giant Squirrel and Orangutan. The natural beauty of the landscape makes it one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in India for nature photography. Kallathigiri Peak being the highest peak in the area offers astounding views of the sanctuary.
Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts can enjoy a Jungle Safari to experience the thrill of spotting wild animals in their natural habitat. Leopards, tigers, gaurs, chital deer, black panthers, elephants, spotted deer, and sloth bears are some of the animals you can witness.
The 300 years old Jagara Tree is a major tourist attraction in the sanctuary. You can also indulge in adventure activities such as rock climbing, and water sports in the area around River Bhadra.
Dibang Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
Best time to visit: November to May
The Dibang Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is home to some of India’s most intriguing and unique animals. It lies nestled in the Arunachal Pradesh and is among one of eight sanctuaries that occupy part Eastern Himalayas Mountains.
Sprawling across an area of 4,149 sq. km. are the lofty mountains and snow-covered peaks. The deep gorges make this place abundant in natural beauty. You can undertake adventurous expeditions to see the native flora or fauna of the region.
Wolves, Musk Oxen, Deer, Hares, Bears, Tigers, Leopards, and Pumas are some of the animals you will spot in the Dibang Sanctuary. Other rare animals that thrive in the wild setting are Otters, Eagles, Porcupines, and Hedgehogs. Bird watching is another interesting activity to enjoy in Dibang Valley. Vultures, Falcons, Kites, Ravens, Owls, and Parrots can be spotted chirping around the sanctuary.
The area is also home to the Mishmi tribe and celebrates their rich culture and traditional lifestyle. You can visit their village to witness their tribal way of life. The history of the region can be explored at the Rukmani Nati Fort and Bhismaknagar Fort.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Best time to visit: November to February
The Periyar National Park in Thekkady, Kerala is rich in biodiversity. The rivers Periyar and Pamba flow through it, nurturing and flourishing the plants and animals in this 257 square mile sanctuary. It is a protected area where visitors can witness nature in its most vibrant form. The sanctuary is home to many types of animals including tigers, elephants as well as reptiles, and birds.
Adventure tourism has been combined with the natural features of the landscape. Thousands of tourists are lured to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You can explore the wilderness through boat cruises, jungle safaris, or on elephant backs. It is among the prominent wildlife sanctuaries in India that offer ecotourism activities. You can enjoy Jungle Patrol, Border hiking, Bamboo Rafting, Jungle camping, and Bullock Cart discoveries.
The Periyar lake is the hub of the most exciting activities to try at the sanctuary. You can enjoy river rafting, boat rides, and bird watching at the lake. Guided tours to the nearby Cardamom plantations are also offered at the sanctuary. Other adventure activities like trekking and camping can also be enjoyed in groups. The ancient temple of Mangala Devi and the religious spot of Pullumedu are some of the popular pilgrimage destinations in the sanctuary.
Ranthambore National Park
Best time to visit: April to June
Ranthambore National Park is among the most popular Tiger reserves of India, set up in an area that was once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. The climate makes this area perfect for travel and is also known to house the Royal Bengal Tigers. With high chances of sighting the national animal of the country, Ranthambore National Park is perfect for a quick weekend trip amidst the wild.
Located in the foothills of the Vindhya Range, it has one of the richest flora and fauna making it an absolute delight for nature enthusiasts. The hillsides covered by lush green vegetation offer breathtaking scenery for nature photography. One can also explore these peaceful woods at different spots like Jakhau Fort or just relax amidst its rich forests filled with birds singing all day long.
The best way to explore Ranthambore National Park is through a Jeep Safari. These guided tours offer the excitement of spotting wild animals in their natural habitat. Other fun activities in the reserveinclude hiking to the historic Ranthambore Fort, bird watching at Malik Talao, Rajbagh Talao, Padam Talao, and the Jhalra area, along with exploring the Kachida Valley. Add more thrill to your trip by taking a hot air balloon ride.
Sundarbans National Park
Best time to visit: September to March
The Sundarbans National Park is a natural wonder that features lush forests, rivers, and estuaries perfect for visitors looking to get an immersive experience of India. Home not only to the Royal Bengal Tigers but also salt-water crocodiles, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in India.
The Bioreserve of Sunderbans is a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. You can book a safari that takes you across creeks and rivers to watch the well-preserved endangered species. You can spot animals like Batagur Baska, King Crabs, and Olive Ridley turtles in these lush forests. Other species include jungle fowls, giant lizards, spotted deer, and wild boars.
You can enjoy the stunning scenery of the park from the Nilkamal or Hiron Point, and Katka viewpoints. Other prominent activities to enjoy in the Sunderbans National Park are camping, bird watching at Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, and booking a boat safari to watch dolphins dancing.
Once in the wildlife sanctuary of your choice, you can opt for jungle safari and enjoy a ride amidst dense jungle and catch a glimpse of wild animals. Going on elephant back is a unique experience all together. Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) India along with many other NGOs are working zealously towards conserving the natural wealth of the country.
However, for a perfect trip and in the way you want it to be, one needs some outside support mechanism as well. One can opt for the tour packages catering to wildlife sanctuaries in India. India Tourism is one source that provides you with everything related to your trip to wildlife sanctuaries.
Covering almost all the sanctuaries throughout the country, we at India Tourism offer our customers with a wide range of options. We offer you with different kinds of tour packages catering to different interests, requirements and budget of the tourists.
And if you want you can get a package tailored to suit your specific requirements and budget. We, with our experts and genuine support throughout the process, ensure that you enjoy each and every moment of yours at the wildlife sanctuary.
Have you ever gone for a wildlife road trip and come back without seeing any wild animals, especially tigers? That churning feeling in your gut is so painful, you feel like being more prepared the next time around. But you never know when that will happen.
For those of you looking for the best tiger reserve in India, you have come to the right place to hunt for one.
With breath-taking sights, abundant flora and fauna coupled with the interesting safari options, you can be sure of one hell of a ride through the forests of India.
Make your holiday as blissful and adventurous as you want. Get your adventure gear ready, put on some sunscreen, pack your camera and let’s go have a ‘roaring’ time at the top 26 Tiger Reserves in India.
1. Sariska Tiger Reserve
Sariska Tiger Reserve, Alwar, Rajasthan, India (Image credit: loublue@flickr)
Located in Alwar district of Rajasthan, Sariska Tiger Reserve is one of the most sought after tiger sighting reserves. The forest is mainly made up of dry deciduous forests, scrub-thorn arid forest, rocky hills and grasslands.
#Trivia: It was the erstwhile hunting area of the Alwar state and, after much deliberation, was declared a wildlife preserve in 1955. It acquired the status of a tiger preserve in 1978 and was declared a National Park in 1990.
As of 2018, there are 18 tigers including 5 tiger cubs in the National Park. Sariska is home to a number of wonderful wildlife species, including Hyenas, Jackals, Wild Dog, Jungle Cat, Leopards, Indian Horned Owl, Chital, Rhesus Monkeys, Tree Pie, Crested Serpent Eagle, Golden-backed Woodpecker, and much more.
Each of these wildlife creatures can be enjoyed with the help of a guided tour package that is offered at the National Park throughout the year, including wet seasons of July to September.
Penetrate the forests of Sariska with Jeeps or Canters or even Elephant backs, to enjoy the gorgeous sights of the forest.
Safari Timings of Sariska Tiger Reserve
During Winter the safari timings at Sariska Tiger Reserve is from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM and in the Evening from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
During Summer the safari timings at Sariska Tiger Reserve is from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and in the Evening from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
Entry Fee of Sariska Tiger Reserve
Entry fee to Sariska Tiger Reserve for Indians is INR 80 per person. For Foreigners the fee is INR 470 per person. For those who wish to carry a Video Camera the fee is INR 400.
Spot a tiger, explore the forts and ruins of havelis inside the forest or pay a visit to the glorious ancient Hanuman temple, to thoroughly enjoy your trip to Sariska!
2. Bandipur Tiger Reserve
Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Karnataka, India
A glorious lush green forest set amidst the Nilgiris, the Bandipur Tiger Reserve is absolutely a must visit holiday-cum-adventure destination. Bandipur National park is an iconic tourist destination amongst all those visiting Karnataka.
Once the hunting grounds and a private reserve for the Maharaja of the Kingdom of Mysore, Bandipur Tiger Reserve is now a protected National Park with a variety of biomes and abundant wildlife.
The reserve is enriched with gorgeous flora and fauna that forms an important part of the biosphere of the forest and surroundings areas. The Tiger reserve was formally brought under the Tiger Project in India in the year 1973 and till date remains a favourite tiger spotting forest amongst adventure-lovers.
#Trivia: The tiger population is at an all-time high in the world comprising a glorious 382 majestic beings roaming the lands of Bandipur.
The Bandipur Tiger Reserve, along with Nagarahole, Sathyamangalam, Mudumalai, Wayanad Landscape is the major source of faunal population in the Western Ghats of the country. All these National Parks comprise the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Besides Tiger you can also spot different fauna such as gaurs, sloth bears, muggers, four-horned antelopes, Indian elephants, Indian rock python, dholes, jackals, chitals, Grey langur, sambar, muntjac, wild boar and much more.
You can also regale the sight of
#Trivia: It has the largest wild elephant population in South Asia. It holds nearly 150 cattle.
Best Time to Visit Bandipur Tiger Reserve
Best time to visit this tiger reserve is summer, between October and May. You can choose to go on a bus or jeep or elephant safari depending on your requirement. If you are travelling in a large group, hiring a bus makes sense. In groups of 4, you can choose to take a jeep safari and to explore the deeper parts of the forest, taking an elephant safari is a great way to spot animals.
Timings of Bandipur Tiger Reserve
Bandipur Tiger Reserve is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is open on all days of the week.
Bus safari timings: 6:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM.
Elephant safari: 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Jeep Safari: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Entry Fee of Bandipur Tiger Reserve
Entry fee to Bandipur Tiger Reserve for Indians is INR 300 per person. For Foreigners the fee is INR 1100 per person. For those who wish to carry a Video Camera the fee is INR 200.
Gear up for a safari through the most exciting forest trail in India, Bandipur Tiger Reserve! Book your tour package today!
3. Jim Corbett National Park
Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand, India
One of the oldest tiger reserves in the country, Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve is by far the most popular tiger sanctuary and national park located in Nainital District, Uttarakhand. Established in 1936 as Hailey National Park, it is home to the critically endangered species of Royal Bengal Tigers. With an expansive terrain covering acres of land and comprising nearly 5 zones to enter the park, Jim Corbett is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
#Trivia: It is the first place where Project Tiger was launched in the country in 1973. It is said to have a staggering 215 tigers living here! The highest in the country.
A jungle safari through the wilderness of Jim Corbett will take you up close to see a variety of animals such as sambar deer, herd of Asiatic elephants crossing the road, prancing peacocks, jackals, foxes, critically endangered species of Gharial, Asiatic black bear, walking deer, hog deer, and over 600 species of birds, amongst others.
It is also home to the mugger crocodiles and king cobra along with other endangered reptiles.
#Trivia: It is one of the few national parks in the country to allow night stay inside the premises of the park at different tourist houses located within.
Best Time to Visit Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve
Best time to visit Jim Corbett is from October to June when you can spot animals roaming around freely. Although it is better to travel around February to April when the animals come out to their watering holes.
Timings of Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve
During Winter the safari timings at Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve is from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM and in the Evening from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
During Summer the safari timings at Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve is from 6:00 AM to 09:30 AM and in the Evening from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
Entry Fee of Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve
Entry fee to Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve for Indians is INR 1500 to 4500 per person. For Foreigners the fee is INR 3000 to 6000 per person.
4. Periyar Tiger Reserve
Periyar Tiger Reserve, Western Ghats, Kerala, India
Breath-taking beauty coupled with astounding hidden glades, Periyar Tiger Reserve is a delight to visit. A protected area near Thekkady in the district of Idukki Kottayam and Pathanamthittha in Kerala, it is one of the most noteworthy elephant reserves and tiger reserves in the country.
#Trivia: It is often referred to as Thekkady as well. It was originally founded as Nelliyampathy Game Reserve by the Maharaja of Travancore in 1934. It was later declared as a National Park in the year 1950.
The park is made up of gorgeous tropical grasslands, deciduous forests and an absolutely stunning combination of rivers and lakes. It completes the ecosystem.
It comprises 35 tigers in all and is also famous for its Asian Elephants as well as a few white tigers.
Other than these, you can also come across a variety of other fauna such as sloth bears, Nilgiri Langur, lion-tailed macaque, Indian giant squirrel, jungle cat, sambal, cheetal, leopards, wild pig, gaurs, sambals, and a large diversity of reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects and birds.
An absolute bird-watching nibbana as well, Periyar Tiger Reserve is often dubbed as a photographer’s paradise.
#Trivia: This reserve is also home to South India’s largest butterfly Southern birdwing. It also houses the extremely threatened Travancore Evening Brown variety of butterfly.
If you truly want to enjoy your time at Periyar, visit it between October to May. Mild summers makes the conditions more conducive to spot an animal or tiger or two. If you like, you can also take a cruise on a boat in the Periyar Lake.
Exploring the Tiger Trail along with guides and forest department officials is an absolutely mind-blowing experience. You can not only spot tigers but also enjoy sightings of elephants, sambals, etc.
Entry Fee of Periyar Tiger Reserve
Entry fee to Periyar Tiger Reserve for Indians is INR 33 per Adult and 5 per Child. For Foreigners the fee is INR 450 per Adult and 155 per Child.. For those who wish to carry a Video Camera the fee is INR 300 and 38 for Still Camera.
Fee for Boat Safari at Periyar Tiger reserve is INR 150 per person above 11 years of age and INR 50 per person below 11 years.
Timings of Periyar Tiger Reserve
Periyar Tiger Reserve is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Safari timings vary depending on the season and can be vetted with the forest department or while booking your stay at Thekkady.
5. Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan, India
One of the most famous and biggest tiger reserves in Northern India, Ranthambore Tiger reserve, along with Kaila Devi Sanctuary and Mansingh Sanctuary forms a haven for tigers. It is believed to have a higher sighting rate as compared to other parks.
#Trivia: It was declared a national park in 1981 and a wildlife sanctuary way back in 1957.
There are believed to be more than 50 tigers living in the sanctuary, however, this needs to be confirmed by the authorities. The most famous tigers of Ranthambore are Ustad, Sundari, Sitara, Dollar, Mala, Bina 1 and Bina 2. Every tourist has a story to take back while touring Ranthambore and it’s time you shared yours.
Besides majestic tigers, you can also see jackals, Indian flying foxes, Chinkara, Toddy cat, marsh crocodiles, leopards, Nilgai, Sambar deer, striped hyenas, Hanuman langurs and much more. It is home to nearly 300 types of dry deciduous vegetation and over 270 types of birds and avifauna.
Timings of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
The timings of the safari are quite varied and hence it is definitely advisable to check with the guides or tourist office for the same. Generally the morning safari takes place between 6am to 10am and evening safari between 2:30pm up to 7pm. Here is the detail breakup by season:
Closed: During July to September
During October: 7AM to 10.30AM and 2.30 PM to 6 PM
November to January: 7AM to 10.30AM and 2 PM to 5.30 PM
February to March: 6.30 AM to 10 AM and 2.30 PM to 6 PM
1st April to 15th May: 6 AM to 9.30 AM and 3 PM to 6.30 PM
From 15th May to 30th June: 6 AM to 9.30 AM and 3.30 PM 7 PM
Safari Entry Fee at Ranthambore Tiger Reserve
You can indulge in a Canter safari or a Jeep safari as per your itinerary. However please note that Canter safaris are not available in zones 7-10.
Gypsy Safari: INR 974 per person for Indians and 1,714 per person for foreigners. There is no fee for Kids under 5 yrs old. There are discounts for Indian students.
Canter Safari: INR 617 per person for Indians and 1,357 per person for foreigners.
Price is inclusive of vehicle hire and guide fee of INR 539 (gypsy), and 422 (canter), for both Indians and foreign travellers. It also includes a safari vehicle fee of INR 134 (gypsy) and 19 (canter).
Come and witness the greatness of the wild only at Ranthambore in Sawai Madhopur District of Rajasthan.
6. Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra, India (Image credit: kdshoots@unsplash)
Decidedly the most popular and famous tourist spots of Maharashtra, Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is said to be the most well-protected reserves of India. The reserve is known for its maximum visible tiger sightings. Located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, Tadoba is a favourite tourist getaway for wildlife enthusiasts and avid photographers.
#Trivia: Tadoba is famous for its National park, tiger reserve, Tadoba lake, Erai dam amongst others.
It inhabits around 88 tigers and is considered to be one of the oldest and largest reserves of the country. You can not only spot tigers easily but also other wild animals like jungle cats, sloth bears, marsh crocodile, leopards, Indian Bison, sambar deer, barking deer, four-horned antelopes, hyenas, Indian mouse deer, wild dogs, etc. It is also home to over 200 varieties of birds and different types of flora.
The famous tigers of Tadoba are Maya (the Queen of Tadoba), Bajrangi, Choti Tara, Sitara (tigress), Sonam (Tigress), etc. These names are perhaps synonymous to Tadoba as you don’t say you saw a tiger but you say, ‘You saw Choti Tara or Sonam with her cubs or the queen of the land – Maya’.
Credits: Shivalingam Somu
Best Time to Visit Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
The best time to spot the most tigers is between March to June however, the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserveremains open from October to June. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance to avoid last minute disappointments.
Safari Timings of Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
Jeep safari is a great way to explore the expanse of Tadoba along with your folks. The timings of the safari at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve are 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Safari Entry Fee at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
The cost of Jeep / Gypsy safaris at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve is a mix of four components: entry fee per vehicle (max 6 persons), vehicle hire, guide charges, and camera fee. Here is the detail breakup:
Tiger Reserve Entry Fee: During weekdays INR 4,000 per vehicle for bookings made 120 to 60 days in advance, and INR 1,000 per vehicle for bookings made less than 60 days in advance. During weekends INR 8,000 per vehicle for bookings made 120 to 60 days in advance, and INR 2,000 for bookings made less than 60 days in advance. If opting for Tatkal, then the charges are INR 4,000 per vehicle for all days.
Vehicle Hire: INR 2,700 for the core area and 2,200 rupees for the buffer area.
Guide Fee: INR 350.
Camera Fee: INR 200 for lenses up to 250 millimeters and INR 250 for lenses above 250 millimeters.
7. Kaziranga Tiger Reserve
Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, Assam, India
The Kaziranga National Park is one of the most gorgeous tiger reserves and national parks in the country located in Assam. Home to the rare and ingenious one-horned Rhinoceros, Kaziranga boasts of vast expanses of flora and fauna that encompasses the entirety of North-east India. Formed in 1908, this national park is a biodiversity hotspot.
#Trivia: It is home to nearly 2/3rd of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros population and currently houses approximately 2200 of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.
The enigmatic National Park is also home to varied species of avifauna and is considered as an important bird area by Birdlife International for their conservation.
There are approximately 104 tigers residing in the expansive realms of Kaziranga National Park and it was declared a tiger reserve in the year 2006.
Besides these charismatic creatures, you can also spot Leopards, Sloth Bears, Hoolock Gibbon, Wild water buffalo, swamp deer, amongst others.
Best Time to visit Kaziranga Tiger Reserve
November to April is the best time to visit Kaziranga Tiger Reserve. The park remains closed from 1st May to 31st October every year.
Safari Timings at Kaziranga Tiger Reserve
The park organizes Jeep and Elephant Safaris in Kaziranga Tiger Reserve to promote tourism and walk you through the natural habitats of God’s own creatures.
Elephant safari timing-
Elephant Safari timings at Kaziranga Tiger Reserve are from 5:30am to 6:30am and 6:30am to 7:30am.
Jeep Safari timing-
Jeep Safari timings at Kaziranga Tiger Reserve are from 8:00am to 10:00am in the morning and 2:00pm to 4:00pm in the afternoon.
You can enter from 4 zones categorized by the park authorities namely- Mihimukh in Central range at Kohora; Bagori in western range Bagori; Agaratoli in eastern range in Agaratoli and Ghorakhati in Burapahar range in Ghorakhati.
#Trivia: You can find ample number of tourist getaways around Kaziranga as well such as Hoollongapar Gibbon sanctuary, Orang National Park, Kakochang falls, Addabarie tea estate, amongst others.
Make your trip to Kaziranga tiger reserve worthwhile by booking your itinerary today!
8. Sunderban Tiger Reserve
Sundarban Tiger Reserve, West Bengal, India
Welcome to the abode of the Royal Bengal Tigers!
The Sunderbans National Park and Tiger Reserve is probably the largest delta spread over 10,000 sq. kms. of India and Bangladesh. Its unique ecosystem is a natural wonder of South Asia and the world over.
Located in West Bengal, it is an important tiger habitat and biosphere reserve. There are a whopping 200 tigers in the Sunderbans (India and Bangladesh) and is probably the most unique experience for all people visiting the place.
#Trivia: It is named Sunderbans because of Sundari trees found in abundance in the area. Sunderbans is the only Mangrove forest in the world having the Tiger as its native population.
It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Sunderban was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1977 and established as a renowned National Park in 1984. It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1973 under Project Tiger.
A variety of flora and fauna captivates your senses while touring inside Sunderbans. It is home to famous reptiles such as rock python, king cobra, water monitor, as well as endangered river turtles called Batagur Baska.
#Trivia: The Indian Sundarbans forms the largest tiger reserve and National Park in India.
Another specialty of the land is that it harbours some globally threatened and quite rare animals including estuarine crocodile, fishing cats, snubfin dolphin, water monitor lizard, Gangetic dolphin, common otter, six species of ray and shark, hawksbill turtle, green sea turtle, amongst others.
It is home to nearly 250 species of birds, including a large number of migratory birds that visit the park during the winter months.
The only way to enjoy Sunderbans is by taking a Boat Safari as it is the only means of movement inside the park. There are primarily two types of boats available in Sunderbans – A.C and Non-A.C. and come in two sizes viz. small and large.
Boat Safari Timings at Sunderban Tiger Reserve
The boat service operates between 8:30am to 4:30pm every day at Sunderban Tiger Reserve.
Best Time to visit Sunderban Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit Sunderbans is between September to March.
Revel in the magic of the Sundarbans- One of the greatest wonders of India!
9. Buxa tiger reserve
Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal, India
Set up on 16th February 1983, the Buxa Tiger Reserve forms an important part of the ecosystem on the north-eastern border of West Bengal in Rajabhatkhawa. It lies on the border of Assam and Bhutan.
#Trivia: It is the 15th tiger reserve of the country. Because of a large spread of rocky terrain, several parts of the reserve still remain inaccessible, even by forest authorities.
This colossal spread of Alluvial floodplains boasts of being the largest in the Dooars. It has a gorgeous landscape comprising a variety of flora and fauna.
The most distinct highlight of this tiger reserve is that it serves as an international corridor between India and Bhutan for the migration of Elephants. This is primarily because of the close proximity to the Phipsu Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan, lying adjacent to the northern part of the Buxa Tiger Reserve.
#Trivia: It comprises more than 8 types of forests and more than 200 species of unidentified avifauna.
The majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, in its full glory of blazing orange body and black stripes, can be seen roaming in the grasslands of Buxa that leaves tourists in absolute awe. You can also spot another member of the cat family, namely Clouded Leopard, which is usually shy of coming out in the open and quite difficult to spot and is a rare endemic species of this forest.
Besides this, you can also spot the gorgeous leopards, jungle cats, fishing cats, Chinese Pangolin, Regal Python, Asian elephant, Wild buffalo, Palm Civet, Malayan Giant Squirrel, small clawless otter, sambhars, chitals, and much more.
#Trivia: It is home to the monitor lizard, the deadliest of all lizards, along with 3 types of pythons and many species of tortoise.
The biggest highlight of the forest remains the inhabitation of forest tribes that comprise of Madesia, Garo, Rava, Mechia, Rajbanshi and Bhutia.
Safari Entry fee and timings at Buxa tiger reserve
Jeep safaris at Buxa tiger reserve start at 6am every day and evenings at 3pm. Each safari lasts for nearly 3 to 4 hours each. A jeep safari costs Rs. 800 approx. There is no entry fee to visit the Buxa tiger reserve.
Note: BuxaTiger reserve is closed every year between 15th June to 15th September because of incessant rainfall plaguing the region.
Best Time to visit Buxa tiger reserve
The best time to visit the Buxa Tiger reserve is between October to April. If you are lucky in winters, you can also get to see many migratory birds, making it an absolute delight for all photographers.
10. Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Karnataka, India
Get awestruck with the exotic wildlife of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Located in the Nilgiri District of Tamil Nadu, this gorgeous national park and tiger reserve is one of the most fascinating forests of the country.
Home to a number of endangered animals and birds, it boasts of an expansive landscape that can be seen distinctly while taking a tour through the sanctuary. It was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2007 to help save the dwindling population of Tigers in the country.
The river Moyar separates the Bandipur National Park from Mudumalai. The Grey Langur and Bonnet Macaque are the two major primates of this region.
#Trivia: The Nilgiri sub-cluster of 6000 sq. kms. of the Western Ghats, which includes the Mudumalai National Park, is being considered to be elevated to the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site by the Committee.
The area comprises 44 to 80 tigers at the reserve who are absolutely free to roam the grassy lands of the forests. It is nothing less than a haven to be able to spot them while on a safari. They form the single largest population of this majestic species in India. (Nagarhole-Wayanad-Mudumalai) includes the Mudumalai tigers.
You can also spot other wild animals such as chitals, leopard cat, Indian wild dog, golden jackal, red giant squirrel, and an excellent spread of avifauna, amphibians, etc. You can enjoy a Canter safari, Elephant safari as well as a Jeep Safari through the forests of Mudumalai.
Entry Fee of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
The entry fee at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is Rs. 15 only.
Entry Timing of Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
TheMudumalai Tiger Reserve is open from 6am to 6pm every day for safari tours.
Safari Entry fee and Timings at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve
A jeep safari at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve typically costs Rs. 1500 for an hour; Rs. 100 per person for the Elephant safari; Rs. 45 per person for a van or canter safari.
The timings for the Jeep safari are dependent on the availability of the jeep and driver. It is best to book it in advance with the Jungle authorities. The safari lasts for around 2 to 3 hours on an average.
The van safari lasts for around 30 minutes and can be taken from 6:30am to 9am in the morning and 3:30pm to 6pm in the evening.
The elephant safari lasts from 7am to 8:30am in the morning and 3:30pm to 5pm in the evenings. It also lasts for approx. 30 minutes.
Put on your sunscreen and get ready for a jungle treat with wild animals and glories fauna to keep you company right here!
#Didyouknow: Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of tigers, nearly 526, followed by Karnataka (524), Uttarakhand (442), Tamil Nadu (229), Maharashtra (190), Assam (167), Kerala (136) and Uttar Pradesh (117).
11. Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
Nagarjunasagar – Srisailam tiger reserve is the largest tiger reserve in India. It is spread over 5 districts and is considered to be a safe haven for these wild cats. This tiger reserve is also known as Srisailam Wildlife Sanctuary and is located in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh.
It received the title of a tiger reserve in the year 1978 under Project Tiger. This reserve was renamed as Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary in 1992. There are around 70 tigers residing in the premise of Nagarjunasagar – Srisailam Tiger Reserve and is also home to different species of wild animals such as sloth bear, blackbuck, Indian leopard, mugger crocodile, chevrotain, dhol, chital, sambar deer, etc.
Jeep safari is the best way to get around the park and enjoy the flora and fauna. You can hire jeeps for a safari outside the park as there are no direct tours provided by the park itself.
Best Time to visit Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger reserve is between October to March.
The safaris need to be coordinated with the park authorities and the local tour guides. It is best to speak with the resort you are staying at or the local tour guides to help you choose the best time to visit the park.
Entry Timings of Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve
The Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve is open from 7am to 5pm every day.
Get your lenses ready and capture the majestic Tiger in all its charm right here!
12. Pench Tiger Reserve
The Pench National Park or Pench Tiger Reserve is one of the most important tiger reserves of the country. The scenic beauty of the forest coupled with the spread of grasslands, waterfalls and rocky terrain is an absolute sight to behold. Pench National Park is the most intriguing highlight of the states – Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
#Trivia- The fictional setting of the Jungle Book and the Second Jungle Book written by Rudyard Kipling are said to be set in this region.
The number of tigers as on date in Pench National Park is close to 53. Along with this majestic species, you can also spot the wild boar, chital, Nilgai, jackal, Indian wild dog, sambar, gaur, deer, wolf, langur, bison and much more. The park comprises more than 200 species of birds out of which 170 or more are migratory birds.
#Trivia: Pench was declared a sanctuary in 1965 and rose to the status of a National Park in 1975.
This place is a paradise for nature lovers, avid wildlife photographers and flora enthusiasts. The accessibility from Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh makes this reserve a great way to explore the natural habitat of some spectacular species of animals.
You can enter the forest from designated zones in Madhya Pradesh comprising Karmajhiri Zone, Turia zone, Jamtara zone, and Rukhad zone. Maharashtra zones consist of Sillari zone and Khursapar zone.
Safari Timings at Pench Tiger Reserve
The morning safari at Pench Tiger Reserve takes place between 5:30am to 10:30am, afternoon safari takes place between 2:30pm to 6:30pm and the night safari is between 5:30pm to 8:30pm.
Get your dose of wildlife and much more at Pench National Park!
13. Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India (Image credit: iamsinghabhishek@unsplash)
Bandhavgarh National Park is spread across Vindhya hills in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. It is the most famous location to spot White Tigers in India and is probably the highest known density of Tigers in the country.
There are around 50 tigers in the expansive 105 sq. kms. of forest area. It was declared a National Park in 1968. This tiger reserve is home to varied fauna such as sambar, nilgai, wild boar, chinkara, gaur, leopards, Bengal fox, spotted deer and much more. Bandhavgarh also houses over 250 species of avifauna.
The park is divided into 3 zones mainly Tala (gate 1), Maghdi (gate 2) and Khitauli (gate 3) and can be best enjoyed in a Jeep safari that can take up to 6 people at one time.
Best Time to visit Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit BandhavgarhTiger Reserve is from October to May.
Safari Timings at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve
The safari at Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve is further divided into different timelines depending on the period you are visiting-
15th Oct to 15th Feb- 6:30am to 11am and 2:30pm to 5:30pm.
16th Feb to 31st Mar- 6am to 11am and 3pm to 6pm.
1st Apr to 30th June- 5:30am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm.
If you are looking forward to enjoying nature up close and personal, you can also indulge in an Elephant safari that has to be pre-approved by the park authorities.
Get a glimpse of nature’s majestic creatures walking the land only at Bandhavgarh.
14. Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Anamalai Tiger Reserve or Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park is located in Anaimalai hills in Tiruppur District, Tamil Nadu. Breath-taking views and a gorgeous spread of lush green escapades adds to the charm of this tiger reserve.
It was officially declared a tiger reserve in 2007.
#Trivia: It was officially established in the year 1848 and is one of the oldest national parks in the country.
The rich biodiversity of the park attracts thousands of visitors every year. There are nearly 30 elusive tigers living in the reserve along with other wild beasts such as leopards, lion-tailed macaques, spotted deer and elephants, crocodiles, peacocks and much more.
A photographer’s paradise, ATR prods the photographer’s mind for more. You can view nearly 70 species of fishes and amphibians, over 120 varieties of reptiles, 80 species of mammals, over 300 types of birds, more than 39 RED endangered and threatened species of plants, and much more.
Best Time to visit Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Anamalai Tiger Reserve is open to visitors all year round however the best time to visit is between June and February.
Timings of Anamalai Tiger Reserve
Anamalai Tiger Reserve opens at 6am and closes at 6pm. You can indulge in canter safaris or jeep safaris or even elephant safaris, depending on the availability.
Entry fees of Anamalai Tiger Reserve
The entry fee at Anamalai Tiger Reserve is between Rs. 5 to Rs. 30 for Indians and Rs. 50 to Rs. 300 for Foreigners. If you wish to carry your camera inside, then the fee is Rs. 50 for Still Camera and Rs. 30 for Handy Cam or Video Camera.
Elephant Safari charges at Anamalai Tiger Reserve
If you wish to go on an Elephant ride at Anamalai Tiger Reserve, the charge is Rs. 600 with a maximum of up to 4 people.
For more information, you can connect with the park officials to help you better.
15. Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Welcome to Parambikulam Tiger Reserve located in Palakkad, Kerala. Popular for its safaris and jungle treks, the frenzy of gorgeous rivers and beautiful waterfalls, makes this place a haven for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is blessed with peninsular vegetation and a great way to connect with nature.
Some of the most inclusive animals here are Travancore Kukri snakes, Indian leopards, lion-tailed macaques, King Cobra, flying lizard, wild boars, etc.
#Trivia: There are approx. 35 or more tigers living in the vast expanse of Parambikulam.
It came into existence officially in 1973, after the merger of the teak plantation and wildlife sanctuary. You can regale in different types of trekking expeditions along with a tourist guide that can vary from Elephant song trail to pugmark trekking trail or bear path trekking trail.
Best Time to visit Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve can be enjoyed best between October to March where people can actually spot different animals.
Timings of Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve remains open on all days from 7am to 6pm.
Entry Fees at Parambikulam Tiger Reserve
Each trek has a different rate specified for Indian nationals and foreigners. The general fee for different trekking trails can start at Rs. 1200 per head and go up to Rs. 6100 per head.
General entry fees at Parambikulam Tiger Reserve are between Rs. 50 to Rs 200 and can be best found out at the park office.
Welcome to Nature’s own Abode only at Parambikulam.
16. Kanha Tiger Reserve
Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, India (Image credit: vincentvanzalinge@unsplash)
Ranked as one of the best national parks in Asia, the Kanha Tiger Reserve and National park is an impeccable tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh. The largest park in Central India, it is home to diverse flora and fauna.
Officially established in 1955, Kanha National Park is said to be the setting of Rudyard Kipling’s – the Jungle Book.
#Trivia: It houses the rare and unique deer species – the Barasingha.
It is home to different animals including wild dogs, pythons, wild cats, foxes, hyenas, leopards, jackals, etc.
There are approx.. over 65 tigers said to roam around freely in the expansive forests of Kanha, making it a haven for all wildlife enthusiasts to capture a picture or see one at a distance.
Best time to visit Kanha Tiger Reserve
Kanha Tiger Reserve is best enjoyed between October to April when the weather is pleasant to explore the jungle.
Safari Entry Fee and Timings at Kanha Tiger Reserve
There are a lot of jeep safaris available within the premise of Kanha Tiger Reserve with distinct timelines- 6am to 11am and 3pm to 6pm. On an average the safari will cost you anywhere between Rs. 1000 to Rs. 2000 for a full jeep.
You can also enjoy an elephant safari at Kanha Tiger Reserve that may cost you Rs. 300 to Rs. 600 per head.
Be one with nature only at Kanha.
17. Nagarhole Tiger Reserve
Located in the Kodagu District of Karnataka, Nagarhole National Park is also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park. With an astounding population of over 90 tigers roaming freely in the premises of the park, Nagarhole is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true.
It forms a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere reserve and can be seen with an expansive vegetation, flora and fauna spread over acres of land. The park comprises a rich forest green cover, small streams, waterfalls, valleys and much more.
The fauna of the park includes different wild animals such as leopards, Gaur, Elephants, chital and sambar deer, striped hyena, wild boar, Ussuri dhole, four-horned antelope and much more. It is also home to over 270 species of avifauna, different reptiles and mammals along with a vast insect biodiversity.
Safari Entry Fee and Timings at Nagarhole Tiger Reserve
A jeep safari at Nagarhole Tiger Reserve is the most preferred way of moving around the forest. The timings are generally between 6am to 8am and evening 3pm to 5pm. The entry fee at Nagarhole Tiger Reserve depends on the forest regulations and differs for Indians and Foreigners.
If you have a tiger to spot, Nagarhole is the place to be!
18. Bor Wildlife sanctuary
The smallest tiger reserve in India is the Bor Wildlife Sanctuary. It is said to house around 5 tigers only and is the 47th tiger reserve of the country. It is located in Wardha district of Maharashtra and falls in the crucial location between Tadoba-Andhari and Pench tiger reserves, located in Chandrapur and Nagpur districts respectively.
#Trivia: It was declared a tiger reserve in 2014. It is centrally located among other tiger habitats namely Nagzira Navegaon tiger reserve, Melghat tiger reserve, Satpura tiger reserve and Umred Karhandla wildlife sanctuary.
You can spot the barking deer, Indian leopard, mouse deer, wild boar, Indian bison, amongst other faunal species here. There are more than 150 types of birds residing in the park as well. Six endangered reptile families are also seen residing here viz. Indian rock python, Indian rat snake, Russel Viper, Indian Cobra, Chequered keelback, and Monitor lizard.
19. Panna Tiger reserve
Bestowed with the Award of Excellence in 2007 as the best maintained national park in India, Panna Tiger Reserve is one of the smallest national parks in the country. With approx.. 30 tigers residing in the national park, there is said to be a fluctuating population problem of tigers in the vicinity.
#Trivia: It was declared a national park in 1981 and a tiger reserve in 1994 and is the 22nd tiger reserve of the country.
The park is home to Nilgai, sambar deer, jackals, chital, chinkara, hyena, wild cats, etc. along with over 200 types of avifauna.
The Panna Tiger reserve is open for visitors from 16th Oct to 30th June, however, it depends on the park authorities based on the weather conditions. You can enjoy a boat ride through the water body to spot the water predators and enjoy elephant rides in the morning, along with the option of jeep safari.
Entry Fees at Panna Tiger reserve
Entry fees at Panna Tiger reserve for Indians is Rs. 40 per person and Rs. 500 per person for Foreigners. Carrying a camera will cost you approx.. Rs. 40 and video recorder Rs. 200.
Boat ride at Panna Tiger reserve costs Rs. 150 per person for Indians and Foreigners.
Timings of Panna Tiger reserve
Entry timings to the Panna Tiger reserve are from 6am to 10:30am and 2:30pm to 5:30pm.
Safari Entry Fee at Panna Tiger reserve
Jeep safari at Panna Tiger reserve costs around Rs. 1500 for half day.
Elephant safari at Panna Tiger reserve costs Rs. 100 per person for Indians and Rs. 600 per person for Foreigners.
Night Safari at Panna Tiger reserve is priced at Rs. 1800 per jeep.
20. Satpura Tiger Reserve
Satpura is a quaint park located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh. Established in the year 1981, it is home to a variety of wild animals such as the Blackbuck, Leopard, Ussuri Dhole, Indian Gaur, Sloth Bear, and much more.
#Trivia: Satpura is a congregation of 7 mountains that start from Maharashtra, crossing over Madhya Pradesh and finally terminating at Chhattisgarh. The Satpura range is heavily forested and is home to many national parks.
It covers a huge mass by combining the Bori Wildlife sanctuary and Pachmarhi wildlife sanctuary. This tiger reserve got included under Project Tiger in 1999 and became known as Bodi-Satpura Tiger Reserve. It was awarded the TOFT Wildlife Tourism Award in 2010 as the most visitor-friendly wildlife destination. As compared to other wildlife sanctuaries, Satpura is relatively less-crowded where one can hear the sounds of nature resonating through the spaces.
#Trivia: It was first explored by Captain James Forsyth of Bengal lancers in 1862 and was declared the first reserve forest of India.
There are over 300 species of birds, 52 species of mammals and 30 species of reptiles that are found in the vast expanse of Satpura National Park. The number of tigers in the forest are yet undisclosed but is said to be a great place to spend some quality time with family and friends.
Safari Timings at Satpura Tiger Reserve
The Satpura Tiger Reserve remains open from November to May. The safari timings in winter are from 6:30am to 10:30am and 2:30pm to 5:30pm; summer timings are from 5:45am to 9:30am and 3pm to 6:30pm.
Safari Entry fee at Satpura Tiger Reserve
The safari at Satpura Tiger Reserve is priced at Rs. 3800 approx. for Indians and Rs. 5800 approx. for Foreigners. Elephant safari in the buffer zone is priced at Rs. 600 per person and canoeing down the Denwa river to Tawa reservoir is priced at Rs. 1000 per person approx..
#Didyouknow- There are 50 tiger reserves in India and is home to more than 70% of the tiger population of tigers in the world! As per the census carried out in 2018, there are approximately 2967 tigers living in India.
21. Dandeli – Anshi Tiger Reserve
Dandeli National Park is located in Karnataka. Along with its neighbouring Anshi national park, it was declared a part of Anshi-Dandeli Tiger Reserve in the year 2006. It was also notified as a Dandeli Elephant reserve under Project Elephant in 2015. It was renamed as Kali Tiger Reserve in 2015.
#Trivia: It is the 2nd elephant reserve in Karnataka after Mysuru Elephant reserve that was declared one in 2002.
It is a haven for birdwatchers and photography enthusiasts because of the openness of the park and a trip down the river Kali. It houses around 200 species of birds.
#Trivia: It is the only Tiger Reserve in India to report frequent sightings of the Black Panther!
There are a total of 13 tigers supposedly residing in Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve. Even if it gets a little difficult to spot the tigers in Kali Tiger Reserve, it is much easier to see other species of wild animals viz. elephants, mouse deer, leopard cat, Indian bison, grey slender loris, flying squirrel, etc.
Entry Fee of Crocodile Park at Dandeli – Anshi Tiger Reserve
Tourists can also enjoy viewing the Crocodile park located in the premise of Kali Tiger Reserve at a nominal fee of Rs. 20 per person approx.. If you are lucky, you can spot the crocs in their natural habitat basking in the sun or lying around lazily in the water.
Safari Entry Fee and Timings at Dandeli – Anshi Tiger Reserve
Tourists can enjoy river rafting in the Kali river or Jeep safari within the Kali Tiger Reserve at Rs. 450 per person approx.. The park safari remains operational between 6am to 8am and 4pm to 6pm every day.
Get your trekking and water sport gears ready and visit Kali Tiger Reserve or Dandeli-Anshi Tiger Reserve today!
22. Nagzira Tiger Reserve
Notified as the 46th Tiger reserve in India and the 5th in Maharashtra, Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve is located in the Bhandara and Gondia districts of Maharashtra. The park is home to different types of flora and fauna such as Indian gaur, tigers, nilgai, chital, wild boar, barking deer, sloth bear, mouse deer, wild dog, etc.
It houses more than 160 species of birds, 34 species of mammals, 36 species of reptiles and around 4 amphibians. The Nagzira Tiger reserve is said to have around 20 tigers residing here, as per official reports.
Best Time to visit Nagzira Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit the Navegaon-Nagzira Tiger Reserve (NNTR) is between October to May.
Safari Entry Fee and Timings at Nagzira Tiger Reserve
The safari at Nagzira Tiger Reserve takes place between 6am to 10am and 2pm to 6pm. The entry fees range between Rs. 20 to Rs. 50 for Indians and guide fees is approx.. Rs. 200.
23. Melghat Tiger Reserve
Among the first 9 tiger reserves to be notified under Project Tiger in 1974, Melghat Tiger Reserve is located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra. It is said to house over 40 tigers and is home to different types of flora and fauna.
It was declared as Melghat Wildlife Sanctuary in 1985. This tiger reserve is also home to different wild animals such as Sloth Bear, Jackal, Caracal, Ratel, Chinkara, Blue bull, Wild Dog, different types of deer, porcupine, rhesus monkey, and much more. The endangered and ‘back from extinction’ Forest Owlet is also seen in different locations of Melghat.
It is home to over 260 species of birds, 80 species of mammals, 90 species of fish, etc.
Entry Fee at Melghat Tiger Reserve
Tourists can visit the Melghat Tiger Reserve from December to June and enjoy the safari organized by the forest department. The entry fees to visit Melghat Tiger Reserve vary from Rs. 15 to Rs. 60 for Indians or Foreigners.
#Trivia: It is one of the oldest tiger reserves of India.
Come and regale in the sounds of nature only at Melghat, Maharashtra!
24. Manas Tiger Reserve
Manas National Park or Wildlife Sanctuary is located at the foothills of Himalayas-Bhutan in the state of Assam and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Project Tiger reserve, a biosphere reserve and an elephant reserve. Phew! With such an elaborate list of specifications, the Royal Manas National park is home to endemic wildlife that is not found anywhere in the world like Assam Roofed Turtle, Golden Langur, Pygmy Hog, and Hispid Hare. It is also famous for its population of the water wild buffalo.
The reserve is rich in fauna that holds more than 450 species of birds, 55 recorded species of mammals, 3 species of amphibians and 50 reptiles.
#Trivia: Manas Wildlife Sanctuary was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1985 and is one of the first reserves to be included under Project Tiger in 1973.
There are nearly 60 tigers residing in the vicinity of Manas Tiger Reserve, as per reports. Manas is probably the site of what earth looked like before being inhabited by man.
Best Time to visit Manas Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit Manas Tiger Reserve is between November to April. You need to obtain permits to enter the forest area and can be obtained by the Forest department. Private jeep tours are the most reliable to explore the sanctuary as the department does not provide any jeep or guides.
Entry fees at Manas Tiger Reserve
For Indians, the entry fee at Manas Tiger Reserve is approx. Rs. 50 per person for half day and Rs. 200 per person for full day. For Foreigners, the fee is Rs. 500 per person for half day and Rs. 2000 per person for full day.
Photography is a must try at the Manas Tiger Reserve and the charges include Rs. 50 for Indians, Rs. 500 for foreigners; Videography is priced at Rs. 500 for Indians and Rs. 1000 for foreigners.
Safari Entry Fee and timings at Manas Tiger Reserve
The Safari timings at Manas Tiger Reserve are from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm every day.
Jeep Safaris can be hired at Rs. 3000 for 4 people half day; Rs. 5000 for 4 people full day.
Elephant safari Manas Tiger Reserve is priced at Rs. 500 for Indians and Rs. 1550 for foreigners. The timings for the same are 6am and 7am only. Morning safaris are the best way to explore the flora and fauna of the park.
Try river rafting over the 35-km stretch of azure waters that will transcend you into a different world altogether. With an excellent stretch of green escapades, Manas Tiger Reserve promises to be a delight for all those visiting it.
25. Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
Welcome to the largest wildlife sanctuary of Tamil Nadu- Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve.
With diverse flora and fauna, Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve is heaven on earth comprising different types of mammals, reptiles, birds and wild animals. The park is noted for the presence of Blackbuck, Four horned antelope, gaurs, elephants, leopard, hyena, wild dog, deers, civets, and much more.
The critically endangered Indian Vulture along with three other species of vultures were discovered to be thriving in Moyar River valley in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve.
With proper conservation efforts, there are around 50 or more tigers in the vicinity of the reserve. Established in 2008, it was declared a tiger reserve in 2013.
#Trivia: It has received the award for the best managed tiger reserve from the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change.
Best Time to visit Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
July to November is the best season to visit Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve and can be explored in a Jeep safari.
Safari Timings at Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve
The jeep safari at Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve takes place between 7:30am to 11am and 3pm to 6pm. Visitors are requested to reach 30 minutes prior to the safari.
Connect with nature and wilderness only at Sathyamangalam National Park.
26. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
The Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is located in Uttar Pradesh and comprises Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Dudhwa National Park and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is said to be home to nearly 90+ tigers residing harmoniously in their natural habitat.
While touring the park, you can also experience sightings of rhinoceros, swamp deer, elephants, hog deer, sambar, cheetal, etc. It was established as a National Park in 1977 and was declared as a Tiger Reserve in 1987. It falls under the Terai belt in the sub-Himalayan region and is known to be the most endangered ecosystems in the world.
#Trivia: The park is located very close to the border of Nepal.
Entry Fee at Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is open for visitors from 15th November to 15th June. The entry fee is Rs. 50 per person approximately.
Safari Entry Fee and Timings at Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
Jeep safari timings at Dudhwa Tiger Reserve are from 7am to 10am and 3pm to 6pm every day. and the fee is Rs. 100 for jeeps. Safaris can be coordinated with the help of the forest department or private tour operators in the vicinity.
The park spells an enchanting list of over 400 avifauna along with migratory and exotic birds.
Experience the magical sight of nature converging with the wild only at Dudhwa National park.
When we talk about tiger reserves and natural habitats, certain other parks come to the forefront as well. This includes Pilibhit National Park, Pakke tiger reserve, Amrabad tiger reserve, Similipal Tiger reserve, Valmiki Tiger Reserve, Bhadra Tiger reserve, Rajaji tiger reserve, Mukundra tiger reserve, Achanakmar tiger reserve, Indravati tiger reserve and much more.
#DidYouKnow:
The latest tiger reserve of India is Kamlang Tiger Reserve located in Arunachal Pradesh. With a staggering population of nearly 17 tigers living in the vicinity.
Orang Tiger reserve is the 49th tiger reserve of the country and has the highest density of tigers in any reserve with nearly 28 big cats located in a small vicinity of the park.
Palamau Tiger Reserve is one of the first original 9 reserves of the country and the only one in Jharkhand.
Bespoke beauty along with unprecedented wilderness and wild animals prancing about, these top 26 tiger reserves in the country are set to blow your mind away! Get your cameras prepped and take the journey of your life at these amazing National Parks and Tiger Reserves of India.
Lakshadweep offers tourists with not just a mesmerising natural setting but attracts them with its simplistic lifestyle and vibrant culture. Its diversified traditions and cultural practices add on to the overall charm of Lakshadweep.
The culture of Lakshadweep is similar to that of Kerala state to a large extent. Its proximity with the state of Kerala and its influence can be seen evidently in the cultural practices of those residing on the islands. The influence can be seen in not just practices but also in cuisine, dance and music of the place.
The main language of the people in Lakshadweep is Malayalam. However, one can find people speaking languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Oriya and Bengali.
Most of the people on the island follow Islamic religion which also defines the culture of Lakshadweep to some extent. However, there are other ethnic groups as well living on the islands.
If legends are to be believed, Hazrat Ubaidullah was the prophet and founder of Islam in Lakshadweep. Festivals such as Zikkar, Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Zuha form an important part of the Lakshadweep culture.
People of Lakshadweep
The Lakshadweep islands consist of a few prominent kinds of tribes namely Koyas, Malmis, Melacheris, Aminidivis and Manikfanss. The culture of Lakshadweep has been prominently influenced by these five major tribes.
The people who are believed to have inhabited the islands first are Aminidivis. The tribe Koyas used to be the landowners while the Malmis tribe used to work under them. The tribe Melacheries used to mainly constitute the working class or labour community.
The attire of Lakshadweep men and women represents a simplistic lifestyle. Lakshadweep men mostly wear tight pyjamas up to the ankles over which a white dhoti is wrapped around the waist. Upper part of the body used to be left bare but now most of the men wear a light shirt on top. A heat gear is must for all the adult men of the island.
Women in Lakshadweep wear Libu which is a long gown. There are some differences in the use of cloth materials based on the class structure. For instance, the most of the women of higher sections are seen wearing silk robes when compared to those of lower class. Women also wear headgear known as Phatugan.
The main industry of the islands are tuna, coir making, vinegar, jaggery and copra making. As coconut is the only crop grown in the region, their livelihood depends on this to an extent.
Another important part of Lakshadweep lifestyle is fishing. The handicrafts of Lakshadweep are also very popular all over the world. Artisans of the island create attractive jewellery and decorative items from coir, corals, shells and oysters.
The cuisine of Lakshadweep consists mainly of lots of spices and coconut. For non-vegetarians, there are mouth watering options of sea food and halal meat. The religion they follow and the cultural practices are not a direct result of Kerala’s culture but is a moulded form of the same.
After hectic and extremely engaging wedding ceremonies, couples look forward to their honeymoon. We all want our honeymoon to be a unique experience and try to make it as special as it can. Selecting the right place for honeymooning, a honeymoon destination that suits yours and your partner’s lists of requirements is very crucial. Choosing a destination for your dream honeymoon takes in lots of efforts, making the entire process more complicated than you think.
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We all are familiar with the saying that marriages are made in heaven. But what about honeymoon? Honeymoon for sure are something made on Earth. Honeymoon Planet, a division of Holidays DNA, present you with varied options for honeymoon packages in India. Offering honeymoon packages are of varying kinds, catering to different needs of couples planning for a honeymoon in India. You will be presented with a varied list of honeymoon themes and destinations in India and you can choose the best of it.
India honeymoon packages varying from 2 days to 12 days and of different budget limits are available with Honeymoon Planet. We assist you in selecting the best honeymoon theme that suits your preferences and requirements. We, as the best honeymoon tour operators in India, provide you with all kinds of details that are necessary to make an informed decision and to choose a mesmerizing honeymoon destination.
Some of the top honeymoon destination in India includes hill station such as Manali, Ooty, Shimla, Darjeeling, Coorg-Mysore, etc along with culturally rich places like Rajasthan, Gujarat, etc. Beaches also create an immensely romantic setting to spend your honeymoon. Beaches in India like Goa, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep Islands, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh offer couples with soothing atmosphere to spend some quality time with their beloved.
Pristine beaches of Kerala with vast ocean around and lushness of palm trees create a relaxed atmosphere which is very much needed after the hustle bustle of marriages that are generally very engaging events and leave couples with no time to spend with each other.
Not just beaches, even the hill stations of Kerala, Munar being the most popular of them, creates a heavenly setting with dense vegetation and calming surroundings around. The greenery of these hill stations and exotic life flourishing at these places present couple with the much needed break. Options like tree houses and houseboats to stay along with resorts equipped with all kinds of modern facilities promises to make your honeymoon even more special and memorable.
Wildlife of Thekkady, Beaches of Kovalam, Poovar, Varkala, Alleppey and Cherai, Hill stations of Munnar, Dhoni, Wayanad, Maniyamkunnu, etc make honeymoon in India worth cherishing. Not just the natural wonders, Kerala honeymoon packages pampers you with excellent cuisines and hospitality as well. Its cuisines though promises a heavenly experience for non-vegetarians, have excellent dishes for vegetarians as well.
There are many aspects which need to be considered before selecting on one honeymoon package. The mere name of a honeymoon package doesn’t tell you anything. From honeymoon flower bed decoration, honeymoon cake, candle lit dinner, transportation to staying to the activities you might want to do, to the places you might want to go for sightseeing, need to be properly discussed and analysed before you make your selection.
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It is not in every city that you find a place bestowed with scenic beauty and full of exquisite flora and fauna. Bannerghatta National Park, which is approximately 21 km from the city of Bangalore, presents tourists with perfect weekend options.
There is nothing like relaxing amidst the refreshing natural setting after hectic work pressure and monotony of daily chores. The excitement of seeing the bravest of all the animals, tigers, from a few inches of distance and the pleasure of looking at colourful and exotic plants is unexplainable.
Established in the year of 1971, Bannerghatta National Park is spread across 104.27 sq. km and has ten reserve forests of Anekal Range of the Bangalore Forest Division under it. Once at the national park, you will have more than one option to keep yourself engaged.
Along with the national park, Bannerghatta has an Aquarium, a Zoo, a Children’s park, a Crocodile Farm, a Snake park, a Prehistoric animals park and a Museum. From families with children to adventure lovers, everyone has something of their choice here.
The overall beauty of the park gets a boost from the Suvarnamukhi stream, originating in the Suvarnamukhi hills and runs through the park. Suvarnamukhi hills spread out to a huge rock and have the famous Champaka Dhama Swamy temple which belongs to the Hoysala age at the foothill of the rock. The Suvarnamukhi pond that is 2 km away is believed to have curative powers.
Fauna at Bannerghatta Park
Park is famous for tigers, Lions, Thamin deer, hog deer, king cobra, Himalayan black bear and Malabar giant squirrel. You can also spot wild animals such as Elephant, gaur, leopard, jackal, fox, wild pig, sambar, chital, spotted deer, barking deer. Others include common langur, bonnet macaque, porcupine, the hare, pangolin, slender loris and huge monitor lizards like cobras, pythons, kraits and Russell vipers in the national park. Tiger and Lions can be seen across 25,000 acres of the Park which is securely fenced.
The park has an amazing population of birds as well, adding charming colours to the park. Cormorants, white ibis, little green heron, grey heron, paradise flycatcher, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Common Grey Hornbill, White bellied Drongo, Spotted Owlet, Collared Scops owl, Mottled Wood Owl, Eurasian Eagle owl and Brown Fish owl are few constituting the avian population of the park.
Flora at Bannerghatta National Park
The Bannerghatta National Park has mainly moist deciduous teak forest. Bamboos are quite common in the park with Dendrocalamus strictus being the most commonly found species.
Commonly found species of plants in the park are Anogeissus latifolia, Schleichera oleosa, Terminalia tomentosa, sandal, neem, T. arjuna. Grewia tiliaefolia, Santalum album, tamarind, chujjullu, Shorea talura, Emblica officinalis, Vitex altissima, jalari, Wrightia tinctoria, Randia sp. Ziziphus sp. and Albizia sp. There is a small area in the park which has mainly plantations of Eucalyptus, Bauhinia purpurea, Samanea saman and Peltophorum pterocarpum.
Activities at Bannerghatta National Park
Bannerghatt National Park is one of the top tourist places to visit in Bangalore and you have umpteen number of options for activities near the national park. Apart from rides in open jeeps, mini buses, vans and elephants, tourists can go for fishing, Coracle boat rides, Bird watching, River rafting and Outdoor camping.
There are various trekking places as well. Some of these are Uddigebande (3.5 km), a natural rock formation called Hajaamana Kallu (3 km) and Mirza Hill (1.5 kms)
Things to do at Bannerghatta National Park
1. Elephant Sanctuary
Engage, interact and play with giant elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary. It is the first sanctuary that has fenced boundaries for elephants to roam inside the park freely, without imposing any restrictions. The sanctuary covers an area of 122 acres and was designed by Carol Buckley.
2. Bannerghatta Zoo
Home to an array of wildlife exhibits, the Zoo in Bannerghatta National Park comprises more than 1900 animals such as Hog Deer, Thamin Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, King Cobra and many more. You can also find reptiles and mammals along with colourful birds living peacefully here.
3. Butterfly Park
Visit the Butterfly Park to see a wide variety of butterflies. Established in the year 2006, the Butterfly Park, being first of its kind in India, is one of the major attractions in the national park that attracts tourists from all over the world, whether you’re a kid, young adult or a senior citizen. Spread across an area of 7.5 acres, the park has almost 48 different species of butterflies along with a museum and an audio-visual room.
4. Champaka Dhama Swamy Temple
Featuring Dravidian style of architecture, Champaka Dhama Swamy Temple is a religious spot in the park that welcomes people to take blessings of the presiding deity Lord Champakadhama, which is believed to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple also boasts of the idol of Bhudevi and Sridevi as well.
5. Rescue Centre
A centre where you can see plenty of animals that are rescued from the streets, circuses and other unwanted places. These include leopards, cheetahs, squirrels, chipmunks, panthers, hyenas, etc.
Entry Fee and Timings of Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore
The Bannerghatta Park is open for its tourists from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on every Tuesday of the week. You can buy tickets for entry into the Zoo and Safaris at the main entrance.
To visit the Bannerghatta Zoo Park in Bangalore, you need to pay INR 100 per person for adults, INR 60 for senior citizens above 60 and INR 50 for children between 6 to 12 years of age. However, the entrance fee for the Butterfly Park is separate from the Zoo Park ticket, which is INR 50 for adults and INR 30 for both senior citizens and children.
On a tour to this recreational and leisure park, you can also enjoy safari rides. For a non-AC Bus Safari ride, the Bannerghatta Park charges INR 300 for adults, INR 200 for senior citizens and INR 150 for children from Monday to Friday and INR 350 for adults, INR 250 for senior citizens and INR 200 for children on weekends and government holidays.
While, on the other side, for AC Bus Safari ride, the ticket price is INR 600 for adults and INR 400 for children on weekdays and INR 650 for adults and INR 450 for children on weekends and government holidays. You can also opt to enjoy the Jeep Safari ride, which costs from INR 3500 to INR 5500 depending upon the type of vehicle you choose for the ride.
Travel Tips for Bannerghatta National Park
Do not try feeding the animals and birds that are kept in cages. If you do so, you will be responsible for your own harm (in case if anything happens).
Choose clothes that complement the natural colour of nature. In short, please avoid wearing something too bright or fluorescent in colour.
Wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your visit to Bannerghatta Park. You may need to walk a lot to explore its surroundings fully.
Always carry a pair of sunglasses and a hat with you, especially in the hottest months of the year. Sometimes, the weather gets pretty hot in the afternoons.
Keep your food, liquids and other beverages safe. The monkeys roaming around might try to snatch them away from you.
Refrain from throwing the waste material here and there. There are several dustbins in the park to dispose of things.
You’re not allowed to take the plastic items or plastic covers inside the zoo premises. Such things will be transferred into paper bags at the entry.
If you’re planning to visit Bannerghatta Park on weekends, it is advisable to reach there before 2 PM in the afternoon. After that, the place starts getting overcrowded with each passing hour and you might not get the safari tickets.
There is a facility for booking the tickets for jeep safari online. It’s a better option to avoid the unusual crowd at the ticket counters.
Best Time to Visit Bannerghatta National Park
As a citizen of Bangalore, you can pave your way towards Bannerghatta National Park at any time. But if you are visiting the city as a tourist, the recommended time would be during the winter i.e., from October month to the March month.
At this time, the overall climate conditions are quite pleasant, delightful and enjoyable and are ideal to explore the vibrant wildlife around the park. Also, since this is the time that comes right after the monsoon season in Karnataka, it makes the sightseeing and outdoor activities perfect for everyone.
Please note that October’s first week is also considered as the Wildlife week and to celebrate it, the local forest department organizes various events in the Bannerghatta National Park for your entertainment. So, if you want to be a part of such programs, you need to plan your trip accordingly.
Facilities at Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore
Bannerghatta National Park offers a wide variety of facilities for its tourists so that you can make the most of your visit and enjoy it. Some of the facilities include:
Parking Space
For all those who are driving all the way can park their vehicle in the authorized parking space of Bannerghatta Park. It has enough parking space, with approximately 2500 two-wheeler and four-wheeler vehicles that can be parked at a time.
Drinking Water:
To cater to everyone’s needs, the park has installed the drinking water facilities at every corner of the place. You can also buy water bottles from the vendors inside the park.
Restrooms
With 4 restrooms scattered at four different locations around Bannerghatta Park, you can use any of the washrooms as per your convenience. The restrooms can be found near the zoo expansion area, parking area, Nocturnal enclosure and Gharial enclosure.
Baby Care Unit
In case if you’re travelling with a newborn kid, you need not worry about his/her care. There are 2 baby care units, with each unit having diaper changing and feeding facilities for families.
Other facilities such as the Cloak Room, Library, Wheelchairs, Umbrella, Information Kiosk, Battery Operated Vehicle and Sit Out Benches are also available at the park for your convenience. You can also stop at the various restaurants to munch on your favourite snacks or meals. JLR Hill View is one of the restaurants which is inside the zoo and the two restaurants that are located just outside the zoo are BMTC Annapurna and KSTDC Vanashree Mayura.
Places to Visit Near Bannerghatta National Park
Though there is no shortage of places to visit in Bangalore, but if you are at or somewhere near to Bannerghatta National Park and have some time to explore the nearby attractions, you can consider the following tourist interests:
Uddigebande
Nestled just a few steps away from the park is the Uddigebande where you can try your hand at trekking and make the most of your adventure. It is undoubtedly a perfect spot for all those who want to do something exciting and unique on their visit to Bangalore. From here, adventure enthusiasts can plan a trek either to Hajaamana Kallu or Mirja Hill as per their own choice.
Chudahalli Reservoir
An idyllic destination for travel bloggers and photographers, Chudahalli Reservoir is a great place to relax and rejuvenate your mind away from the busy city life. Located on the outskirts of the city, it is a picturesque location that is located only 15 km away from Bannerghatta Park.
Ramanagara
Enjoy an hour drive away from the national park and you will reach Ramanagara, which is the name of the small town you must have heard in the superhit Bollywood movie “Sholay”. Encompassed by several breathtaking hills, this place is widely known for its harvest of silk and is also a heaven for rock climbers.
Byatarayana Doddi Lake
Take some time off for Byatarayana Doddi Lake to spend some ME time on your Bangalore tour. Located 6 km away from Bannerghatta Park, the Byatarayana Doddi Lake invites you to take a refreshing plunge in the water, do boating or simply sit back on the shores of it.
A few of the other places such as Cubbon Park, Bangalore Aquarium, Bangalore Palace, ISKCON Temple, Jawahar Bal Bhawan, National Gallery of Modern Art, Wonderla Bangalore. Also not to miss places like Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain Park can also be visited in Bangalore if you’re in the visit for a week or more.
Reaching Bannerghatta National Park
Getting to Bannerghatta National Park from Bangalore is pretty easy. You can either take a BMTC City Bus or simply look for a Bangalore Car Rental Service for a hassle-free experience. However, to reach the park, you first need to arrive in Bangalore that can be done through the following modes of transportation:
By Air
Bangalore International Airport, also referred to as Kempegowda International Airport, is approximately 55 km away and takes nearly 1.5 hours to cover this stretch. From the airport, opt for an airport taxi to cover the entire distance in less time. While taking a taxi to the park is an expensive option, catching the bus is undoubtedly a pocket-friendly way.
By Train
Catch a direct train to Bangalore City Railway Station or Yesvantpur Junction from New Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai, Visakhapatnam, etc., to experience a comfortable railway journey to Bangalore. Both stations are the main stations of the city and offer frequent local transportation services to its visitors.
By Bus
Kempegowda Bus Stand is 35 km away from the park and can be covered in 1 hour, whereas Majestic Bus Stand is 23 km away and takes sometimes 1 hour and 27 minutes due to the traffic. If you have taken a bus that will drop you at Majestic Bus Stand, you can also follow the NH 48 route, which is the fastest route to reach Bannerghatta Park.
To commute within the city at your convenience, we have prepared a list of top car rental companies in Bangalore from where you can hire a vehicle at competitive prices and enjoy travelling in a relaxed manner.
Suiting to your holiday style, our travel experts have curated all-inclusive Bangalore city tour packages for your ease. Other than that, several travel deals are also available for valuable clients. To avail the benefits, we request you to fill in the Contact Us form.
If you are somebody who has a soft corner for history & architecture, the little town of Ahar will become your favourite, especially because of the beautiful & majestic architecture of Ahar Cenotaphs.
What makes this Cenotaph special is the fact that it is the cremation ground of the royal rulers of Mewar. This also makes it renowned for being an archaeological site that offers amusing facts to archaeologists, research scholars & students.
As soon as you enter the Cenotaphs, you will be greeted with vibes of courage, pride and valor of the mighty rulers. There are approximately 19 cenotaphs of the kings from different generations who were cremated here and the cenotaph that is dedicated to Maharana Amar Singh is the most alluring.
What is also very interesting is the change in the architecture of the cenotaphs in each generation. Travellers often come here to pay homage to them. Undoubtedly, it is one of the finest places to visit in Udaipur, considering it’s a little offbeat yet comfortably located.
These royal cenotaphs are in a state of shambles and very few set of travellers visit this monument. However, that does not take away its charm. In fact, because you will see only a few people, you can enjoy the place all by yourself which enhances its beauty & your experience.
Not only each of the cenotaphs is beautiful but when you look at it entirely, it is breathtaking. It is also said that the Ahar cenotaphs have been shown in various movies, both Bollywood & Hollywood. It is not a usual tourist spot but will definitely add on to your memories.
Make sure to ask your tour operator to include Ahar Cenotaphs while you plan your Udaipur City Tour.
Architecture of Ahar Cenotaphs
Just like the other monuments in Rajasthan, this one too has a striking architecture that is bound to leave you spellbound. There are compelling pillars that are raised on big platforms.
These platforms are also sheltered by dome-shaped roofs (also known as Chattri). Several steps lead you to the central domes of the cenotaph which also makes it extremely Instagram worthy and a perfect spot to click photographs!
These cenotaphs are made using marbles and have erected pillars and domes with intricate carvings of flowers, human figures on them which makes it all the more gorgeous. Didn’t they say, the beauty lies in the details.
On top of these cenotaphs, you can also find a small ‘Shiv-Ling’ along with a statue of ‘Nandi Ji’. Explore Ahar Cenotaphs comfortably by booking a Udaipur Local Sightseeing Tours ahead.
History of Ahar Cenotaphs
Even though there are 19 cenotaphs of great significance, that is of the kings, this place boasts of 372 cenotaphs in total which were built over 400 years ago. It is also known as a Mahasatya, which is a burial and a cremation ground.
The domes are dedicated to Maharana Amar Singh Maharana Sangram Singh, Swaroop Singh, Shambhu Singh, Fateh Singh, Bhupal Singh, Bhagwat Singh Mewar and Sajjan Singh.
If you have an eye for great architecture, you will notice that the cenotaph of Maharaja Sangram Singh is quite interesting. It is supported with fifty-six pillars and has an octagonal-shaped dome at its centre.
Further, it is believed that in 1734, Maharana Sangram Singh and his 21 wives were cremated here. That is why you can also see an image of Lord Shiva along with a figure representing the king with their ‘Sati’ wives.
You should also catch a glimpse of the Gangodbhava, which is a holy pool, commonly known as a ‘kund’. This kund is surrounded by small ‘Chattris’ and is said to have a holy value and is of historical importance.
The kund is constructed in the classic architectural structure of a stepwell which is very common across Rajasthan. The Gangodbhava was used in early days to collect water. At the end of the steps is also a small temple of Lord Shiva. There is a certain grandeur & statement about this one.
Things to do at Ahar Cenotaphs
When at Ahar Cenotaphs, do consider spending quality time amid the beautiful royal heritage, glancing at every detail wondering about the incredible Craftsmanship!
Sit on the steps and watch birds take a flight over you. And if possible, try and visit at early sunset to see the magical hues over the tombs.
But without a doubt, taking a dozen good pictures at Ahar Cenotaphs should be a part of your bucket list of the top 10 things to do in Udaipur. Do note that you may find a big board saying Photography is prohibited.
We would recommend you spend between 30-60 minutes at this royal crematory.
Places to visit near Ahar Cenotaphs
Ahar Museum
Closely located is the Ahar Museum, which boasts of a rare collection of antiques. The museum is just 150m away from Ahar Cenotaphs and one can easily walk the distance.
You will be mesmerised to find copper and terracotta pottery from 3500 years ago. You can also find sculptures of Hindu gods and ‘Tirthankara’ (Jain Monks) from the 8th to 16th centuries AD. Another key attraction is the metal figure of Lord Buddha of the tenth century and a statue of Vishnu-Nag-Nathan.
Entry Fee and Timings of Ahar Cenotaphs
The Ahar Cenotaphs are open on all days from sunrise to sunset which is mostly from 6 am until 6 pm. However, the Ahar Museum Udaipur timings are from 10 am to 4:30 pm on all days except Fridays and Government holidays, so you might want to plan it accordingly.
There is no entry fee, meaning no lines, no guides & no commercialisation which is just a cherry on the cake! And the entry fee for Ahar Museum is just Rs. 3 (YES, you read that right).
How to reach Ahar Cenotaphs
One can easily reach here via a bus or an auto. Various local transport is easily available. Or you can even hire a taxi in Udaipur to ensure a swift visit. In case you can’t find Ahar Cenotaphs on Google Maps, you can use the location of Ahar Museum since both of them are located very closeby.
The distance from various popular landmarks are:
Udaipur Railway Station: 5.4km
Maharana Pratap Airport:19 km
Udaipur City Palace: 5.2 km
Lake Pichola: 6.1 km
All in all history / architectural buffs and anybody who is looking for peace & calm can surely spend a splendid time here. So, go ahead and add this to your itinerary of “Top 10 Udaipur Tourist Places” you need to see despite the fact that most tourist guides might say against it!
Like said by Sir George Eliot “Our dead are never dead to us until we have forgotten them.” These Cenotaphs of Ahar are keeping the Mighty Rulers of Mewar alive!
If there is a name that instantly brings peaceful thoughts to mind, it is that of Gautam Buddha. Lumbini Park in Hyderabad is a place that creates a similar effect on its visitors by transporting them to a state of Zen. This park is spread over a sprawling 75 acres of land and is one of the popular tourist places in Hyderabad both for relaxation and entertainment.
The park was developed by the Hyderabad Urban Development Authority in 1994 and is a part of the Buddha Purnima project of Hyderabad Urban Development Authority. Lumbini Park was named after the birthplace of Siddharth who later came to be known as Gautam Buddha.
This park was renamed in 2006 as T. Anjaiah Lumbini Park which included the name of T. Anjaiah who was the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh at that time. However, locals still call it the Lumbini Park, a name that is also popular amongst tourists.
Things to do at Lumbini Park in Hyderabad
One of the highlights of the park is a giant clock at the entrance of the park. This magnificent piece of art has been designed with several vibrant flowering plants. Visitors to the park can see seasonal flowering plants along with multiple varieties of cacti and rocks all over the park.
Lumbini Park is visited not just by adults who love to relax in the laps of nature but also by kids who love the fun rides at the park. For the people of Hyderabad, Lumbini Park is an entertainment park that has everything right form rides and swings for kids to lush green surroundings and a beautiful lake that makes it a perfect tourist spot.
There is a large statue of Lord Buddha at the park with one of his hands raised in a blessing pose. At several locations in the park, there are benches placed where you can sit and enjoy the ethereal beauty of the Hussain Sagar Lake.
Laser show in Lumbini Park Hyderabad
There is a Musical fountain at the park which is an attraction point for the visitors. Its water shoots up in the sky to create a screen on which a 3D light and sound show is projected. The theme of this show is centered on the history of Hyderabad and shows several unknown facets of the city.
3D technology used in this show is completely mesmerizing as an entire city is recreated out of light and water while streams of water dance to the tunes of music. This laser show takes place at the 2.5-acre auditorium inside the park.
Places around Lumbini Park Hyderabad
1. Hussain Sagar Lake and the Buddha Statue
Lumbini Park is situated close to the famous standing statue of Lord Buddha of Hyderabad. Tourists can also visit the Hussain Sagar Lake which is the largest artificial lake in Asia. There is a boating facility available at the lake which takes you to the Buddha Statue right at the center of the lake. This lake has quite a few boating options available for the tourists: the ferry, paddle boat, rowing boat, and speed boat.
If you love the thrill of whizzing over the lake, slashing away jets of water, you can select the speed boat option. You will be given life jackets to wear for safety purposes. The ferry ride is a slower option but one that you can choose if you want to have a serene experience of the lake. You can go to the Buddha statue via the ferry and spend some time enjoying the soft wind that carries with it droplets of water.
Paddle away with your partner in the paddle boat as you see your happy faces in the shimmering water of the lake. If you are a single traveler you can take the rowing boat. The entry fee for boating at Hussain Sagar Lake is INR 500.
2. Necklace Road
Just like Mumbai has its Queens Necklace, Hyderabad has Necklace Road which forms the backdrop of the Hussain Sagar Lake. The best time to relish its beauty is in the evening when you can either drive down there or take a stroll as the lights glisten in the water of the lake and create the effect of a necklace.
Amenities at the park
There are food outlets that serve snacks and beverages, restrooms and fresh drinking water facilities at the park which makes a visit to the park convenient. Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the park.
Lumbini Park Hyderabad Location
The park is located at Hussain Sagar Lake, opposite the Secretariat New Gate.
Entry Ticket for Lumbini Park
Adults: INR 20
Children: INR 10
Entry ticket for the laser show at the park: INR 50
You can buy the tickets to the park online also
Lumbini Park in Hyderabad timings
9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Timing for the Musical fountain at Lumbini Park Hyderabad
6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Timings for Lumbini Park Hyderabad laser show
The laser show takes place once every evening on weekdays and twice on Saturday and Sunday
7:15 PM on weekdays. 7:15 PM and 8:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday
Best time to visit Hyderabad
The best time to visit Lumbini Park is during winters to escape the harsh heat that plagues Hyderabad during summers. November to February is the time when the weather in Hyderabad is pleasant. It is perfect for spending an afternoon enjoying the beauty of the park and enjoying the laser show in the evening.
How to reach Lumbini Park Hyderabad
If you are coming directly from Rajiv Gandhi international airport of Hyderabad which is 32 km from the park, you can take a cab. From the city, you can take a cab or buses that play till the secretariat which is at a 5-minute walking distance from the park.
Kambalakonda Eco Park is a wildlife sanctuary that appeals to your sense of thrill and adventure with its extensive wildlife population in the folds of greenery that truly makes it an Eco-park. Characterized by a dense green evergreen forest and home to one of its key attractions, the leopard, Kambalakonda Eco Park is one of the top eco-parks of Andhra Pradesh. It is also one of the top tourist places to visit in Vizag.
The park has been managed by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department since 1970. Before that, the land of the sanctuary was under the Maharaja of Vizianagaram. Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park got its name from a hillock of the same name in the area.
Landscape of the park
There are four mountainous terrains in the park and all of them are equally magnificent and enthralling. Spread over an area of approximately 70.70 square km, the land of the sanctuary is dotted with meadows, scrubs, steep slopes, and hilly terrains.
Fauna at the park
The park is home to several species of animals and birds that will make you capture their beauty in your DSLRs. Jackals, leopards, Indian pangolin, chital, cobras, Russell’s viper, and Indian muntjac are some of the commonly sighted animals and reptiles. The park is also home to several birds like partridges, Asian paradise-flycatcher, treepies, quails, blue-tailed bee-eater, hoopoes and spot-billed duck.
Things to do in Kambalakonda Eco Park
Visitors to the sanctuary can take the help of local guides to cover the entire forest area and spot wildlife since these guides are familiarized with the behavior patterns of the animals. There is also a canteen in the park where you can get snacks and beverages.
Trekking
There are ten different trekking terrains at the park. The trekking starts around 6 AM and completing one terrain takes 3 hours to return. Trekkers can take the services of a guide if they want but prior intimation needs to be made at the reception to make the necessary arrangement for it.
Jungle Walk
During winters an activity that is quite popular among the locals is Jungle Walk where visitors walk through the jungle and spend time inside the forest on sunny days.
Boating
There is a small water storage facility at the park in the form of a lake and a boating facility is also available here.
Adventure Sports at Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park in Vizag
The whole point of eco-tourism in Andhra Pradesh is to promote tourism which does not disturb the wildlife or marine life while tourists can enjoy to the fullest. Adventure sports at the sanctuary are organized in an eco-friendly manner without using any motorized equipment. Ticket prices for each adventure sports activity are different.
Burma Bridge
70 meters above the ground, the Burma Bridge looks inviting with its multicolored ropes and wires but once you get on it you realize that it is not as easy as it looks.
Zip Lining
After the Burma Bridge is the zip lining activity which you can do wearing the protective gear to ensure your safety.
Goat walking
A bridge suspended 20 meters above the ground with round wooden logs to step on, this activity is super fun with your friends cheering you and booing at you for falling.
Rope Walking
This activity involves the participants being tied to a rope while they try to cross the bridge which is 50 meters above the ground. Since it is a strenuous activity where you need to pull yourself forward, you need to wear protective gloves while doing it.
Tire walking
Walk on tires joined together and suspended 20 meters above the ground in this fun but difficult to complete the activity.
Kayaking
Kayaking on a canoe in the beautiful lake is not just an adventure sport but a peaceful activity too.
Timings of Kambalakonda Eco-Tourism Park
Kambalakonda Eco Park is open from 9:00 AM to 4.30 PM on all days of the week.
Entry Fee for Kambalakonda Eco Park Vizag
The entry fee to visit Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is Rs. 10 for adults and Rs.5 for children. The charge for vehicle entry is Rs. 200 which includes entry fee for five members.
Cottages are charged at Rs.250 and Trekking charges are Rs.150 for a group of 10 members.
Location of Kambalakonda Eco Park in Vizag
The park is located on the Vijayanagaram-Srikakulam route which is 5km from Vizag city. It is situated by the side of National Highway 5 and easy to locate.
Places to see near Kambalakonda Eco Park
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is opposite Kambalakonda Eco Park and can be clubbed with the eco park.
Simhachalam temple in Visakhapatnam is not just a temple that holds its place among the revered religious sites of the country. It is also a monument that speaks to the aesthetics lovers, history buffs and travelers who wish to imbibe the essence of a city by visiting places that are a mirror of the past.
This sacred edifice is located on top of Simhadri hill, at a height of 800 mts above the sea level and is also known as Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple.
The Sanskrit translation of the word ‘Simha’ is a lion and ‘Achala’ means a hill and that is why the name Simhachalam was given to the temple.
In Odia language, ‘Simha’ means Lion and ‘Adri’ or ‘Anchala’ means a hill. The temple pays homage to Lord Narasimha, who is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Simhachalam temple in Vizag is one of the 32 temples of Lord Vishnu in the country and it is believed that it dates back to the medieval age.
The temple looks very impressive because of its stone carvings that showcase the excellent craftsmanship of the artisans and masons of that era. Even before you reach the temple, you are awestruck by its beauty from a distance.
Like most temples, Simhachalam temple has a fixed daily routine of prayers which is followed by devotees as well as tourists. The beauty of this temple has inspired several poets such as Adidam Sura Kavi and Kuchimanchi Timma Kavi, to base their works on it.
The history behind Simhachalam Temple in Vizag
Every temple has a story that either the locals or that historians have attached to it and it is this story and history which adds to the significance of that particular temple.
In the case of the Simhachalam temple too, there is a legend that talks about the origin and birth of the temple. The legend surrounding this temple talks about the story of Hiranyakashyap and Prahalad.
Hiranyaksha and Hiranyakashyap were brothers and demon kings who were strong adversaries of Lord Vishnu. When Hiranyaksha took control of the kingdom of the entire earth he decided to carry it to the nether region or ‘patal lok’.
Lord Vishnu then took the avatar of Varaha and rescued earth, in the process of killing Hiranyaksha. The death of his brother at the hands of Lord Vishnu angered Hiranyakashyap to no end and he pledged to kill Lord Vishnu to regain control and power over Earth.
Hiranyakashyap started praying to please Lord Brahma and after he had demonstrated his dedication, he was granted a boon by the Lord. This boon granted him immortality as he could not be killed when it was day or night, in the morning or at night, and neither by a human nor by a beast. Hiranyakashyap had framed this boon very carefully as he wanted to become invincible and immortal.
Hiranyakashyap’s son Prahalad was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu and this angered his father, who decided to kill his own son out of rage and jealousy. Hiranyakashyap pushed his son Prahalad off the Simhadri hill after trying various means to kill him and not succeeding.
This time Prahalad was saved by Lord Narasimha who not only saved him but also killed Hiranyakashyap in his Narasimha form which was neither human nor beast. It was Prahalad who built the Simhachalam Temple in Vizag dedicating it to Lord Narasimha.
Historians believe that after the end of that era which was known as Krita Yuga, the temple and the deity fell into neglect and decay. Crests of earth started consuming the idol at the temple slowly.
Several years later, the temple and the deity were discovered by Emperor Pururava from the Lunar Dynasty who was in the vicinity of the temple along with his wife Urvasi on an aerial chariot.
According to legends, the emperor was drawn towards the temple by divine powers and he found the idol almost immersed in the earth at the top of the hill. As he was clearing the Earth around the idol he heard a voice from the heavens addressing him not to uncover the image but to cover it with sandalwood paste.
The emperor was further instructed by this voice that the idol of Lord Narasimha should henceforth always be worshipped in this form. It decreed that only on the third day in the month of Vaisakha, once a year should his nijaswarupa be revealed to the devotees.
The king acted upon all the instructions, covering the idol with sandalwood paste. He built the temple again, grander than before and since then the temple has been visited by scores of devotees.
Stories vs history about the origin of the Simhachalam temple in Visakhapatnam
It is believed by historians that the scriptures in the temple date back to 1098-1099 AD which leads to the fact that the temple was built before the reign of Chola king Kullotunga-I. There are several old texts at this temple, one of which is an ancient illustration of a queen of Kalinga.
An inscription at the temple states that the eastern Ganga king of Orissa, Narasimha Dev, had built the main shrine of the temple approximately in 1267 AD. There are almost 252 texts in Oriya and Telugu at the temple and these texts talk about the long line of predecessors of the Simhachalam temple.
This has created several conflicting theories about the date of construction of this temple. No one ruler or dynasty can be given the full credit for the construction of this majestic structure.
Historians also believe that after he defeated the Gajapati ruler of Orissa Gajapati Prataparudra Dev twice, Sri Krishnadeva Raya had visited the temple twice: once around 1516 AD and then again in 1519 AD.
The walls of the Simhachalam temple in Vizag still bear the inscriptions that were made during the reign of Sri Krishnadeva Raya of Vijayanagara.
Saint Ramanujam, who was a renowned Indian scholar & mathematician, is said to have visited this temple in search of salvation. The religious practices and customs followed at the temple were laid down by him and they are based on Satvata Samhita which is a part of the 108 texts of the Pancharatra Agama.
For a period of 40 years from 1564 AD to 1604 AD, the temple was dormant in terms of religious activity. When the temple came under the purview of the state government in 1949 it regained its religious fervor. The temple is currently being managed by the Simhachalam Devasthanam Board.
Simhachalam temple: an architectural delight
The architecture style of the temple reflects the Kalinga-Dravidian style, with a square two-tier structure like a verandah, atop which there is a small tower. There are three courtyards and five gateways in the temple.
A long flight of thousand stairs cuts through this two-tier square structure to take you to the top of the temple. The verandah is made out of dark granite and is adorned with traditional floral designs and scenes from the Vaishnav Puranas. It houses a statue of a horse-driven chariot as well. On the porch of the temple, there is a sixteen pillared mandapam.
The temple has a five-tier rajagopuram on its western gateway but the devotees are allowed inside the temple through a side door that takes them to the Kalyana mantapa (wedding hall). This mandap is outside the main sanctum of the temple and is also known as natyamandapam. It was here that the marriage rites for the divine are performed.
The magnificent natyamandapam is supported by 96 black stone pillars that have been arranged in sixteen rows. Each of these pillars has beautiful carvings that are different from each other. The thirty-two avatars of Lord Narasimha are carved on the pillars of the Kalyana mantapa.
One of these pillars is called the kappa stambham or ‘tribute pillar’ and it is believed by the locals that this pillar has healing powers and of granting the wish of children to women.
There is a stone car with stone wheels and prancing horses made out of stone in the verandah. Two tanks in the temple premises: Swami Pushkarini tank which is near the temple and Gangadhara tank which is at the bottom of the hill add to its grandeur.
Simhachalam Temple is visited not just by devotees but also by tourists who are enchanted by its architectural finesse.
Interiors of Simhachalam temple
A unique feature of Simhachalam Temple is that it is the only temple in the country with the idol of the Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swami form of Lord Vishnu. This avatar of Lord Vishnu is a combination of his third and fourth incarnation and the idol is in the tribhanga posture.
The two and a half feet tall idol of the deity has two hands, the head of a lion and a human torso: a form which is neither human nor beast. This idol of Varaha Narasimha has been placed in a hall which is called Prahlada mandapa. On both sides of the idol of Lord Narasimha, there are idols of Sridevi and Bhudevi which are seen holding lotus flowers.
An interesting fact about the idol of Lord Narasimha is that there are no ornaments or drapery on it. The temple celebrates the traditions of the Vaishnavite culture, and this is reflected in the inscriptions that grace the temple.
Festivals celebrated at Simhachalam Temple
If you wish to see the idol of Lord Narasimha then you must visit the temple during the Akshay Tritiya festival. At this time the statue of the deity can be seen in its true form for 12 hours whereas at all other times the idol is kept covered with sandalwood paste.
It is one of the most important festivals observed at the Simhachalam temple and is also known as Chandanotsava or Chandan Yatra.
On this auspicious day, chandan or sandalwood paste which covers the idol of Lord Narasimha all the year-round is removed for a short duration of 12 hours only at around 4:00 AM.
Thereafter, prayers and ‘abhisheka’ are offered till 6:00 AM, after which the devotees are allowed to enter the shrine and witness the holy beauty of the deity. This sandalwood paste is applied to the idol on full moon days of the Vaisakha, Jyeshta, and Ashadha months.
In the evening, several rituals are performed at the temple like bathing services which start with Chandanabhisheka in which water mixed with sandalwood powder is used.
This is followed by Sahasrakalasabhisheka in which water from a thousand metal pots is used for the ‘abhisheka’ of the idol. After the prayers, the last ceremony is offering three different kinds of ‘Prasadam’ to Lord Narasimha.
Another important festival celebrated every year on ashada purnima at the temple is the giripradakshina, in which lakhs of devotees walk around the Simhachalam hill. Some other festivals that are zealously celebrated at the temple are Narasimha Jayanti, Navaratrotsava and Kamadahana.
How to reach Simhachalam Temple from Vizag
You can reach the temple by taking a bus, auto or a private taxi from Vizag which has well-established connectivity of roadways and railways.
The nearest railway station to Simhachalam temple is Visakhapatnam Railway Station while the airport closest to the temple is Visakhapatnam Airport. The distance from Simhachalam temple to Vizag is 16 km.
Location of Simhachalam temple
The temple is located at Simhachalam Hill, Near Gopalapatnam Police Station.
Simhachalam Temple timings
Simhachalam temple is open for its visitors from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on all days of the week. These timings are subject to change on special occasions and festivals.
Timings for Daily Seva and Darshan at Simhachalam Temple
Suprabhata Seva – 4:00 AM
Darshanam Timings – 7.00 AM to 8:30 PM
Breaks – 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM; 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM ; 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Ekantha Seva – 9:00 PM
Entry fee for Simhachalam temple
Simhachalam Temple’s Special Darshan ticket is priced at Rs. 100 per person.
The tickets are available at special counters near temple darshan lines. You can also book these tickets online.
Palakkad, a dazzling jewel at the foot of Western Ghats is the gateway to Kerala. This land of green paddy fields and tall coconut trees is blessed with great scenic beauty and natural resources. With its extremely picturesque setting, there’s no shortage of tourist attractions in Palakkad. It is a blissful paradise of misty mountains, evergreen forests, huge dams, wildlife sanctuaries and historical monuments.
Palakkad also known as the granary of Kerala still holds a tint of its old rural charm in its slow moving bullock carts transporting goods, villagers lazing around huge banyan trees in the temple compounds, children playing or flying kites in the countryside etc.
Etymologically Palakkad formerly called as Palghat derives its name from the two words ‘Pala’ and ‘Kadu’. Pala is a tree abundantly found in this region and Kadu means forest. Being at the border of Tamil Nadu the culture at Palakkad is a rich mix of both. Palakkad amuses travellers with its profuse natural resources.
Palakkad Fort
Palakkad Fort / Tippu’s Fort, Kerala, India
This fort is the landmark of the city. Palakkad fort rising above a tiny hill situated at the end of the city welcomes all visitors to this marvellous place. This fort is historically important which tells us about the tales of many heroes of the past.
This well maintained fort is the best place to spend time in breezy evening. With its architectural beauty and historical importance it draws the attraction of all visitors. Kotta Maithanam, west of the fort is very famous for being the place where Tipu’s cavalry camped. Nearby the fort there is a children’s park and open air stadium.
Malampuzha
Malampuzha, Kerala, India
Malampuzha, ‘The Vrindavan of Kerala’ is a perfect place for a family picnic. Malampuzha is located close to Bharathapuzha at a distance of 13 km from Palakkad town. Malampuzha, a place blessed with both natural beauty and man made architectures at the bottom of western ghats near forests and rivers among stones and grass.
The huge dam located in the hilly region is amazing. Since the completion of the dam the place is converted to a wonderful tourist spot. The place derived its name from Malampuzha River, a tributary of Bharathapuzha.
Other attractions in Malampuzha are Malampuzha Gardens, a fish shaped freshwater aquarium, snake park, a children’s park, a Reservoir, Garden House , Japanese Garden, Hanging Bridge, Sculpture of Yakshi, Ropeway, Road Train, Telescopic Tower, Rose Garden and Fantasy Park. Rose Garden in Malampuzha is famous for having over a hundred varieties of roses.
The reservoir offers you the opportunity to enjoy fishing and boating. The Garden House has a unit of water sports. The passenger ropeway is a thrilling experience. This ropeway gives you a complete view of the entire garden set upon the blue Mountains. This is the first of its kind in South India.
The Malampuzha thread garden is another place which is worth a visit. There are plenty of fabulous life like models in the thread garden. The Rock garden and Telescopic tower is also attractions of this place.
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala, India
Cuddled in the valley between Anamalai ranges of Tamilnadu and Nelliyampathy ranges of Kerala on the Western Ghats lies the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. Parambikulam situated about 125 km from Palakkad has a variety of attractions.
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is the most protected ecological piece of Anamalai sub unit of Western Ghats, surrounded on all sides by protected areas and sanctuaries of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The untouched beauty of nature in wildlife sanctuary attracts so many people. It spreads over an area of 285 square km. This is a famous haunt of bird watchers. One can see all sorts of animals and birds here.
Parambikulam also has a reservoir which offers you entertainment options like fishing and boating. The place is famous for teak plantations. The oldest teak tree, ‘Kannimaree’, stands here. There is a national park here, which is named after Salim Ali, the famous bird observer.
Silent Valley National Park
Silent Valley National Park is a unique preserve of tropical evergreen rain forests. The Silent Valley National Park spreads an area of 90sq. km is situated in the north eastern corner of the district. Silent Valley holds rich biodiversity. The rarest species of animals and birds are seen in the valley.
There are more than 1000 species of flowering plants, more than 34 species of mammals, about 200 species of butterflies and many other species of animals here. Apart from these, the National Park houses more than a thousand kinds of trees.
Siruvani Dam
Siruvani dam situated 80 km away from Palakkad town is the common reservoir of Kerala and Tamilnadu. The dam and the surrounding is blessed with amazing natural beauty. The dam constructed across Siruvani Puzha, a tributary of Bhavani Puzha supplies drinking water to Coimbatore municipality.
There is a waterfall from 2000 feet height on the eastern side of the dam. The beauty and the cool climate of the place attracts so many visitors to this place. With its natural beauty and cool ambiance this dam really worth a visit.
Choolanur Peacock Protection Centre
Chulanur is situated 22 kms away from Palakkad town this is the only sanctuary exclusively for the national bird peacock in Kerala. It is also known as Mayiladumpara Peacock protection centre. This place harbors many species of plants and butterflies endemic to this area. Kunjan Nambiar memorial forest and Mayiladum Parai are other attractions of this place.
Mangalam Dam
This huge beautiful dam located 48 km south of Palakkad town is constructed across Cherukunnu Puzha, a tributary of Mangalam river. The dam situated among the natural beauty of Palakkad has so many wild animals here. There are deer, wild elephants and rare species of birds on the fringes of the reservoir. The dam is also a famous picnic spot.
Thunchan Madom
Thunjan Madom also called as Guru Madom on the banks of ‘Sokanashini’ (destroyer of sorrow) Chittur Puzha is a place blessed with the presence of literary men Thunchath Ramanujan Ezhuthachan, the father of Malayalam language. In Sokanashini, an old building at Chittur Thekkegramam village he spent his last years. The pen he used for writing is still kept here as a precious memento.
Temples in Palakkad
There are so many popular temples in Palakkad. You can also visit some of the most wonderful places of worship. Some of the temples here are Jain Temple, Vadakkanthara temple, Manapullikavu, Kalpathy Agrahara and Viswanathaswamy Temple, Kumarapuram temple, Emoor Bhagavathy Temple and Thiruvalathoor Shiva Temple.
Villages around Palakkad
You can also visit any of the village or Agrahara in Palakkad. The villages here are really beautiful and serene. You can feel the difference once you spend time in these villages. Take a stroll down Kalpathy, Kumarapuram, Ramanathapuram, Ambikapuram or Chokkanathapuram to experience the tradition and culture of village life.
Where To Stay in Palakkad
Palakkad has some nice hotels both inside and outside the city. The hotels here offers all comforts. Some of the best places to stay in Palakkad are Sri Chakra International, Hotel Gazala, Hotel Indraprastha, Hotel KPM International, Marhaba Residency, Kanoos East Fort Resort, Kairali Towers, Kapilavasthu, Fort Palace Hotel, ATS Residency, Hotel Ambadi etc.
There are some really nice places to stay outside Palakkad also. They are Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort, Silent Valley Ayurvedic Health Centre, Kandath Tharavadu, Olappamanna Mana, Planters Retreat and Mythiri Homestay.
We have all grown up hearing stories of the courageous Rajput kings and how their valour and glory was undefeated, haven’t we? As kids, we also fantasized about the forts and palaces that the kings lived in and the royalty they experienced. Visiting Jaipur makes us realise this dream for the first time.
Hawa Mahal is just as synonymous to Jaipur as the Taj Mahal is to Agra. Any traveller or tourist visiting the capital city of Rajasthan must ensure a visit to the Hawa Mahal. Located in the heart of the city, Hawa Mahal annihilates the entire Badu Choupad and overlooks the Sirehyodi Bazar and the Johari Bazar. Its vast cover ensures that it escapes nobody’s eyes.
About Jaipur
Built in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is the core where many such tales and stories have emerged from. The capital city of Rajasthan, Jaipur is brimming with the grandiose forts, royal palaces and beguiling gardens that delineate this illustrious and imperial history of the city.
Jaipur, although named after its founder, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, was the first planned city of the country and was built by Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya as per the principles of the Shilpa Shastra.
Rajasthan has been one of the biggest tourism contributors in India and most of this revenue has been derived from the capital city alone which is home to the majority of these magnificent forts. In the year 2017 alone, more than forty-seven million people visited the city to quench their thirst for travel and to experience the royal ways of the Indian subcontinent.
Jaipur is popularly known as the ‘Pink City’ due to the city being majorly built out of pink and red sandstones which are found in abundance in the city giving the city a pink tinge, the colour of hospitality.
Ruled over by the Kacchwaha clan of Rajput dynasty, who were in alliance with the Mughals for the biggest part of their rule, Jaipur monuments reflect the perfect and serene blend of the Rajputana and Mughal architecture.
The blend is seamless and beautiful, unrecognizable but at the same time evidently different from each other, the most prominent example of this being the Hawa Mahal.
Apart from the blend of Mughal and Rajputana architecture in the city, another harmonious blend that is evident is the one that can be witnessed as you saunter along the streets. This is the one between the history of the city filled with gallantry and the brilliance of modernity.
About Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal is built out of pink and red sandstones and had its exterior walls further painted with calcium oxide in 1876, allowing it to have that additional pink tinge and therefore, adding to the reason Jaipur is known as the ‘Pink City’.
As the name ‘Hawa Mahal’ literally translates to the ‘Palace of Wind’, the architecture of the palace essentially justifies the name it has been presented with. The entire palace consists of 953 windows or ‘jharokhas’ allowing the wind to pass throughout the structure and therefore creating the venturi effect, also known as the doctor breeze effect.
The monument was, hence, air-conditioned even in the exceedingly hot summers of Rajasthan. For this reason, the palace eventually turned as an escape for the royal men and women allowing them to ponder over art, culture, heritage and many other things that the king enjoyed indulging in. The best way to plan a visit to Hawa Mahal is with Jaipur city tour packages.
The construction of the Hawa Mahal was facilitated by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the grandson of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of the city of Jaipur. Throughout the rule of the Kachhwaha Rajput dynasty, only three rulers had been seen showcasing an interest in the development and advancement of the art, culture, architecture and the heritage of the society around them.
Among these was Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The construction of the fort finally concluded in 1799. The main architect of the palace was Lal Chand Ustad. Inspired by the Khetri Mahal built by Maharaja Bhopal Singh in Jhunjhunu, Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, an ardent advocate of architectural development, employed Lal Chand Ustad to commence the construction of the Hawa Mahal as an extension of the City Palace.
Out of the innumerable reasons justifying the construction of Hawa Mahal or the ‘Palace of Wind’, two main reasons strive immeasurably beyond others. Both of them have logical backings however, instead of running in contrast to each other as different reasons most of the times, they have a complementary nature.
The first reason is supported by the norms of the patriarchal society that the Indian society has been summoned under for the longest time known. It is said that the Hawa Mahal was built to enable the royal women to look at and enjoy the public processions and events without being seen by the public.
The women could sit near the Jharokhas, which were small peepholes, and watch the everyday happening of the life outside the palace. This enabled them to enjoy a sense of freedom that they had so far been forbidden to, while still abiding by the laws and norms of the Purdah system.
Another reason that has been awarded to the construction of the Hawa Mahal is in synchronisation with the literal translation of its name, in essence, the ‘Palace of Wind’. Due to the 953 Jharokhas that adorned the Hawa Mahal, the palace was air conditioned even in the extreme temperatures of the summer months.
This was due to the creation of the Venturi effect, also known as the Doctor breeze. This provided an escape to the king and the royal women to enjoy their leisure time indulging in activities they wished to. This promoted their art and heritage immensely even if it was not outwardly visible.
Architecture of Hawa Mahal
The Hawa Mahal is a five-storey monument with each storey housing a different side of the royal life. The five main structures inside the monument are: (a)Sharad Mandir (b) Ratan Mandir (c)Vichitra Mandir (d)Prakash Mandir and (e)Hawa Mandir.
The Hawa Mahal is built in the shape of the tail of a peacock. This pyramid-shaped structure is adorned with 953 jharokhas each of them with intricate designs on them. The windows are covered in pink latticework. A further addition of the arched windows and hanging cornices produces a charming effect to the jharokhas.
Built out of sandstone and covered in astonishing works and carvings of both Mughal, as evident from the arches and stone inlay filigree, and Rajputana culture palpable from the fluted pillars, floral designs, and domed canopies, Hawa Mahal is relatively simple on the inside.
Yet its simplicity cannot be mistaken for blandness for the plain and stark interiors reflect the other side of one’s life. One that is in complete contrast to the royal life of the Maharaja and the royal women. The monument is structured in the shape of a beehive. This honeycomb pattern comes from the repetitive pattern of windows and domed pavilions that have been stacked together.
However, this stacked pattern cannot be mistaken for arbitrary and random stacking, for the Hawa Mahal follows the concept of symmetry. This symmetry brings out the amazing architectural beauty of this monument.
Another perception of the structure of Hawa Mahal or the ‘Palace of Wind’ can be viewing it in the form of Lord Krishna’s crown or Mukut. Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the facilitator of Hawa Mahal was a great devotee of Lord Krishna and therefore, on multiple levels, has a temple dedicated to the Lord as well.
As an extension to the Royal City Palace, Hawa Mahal can be accessed only through a gate known as Anand-Pol Gate in the Tripolia Bazar. This is the back door of the City Palace and therefore, as is evident, the Hawa Mahal has no front door entrance.
Entering from the Anandpoli Gate, one comes across a wide and long courtyard. A fountain is placed in the center. Currently, an archaeological museum is positioned in the courtyard.
The museum displays multiple artefacts including the paintings of the ancient era, the objects used by the royal men and women in their everyday lives and the weapons and armour used by the Maharajas in the times of war.
The evolution of the weapons used, ranging from heavy swords and bows and arrows, as well as the way in which the royal family preferred to spend their leisure time, from painting and indulging in poetry to playing Polo, can be recognised and viewed here. The courtyard is surrounded by two-storied buildings on three sides and on the opposite end is the Chandra-Pol Gate.
The Chandra-Pol Gate is engraved with five deities on the top and dwarpal on the side pillars. The rooms towards the South, near the Pratap Mandir, were a part of the private area of Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. The rooms towards the North of the courtyard are a part of the Bhojanshala or the royal kitchen area. Main structures in Hawa Mahal include:
1. Sharad Mandir
It is even before you enter the Sharad Mandir that you encounter the beautifully adorned gate that welcomes you inside. The gate, henna green in colour with golden embellishments, reflects the impact the alliance with the Mughal dynasty had on the architecture of the Kachhwaha Rajputs. Located on the first floor, Sharad Mandir was the concentre of autumn celebrations, as the name suggests. The word Sharad can be translated to autumn.
2. Ratan Mandir
Situated on the second floor, Ratan Mandir is the only area in the entire palace that has colourful glasswork. This is a form of embellishment that is most evident in the Mughal forts and palaces. The view from the jharokhas on this floor that are further covered with colourful glasses is beyond compare. The perfect royal life glimpse can be experienced here.
3. Vichitra Mandir
Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh was a great devotee of Lord Krishna and had, therefore, also shaped the monument in the shape of Lord Krishna’s crown. This floor of the Hawa Mahal was converted into a prayer hall that was devoted to Lord Krishna. This was Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh’s personal praying area.
4. Prakash Mandir
Adorned with Araish work from the walls to the doors, this was the private area of Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh. There were open terraces on both sides of the floor allowing an open space for the Maharaja to relax in.
5. Hawa Mandir
On the final floor of the Hawa Mahal is located the Hawa Mandir after which the entire monument has been named. There is a screen placed in the Hawa Mandir that faces east.
In the middle of each of these chambers is a fountain. These clever placements of fountains and architectural tricks enhanced the cooling effect inside the palace. However, as is also evident, although Hawa Mahal literally translates to the ‘Palace of Wind’, there is no specific feature of the Hawa Mahal that suggests it to be a palace. And even though each of the floors are named ‘temple’ or ‘mandir’, Vichitra Mandir is the only floor which is essentially devoted to a god.
One of the most prominent architectural features of the Hawa Mahal that one notices is the absence of stairs to reach the upper floors even though the entire palace is constituted of five storeys. As a substitution to the stairs, Lal Chand Ustad used slopes that connects the different levels of the structure.
The purpose of installing slopes instead of the stairs was to facilitate the royal women with easier travel paths. Back in the days, the royal women wore Odhnis and Ghaghras, these were heavy clothes and were difficult to carry as well. The slopes were comparatively easier for women to walk on and commute to different levels as compared to the stairs that have been used in other structures.
Another reason for installing slopes was to make it easier for the palanquins to be carried around the structure. A lot of royal women, especially the mother of the King and his wives preferred to be carried on palanquins instead of walking. These slopes provided more comfort to the women as the rides were now smoother.
The Hawa Mahal is directly connected to the area that was restricted for the royal women, mistresses and the eunuchs of the royal household, in essence, the zenana dyodhi. The women could easily travel from the Royal City Palace to the Hawa Mahal without having to essentially move out of the palace and be seen in public, therefore, keeping up with the Purdah system.
Another reason for making this connection between the two palaces was to make it easier for the Maharaja to move from the Hawa Mahal to the room of any of his queens without letting the others know. This allowed the discretion of Maharaja and maintained his privacy. Therefore, no one other than the Maharaja himself was aware of the room he was in.
What’s inside Hawa Mahal?
As can be seen, the Hawa Mahal does not house a lot of things for the regular travellers and tourists to do. The archaeological museum in the courtyard on the ground floor which can be accessed as soon as one enters the Hawa Mahal through the City Palace, displays the weapons and armour, objects of daily use and the clothes that were worn by the royal men and women in the past.
The lifestyle today has changed significantly and it is fascinating to view the development of not only the clothes and objects that were used earlier in contrast to the ones that are used today, but also to notice the significant changes that are there in the architecture of the structures and monuments that were built in the past and the ones that are being built today.
One of the most dynamic differences is between the influence of the local culture. While modernity today has created a common architectural pattern across the globe, the influence of the local culture in the ancient era led to the creation of multiple architectural patterns that were unique to the region.
As these cultures came into contact with each other, newer patterns of architecture developed, as is significant from the engravings, arched roofs and the floral designs that adorn the walls of the Hawa Mahal.
The primary reason Hawa Mahal is the most visited monument of Jaipur and why it counts as a ‘must’ in every traveller’s list is because of the fact that Hawa Mahal has a unique architecture to itself. Unlike any other, this was not a palace that was lived in by the royal family but was constructed for the leisure hours of the Maharaja.
The most magnificent part of the Hawa Mahal is the rooftop. As one stands there and looks out into the wide horizon, they can view the entire city at once. The City Palace in the next courtyard and the glorious Amber Fort in the distance.
Recent Renovations at Hawa Mahal
The first renovation of the palace took place in the year 1876. The entire exterior walls of the palace were painted in calcium oxide that provided it with a brighter and a starker pink tinge. This added to the reason Jaipur is popularly known as the ‘Pink City’.
An archaeological museum was opened inside the palace in the courtyard on the ground floor, allowing travellers to have a glimpse of the royal life. The artefacts range from their objects and weapons to their clothes and specimens of their documents and signatures of the Maharajas over time.
Recently, the Government of Rajasthan, on the advice of the Archaeological Survey of India, added windows behind the jharokhas. This addition was criticised as the wind could no longer pass throughout the structure and the Hawa Mahal could no longer remain the ‘Palace of Wind’.
These windows also blocked the view that one could earlier get through these peepholes. This has majorly impacted the structure of the palace however, the Archaeological Survey of India provides the reason that it is essential for the preservation of the site since the constant construction in the developing areas nearby have an impact on the structure’s stability. Do not forget to checkout and book your 1 Day Jaipur Darshan Tour Packages from Jaipur Tourism.
Reaching Hawa Mahal, Jaipur
Jaipur is the capital city of Rajasthan and hence, is the most accessible location in the entire state. The tourism in the past few years has increased dramatically and therefore, the means of commuting not only to the city, but also within the city has been improved dramatically. Jaipur Tourism from Holidays DNA offers all-inclusive Jaipur tour packages with hotel, cab for sightseeing and meal plan included.
The city is well connected with roads, train lines, and flight connections. One can take a road trip from the nearby city or state, e.g., Delhi, or choose the royal treatment and the leisure of trains and travel in the Palace on Wheels, the train that supports and fulfils all your royal desires. A more time-saving method of travelling is by flight, allowing you to save time and enjoy most of it by actually touring the city.
Once you are within the city, travelling to the Hawa Mahal is quite easy. Check out 3 best car rental companies in Jaipur, who offer comfortable and well maintained cabs for rent at most economical prices. Other options include simply taking the auto rickshaw, locally known as the tuk-tuk or if you are near the railway station, you can simply walk to the Hawa Mahal. Your mode of communication can depend upon your proximity to the monument.
It is suggested that you cover both the Royal City Palace and the Hawa Mahal in the same day. Considering the fact that they are internally connected with each other, it is easier for you to travel between the two. Hire a Jaipur local guide to show you around the Hawa Mahal or the ‘Palace of Wind’ to know better about the royal lifestyle and the detailed structure of the palace. Also check these Jaipur local sightseeing tour packages from Jaipur Tourism.
The Hawa Mahal, for the aforementioned reasons, is one of the most magnificent palaces of the royal capital of Rajasthan. It is a beautiful visual to behold and a seamless blend of the Rajputana and Mughal architecture. Not a palace in the truest sense, Hawa Mahal was earlier, a leisure space for the royal men and women and currently, the most visited tourist attraction of Jaipur.
Timings & Entry Fee of Hawa Mahal
Hawa Mahal in Jaipur is open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day. It is open 7 days a week. During National / Public holidays the timings might vary.
The entrance fee of Hawa Mahal is Rs. 50 per person for Indian nationals and Rs. 200 for foreign nationals.
Hyderabad tour is incomplete without a visit to Charminar. An amazing blend of Indo-Islamic architecture, Charminar represents the glorious history of the city. Charminar is certainly one of the most important tourist places in Hyderabad.
This square shaped architecture has towers in each of the four corners with all the side of 20 meters in length. Each side opens into a plaza through giant arches, overlooking four major thoroughfares. Each arch has a width of 11 meters and height of 20 meters.
The minarets cover a length of 48.7 meters from the ground to the apex. Each minaret of the building has four storeys. There are 45 prayer spaces in Charminar which is still visited by people, especially on Fridays. On the top floor of Charminar, there is a small mosque.
The best time to visit Charminar is between the months of October and March. Charminar looks mesmerizing with lighting in evenings which is a sight one mustn’t miss. While visiting Charminar, you will have many other sightseeing options as well.
One can visit places such as Chowmahalla palace, Shahali Banda, Kali Kaman and Patthar Gatti and Mecca Masjid which are situated nearby. Shopping at Laad Bazaar is also quite popular and an experience in itself.
Located at Naubat Pahad in the heart of Hyderabad city, Birla Planetarium is one of the most modern planetariums of the country. Not just children, this is one of the top Hyderabad tourist spots that attracts everyone. It was inaugurated in the year of 1985 by the late Sri N.T.Rama Rao. This dome shaped structure was developed with the technological help from Japan.
The Interactive Science Centre has an optical section, electronics section along with many holograms with images of plants, faces and drawings. The Archaeology Center and the Nirmala Birla Art Gallery is consisted of Nirma Art gallery, various beautifully crafted crystal and glass sculptures, decorative pieces in jade and different kinds of stones, china trays and vases along with the most attractive of all- various figures and carvings on ivory. Along with all this, there is an Archaeology Center with various pottery, metal figures, palm leaf inscriptions, etc., presenting a glimpse into the ancient.
The Section ‘Window on Science’ at Birla Mandir Hyderabad presents visitors with model rocket, model satellites along with various diagrams and other aids for better understanding of the cosmos. The Dinosaurium is the recent addition to the Planetarium. Consisting of fossils which are almost 160 million years old “Kotasaurus Yamanpalliensis” and had been excavated in Adilabad district along with smaller fossils such as dinosaur eggs, marine shells, fossilized tree trunks, it makes for an interesting trip.
The Sky show which is conducted every day is the most attractive feature of the Planetarium. These have various kinds of themes. One can visit the Birla Planetarium between 10:30 am to 3:00 pm. It is closed on the last Thursday of every month.
There cannot be any other verse than this, which can be a better testimony to the treasured collage of awe inspiring waterfalls, breathtaking virgin forests, ancient history, tribal culture and handicrafts that one witnesses on visiting the majestic places of Jagadalpur, Bastar, Dantewada and Barsur in CHHATTISGARH, located in the heart of India.
The human spirit needs places where nature has not been rearranged by the hand of man.
Author Unknown.
A Beautiful Dawn @ Bastar..
It is a sheer misfortune that despite having such a huge potential for tourism, neither has much been done to promote these incredible destinations nor many people would even have an iota of an idea about these incredible places.
It’s a pity that all that is projected about this place is the menace of naxal issue and that deprives countless tourists from visiting this place, apart from an unimaginable loss of potential revenue to the state, which in turn could have been utilized for development of the region.
Having visited these places, all on my own, without availing a tourist operator or even a local guide; having interacted with the locals in the remotest areas; having had a brief chat with the Jawans of the paramilitary forces; having traversed through the dense thick forests where roads literally don’t exist and most significantly; having witnessed and participated in the Cock-Fight that takes place in the tribal weekly market called Haat, you can trust my word that this place is definitely worth visiting once in a lifetime.
All that one needs is to have a good know-how of the places and a well planned itinerary. A little Googling and one can’t resist rushing there. It’s a pleasure sharing my wonderful experience of these places, which I, my friend and his his family shall cherish throughout life and would definitely be going back to cover the places that we missed during the last trip.
Jagadalpur and Bastar
Jagdalpur Town Chowk at Night
Jagdalpur is located at a distance of around 300 Kms by road from Raipur, the state capital of Chhattisgarh. It is the administrative headquarters of Bastar district and was once the capital city of the princely state of Bastar. The road from Raipur to Jagdalpur is like an expressway. We hired an Innova from Raipur and even after the continuous night travel, we hardly felt any tiredness.
Being around 300 kms from Vishakhapatnam and 562 Kms from Hyderabad, reaching Jagdalpur should not be difficult. The nearest airport is at Raipur. Jagdalpur has its own railway station. One can avail the daily bus services from Raipur as well as from Hyderabad.
The best option would be to hire a bigger vehicle like Toyota Innova from Raipur / Hyderabad for the complete tour journey including local sightseeing.
One of the most economical yet comfortable staying options is at DEVANSH RESIDENCY, near Chandni Chowk at Jagdalpur. They offer a Suite room at a very economical price. The food is good, considering the very few options the place has.
Even while visiting the other two places of Dantewada and Barsur , we stayed here only as in those locations, finding a suitable and safe stay option is almost out of question. The entire stay of 2 nights and 3 days was a very pleasant experience. The Hotel staff was very hospitable as well.
On day one, early in the morning, we set off for Chitrakote waterfalls, located at a distance of 38 kms from Jagdalpur. We were filled with absolute excitement, as we could hear the deafening roar of the gigantic waters of river Indravati that rumbles and tumbles 96 feet down the steep hillside, long before we actually reached the water falls.
Once we reached there, we were simply breathless to see the crescent moon shaped waterfalls. Even though it is smaller, no doubt why it is compared with the great Niagara Falls of the US and is aptly named “The Niagra Falls of India”.
Winter was just setting in when we went there also as it did not rain much that year, the volume of water was quiet less. That permitted us to take snaps standing very near to the falls, from points where one can’t even dare to step in the monsoon time, when the entire crescent is hidden by the gigantic waters.
Having enjoyed the view from the sides, we climbed down the steps, adjacent to the government tourist rest house, to have a panoramic front view of the cascading waters. On the way down we enjoyed a cup of tea at a small tea shop. It is better to carry some snacks from the hotel as you do not have many options for eating out in the vicinity of the waterfalls.
If the view of these mammoth waterfalls is breathtaking in the morning, then the view of the waterfalls which is illuminated in the night is even more hypnotizing.
The way back from Chitrakote | Adventure of a Lifetime..
As we bid adieu to this remarkable creation of nature, we mistakenly took an adventurous diversion towards Barsur, a diversion which I cannot forget for a lifetime. Just a few kilometers ahead and we found the roads beginning to disappear; sight of human existence diminishing (only a few tribals who were staring at our vehicle for what, GOD only knew); the forests getting wilder and denser;
Traversing through the jungles on the way to Barsur..
Elated we were to the brim as we saw the roads started appearing again and the signboard indicating “Barsur – 0 Km”. The first sign of human existence that we witnessed after quite a while were Jawans of paramilitary forces taking guard behind piles of sands and boulders that acted as barricades.
As we were heading towards the Saat Dhara waterfalls, our progress was halted by the patrolling Jawans of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) at one heavily guarded barricade.
Daylight dwindling slowly as we traversed through the thick forests; breaking roads merging into muddy tracks less traveled and then came the biggest jolt – a patch of land, which our driver confirmed had been the remains of the road that had been blasted off recently.
To add to this we could see very small patches of paddy fields among the dense forests and tough terrains. The excitement of an adventure had soon turned into apprehensions of the unknown.
The only signs of fauna that we saw during the entire journey through these dark forests were the sight of a wild makdi, a few foxes and wild birds. Other than these, only one vehicle crossed us, that too carrying cargo and not humans.
A Brief Rendezvous with the Jawans
Our vehicle was searched and we were enquired about our identities, purpose of visit etc. Soon one of the Jawans noticed that the front wheel of our vehicle was just about punctured.
As we realized that the Stepney tyre was also in a very bad shape, we were instructed to wait at the barricade till the driver would get the tyres repaired at a nearby place called Geedam.
We had a brief chat with the Jawans and were truly moved to listen to their strenuous lives that they have in these remotest areas, Each Jawan had a different story to tell, from being married and staying away from the family that stays in Karnataka to being an eligible bachelor from the far northeast waiting to get married to his beloved, whose name was tattooed on his hand.
We had a succinct discussion about the problems they faced in these tough conditions, the way the naxalites operate, stories of ambushes in the past etc.
It was at this juncture that we came to know that the path that we took to reach Barsur from Chitrakote was actually an abandoned one and how dangerous it was to travel through that.
As this is one the remotest naxal affected areas, finding an option to have a proper meal was simply out of question. We were touched by the hospitality of the Jawans as they offered us lunch in their canteen.
We did not want to disturb their routine chores and hence managed to have the little snacks like Guajarati Faafras and namkeen that we were luckily carrying. One of the Jawans with whom we had interacted bought us sweets that his family had sent him. We were truly moved.
After the brief luncheon we got the go ahead to proceed to see Saat Dhara. Not everyone is allowed to go there. The Jawans have to inform the Control Room located on top of the hill and can permit you only if they are satisfied with your credentials and think that it is safe enough.
We were lucky enough to have been escorted by one of the Jawans as we helped them transport a carton of bananas for the Jawans stationed on the way up the hills.
Though we could not see the waterfalls, we cherished the scenic appeals that the serene river Indravati and the mountain ranges of the vicinity. We had some beautiful view of the valley through the binoculars offered to us by the Jawans.
We were told not to venture too far towards the Ending Bridge as that was the dividing line between the areas behind the mountains that is inhabited by naxals and the areas guarded by the jawans.
Hats off to these Jawans who sacrifice their life for the well being and safety our common folk in these remotest naxal affected areas. A few rare tourists like us who visit once in a while are the only people to offer some brief moments of pleasant company. If you happen to visit this place, do not forget to spend some time with these dedicated jawan.
Peeping through the window of the ancient past.. the remains of the archaic temples and sculptures.
We had collected information about the remains of splendid temples and had a fantastic experience witnessing these archaic creations of the ancient times.
Barsur was the prominent capital of the Gangavanshi rulers as early as 840 AD. It is believed that in its old prosperous times there were around 147 temples and ponds in this region. Now one can only see the magnificent ruins of the numerous temples.
Chandraditya Temple
Chandraditya Temple Wall Carvings
This temple is dedicated to lord Shiva. Constructed on a high platform in the centre of tank, history has it that this temple was built by a feudatory chief, Mamandaleswara Chandraditya. There is a beautiful mandapa having 12 stone pillars that boasts of exquisitely carved images of several deities.
A striking Nandi that faces the garbagraha is stationed outside. The sculptures offered us an enticing eye warming experience, we would cherish for long.
Ganesh Temple
Ganesh temple..
This is one of the most appealing sculptures one would witness in this vicinity.The temple encloses two astonishing mamoth idols of Lord Ganesha that have been carved out of single rock pieces. The bigger sculpture is almost 2.5 metres in height.
We offered our prayers to the Vignaharata Bhagwan. The sheer size of the vibrant idols has left an lasting impression in our minds that we can not forget in our lifetime.
Mama Bhanja Temple
Mama Bhanja Temple, Barsur
Just nearby the Ganesh temple is another archaic beauty, the Mama Bhanja Temple. It is believed that this temple was built in memoir of some uncle and nephew of the Naga dynasty. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple has an eye catching curvilinear shikara over the garbagraha. The entrance as well as the sides are decorated with excellent carvings.
Battisha Temple
Next we proceeded to the lat prominent temple, that is the Batissha Temple. This temple derives its name from the fact that the mandapa of this strikingly beautiful temple is supported by 32 pillars. 32 is pronounced as battis in hindi.
The temple houses two astonishingly alike garbhagrihas. There is a large Nandi placed in between the two garbhagrihas. Each of the 32 pillars is around 2 metres high and the temple offers an excellent ambience for rejuvenation of the mind and soul.
Having covered the archaic temples of Barsur, our next destination was Dantewada. Jagdalpur is the nearest city, around 87 kms from Dantewada. The roads are strikingly beautiful and one of the best in the entire state of Chhattisgarh.
Dantewada is easily accessible by road through private bus services available from almost all the big cities of Chatthisgarh , like Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg & Rajnandgaon. It is also connected by road with Hyderabad, the capital city of the neighboring state Andhra Pradesh on which APSRTC runs a regular service.
Dantewada derives its name from the Godess Danteshwari Devi. The prominent attraction of this place is Danteshwari Devi Temple.
Danteshwari Devi Temple… A Soul Refreshing Experience
Maa Danteswari Temple, Dantewada
The temple is dedicated to six-armed goddess, Mahishasuramardini and the idol has been exquisitely carved in black stone. This splendid lendid temple of Goddess Danteswari tops the list of places of interest, in the town. Countless devotees visit this sacred temple throughout the year.
The temple is located at the confluence of the holy rivers Shankini & Dhankini,. It is believed that the Godess Danteshwari is the protector of the town. The entire ambience of the temple offers a soothing experience, peace and tranquility to the minds and souls of devotees who visit.
Maa Danteswari Temple
This temple is a Shaktipeeth and encompasses a sanctum garbhagriha with a pyramid shaped shikhara, a pillared sabhamandapa and a pillared natyamanadapa.
Sculptures of Lord Vishnu’s avatara, Narasimha and a Garuda Stambha also add up the divine appeals of the majestc temple. We cherished the soul refreshing experience by offering our prayers and seeking the blessing of Godess Danteshwari.
The Haat…. Cherishing the Tribal Culture
Evening was setting in and we had started back for Jagdalpur. We noticed a huge gathering of local people and hearing the hustle bustle of the place, we enquired from our driver, what was that. He explained that it was the weekly market, known as “Haat” and is the lifeline of the rural economy of the region.
The weekly market happens in one at one specific location very week. Luckily that day the Haat was at Dantewada.
Destiny had in store for us an experience that we simply can not forget for a lifetime…the experience of mingling with the locals and tasting the traditional culture, the tribal way !
We were spell bound to notice the prevalent system of “Bartering”, a practice of exchanging goods for goods that we used to read in our history books in childhood. Typical agriculture forest produce of the tribal and also handicrafts made by them are bartered in exchange for commodities like salt, tobacco, vegetables and even cloth.
The Haat also presents an opportunity that brings various rural communities together. Tribal folk dressed in traditional costumes, apart from buying and selling goods in the market, also catch up with their relatives and counterparts from other areas, enjoy local brew and watch a cock-fight.
Wandering through the Haat, we could not resist from tasting the Mahua, the locally brewed alchohol, served in Dongas (cups made of leaves). A glass of Vodka is known to give you a click rather slowly. But just a few sips of mahua , I believe was enough to take have shaken us.
Who knows even 007 would change his famous “Shaken Not Stirred” choice, if provided an oppurtunity to taste the Mahua,the tribal way !!
Next stop at the Haat was at the Cock-Fight site.
Tribal men about to begin their cock-fight
Just as we were jumping up and down, amidst the local crowd, to get a glimpse of the cock-fight going on inside the ring, a local chap caught hold of my hand and dragged me into the fighting arena, asking me to put money on a cock and try my fortune.
Shaken by this sudden move, there was no option but to give in. Just before I consented to participate, the local chap bought one such Cock and explained in detail how a tiny sharped edged knife is tied to the legs of the Cock, how the Cocks fight and most importantly the rules of the game..
I did lose the money that i had put on the cock, which was beaten to slow death by its counterpart but was fortunate enough to have experienced the thrill from such close quarters.
The Sun was setting down and having thoroughly cherished the rural Haat we got onto our cab and hit the beautiful roads less travelled towards our abode at Jagdalpur for a sumptuous dinner and a nice little slumber to recharge our baterries for next day’s excursion of the tribal land..
Having enjoyed the same to heart’s content, believe me any tour to this region is simply incomplete without a visit to one of the Haats.
After having a relaxing night at the hotel, we had our breakfast early, thanks to the hotel staff who managed to arrange the same quiet earlier than the routine timings for breakfast at the hotel.
The second day was planned for viewing the grandiose scenes of the famous Tirathgarh waterfalls, other places in and around Bastar and finally sparing some time for screening and shopping of the striking handicrafts covering Bell Metal castings, Iron crafts, wood carvings and bamboo crafts amongst others,in the local markets in the vicinity of our hotel.
Tirathgarh Waterfalls…. in the company of tranquil waters
Awesome Tirathgarh waterfalls..
We started early towards the picturesque waterfalls of Tirathgarh, located at a distance of around 39 kms from Jagdalpur. This amazing waterfall is formed from the Mungabahar Nala that gushes down resembling steps of huge volume of pure white milk, tumbling from a heightof around 35 metres. The serene waters merges into the Kanger river that flows through the Kanger Valley National Park.
If contrast to the Chitrakote waterfalls that is gigantic and treacherous, this waterfalls is comparatively quiet serene and soothing. One can cherish the opportunity of having a nice bath in the waterfalls, though one should be careful of the probable stone boulders that may fall from heights.
Since we were visiting the place after monsoons, it was quiet safe and we just could not resist the temptation of rushing to have a bath in the gorgeous waterfalls. Having spent more than an hour and a half near the waterfalls, we then visited the abandoned old Shiva-Parvati Temple on a large rock facing the waterfalls.
Having enjoyed the waterfalls to our heart’s content we then proceeded towards the famous Kutumsar caves and Kailash Gufa. It was our sheer misfortune that these incredible gifts of nature were closed for tourists during that time. We swore to come back to view these majestic natural caves in the near future.
Kanger Valley..
We spent some good amount of time wandering in the lush green ambience of the Kanger Valley National Park, though we could not view much of fauna except a few wild birds.
Bastar Palace
Sunrise at Bastar
This marvellous castle, also known as Jagdalpur Palace, was constructed when the capital of Bastar was moved from Barsur to Jagdalpur. It continues to remain home to the erstwhile royal family. We enjoyed the wall paintings and crafts displayed inside the palace that took us around the history of various rulers that ruled this kingdom in the past.
Other seasonal waterfalls around Jagdalpur are Kanger Dhara, Madhwa,Chitradhara,Thamada and Mendri Ghumar. Since we had little time left, we could cover only the major waterfalls of Chitrakote and Tirathgarh. One would need an additional day if one wishes to cover these smaller waterfalls.
After visiting the Bastar Palace, we returned back to the hotel as we did not want to risk of losing a proper meal in the afternoon. After enjoying an opulent lunch, we took a small nap for about an hour and then set off to see the Dalpat Sagar lake and Hanuman Temple nearby.
Dalpat Sagar
This is the largest artificial lake in the region and was excavated around 400 years ago by the rulers of Kakatiya dynasty. There a few sculptures around and one can enjoy a brief walk around the lake. In the recent times the upkeep of the lake has not been up to the mark and the absence of boating facility for is a big letdown for the tourists.
Hanuman Temple
Hanuman Temple, Jagdalpur
After having a nice little stroll around the lake, we moved towards the famous Hanuman Temple. One should definitely visit this beautiful temple which houses a huge striking idol of Lord Hanuman.
We offered our prayers to the deity and spent some time in the temple admiring the other sculptures inside the temple. The Hanuman Temple is worth a visit. We then proceeded back to our hotel for some tea and snacks, before leaving for the final activity of the excursion…. Shopping Handicarfts !!
Handicrafts in Chattisgarh
Bastar craft is famous quiet sought after all over the world over. How can one miss the opportunity to have a closer look at these majestic antiques created by splendid imagination and artistic skill of these tribals.
The tribals of the region have evolved an extremely rich tradition of handicrafts that includes Bell Metal Castings, Iron Crafts, Wood Carvings and Bamboo crafts. These tribals have perfected these arts and we were spellbound by the creativity and the precision with which these antique pieces have been created.
Handicrafts are one of the very important sources of income for these tribal folk. We spent more than an hour and a half in the local markets witnessing these amazing creations of man and ended up buying quiet a good number of antiques to be taken back home as mementos of the incredible tribal land.
One need to do a good bargaining for these handicrafts as these are sold by the shopkeepers, to whom the tribal folk supply these handicrafts and the shop owners attempt in making good amount of profit by often charging extraordinarily.
Having done a good amount of shopping we returned back to the hotel, had some tea and snacks and decided to have some rest and an early sleep, so that we could leave back for Raipur the next day morning.
The overall experience of these majestic places was simply awesome and whoever visits these places of the great tribal land will definitely come back to cherish the collage time and again. This tour which I aptly call the Naxal Tour has been the best outing I have ever had in my life.
Hope you too will look forward to have a glimpse of the majestic Chhattisgarh and explore the Hidden Paradise !!
Everybody is bitten by the travel bug these days if the #wanderlust or #fernweh mean something to you, then I’m sure you’re always on the lookout to go to new places where you can take candid pictures and post them on your Instagram.
Travelling can bring a lot of peace and an opportunity to experience new culture. But, travelling to Buddhist monasteries has its own perks. You experience peace and serenity like never before.
So, whether you are digital nomad or somebody who likes to get out and travel very often then these 18 Buddhist monasteries are a must visit!
P.S. – There’s no particular order to this list. You can pick any place on this list, pack your bags and go.
1. Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling, West Bengal
Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
At a glance –
Main Attraction: 15 feet statue of Maitreya Buddha
Built in: 1850
How to get there: It’s about 8 km from the Darjeeling town. A half an hour ride from the town by car and 10-12 minutes walk from the Ghoom station.
Open: All days in the week, morning to evening
Note: You may have to pay to take photos and videos inside.
Apart from being a quaint little hill station, Darjeeling also houses a beautiful Buddhist monastery called Ghoom Monastery. Ghoom Monastery is the popular name of Yiga Choeling. There is another monastery called Samten Choling Monastery in Ghoom which is also referred to as Ghoom Monastery. If you wish to visit the original Ghoom Monastery, be sure to tell your guide/driver to take you to the old Ghoom Monastery.
History
The monastery belongs to the Gelukpa or the Yellow Hat sect. The Mongolian astrologer and monk Sokpo Sherab Gyatso who was head of the monastery until 1905 had the external structure completed in 1850. The statue of the Maitreya Buddha was commissioned by Kyabje Domo Geshe Rinpoche Ngawang Kalsang and he was the head until 1952.
In 1961, Dhardho Rinpoche became the head of the monastery. 3 years after his death in 1990, a boy called Tenzin Legshad Wangdi was recognized to be his reincarnation.
2. Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok, Sikkim
Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok, Sikkim, India
At a glance –
Best Time to Visit: May to June during the celebration of Tibetan New Year
Main Attraction: Its fine architecture. It resembles the original monastery in Tsurphu, Tibet.
Also known for: World renowned centre for Kargu Teachings
How to get there: It’s 24 km from Gangtok. Hire a local driver to take you there. From the gate to the monastery, there is an uphill walk.
Built in: 1960s
Sikkim has a lot more to offer than its beautiful MG Marg which is where all tourists flock to. Check out the Rumtek Monastery situated at an elevation of 4,900 ft.
History
It was originally built in the mid 1700s under the guidance of Changchub Dorje, 12th Karmapa Lama. Rumtek was the main place of the Karma Kagyu lineage in Sikkim for some time. In 1959, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, 16th Karmapa, came to Sikkim after fleeing Tibet.
At this point in time, the monastery was in ruins and he decided to rebuild it. 4 years later, the construction was finally completed. Sacred items and relics were brought from Tsurphu Monastery and were installed in Rumtek.
3. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh, India
At a glance –
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Main Attraction: The architecture, the library and the view from the monastery
How to get there: 80-km From Bomdila, Tawang District
Built in: 1680 as per the wish of the 5th Dalai Lama
Arunachal Pradesh may very well be the Switzerland of India given its climate and beautiful landscapes. The Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in India (situated at 10,000 feet) and the second largest in the world. In Tibetan, it is known as Golden Namgey Lhatse which roughly translates to celestial paradise in a clear night.
History
In 1680-1681, Tawang monastery was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso as per the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama. The monastery belongs to Gelug school of Mahayana Buddhism and was religiously associated with Drepung Monastery of Lhasa.
There are 3 very interesting legends surrounding the establishment of the monastery. The first legend goes thus –
The location of the monastery is said to have been chosen by a horse that belonged to Merag Lama Lodre Gyatso. He was on a mission assigned to him by the 5th Dalai Lama to establish a monastery. He failed to find a suitable place and retired into a cave. When he came out, his horse was missing. He found his horse grazing at the top of the hill which is where the monastery now stands.
The second legend has to do with the name of the monastery. Tawang is associated with Terton Permalinga, diviner of treasures.
The third legend also has a horse at its center. Allegedly, a white horse of the Prince of Lhasa went missing and was found grazing where the monastery is currently located.
How to get there: 8.2 km from the Kaveri Nisargadhama
Note: A visit must be arranged by placing a call to the office.
South India isn’t just famous for its food, culture and Ayurveda; it has a monastery as well. Located in the sandal groves between Mysore and Bangalore, this monastery was consecrated by the Dalai Lama and named Namdroling Monastery. This monastery is the largest teaching center of the school of Tibetan Buddhism.
History
The 11th throne holder of the Palyul lineage is deemed to have established the monastery in 1963. His Holiness Drubwang Padma Norbu Rinpochein exited Tibet in 1959 post which the monastery in India was built.
The full name of the monastery is a bit of tongue twister – Thegchog Namdrol Shedrub Dargyeling, called “Namdrolling or Namdroling” for short. The initial structure was just a temple made from bamboo which covered an approximate area of 80 square feet.
5. Thiksey Monastery, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Thiksey Buddhist Monastery, Ladakh, India
At a glance –
Main Attraction: Fairy-tale town like appearance, 49 feet tall statue of Maitreya Buddha
Also known for: Its similarity with the Potala Palace of Lhasa.
Best Time to Visit: October to November
Open: 7 am to 7 pm, all days of the week
How to get there: Travel to Leh Airport and hire a cab or take the bus.
Built in: Sometime in 15th century AD
Note: There is a Rs 20/- entry fee for both locals and foreigners.
Dining in: Dinner is served at 6:30 pm. Join the monks and stand in line to receive Thukpa. You could also get butter tea there. You are expected to wash your dishes.
If you visit Ladakh without making a trip to the Thiksey Monastery, you are seriously missing out something. This monastery is situated at an altitude of 11,800 feet and 20 km from Ladakh.
History
Je Tsongkhapa who was the founder of the Gelug School sent 6 of his disciples to spread the word of the new school in remote regions of Tibet. The Gelug School is often referred to as the ‘Yellow Hats’. One of the disciples was given a small statue of Amitayus that contained bone powder and a drop of Tsongkhapa’s blood. The disciple was directed to meet the King of Ladakh to seek his help in promoting Buddhism.
6. Hemis Monastery, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
Hemis Buddhist Monastery, Ladakh, India
At a glance –
Main Attraction: Beautiful architecture, large statues of Lord Buddha and Guru Rimpoche
Best time to visit: June to July during the Hemis festival
How to get there: 45 km from the Leh City. Hire a cab or a bullet/bike to take you there.
Built in: Sometime before the 11th century. Re-established in 1672.
Note: Photography is prohibited inside the museum of the monastery.
Another beautiful monastery in Ladakh that you should not miss. This is considered to be the largest monastery in the region.
History
This monastery existed before the 11th century. The yogi Tilopa had a pupil named Naropa who is associated with this monastery. Naropa’s biography was found in the monastery which was since been translated by A. Grünwedel.
7. Phugtal Monastery, Zanskar, Jammu and Kashmir
Phugtal Buddhist Monastery, Zanskar, India
At a glance –
Main Attraction: Beautiful landscapes
How to get there: Suspension bridge to the monastery. It can be reached by foot.
Built in: 12th century AD but remained undiscovered till 1826-27 to the outer world due to its extreme location.
The name, Phugtal / Phuktal, comes from the fact that this monastery was built on the mouth of cave. In the local language ‘Phuktal’ translates to ‘through the caves’. If you are an ardent trekker, you will love this monastery.
History
This monastery surrounds a natural cave which has apparently been visited by numerous people including sages, translators, monks and scholars around 2550 years ago. This theory may be true as the monastery is ideal for monks in search for peace and tranquility. The present day Gompa belongs to the Gelug School which was established in the 15th century. Jangsem Sherap Zangpo is credited as the person behind the establishment and he happens to be a disciple of Je Tsongkhapa.
8. Tabo Monastery, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Tabo Monastery, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India
At a glance –
Main Attraction: Meditation Caves dug in the mountain by hand
Also known for: Paintings on walls and ceilings
How to get there: By road. Check the road conditions before embarking on your journey
Best Time to Visit: May to October. Rohtang Pass closed due to snowfall in October
Built in: 990 AD
Note: They support the Serkong School and need support and donations to keep it running.
Situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet ( approx.), Tabo Monastery is considered to be the oldest monastery in the country.
History
The 1975 Kinnaur earthquake left the original monastery in great ruins. It was fully restored and new structures were added post which the 14th Dalai Lama visited the monastery. He also initiated the Kalachakra Festival in 1983. He revisited the monastery in 1996 and returned on several different occasions.
9. Mindrolling Monastery, Dehradun, Uttrakhand
Mindrolling Monastery, Dehradun, Uttrakhand, India
At a glance –
Main Attraction: 185 feet tall and 100 feet wide Great Stupa which is the largest stupa in the world.
Also known for: Ngagyur Nyingma College, one of the largest Buddhist institutes
How to get there: 10 kms from Dehradun
Built in: 1876
Dehradun isn’t just a stop gap to Rishikesh or Varanasi. The beautiful Mindrolling Monastery is a proof of that. The name means ‘Place of Perfect Emancipation’.
History
Khochhen Rinpoche and a group of monks began the establishment process of re-establishing the Mindrolling Monastery in 1965. This was located in Clement Town and it now contains Ngagyur Nyingma College which is one of the largest Buddhist institutes in India.
10. Gondola Monastery, Himachal Pradesh
Gondola Monastery, Himachal Pradesh, India
At a glance –
How to get there: By road, its 18 kms before Keylong in Lahaul and Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh, India on the road from Manali.
Main Attraction: 7 storey tall monastery with alternative storeys of bricks and timber. Huge wooden statues of Guru Rinpoche.
Built in: 8th century AD at an altitude of 10,370 ft in Himachal, this monastery dates back to the 8th Century AD.
This is one monastery that you should not miss in Himachal. Situated at an altitude of 10,370 feet at the sacred junction of Chandra and Bhaga rivers.
History
Padmasambhava founded the Gondola monastery in the 8th century.The Drukpa Lineage is associated with this monastery now. However, the history of the monastery goes further back than the Kagyu School ( Drukpa Lineage).
11. Kye Monastery, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Kye Buddhist Monastery, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India
At a glance –
How to get there: 10 hours by road from Manali or Shimla. From Kaza, you can take a bus.
Best Time to Visit: June to July during their festival
Built in: 11th century AD
At an elevation of 13,668 feet, the Kye Monastery is adorned with beautiful murals and paintings, thangkas, prayer bells and unique wind instruments.
History
Dromton is credited as the founder of the Kye Gompa Monastery. He was the pupil of the famous teacher, Atisha in the 11th century.
12. Tashi Jong Monastery, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Tashi Jong Buddhist Monastery, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
At a glance –
How to get there: It’s about 15 kms from Palampur.
Built in: 1950
This picturesque destination should definitely be on your list. The Tashi Jong Monastery is also an excellent craft emporium from where you can buy some souvenirs to immortalise your trip. The name Tashi Jong means auspicious valley in Tibetan.
History
The monastery was founded by the 8th Khamtrul Rinpoche, Dongyu Nyima. The community practices ascetic yoga. Tilopa, the tantric yogi of India developed a meditation technique called Mahamudra. Tibetans developed another technique called ‘Kadmapa’ and the combination of the two culminated in the Drugpa Kagyu School.
13. Enchey Monastery, Gangtok, Sikkim
Enchey Monastery, Gangtok, Sikkim, India
At a glance –
Best time to visit: June to October, during the ‘Chaam’ festival
Built in: 1890
Gangtok is home to another beautiful monastery called Enchey Monastery. ‘Echey’ means solitary temple.
History
The Enchey Monastery belongs to the Nyingma order of Vajrayana Buddhism. The monastery quickly became a religious place in the small city of Gangtok. The monastery is said to have been blessed by Lama Drupthob Karpo. He was a well-known expert of tantric art in Buddhism with flying powers.
14. Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dharamshala
Tsuglagkhang Buddhist Complex, Dharamshala, Himachal Prades, India
At a glance –
Also known for: The museum, Namgyal Gompa, Kalachakra temple and many more sacred paintings of the Buddhist culture.
Open: to everyone and no restrictions are imposed on visiting any part of the monastery except Dalai Lama’s residence.
Note: You can also choose to go on an evening walk with the monks.
The official residence of the Dalai Lama, this complex is situated near Mcleodganj.
The complex counts among one of the most significant places of worship that draws a lot of attention from national as well as international tourists and devotees.
15. Diskit Monastery, Leh
Diskit Buddhist Monastery, Leh, India
At a glance –
Built in: 14th century
Main Attraction: Beautiful architecture and the large statue of the Jampa Buddha.
Best Time to visit: February during the ‘Festival of Scapegoat’
The oldest and largest monastery in Leh, the Diskit Monastery is also known as Diskit Gompa.
History
This monastery also belongs to the Gelugpa also known as Yellow Hat sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Changzem Tserab Zangpo is credited as the founder of the monastery. He was a disciple of Tsongkhapa who was the founder of Gelugpa. The monastery is a sub-gompa of the Thiksey gompa.
16. Gonjang Monastery, Sikkim
Gonjang Buddhist Monastery, Gangtok, Sikkim, India
At a glance –
Built in: 1981
Best Time to Visit: December to January, during the ‘Nyingma International Peace Aspiration Prayer’.
Another beautiful monastery in Sikkim, Gonjang Monastery is set against an extremely serene background.
History
In the year 1981, H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche founded the monastery. Yelmo Terton Ngakchang Shakya Zangpo’s reincarnation is said to be the founder of the monastery. The monastery follows Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism.
17. Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat, Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India
At a glance –
How to get there: From Dharamsala to the Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat, it is a journey of two and half hours.
Main Attraction: Ancient Buddhist culture
Note: A separate guest house is provided for tourists.
One of the few Buddhist monasteries that has snow-capped mountains as the backdrop, the Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat is a must-see monastery.
History
In 1975, a protected pine forested land became the foundation of the monastic seat. This land was donated by the present 12th Kenting Tai Situpa disciples. The disciples hailed from Derge and Nangchen region and had settled in Bir, Himachal Pradesh. It was designed by Kenting Tai Situpa. The materials used are modern and the architecture reeks of Tibetan architectural fashion. It follows the ancient science of geomancy.
18. The Lamayuru Monastery
The Lamayuru Monastery, Ladakh, India
At a glance –
Major Attraction: Tall prayer flag pole, Dukh Gang, murals and Naropa’s cave.
How to get there: It is situated on the Srinagar-Leh highway 15 kilometres east of the Fotu La.
Note: There is a small hotel adjoining its boundaries where you can stay.
If you love peace and serenity, Lamayuru will leave you astonished and enchanted. This monastery is isolated and you can enjoy complete silence here. Its situated at 11520 feet.
History
The first Bon Monastery in Ladakh, the name translates to sauwastika. The monastery’s name is associated with the popular symbol in Bon that means eternity. It is associated with the Drikung Kagyu school of Buddhism. According to the Drikung history, Naropa is said to have caused a lake in a valley to dry up which laid the foundation of the monastery.
Buddhist terms that you should know before you go visit any of these monasteries:
Gompas: In Tibetan Buddhism, Gompas mean monasteries
Thukpa: A soup with vegetables and noodles in it
Stupa: A dome shaped building built as a Buddhist shrine
Vihara: A Buddhist monastery with residence for monks
Chaitya: An assembly hall that contains a stupa
Sound off in the comments below if you’ve visited these monasteries and tell us about your experience!
Apt to the title of Garden City, Bangalore boasts of a number of parks providing the lung space to the city dwellers amidst the chaos of traffic and pollution. One such park that sits right in the middle of the city is the Cubbon Park (Kannada: ?????? ?????? | Hindi: ????? ?????).
Officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Park, Cubbon Park was named after the 19th-century ruler of the state, Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar.
Cubbon Park was established in the year of 1870 by the then British Chief Engineer of Mysore state, Major General Richard Sankey. With an initial spread of 100 acres, it was later expanded to 300 acres of land.
Since its establishment, the park has gone through several name changes. First it was named as Meade’s Park after Sir John Meade, the acting Commissioner of Mysuru in 1870. Later it was renamed as Cubbon Park in the honor of the longest-serving commissioner of the time, Sir Mark Cubbon.
Later, in the year of 1927, it was again renamed as Sri Chamarajendra Park to mark the Silver Jubilee of Sri Krishnaraja Wodeyar’s rule in Mysore State. However, Cubbon Park is the most popular name associated with this park.
Cubbon park is under the maintenance of Horticulture Department of the Karnataka government. According to the Preservation Act passed by the state government in the year 1979, no constructions are allowed inside the Park nor any additional land can be granted for any further constructions.
Flora in Cubbon Park
The lush greenery of Cubbon Park provides a relaxing atmosphere to the nature lovers visiting the park. The park boasts of 6000 plants of 96 species belonging to around 68 categories. Some of the local species found in this park are artocarpus, cassia fistula, ficus, polyalthias etc.
The park is also home to exotic species such as araucaria, bamboo, castanospermum australe, grevillea robusta, millettia, peltophorum, schinus molle, swietenia mahagoni, tabebuia. sp etc.
Cubbon Park also comprises of ornamental trees such as Grevillea Robusta (silver oaks), the first one imported from Australia in the entire of Bangalore. Another ornamental tree that finds a place in this park is the tropical tree delonix, known more commonly as the gulmohar tree.
Architecture of Cubbon Park
Often compared to the Lodhi Garden of Delhi, Cubbon Park has been landscaped beautifully with natural rock outcrop, huge bamboo trees, lush green grass, historical monuments, large number of trees and flower beds lining its various avenues quite close to the administrative buildings located in the park.
Motorable roads are also laid inside the park that allow light motor vehicles to ply in and out of the park. However, no vehicles are allowed from 5:00 am to 8:00 am in the mornings. The well laid out walking path in the park makes it an ideal place for joggers who come in huge numbers to get some fresh air.
Cubbon Park is also home to many prominent buildings and monuments. Attara Kacheri, Iyer Hall, Indira Priyadarshini Children’s Library, Venkatappa Art Gallery, the Aquarium, YMCA, Yuvanika, Century Club, Press Club, Jawahar Bal Bhavan, Tennis Pavilion, Cheshire Dyer Memorial Hall and the Ottawa Chatter are some of the famous structures within and around its premises.
Statues in Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is adorned with marble statues of famous personalities adding to the magnificence of this place. The statue of Queen Victoria that stands near the Mahatma Gandhi Circle was installed in the year 1906. The statue of King Edward VII was installed in 1919. The statue of Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar that was installed in 1927 is located right in the center of the park near the tennis pavilion.
The statues of Sir Mark Cubbon near the terrace garden and the statue of Sir K. Sheshadri Iyer (installed in 1913) are some of the other statues worth admiring.
Major Attractions at Cubbon Park
1. Cubbon Park Aquarium
Located at the entrance of Cubbon Park, Bangalore aquarium greets its visitors with its exotic range of fishes. This second largest aquarium in India is administered by the Karnataka State Government Department of Fisheries.
Located at the entrance of Cubbon Park, Bangalore aquarium greets its visitors with its exotic range of fishes. This second largest aquarium in India is administered by the Karnataka State Government Department of Fisheries.
Also known as Government Aquarium and Bangalore Aquarium, it is built in an octagonal shape consisting of three floors. The ground floor is used for office and laboratory purpose. The first floor comprises of 14 large tanks while the second floor has two rows of around 69 tanks.
The aquarium is home to a large variety of fishes such as eels, angelfish, glowlight tetra, hockey stick tetra, red-tail shark, catla, Indian tiger barb, mahseer, freshwater prawns, blue gourami, pearl gourami, goldfish, moon tail, etc.
The aquarium at Cubbon Park is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm on all days except Mondays and second Tuesdays of the month. A minimal entry fee of Rs. 15 per person is required to visit the aquarium. There is no entry fee for children below 12 years of age.
2. Cubbon Park Toy Train
A favorite among the children, Toy train ride in Cubbon Park should not be missed by anyone visiting the park. Named as Putani Express, it runs on bio fuel.
Painted in bright colors, the Putani express runs every 10-20 minutes. It takes around the park through the various structures and flora amidst the large buildings situated in the park.
Toy train timings are from 10:30 in the morning to 6:00 in the evening. It closed on Thursdays.
3. Attara Kacheri
Located opposite to Vidhan Soudha, Attara Kacheri – the high court of Karnataka is another important structure near Cubbon Park. Built in Graeco-Roman style of architecture, this red colored two-storeyed building is worth visiting for its imposing architecture and proximity to other important structures.
Under the supervision of Rao Bahadur Arcot Narayanaswami Mudaliar, it took 4 years to complete the construction of the High Court, having started in the year 1864 and completed in 1868 at a cost of Rs. 4.5 lakhs.
Attara Kacheri was originally named as Old Public Offices. However, when the eighteen departments in the general and revenue secretariat of the Mysore Government were shifted from Tipu Sultan’s summer palace to this premises, it was christened as Attara Kacheri meaning Eighteen offices.
The High Court can be visited from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days of the week except Sundays. There is no entry fee to visit the premises.
4. Government Museum
Another place worth visiting on a trip to Cubbon Park is the State Archeological Museum that resides within the premises of the park. Built in 1876 by Colonel Sankey, it is one of the oldest buildings in India.
The museum boasts of two exhibition floors consisting of 18 galleries belonging to different genres such as sculpture, natural history, geology, art, music and numismatics. The collection at the museum includes sculpture from the Hoysala, Gandhara and Nolamba periods, artifacts from Mohenjodaro, Halebid and Vijayanagar and rare paintings of Deccan, Mysore and Tanjore kingdoms.
Government Museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days of the week except Mondays. There is an entry fee of Rs. 20 for adults and Rs.10 for Children to visit the museum.
5. Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall
Amidst the lush green surroundings of Cubbon Park, stands an impressive red building – the Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall. This structure was built in the year 1915 AD in the honour of the Dewan of Mysore State from 1883 to 1901, Sir K.Seshadri Iyer.
Built in European style architecture with Tuscan and Corinthian columns, this memorial building is a must visit place for book lovers as it houses the Seshadri Memorial library. A beautiful rose garden in the front side of the building makes it all the more alluring.
With an area of 300 sq. km and a collection of 2.65 lakh books including Braille section, the library is worth visiting for its vast collection of books. The library was recipient of Raja Rammohan Roy Library Foundation Award for the best state central library in the year 2000 AD.
The Seshadri Iyer Memorial Hall is open from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm on all days of the week except Mondays and 2nd Tuesdays of the month. There is no entry fee to visit the memorial hall.
6. Band Stand
Once a popular place for music concerts, Band Stand is an octagonal shaped structure made of cast-iron built in early 1900s. Before India got its independence, this place was used by British Royal Air Force to play western band music on Saturday evenings.
Recently, an NGO named Prakruti has started conducting musical concerts at the Bandstand to revive its old glory.
7. Jawahar Bal Bhavan
A visit to Cubbon park is incomplete without a trip to Jawahar Bal Bhavan, an amusement park as well as recreation center designed especially for children. Spread over 12.5 acres of land, Bal Bhavan includes a children’s play area with a variety of swings and slides.
One of the main attractions of Bal Bhavan is the toy train that runs around the Park. Doll museum which boasts of a rich collection of dolls and toys from around the world is another place worth visiting. Jawahar Bal Bhavan also offers boating facility to its visitors.
Along with the recreational activities, Bal Bhavan houses an amphitheatre where various film shows and theatre performances are conducted on a regular basis. Hobby classes such as painting, arts and crafts are also held at the park.
Jawahar Bal Bhavan Timings are from 10.00 am in the morning to 6 pm in the evening. The entry fee is Rs.10 per person for kids above 10 years of age while the entry is free for kids below 10 years of age.
Entry Fee and Timings of Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is open from 6 am in the morning to 6 pm in the evening on all days of the week except Mondays and second Tuesdays of the month. No vehicular movement is allowed from 5 am to 8 am to provide a peaceful environment for morning walkers.
There is no entry fee to visit the Cubbon Park.
How to reach Cubbon Park
Cubbon Park is located at the heart of the city and is easily accessible from M.G. Road, Kasturba Road, Hudson Circle, and Ambedkar Veedhi. Visitors can either take a cab or a BMTC Bus / KSRTC Bus that is well connected to various parts of the city.
The park also has its own Metro Station which is about 100 meters away.
Parking at Cubbon Park
To facilitate the visitors coming to the park in their own vehicles, Cubbon Park provides ample parking space in its four major parking lots such as on the Queens Road side, from Bal Bhavan upto high court complex.
One of the top sightseeing places in Bangalore, Cubbon Park truly supports the title of Garden City of India associated with Bangalore. With its well maintained gardens, the historical buildings and Children play area, Cubbon Park offers something for everyone. A place worth visiting for anyone travelling to this city, Cubbon Park will surely leave plenty of memories worth cherishing for a lifetime.
The Garden city of India, Bangalore has gone through several transformations over the period of time. It blends the modern technological era with historical era perfectly. Situated in the heart of the crowded city where one can see the IT professionals thronging to their companies, stands the magnificent Bangalore Palace.
One of the main attractions of the city, the Bangalore Palace (Kannada: ???????? ????? | Hindi: ??????? ?????) is an epitome of great architectural beauty. Also a preferred location for important events and cultural activities, the Palace attracts tourists in large numbers who appreciate the architectural brilliance of this royal palace.
The area where the current Bangalore Palace stands originally belonged to Rev. J. Garrett, the first principal of the Central High School. It was later purchased by the British Guardians of the then minor Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar X in the year 1873 AD to help him with his education and administrative training.
It took 4 years for the initial construction of Bangalore Place to be completed. The construction started in April 1874 and was completed by 1878. Mr. Cameron of Lalbagh was administered the task of landscaping the palace.
The palace has gone through several additions and improvements over the subsequent years, such as addition of certain portions outside Durbar hall by Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar.
It is believed that King Chamaraja Wodeyar was charmed by the Windsor Castle of London during one of his trips and built the Bangalore Palace on those lines. One can find similarities of the palace to the castles of Normandy and England.
The possession of Bangalore Palace has gone through several hands. At present, the palace is under the ownership of Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wodeyar’s only son Srikanta Datta Narsimharaja Wadiyar.
Architecture of Bangalore Palace
Sprawling over an area of 454 acres, Bangalore Palace was built in Tudor Revival style architecture. With a floor area of 45,000 sq ft, the interiors of the palace is impressively decorated with floral motifs, cornices, wood carvings. The ceilings are adorned with relief paintings.
With Victorian, neo-classical and Edwardian style furniture, Roman arches and coat of arms gifted from the British; Bangalore Palace is furnished with structures from various parts of the world.
The palace boasts of 35 well maintained rooms including a swimming pool. A manual lift, imported stained glass and mirrors, wooden fans are some of the other features of the palace.
Interior Decor of Palace
The artistic brilliance of Bangalore Palace can be found in its captivating interiors. This two level palace has an open courtyard in the ground floor with seats made of granite covered with fluorescent blue ceramic tiles. A ballroom specially designed for holding private parties is also present in the ground floor.
A well decorated staircase leads the visitors to the main attraction of the palace, the Durbar Hall. This is the place where the king used to attend to his people. The wall is adorned with beautiful paintings and a huge elephant head in the hall is also worth admiring.
The Gothic style stained glass windows on one side and the beautifully colored walls in yellow are other prominent features of the Durbar hall. A separate area for ladies to witness the assembly proceedings can also be seen here.
Paintings are one of the main highlights of the hall. Paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, and some old paintings of Greek and Dutch can be seen in the interior walls of the hall. A dining table that belonged to the Diwan of Mysore, Sir Mirza Ismail is another attraction of the hall.
The Grounds of the Palace
The grounds of the Bangalore Palace were once used for conducting many public events including music concerts. Elton John, Enrique Iglesias, Don Moen, David Guetta, Mark Knopfler, Akon, Roger Waters are some of the famous artists who performed here.
The Palace grounds have also played host to some of the popular bands like Iron Maiden, Aerosmith, Backstreet Boys, Deep Purple, Textures, Amon Amarth, Lamb of God, The Black Eyed Peas, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Michael Learns to Rock, Guns N’ Roses, The Prodigy, No Doubt, Sepultura, Scorpions,, Machine Head, Cradle of Filth.
As of now, the grounds are severely neglected. The activities on the grounds are restricted to parties conducted by the private companies that are controlled by the royal family.
The grounds complex is also equipped with an amusement park called Fun World. It is a fun filled place which can enjoyed by the visitors, especially children, where one can find various joy rides, water park and snow room.
Location & How to Reach Bangalore Palace
Bangalore Palace is centrally located between Sadashivanagar and Jayamahal. The nearest airport to the palace is Bangalore International Airport and it takes around an hour to reach the palace from the airport.
The nearest railway station to the palace is the Bangalore City Railway station which is just 4 km away.
There are a number of buses that ply around this area. 287, 287B, 287C, 287D and 287E are some of the BMTC buses which ply out of the central bus terminal. Auto-rickshaws and private car rentals in Bangalore are also easily available.
Bangalore Palace Entry Fees & Timings
The entry fees to the Bangalore Palace is Rs. 250 for Indians and Rs. 460 for Foreign tourists. Still Camera is charged at Rs. 685 and the fees for Mobile Camera is Rs. 300. The fees for carrying Video Camera is Rs. 1485.
Bangalore Palace is open from 10:00 AM in the morning to 5:30 PM in the evening on all days of the week.
One of the most popular attractions in the Garden city, Bangalore Palace is sure to mesmerize everyone with its captivating beauty. An amazing architectural masterpiece, this palace will leave one spellbound with its intricate carvings and beautifully crafted artwork.
Though the grounds are quite neglected, with utmost care and maintenance Bangalore Palace can remain to be an important historical site for years to come.
The moment I think of a break or a vacation, the first option that comes to my mind is Arunachal Pradesh as one trip is simply not enough to see this unexplored paradise. Unparalleled scenic beauty at each and every corner of the state with exotic wild vegetation is yet to be fully explored.
The state of rising sun is nothing less than a paradise for nature lovers presenting them with dense mysterious forest creating a perfect contrast with our concrete jungles. Ask any resident or simply follow their footsteps and you will find yourself in the middle of a forest where they generally go for hunting purposes!
My journey into the wilderness of the nature and spirituality began with warm greetings from Arunachalies. In their broken Hindi mixed with Assamese and few English words here and there they welcomed me as soon as I entered the state. This state of India has almost 65 different tribal groups, each tribe with with their own dialect. And thus the commonly used language is Hindi and Assamese.
Entering the state, I found myself struggling in finalizing the places I wished to visit. On one hand, Malinithan, Parshuram Kund, Rukhmini Nagar and Tawang’s 400 years old monastery promises to give our religious selves a treat. While on the other, the scenic beauty of the rivers like Kameng, Subansiri, Siang and the grandness of Himalayan range quench the thirst for the natural beauty.
Dense forests with exquisite orchid varieties and rare wildlife is the state’s top attraction. Namdapha National Park in Changlang District presents you with exceptional opportunity to see the rare Hoolock Gibbon. The fact that it has four of the felines all at one place – the tiger, the leopard, the snow leopard and the clouded leopard, makes it even more special.
Mouling National Park and Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary also offer interesting tour options. Polo Park in Naharlagun also grabbed my attention with its botanical specimens.
Beyond all these, what attracted me the most was the Orchidarium at Tipi, located in the West Kameng District. More than 500 orchid species can be seen here. We can reach the place by taking a bus from Bomdila.
Through out my travel around the state, I had been mesmerized by this magical place called Arunachal, with in between hurdles due to lack of facilities and comfort. But that is a cost worth paying for the beauty you will experience on this land less traveled.
The state offers its tourists with ample of excitement and adventure as well. With more than 80 percent of the area covered with dense evergreen forests and five major rivers- Kameng, Subansiri , Lohit , Siang and Tirap beautifying the state, Arunachal presents apt settings for sports like trekking, angling, boating and rafting along with offering varied mountainous trekking routes.
Food can be a delight for non-vegetarians and who love to taste the ‘real taste’. Trying Yak momos and other dishes like thukpa, thenthuk is sure to give your palate some treat. For your sweet tooth you might want to try Churpi. These are the varieties of food we get if we go to the Twang and colder areas of the state.
In spite of being a vegetarian and having limited options I enjoyed having the local food. Apong, the liquor made from rice, is also a must try. And let me warn you, it is stronger than you think!
I also had great time while shopping and had some splendid art works to take home. I bought traditional attires like galles, which are very much similar to long skirts adding an ethnic touch to my wardrobe. These can be bought from any of the government art and culture centers which can be found easily.
Adi style hats, cane and bamboo goods like cane belts, cane bracelets, eye-catching smoking pipes also make for interesting buy. Woolen carpets with exceptionally attractive and colorful designs at the Tawang Craft centre also made some place in my bags back home!
Top Places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh
Although I can go on describing this north eastern state, I have picked few places that impressed me.
Tawang
Located 183 Kms away from Bomdila, the town of Tawang is a treat for eyes as well as soul. Its exceptional natural settings and religious significance make the place one of the most sought after tourist destinations. Tawang Monastery, which is also called as Galden Namgey Lhatse is the most popular tourist attraction in the town. It is said that the place got its name from this monastery which also has a legend behind its name.
The word Tawang has ‘Ta’ meaning Horse and ‘Wang’ which means Chosen depicts the popular belief that the site on which the monastery has been constructed was chosen by the horse, which was owned by Merag Lama Lodre Gyamtso.
The fact that it is the second largest Monastery in Asia and the largest one of its kind in the country controlling 17 Gompas in the region adds on to its attraction. Looking at the 28 ft high Golden statue of Buddha in the monastery filled me with a strange sense of peace and calmness.
Breath taking lakes like Sangetsar Lake and PTso Lake surrounded by beautiful landscape create a picture perfect settings. Trying out activities like trekking and rafting and shooting with camera adds more excitement.
Festivals like Losar, Torgya, Choekhor and Dupka Tse-She re makes the place all the more colourful and thus visiting during this period can be a good idea. Season wise, the best time to visit is from the months of July to October.
Pasighat
Situated at the East Siang District, Pasighat is apparently the oldest town of the state. This almost 100 years old town is located at the centre of the state. Popularly known as “Gateway of Arunachal Pradesh”, Pasighat is well connected to rest of the state and other parts of the country.
Situated on the banks of the mighty river Siang, surrounded by snow covered mountains, with greenery around and rich variety of flora and fauna, the city is right refereed as a “photographer’s delight”.
Though the place has got its name from the tribes named ‘Pasis’, it is inhabited by various different tribesmen presenting the place with varied traditions.
The place has various tourist attractions apart from a refreshing setting to just relax and rejuvenate yourself. Sunset and sunrises at the Brahmaputra river which is called Siang River in the state will take to your a different world altogether.
The best time to visit the city is during the months from November to April. However, the weather is pleasant through the year. Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary (13Km from Pasighat), Mouling National Park that is 195 Km away from Pasighat and Kekar Monying (Black Rock), are few of the places that are worth visiting near the town.
You can also visit Yingkiong which is 180Km from Pasighat and experience the adventure even on the route.
It was not just these destinations which impressed me. Even while on the move, the lush greenery around and simplicity of life kept me in state of trance all together!
However, the roads which are not always charcoaled and are just sandy paths made from pebbles and mud can be slight tiring. They were good enough to get me out of my dream world!
Entering the Wonderland
Reaching here is no easy task either. To enter the state we need inner line permit (ILP) that can be obtained by an application with particulars and on payment of Rs. 100/- per permit from Resident Commissioner’s office/ Liaison Offices located at New Delhi, Calcutta, Guwahati, Shillong, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, North Lakhimpur and Jorhat and from all the Deputy Commissioners of 16 Districts of the state.
For foreign tourist, Protected Area Permit can be obtained from all Indian Missions abroad. There are many tour operators in India to help us in the procedures we need to undergo for entering this nature’s wonderland.
They can obtain PAP for a period of 30 days and can also apply for through local approved tour operators and by paying USD 50 per head as Royalty to the Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
Reaching the nature’s paradise
To reach here we have following options to choose from:
Reaching Arunachal Pradesh by Air: Nearest airport is Lilabari (North Lakhimpur) in Assam and approximately 67 Kms away from Itanagar. We can also opt for Indian Airlines that provide direct flights from Tezpur or go for the Arunachal Pradesh helicopter services from Guwahati to Tawang and Guwahati to Naharlagun. You also have helicopter service connecting places within the state making it easier to travel around.
Reaching Arunachal Pradesh by Rail: The nearest railway station is Harmutty (near Banderdewa check gate) in Assam that is 33 km from Itanagar. However it is more convenient if we take North Lakhimpur (Assam) route that 60 km away from Itanagar.
Reaching Arunachal Pradesh by Road: Bus services are the most frequent ones and available to many places in Arunachal Pradesh. There are many direct bus services from North Lakhimpur and Guwahati and between Naharlagun and Itanagar.
I took the rail route which is an experience in itself. One on one with localities and having a closer look at their lifestyle as they travel by your side is quite enthralling. Girls in modern dresses, ladies in traditional attires of galle paired with colorful shirts and elderly in their traditional overcoat galup look no less than walking and talking dolls.
Stations filled with hawkers selling colorful shawls, blankets, plastic toys and utility items varying from comb to table lamps, create a lively picture that lightens even a tiring journey.
With the places still not popular enough to gather hordes of tourists, I enjoyed my each and every day in Arunachal without having to face tourists’ rush. It is hard to tell which place was better as each had its own charm. It is up to you to take a call and go on discovering few sets of places of your choice.
But wherever you go, you will never come back unsatisfied if you are a nature lover and seek adventure. The time to visit Arunachal also differs with the places you decide to visit, although I would to prefer it any time of the year!
Must Haves for Arunachal Pradesh Trip
As the climate is mostly moderate and nights in the state are generally cold, it is advisable to carry few warm clothes with you.
Have an umbrella and if possible a raincoat with you as well.
A strong and comfortable pair of walking shoes is must to walk on the hilly areas.
Have few packed food packets and water bottles with you while on the tour in the state. There are chances that you will not find shops selling for basic amenities.
It is recommended to wear clothes that suits the local culture and surroundings. It is advisable to be appropriately dressed to conform to local culture and requirements.
It is recommended that prior consent is obtained before photographing people and ceremonies.
Garden of Five Senses Delhi Timings & Entry Ticket Fee
Delhi has an edge over other metro cities in very many ways. Not just its infrastructural development, but Delhi is also equally popular for its greenery. The gardens and parks in the city make it even more beautiful and soothing. If you want to feel the city to its best, you must visit Garden of Five Senses, Delhi’s biggest and one of the most popular gardens.
Garden Of Five Senses is situated in the heart of the city. Spread over an area of about 20 acres, the park is located in Saidul Ajaib Village, next to Saket and close to Mehrauli heritage area.
The park has been designed by Delhi based architect Pradeep Sachdeva and has been developed by the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation. An investment of Rs 10.5 crore has gone into the making of this park and it has been developed over a period of three years. It was in February 2003 that Garden of Five Senses was open to the general public.
The park has been interestingly designed with several themes incorporated into one. While a portion of it is built like a rocky terrain, another section of it gives a glimpse of Moghul Gardens. Beautiful Bamboo Courts, solar energy park, herb gardens and pools of water lilies add to the beauty of the place.
The story behind the name
Garden Of Five Senses stands true to its name. It has been meticulously designed to stimulate the five senses of a human being with its attraction and beautiful aura. If you are fond of natural beauty around you, Delhi’s Garden of Five Senses will give you a fair chance to feel, touch, smell, hear and see the best of natural surroundings. Over the years, it has become a prominent cultural venue of the national capital.
In August 2005, the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation Limited had allowed opening of restaurants and bars after an agreement with ITE India Pvt Ltd. As many as 31 commercial food and craft outlets were allowed to be operated in the premises of Garden Of Five Senses for a tenure of about ten years. The park, now, has several restaurants and liquor serving bars. Not only that, a whole lot of food festivals and cultural activities are organised in this beautiful park throughout the year.
Replica of the Mexican Mayan Labná Arc
Garden of Five Senses in Delhi became an even more interesting destination for tourists after India joined hands with Mexico. To honour the flourishing relationship between the two nations, India unveiled the replica of the Mexican Mayan Labná Arc, which has been put up in this park. This is one of the most artistic gesture from India towards Mexico. This beautiful arch was inaugurated in Garden of Five Senses in 2013. It was on 16th September 2013 that the Mayoress of New Delhi, Sheila Dixit and the Mexican Ambassador Jaime Nualart inaugurated this replica. It was constructed after sourcing stone from Rajasthan, which was quite similar to that of the Puuc region of Yucatán.
This replica of Mexican Mayan Labná Arc was constructed by Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage by some of the most renowned stonecutters of the country, who were put to task. Julio Faesler-Carlisle, Mexican Ambassador to India (2001-2004) had initiated the project and it was funded by private enterprises of both the countries, India and Mexico. Ever since, the arch has been serving as the venue for several cultural events being organised in the city.
Garden of Five senses: The Key Attractions
The entire park is a treat to self but there are certain key attractions that will pull your attention towards them, while you visit the Garden of Five Senses. Here they are:
Khas Bagh: It is a spiral walkway situated within the park. This garden is patterned quite like the famous Mughal Garden in Rashtrapati Bhavan. One gets to walk alongside the fragrant plants and trees and encounter water cascades on the way.
Fountain Tree: This unique tree is a sculpture encapsulating the expression of fountains that are lit by fibre optic lighting systems. Besides, there are several well lit fountains that one can enjoy while on a trip to Garden of Five Senses.
Variety of shrubs of flowers planted in unique patterns add colour and life to the small gardens built within the park.
Food court: This food court not only serves amazing variety of food, but also provides the right kind of ambience to enjoy it. The terraced seating arrangement in the food court add to its beauty and charm.
Shopping court: While there may not be something unique that you may find in the shopping court of Garden of Five Senses, you will still get some interesting stuff, that you can add in your set of memorabilia.
Some other major attractions of the park include:
A unique, modern sculpture in stainless steel Bell tree
Stone crafted elephant troop
Neel Bagh, that has a water pool with lilies
Amphitheatre, where the seating area is made of sandstone
Unique sculptures and murals, that give a character to the park. These are set up around the garden and make for one of the largest collection of public art across the nation.
How to reach:
Garden of Five Senses is located in a prime location of the capital city, which is well connected. Here’s how you can reach to the park:
Metro: The nearest metro station is Saket. After getting down from the metro, one can take an auto or a taxi to reach the Garden of Five Senses.
Bus: The area is well connected by DTC buses too. DTC buses numbering 522SPL, 427, 714 and 47A operation to Garden of Five Senses.
Cab/Taxi/Autos: For those who don’t want to take the pain of travelling in a crowded metro or a bus, Delhi has an amazing network of cabs, taxis and autorickshaws. Use Uber, Ola or Jugnoo apps to order these vehicles or you can call them while on the road too.
Bandipur Tiger Reserve (Timings, Entry Fee, Safari Online Booking & How to Reach)
Previously the personal game reserve of the Maharajas of Mysore, Bandipur Tiger Reserve is located in the state of Karnataka in the District of Mysore. Spread across an area of 800 sq. km, Bandipur was declared a national park under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. In the year of 1973 it came under the Project Tiger by the Government of India.
Bandipur Tiger Reserve is amongst the first nine Tiger Reserves of India created in the 1973 under the Project Tiger. It is adjacent to the Madhumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu to south and to the south west Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala along with Nagarhole National Park in the north-west. It is part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve which is the first bio-reserve in India.
Along with presenting rich and exotic flora and fauna, the reserve boasts of mesmerising natural beauty as well. The park has three main rivers namely Nugu, Kabini and Moyar. The River Nugu crosses the reserve in the middle while the River Moyar creates the boundary between Madhumalai Wildlife Sanctuary and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in the south western side and the River Kabini creates boundary between reserve and Nagarhole.
For safaris, tourists can opt from options like open top jeep or bus safaris. Elephant rides are also available making the experience all the more enjoyable.
Flora @ Bandipur Tiger Reserve
The main kind of forest in the reserve is dry deciduous forest along with other kinds like dry deciduous scrub, moist deciduous and mixed forests. Some of the commonly found trees are teak, math, hand, honne, axlewood, sandalwood, jamun, silk cotton, etc.
Fauna @ Bandipur Tiger Reserve
Along with the obvious Tiger, the Bandipur tiger reserve has various other mammals inhabiting in its region. Some of these are leopard, dhole, common palm civet, stripe-necked mongoose, small Indian civet, Asian elephant, gaur, sloth bear, giant squirrel, four-horned antelope, Indian porcupine, mouse deer, barking deer, Sambar, Eurasian otter, Indian pangolin, etc.
Marsh crocodile, Indian monitor, Indian cobra, Indian rat snake, common bronzeback tree snake and Indian rock python are few of the reptiles found in the reserve.
The area boats of umpteen numbers of rare birds making itself one of the popular spot for bird watching. Some of these are Changeable Hawk Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Rufous-bellied Hawk Eagle, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Spot-bellied Eagle Owl, Hill Myna, Yellow-footed Green Pigeon, Woolly-necked Stork, Great Hornbill, etc.
Best time to visit Bandipur Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit the reserve is during the months of October to May as during this time of the season animals can be seen in groups searching for water sources.
Reaching Bandipur Tiger Reserve
By air: The nearest airport to the reserve is Bangalore International Airport which is well connected to the rest of the country and the world. It is at a distance of 215 km from Bandipur. One can hire a taxi from airport to the reserve.
By rail: The nearest rail head is in Mysore which is at a distance of 80 km. The Mysore railway station is connected to Bangalore and other cities. Another nearby railway station is Nanjangud which is 20 km away.
By road: There are many bus services operating from various nearby places to Bandipur. Tourists have the option of KSTRC buses as well as private buses to choose from.
Accommodation @ Bandipur Tiger Reserve
Tourists can choose from various ranges of hotels and cottages present in Bandipur and other nearby places. Most of these accommodation options offer tourists with the facility of daily safaris to the reserve.
Bhadra Tiger Reserve (Timings, Entry Fee, Safari Online Booking & How to Reach)
Located in the Western Ghat in Chikmagalur and Shimoga districts in the state of Karnataka, Bhadra Tiger Reserve covers an approximate area of 493.46 sq. km. The area presents amazing scenic beauty along with rich flora and fauna. It is surrounded by various hill ranges namely Mullaianagiri, Hebbegiri, Gangegiri & Babaudangiri. River Bhadra and its tributaries such as Somavahini, Thadabehalla and Odirayanahalla also adore the area. There is a dam on the River Bhadra.
Along with experiencing rich wildlife, tourists can go for sightseeing to various places such as two temples at Bhadra namely Bhakta Markandeya Temple of Khandya, Bhavani Shankar Temple of Hebbe, Kemmanagundi, Bababudana Hill, Bhadra Reservoir, Sri Dattatraya Peeth and Mullayanagiri.
Flora @ Bhadra Tiger Reserve
The kinds of forests present at the reserve are Southern tropical dry deciduous dry teak, Northern tropical dry deciduous mixed forest, Dry deciduous scrub forest, Boswellia forest, Dry bamboo brakes and Anogeissus pendula forest. Trees like teak, rosewood, mathi, hone, nandi and kindal can also be found.
Fauna @ Bhadra Tiger Reserve
The main species of mammals that can be seen here are elephants, spotted deer, Sambar, cheetah, wild boar, gaur, chital, sloth bear, muntjac, leopards, tigers, macaques, etc. Marsh crocodiles, monitor lizards and many other reptiles can be seen as well.
Some of the birds that can be spotted in the reserve are Grey Junglefowl, Red Spurfowl, Emerald Dove, Southern Green imperial pigeon, Great Black Woodpecker, Malabar Parakeet and Hill Myna.
Best time to visit Bhadra Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit Bhadra Tiger Reserve is during the months of March to July. This is the time when many animals can be spotted in huge herds in search of water. The time between September and October is also quite good to visit.
Reaching Bhadra Tiger Reserve
By air: The nearest airport is Mangalore which is at a distance of 190 km. Another nearby major airport is the Bangalore international Airport which is well connected to rest of the country and major international cities. It is 285 km away from Bhadra Tiger Reserve.
By rail: The nearest railway station to Bhadra is Hassan. One can hire a taxi or take a bus to the reserve from here.
By road: The most convenient way to reach Bhadra is via NH 48 which runs from Bangalore to Hassan. Visitors can also take another route which is via NH 4. There are many buses running from nearby cities to the reserve.
Accommodation @ Bhadra Tiger Reserve
Some of the accommodation facilities available for tourists are Forest Rest House, PWD Bungalow, Circuit house, etc. Tex Woods Resorts and River Tern Lodge are two of the lodges offering decent and comfortable stay.
Biligiriranga Hills Tiger Reserve / BR Hills Tiger Reserve (Timings, Entry Fee, Safari Online Booking & How to Reach)
Popularly called as BR Hills Tiger Reserve, Biligiriranga Hills Tiger Reserve is located near Kollegala, in Karnataka state. Spread across an area of 540 sq. km, the BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is between two main rivers namely Cauvery and Tungabhadra. The sanctuary was established in the year of 1974 and is at a height of 3,350 to 5000 feet above sea-level.
Along with various kinds of flora and exotic fauna, the BR Hills Tiger Reserve presents tourists with exciting sport opportunities as well as interesting sightseeing options. Some of the activities that tourists can involve in are jeep safari, trekking, elephant rides, professional angling, amateur fishing, coracle boat rides, bird safari, river rafting, camping, etc.
The nearby places which are worth visiting are Nagarhole, Bandipur and Mudumalai. The temple of Lord Ranganatha located in the sanctuary also attracts many religious tourists.
Flora @ Biligiriranga Hills Tiger Reserve
The flora of the reserve varies from high altitude grasslands to the evergreen forests and the scrub jungles. Main kinds of forests here are evergreen and deciduous along with grassland vegetation. There are almost 800 species of plants grown in the reserve.
Fauna @ Biligiriranga Hills Tiger Reserve
The main kinds of mammals found in the BR Hills Tiger reserve along with Tigers are Panthers, Gaurs, Chitals, Sambars, Bears, Sloth bears, Civet, Mongoose, Giant squirrel, Porcupine, Common langur, Bonnet macaque, Wild pig, Spotted deer, Elephants, Leopards, Wild dogs, Jungle cat, etc.
The area also boasts of around 270 species of birds. The avian fauna at the reserve is consisted of racquet-tailed drongo, whistling thrush, crested hawk eagle, yellow throated bulbul and many other birds.
Best Time to Visit Biligiriranga Hills Tiger Reserve
The ideal time to visit the reserve is during the months from September to May.
Reaching BR Hills Tiger Reserve
By air: The nearest airport is Bangalore International airport which is at a distance of 160 km from the reserve. It is well connected to the rest of the country and the world.
By rail: The nearest railway head is at Mysore which is 80 km away. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from here to the reserve.
By road: It is easily accessible via road. There are many buses running from Mysore and Bangalore to the BR Hills Tiger Reserve. One can opt for Bangalore-Mysore-Nanjangud route. The nearest town to the reserve is Chamrajnagar.
Accommodation @ Biligiriranga Hills Tiger Reserve
Various kinds of accommodation is available at BR hills for the tourists. Some of the options are Maharaja’s Bungalow, tents, ethnic huts, Jungle Lodges, K Gudi Wilderness Camp, etc.
Bori – Satpura Tiger Reserve (Timings, Entry Fee, Safari Online Booking & How to Reach)
Located between latitudes of 22º 15’ and 22º 45’ N and longitudes of 77º 50’ and 78º 30’ E, the Bori-Satpura Tiger Reserve is located within the area of Satpura Range of the Himalayas in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is spread across an area of 1427 sq. km. This includes Bori and Panchmarhi Sanctuaries as well which are located close by. Bori-Satpura was declared as tiger reserve in the year of 1981.
The reserve promises an enjoyable and exciting days to each and every nature enthusiast. Tourists can take elephant rides as well along with jeep safaris. Boat rides are also available letting tourists to explore the rich flora and fauna in a much better way.
Flora @ Bori – Satpura Tiger Reserve
The forests at the reserve are mainly of three kinds namely tropical dry deciduous, tropical moist deciduous and sub-tropical forests. There are teak, Sal and mixed forests as well along with various species of bamboo like bans Dendrocalamus strictus, water ferns, mahua(Indian Butter Tree), Aonla,, tendu, haldu, jamun and Bel (Stone Apple).
Fauna @ Bori – Satpura Tiger Reserve
The main species of animals found here are tiger, leopard, elephant, bison, wild buffalo, barasingha, sambar, sloth bear, rhesus monkey, wild dog or dhole, wolf, common fox, jackal, jungle cat, giant squirrel, flying squirrel, chital, barking deer, chinkara, mouse deer, chausingha or four horned antelope and nilgai. Some of the reptiles that also reside here at the reserve are Cobra, Russels viper, python, chameleon, common Indian monitor, crocodile.
The main species of birds found here are Jungle Fowls, quails, owls, warblers, mynas, munias, bulbuls, Paradise Fly Catchers, egrets, vultures, falcons, eagles partridges, pigeons, doves, parakeets, bee-eaters, kingfishers, woodpeckers, , etc.
Best time to visit Bori – Satpura Tiger Reserve
The best time to visit the tiger reserve is during the months of December to June.
Reaching Bori – Satpura Tiger Reserve
By air: The nearby airports are Bhopal, Jabalpur and Nagpur. Tourists can reach any of these as per their convenience and then travel via road to the reserve.
By rail: Nearest railway stations to the reserve are in the cities of Bhopal, Jabalpur and Nagpur. Tourists can also take Bombay-Howrah Route and reach Piparia or Itarsi and travel via road from there.
By road: The nearest town to the Bori-Satpura tiger reserve is Pachmarhi which is at a distance of 52 km. It is well connected to cities like to Bhopal (210 km), Jabalpur (240 km) and Nagpur (250 km) by buses. One can also hire a taxi and travel on their own.
Accommodation @ Bori – Satpura Tiger Reserve
There are various kinds of accommodation facilities available in and around reserve. Some of the options are Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, Madhai Wildlife Resort, Forsyth Lodge, ReniPani Lodge, Madai Wildlife Lodge, Denwa Backwater Escape, etc.
