KODAGU or COORG AS IT IS CALLED.....

KODAGU

A Dream Holiday Destination

Coorg or Kodagu is a region where one can spend days, months or years and still never tire of its startling beauty. Coorg or Kodagu as it is known now, is an astonishing land in the heart of the southern Indian peninsula. This unspoilt “country of million hills" Talacauvery, the birthplace of the sacred river Cauvery, is located 44 km from Madikeri, on the slopes of Brahmagiri Hill. Besides being a pilgrimage center, Talacauvery is known for its natural beauty. Devout Coorgs take a holy dip in a nearby pond and take home the holy water from the small pond to perform worship on the day of Cauvery Sankramana, the holiest national day for the Coorgs. Pilgrims from neighbouring districts and Tamil Nadu visit Talcauvery for a month after Tula Sankramana. The gushing of water from the small pond at an auspicious moment is considered a miracle. After the holy dip, the pilgrims take a flight of steps leading up to the summit of the Brahmagiri Hill, which offers a feast for nature lovers. Bus service is available to Talacauvery from Madikeri. BHAGAMANDALA: Bhagamandala is on the foothills of Talcauvery and is 39 km from Madikeri. Bhagamandala is the confluence of the sacred rivers of Cauvery and Kannike and legend has it that a third river Sujyothi, a subterranean stream, joins the two rivers. The Bhagandeshwara temple is located on the banks of the two rivers and is one of the important pilgrimage centers in Coorg. Pilgrims proceed to Talcauvery only after offering worship at Bhagamandala. It is customary for the Coorg men to shave their head at Bhagamandala in the event of a bereavement in the family. Bhagamandala is also famous for honey and its apiaries. Coorg has plenty to offer to those who love the great outdoors. Coorg is a haven for bird-watchers. There are about 300 species of birds. It can be a highly rewarding experience to spot the various species of birds armed with a pair of binoculars and a copy of the book - "Featured Jewels of Coorg" compiled by Dr. S.V. Narsimhan, and published by the Coorg Wildlife Society. A safari in Nagarhole Game Sanctuary organized by the Forest Department can bring the visitor close to elephants, spotted deer, wild boar, wild dogs, bison, peacocks, monkeys and a host of other species. If lucky, one could have a rare encounter with the majestic Tiger. Nagarhole Game Sanctuary is rated one of the best Tiger reserves in the country. For those who like trekking there are many opportunities. There are three major peaks in Coorg viz., Tadiandamol, Pushpagiri, and Brahmagiri. There are a few organization that arrange treks to these peaks. One such organization is the Coorg Adventure Club (CAC). CAC organize not only treks but also Water sports including river rafting, Aero Sports, rock climbing, nature camps etc. Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarahole) The Nagarahole Game Sanctuary is one of the most well-maintained game parks in India. The Nagarahole (meaning snake stream in Kannada) sanctuary derives its name from a serpentine river which flows through the park. Spread over an area of 571 square km in the districts of Coorg and Mysore, the Nagarahole sanctuary is 68 km from Virajpet and 94 km from Mysore via Hunsur and Murkal and 236 km from Bangalore.The Rajiv Gandhi National Park is flanked by Karnataka’s Bandipur National Park and Kerala’s Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary. These three parks, together with Tamil Nadu’s Mudumalai forest and Kerala’s Silent Valley National Park, constitute the Nilgiri Biosphere reserve. Visitors to the park can spot majestic Asiatic elephants and graceful spotted deer moving in their natural surroundings. The lucky ones can even spot tigers and panthers. Most of the south Indian species of animals could be found in the park. They include besides elephants and tigers, leopard, wild dog, sambar, barking deer, sloth bear, wild boar, bison, mouse deer, slender loris, jackal, langur, porcupine, Malabar squirrel, striped hyena and the four-horned antelope. Irupu Falls: Irupu Falls, located 48 km from Virajpet on the way to Kutta from Gonikopppal, is both a picnic spot and pilgrimage center. The Falls is located in Kurchi village, not far away from the Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarahole). CAUVERY NISARAGDHAMA:Nisargadhama is a breathtakingingly beautiful island off the state highway, two km from Kushalanagar town and 28 km from Madikeri. The 64-acre island, surrounded by the Cauvery river, can be accessed by walking across a hanging bridge. Established in 1989, the picturesque picnic spot with lush foliage of thick bamboo groves, sandalwood and teak trees has lovely river-side cottages. A deluxe cottage on stilts with the Cauvery flowing around it, can accommodate five persons. Elephant rides and boating are some of the other attractions. There is a deer park, children's park and orchidarium in the resort. Medicinal plants are also grown. Tourists are allowed to get into water at a few shallow and safe points along the river. The tariff for the cottages range from Rs 600 to Rs 1,000. For reservations, contact the office of the conservator of forests, Kodagu circle, Madikeri. The telephone numbers are 08272-225708 and telefax: 08272-228439. Or contact for reservation, the office of the deputy conservator of forests, Madikeri division, telephone number 08272-228305 and telefax: 08272-228439. BYLEKUPPE Bylekuppe near Kushalanagar is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in south India. The settlement, set up in 1960, is dotted with several monasteries and the prominent among these are the Great Gompa of Sera Je and Sera Mey and the Namdroling monastery. The Mahayana Buddhist University is at Sera. Another important monastery is the Tashi Lhumpo monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. The gold-coated Buddhist statues in the monastery are imposing and unique, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetans. The statues are of Guru Padmasambhava, Buddha Shakyamuni and Amitayus. The settlement is home to over 16,000 refugees from Tibet who fled their country after its invasion by the Chinese. There are nearly 7,000 monks and nuns. Agriculture is the main occupation of the refugees. Besides, they make handicrafts, carpets and incense. Tourists can shop for sweaters, dress material and other accessories. VALNUR FISHING CAMP: Valnur fishing camp is located near Kushalanagar on the banks of the Cauvery. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in angling for the majestic Mahseer after obtaining fishing permits from the Coorg Wildlife Society. In 1985, a coffee plant C.S. Ponnappa caught a Mahseer weighing 40 kg near Siddapur in Coorg. Valnur is also a bird-watchers' paradise. DUBARE FOREST: This is another scenic spot located 15 km from Kushalanagar famous for its elephant training camp. It is also an ideal place for angling in the swirling waters of the Cauvery. HARANGI DAM: The Harangi dam near Kushalanagar has a beautiful reservoir, ideal for a week-end stay.

KULLU MANALI TRAVEL

The tourist attractions in Kullu-Manali apart from the gurgling Beas and the canopy of Deodar trees are more than you can count on your fingers nad here is a list of a few of them.

Tourist Attractions in Kullu-Manali

Tourist Attractions in Kullu #

Raghunathji Temple – revered as the most important and the holiest place in Kullu, this temple is dedicated to lord Raghunathji another form of Lord Rama. The temple was built by Raja Jagat Singh, the king of Kullu who brought the present idol of the god from Ayodhya(the birth place of Lord Rama) and established here.

# Bijli Mahadev Temple - Located at a distance of 10 km from the town Kullu across the Beas river, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is so named because there is a 20 meter high rod projecting out of the shrine, which is said to catch lightening from the skies and destroy them below the Shivlingam(the symbol of Lord Shiva). The temple offers a panoramic view of the Kullu valley and is worth visiting.

# The Great Himalayan National Park - It is home to a diverse variety flora and fauna with around 300 bird species and more than 30 animal species.

# Basheshwar Mahadev Temple - This 9th century temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is popular for its intricate stone carvings.



Tourist Attractions in Manali

# Hidimba Devi Temple - The present wooded temple of goddess Hadimba Devi, the wife of Lord Bhima of the Mahabharata was built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. This four story temple is renowned for its carvings of animals, plants and local deities. Inside the temple is a small brass idol of the statue of goddess Hadimba. This is one f the most popular tourist attractions in Kullu-Manali.

# Vashist Spring - These sulphur hot springs are considered as sacred and known for its medicinal and rejuvenating values. You can take a refreshing warm dip in one of the kunds. # Manali Sanctuary - Located at a distance of 2km from the down town Manali, the wildlife sanctuary was first notified in the year 1954 and is home to a variety of Himalayan flora and fauna with animal species like lion, snow leopard, ibex etc.



# Winter Carnival - The annual five-day winter carnival of Manali is celebrated every year in the month of January at a time when Manali slumbers under a thick blanket of snow. The festival starts from the Hadimba Devi Temple with the worship of goddess Hadimba. Various cultural and winter sports and cultural events are organized during this festival and attracts a large number of participants and tourists from all parts of the country.

Miscellaneous Places to see in Manali


Kothi 12 km. A quiet but picturesque spot. The Rest House overlooks the narrow valley and commands views of the mountains. Below Kothi, for more than a kilometre the river Beas flows through a deep gorge, almost a subterranean passage, 30 metres or more in depth, and the cliffs which flank both sides of the canyon are a favourite haunt for rock pigeons. The site of the bridge provides an interesting historical episode in the early annals of Kullu.



Solang Valley 13 km. A splendid valley between Manali and Kothi which offers views of the glaciers and snow-capped mountain peaks. The plateau is frequently used for holding camps by the trekking parties. Good skiing slopes of the Mountaineering Institute. Venue of annual winter carnival from February 10-14. Bus service upto Palchan village (10 km) and then by jeep or on foot. Rahla Falls 2 km from Kothi. Here the river Beas hurtles down from a height of about 50 metres. Charming spot for picnics. Manali Sanctuary A bridle path from the Manali log huts goes past the Dhoongri Temple and wanders into the dense deodar, kail, horse chestnut, walnut and maple forest which is a part of this sanctuary. Camping overnight in tents at Lambadug or Galiani Thatch is possible. Lush green alpine pastures and glaciers lie beyond Galiani Thatch. Musk deer, monal and brown bear are often spotted. For those who venture still further into the glacier zone in summer, there are herds of ibex. Around Manali Rohtang Pass 51 km. At an altitude of 4,112 metres on the highway to Keylong, the pass affords a wide-spread panorama of mountain scenery. In place of the pinnacled hills, sheltered valleys and cultivated tracts, the eye meets a range of precipitous cliffs, huge glaciers and piled Moraine, and deep ravines. Almost directly opposite is the well defined Sonepani glacier, slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypang, jagged pyramids of rock, snow streaked and snow crowned. The Beas river rises near the crest of Rohtang from a block of Mica-Schist. The pass normally opens for traffic after mid-June and officially closes in November. To its left, 200 metres higher, is the little lake of Sarkund (Dashair) visited by a number of people, the general belief being that a bath in these waters effects a cure of all bodily ailments-real or imaginary. 10 km before Rohtang is the barren-landscape of Marhi which hums with activity during summer and autumn months because almost everyone stops here for refreshments. Keylong 117 km. A fair sized village amidst green fields of barley and buckwheat, Keylong is the headquarters of the Lahaul and Spiti district, surrounded with brown hills and snowy heights. Karding Monastery overlooks Keylong and is 3.5 km across the Chandra river while Shashur Monastery is about 1 km. HPTDC Tourist Bungalow. Triloknath and Udeypur These are two important places of pilgrimage in Pattan Valley. At Triloknath is a six armed image in white marble of Avalokiteshvara, Bodhisattava. Visitors will enjoy crossing the Chandra-Bhaga river and the trek of 3 km to reach the destination. The temple of Marikula at Udeypur is highly remarkable for its wood carvings. Udeypur is 166 km from Manali.

MUNNAR KERALA TOURIST INFO

Mattupetty (13 km from Munnar)

Situated at a height of 1700 m , Mattupetty is famous for its highly specialized dairy farm, the Indo-Swiss live stock project. Over 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here. Visitors are allowed into three of the eleven cattle sheds at the farm Visit Time : 0900 - 1100 hrs and 1400 - 1530 hrs. The Mattupetty lake and dam , just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed Launch and slow speed motor boats are available on hire

Devikulam (7 km from Munnar)

This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.

Pallivasal (8 km from Munnar)

This is the venue of the first Hydro Electric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty

Marayoor (40 kms from Munnar)

This is the only place in Kerala that has a natural growth of sandalwood trees. The sandalwood factory of the forest department, the caves(muniyaras) with the murals and relics from the New stone age civilization and the children's park spread across a hectare of land under the canopy of a single banyan tree, are of great interest to tourists. Thoovanam waterfalls and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also நேஅர்பி

Eravikulam National Park (15 km from Munnar)

The 97 sq. km. park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk and is home to the Nilgiri Tahr. The Anamudi peak (2695 m) is located in the Southern region of the park. Originally established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex), the Eravikulam National Park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki District. It was declared as a sanctuary in 1975. Considering the ecological, faunal, floral, geo-morphological and zoological significance, it was declared as a National park in 1978. It covers an area of 97 sq kms of rolling grasslands and high level sholas (evergreen forests). The park is breathtakingly beautiful and is easily comparable to the best mountain ranges found anywhere in the world. Sanctuary Visit : The park is devided into 3 regions - the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area which is in the Rajamala region. The Nilgiri Tahr can be observed at close quarters here. Trekking facilities are available here. Tourists are allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi. This is also a place for adventure tourism.

Lock Heart Gap (13 km from Munnar)

This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.

Chithirapuram (10 km from Munnar)

With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world charm. Home of the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.

Anayirangal (22 kms from Munnar)

It's a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by Tata Tea plantations and evergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spot.

Attukal (9 km from Munnar)

A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treks.

Nyayamakad (10 km from Munnar)

Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 meters. The enchanting surroundings makes an excellent picnic spot and trekking point

Echo Point (15 km from Munnar)

This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenominon here. Echo point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar.

Rajamala (15 km from Munnar)

The natural habitat of the Niligiri tahr , Rajamala is 2695 m above sea level. Half the world's population of the rare mountain goat or tahr which is fast becoming extinct, is now found here.The Nilgiri tahr in Rajamalai are now to be found in small herds found in Eravikulam-Rajamala region. The total number of Niligiri Tahrs in Rajamala is estimated to be over 1300. Visiting Time : 0700 - 1800 hrs. Visitors are not allowed during the monsoon. Entry Pass : Rs. 10 for adults, Rs. 5 for children below 12 years, Rs. 50 for foreigners. Permitting Authority : Wild Life DFO, Munnar. Tel. : 91-486-530487

Kundala (20 km from Munnar)

Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Station. The Golf Course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction. Aruvikkad Waterfall is also near Kundala.

Power House Waterfalls (18 km from Munnar)

The waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic Western mountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady.

Malankara Reservoir (6 kms from Thodupuzha)

Located on the Thodupuzha - Moolavattom road, this artificial lake is accessible by road. The reservoir is ideal for boating and fishing

TOURIST PLAN TO GOA

I am back as I promised with a 14 day tourists trip plan to GOA

Day 1

Arrive at Goa and check in to the hotel you have booked yourself into. To enjoy a 14 day trip to Goa, the ideal way to start each day is by taking a plunge in the warm and welcoming waters of the many beautiful beaches of Goa. The main beaches of Goa are listed below

· Anjuna Beach
· Calangut Beach
· Dona Paula Beach
· Baga Beach

Day 2

Apart from the beautiful sandy beaches of Goa, there are many magnificent forts like the Aguada Fort, Chapora Fort and Mormugao Fort. Spend the second of your 14 day trip to Goa by visiting these magnificent works of architecture.

Day 3

Goa has many majestic and imposing churches and chapels. The main chapels of Goa are listed below

· Chapel of St Francis Xavier
· The Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount

Day 4

Like its natural beauty and the magnificent churches, Goa is equally known for its unique handicrafts like Creative Pottery, Shell Work, Furniture, Brass Work, Bamboo Work, Papier-Mache etc.. The Ancestral Goa which is a miniature Goan village as it would have been 100 years ago. The Big Foot Art Gallery at the Ancestral Goa promotes amateur artisanship. The Handicrafts Centre, adjacent to the Big Foot Gallery exhibits some of the finest handicrafts of Goa.

Day 5

The coastal area of Goa provides ample opportunities to those who are interested in water sports. Water games like water skiing, water scootering as well as para-sailing are frequent games played by tourists. Try these exciting water games.

The Sri Ananta Temple is one of the most well known temples of Goa. It is situated in Ponda a few kilometers away from Marcela. The idol of the god, Ananta is carved in black stone.

Day 6

Goa's wildlife sanctuaries are worth a visit. One gets to see some rare species of birds in Goa, the bird watchers paradise.

· Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
· Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
· Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
· Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Day 7

Some other equally fascinating churches are

· The Church of St Francis of Assissi
· The Basilica of Bom Jesus

Day 8

Take a break from the hectic touring and enjoy a lazy day at the palm-edged Colva Beach and take a stroll around the off-beach shops and restaurants,

Day 9

Enjoy an adventurous day scuba diving from Dona Paula jetty or Aqua Marine in Panjim. The gear can be readily rented.

Day 10

The Goa beach shacks in Goa are the best place to enjoy a relaxed holiday. The beach shacks are sheltered and also provides benefits like a masseur.

Day 11

Take a trip around the capital of Goa, Panaji and drop in at the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the Mahalaxmi Temple.

Day 12

Goa has wonderful temples too like the Shri Ramnath Temple, Shri Mahalsa Temple and Shri Saunsthan Goudpadacharya Temple. Take a trip to these architectural marvels.

Day 13

Goa is known for the best mussels and other different kinds of fishes. You can easily rent a boat and go for fishing. Those interested in boating, try the pedal boats and aqua bikes at the Dona Paula jetty, Ourem Creek at Patto, and at the Mayem Lake.

Day 14

One of the main attractions of Goa is its energetic and active nightlife. Most tourists prefer to spend quiet mornings and laze during the say and store the energies to party throughout the night. A unique way of spending your 14 day trip to Goa would be to spend the evenings in Goa is by hanging out in the shacks along the beaches. Each shack has a different ambience to offer, playing different kinds of music, serving varied kinds of food.

Latest Tourist Info on Ooty

OOTY QUEEN OF HILLS






Ooty is popularly known as the queen of hill stations. It is officially known as Udhagamandalam and is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Tamilnadu. With its scenic beauty and brilliant climate, Ooty forms a perfect summer getaway. Nestled in the lap of the Nilgiris, the hill resort presents excellent views of the mountain ranges. The Nilgiri range is a beautiful mountain range that is a part of the western ghat. It is older than the Himalayas.



Ooty tourism forms a major part of tourism of the Nilgiri region. Ooty is famous for its tea. Lofty mountains, dense forest, expansive grasslands and miles of tea estates greet tourists almost everywhere in Ooty. The tea and tourism festival is one of the major tourist attractions in Ooty.



Ooty is easily accessible by railways. Trains connect Coimbatore with almost all the major cities in India. From Coimbatore you get Nilgiri mountain trains popularly known as toy trains, till Ooty. The hill resort is around 535 kilometers away from Chennai. Ooty has good road systems that connect it to the rest of the country. There are regular bus services from Bangalore, Tirupati, Mysore, Coimbatore and many other nearby places. The nearest airport is in Coimbatore.

Being a major tourist spot, Ooty provides world class accommodation facilities. Hotels in the hill resort can be categorized into luxury hotels, budget hotels, resorts, lodges and inns. All major tour packages of Ooty include accommodation facilities.

UNEXPLORED TOURIST SPOTS IN INDIA

From Kashmir in the North to Kanyakumari in the South, India has ample places, still left unexplored. India, described as a traveler's paradise is more like a fairy-tale land blessed with heavenly beauty. It is an enchanting land for all seasons; India has something that other countries don't. The snow clad mountains on one side stretch their arms towards the desperate hot deserts which role down in the lap of cool coastal plains. It is a country of profound vibrations with centuries of austerities practiced, a thirst quencher for the spiritual seeker, for the nature lover, and for those, who come here for a beautiful, yet, a unique experience.
India has always intrigued and fascinated the rest of the world with its variation, contrast and contradictions and will continue to do so. If you wish to visit India; come prepared for a mind-blowing experience in this truly amazing and crazy country, which has zillions of unveiled places.

To boldly tread where no man has gone before is the inspiring Sar Pass in Himachal Pradesh at 13,800 ft, a virgin territory that has places for trekking, where one can yearn and then learn. Being an 80 km trail it passes through various ranges and sanctuaries. Moving along the winding mountain path one can observe the landscape changing at every turn. Himachal also has The Chanderkhani Pass situated in the picturesque Shivalik Range called 'Devbhoomi'-Land of the Gods. Being a 110 km stretch the pass has long and beautiful stretches of pure white snow and as there is an increase in altitude, topography goes on changing. There are different kinds of shrubs, blossoming with a variety of flowers and the trail is laden with the fragrance of wild roses and rhododendrons.

People say, "Don´t go to Goa, it is not beautiful anymore, like the olden times", but it is not true, because there still are a few secluded beaches in the Northern tip of Goa, which are like a backpacker's paradise. The Morjim-Asvem-Arambol strip is blissful: approximately10 miles of uninterrupted beach, whole swathes of it undotted by humanity. It is beautiful: a palm-lined wide strip of white, silvery sand sloping gently into the sea. As it fringes, the strip becomes thick, it almost seems like a desert. This place is a surprise: a quiet, lonely (though not desolate) beach situated on the northern tip.

When the going gets tough, it is only a believer who can keep going. Mount Kailash and Mansarovar is a pilgrimage considered by believers to be the utmost one-each completed parikrama (round) is said to influence your afterlife and if you complete it seven times, you are free of the eternal cycle of rebirth and death, it is said. But believe it or not, being there will be a moment you will always cherish!
Northeast India is Nature's own country-by and large, it is unpolluted, unvarnished and holds on to an aura of innocence. Khasi Hills nestled comfortably in the sub-Himalayan hill ranges of the northeastern region of India. It would be hard to imagine it now but the entire plateau was once under the sea-one can even find a few marine fossils without too much effort. One can also visit TheGaro Hills in the western region of Meghalaya and the Siju caves.
Lepchajagat, near Ghum in West Bengal, 15 kms away from Darjeeling, is a place; with astound beauty one can never get over with. What immediately strikes you there is the curious play of colors in the sky. The clouds are part black and white drifting from one hill to the other. Jorepokri, Mirik and Pashupati are nearby places which should not to be missed.

The Malvan region of Maharastra has fascinating forts and coastlines. Vijayadurg, the Victory Fort is one of the coastal forts of Maharastra. Its beach is hidden from view and not obvious to the casual visitor, so one has to explore a little more to locate it. The drive to Vijayadurg is extremely beautiful and the bucolic countryside with well-surfaced roads makes it a lovely journey. Further down, up the coast is another coastal fort, Sindhudurgh, which was once the main naval base for the Maratha Navy. Devgarh, another beach town in the Konkan region has another of its many forts. It is also known as the land of the King of Fruits. Kunkeshwar another beautiful place, a few miles away has a lonely stretch of sand that simply sparkles in the sunlight.

Gokarna, North of Karnataka, has a pristine and quaint beach, wedged between hills, which can pleasantly surprise one; as you can see the beach resemble "Om", the Sanskrit symbol for the invocation that is believed to have created the Universe. A two-hour drive away are the Jog Falls, which are actually a set of three waterfalls. Karwar, also lies in the Northern part of Karnataka, on a thin strip of tropical sand that is bound by the Western Ghats on its eastern side and embraced by the Arabian Sea on the west. On entering Karwar, one immediately comes face to face with the blue sea dotted with several islands on the horizon. Distinct amongst them, just about three kilometers away, lies Deobagh, which is approachable by a speedboat. Dandeli, 175 kms from Deobagh, is another place, which is very rich when it comes to Nature and opportunities of getting close to it. One of the main attractions here is white-water rafting.

SITA NADI & KOODLU THEERTHA FALLS

Latest information on tourist who wants adventure.This is the place to be.

Not many of us knew there is such a place in Karnataka.This post is for all adventure tourists.

Location:Someshwara wild life sanctuary is located in North-West Karnataka and comes under the Udupi district. The sanctuary is 4 kms from Hebri and around 60 kms from Udupi.

You see above the photograph of Koodlu Theertha Falls.Followed by Sita Nadi River rafting.

How to Reach:

There are KSRTC buses from Bangalore to Udupi and Hebri. The closest railway station is Udupi and from there you could take the local bus to Hebri (most buses that go to Shimoga goes through Hebri). From Hebri, you could walk the 4 kms or take an auto/ric. to the forest entrance (also called Sitanadi Nature Camp). If you plan to take a private bus, Sugama tourists would directly drop you at the Nature camp.

The campsite has a lot of dorms, quite a few platform tents, and there is a farm house within 15 min walking distance. You can book the farmhouse for your night stay. The campsite also has some small nature walk trails with mild river streams crossing the trails.

See above the morning view of Agumbe range

White water rafting is an unbelievable experience. And if you are in Udupi District, you don't have to go far for the experience. The Varahi and Sita Rivers are ideal for rafting.
In order to promote eco-tourism, Jungle Lodges and Resorts, a State Government undertaking, in association with the Forest Department, is promoting adventure activities in these two rivers. If you trying it for the first time, don't worry, expert personnel are there to guide you.
Rafting is a team effort and it is important to act in tandem with fellow rafters as you navigate through the powerful rapids. When there is more pressure on the left side of the raft, the team members have to move to the right and vice versa. The instructor tells you on which side you should shift to maintain balance and whether you should row backwards or forwards. Safety is paramount so you cannot get on the raft without wearing a life jacket and a helmet.
Besides the unbeatable thrill of feeling the force of nature, you can also enjoy its calmer side as you travel through evergreen forests. For birdwatchers, the trip is a must as they can spot several species of rare birds.
River rafting at Sitanadi Nisarga Dhama offers two choices — one from Nisarga Dhama to Belinje Bridge (14 km) and the other from the Nisarga Dhama to Jomlu Tirtha (22 km). River rafting in the Varahi also has two choices — from Hosangady to New Bridge (24 km) and from Hosangady to Hole Shankarnarayana (18 km). White-water rafting is on at Anejari Nisarga Dhama near Kollur throughout the year. While you're at it, you can chill out for a few days in the log huts at the Sitanadi Nisarga Dhama.
To reach the Sitanadi Nisarga Dhama, take a taxi from Udupi to Hebri, a distance of about 35 km. Sitanadi Nisarga Dhama is about a couple of kilometres from Hebri.

Watch out more details in the next post

INFORMATION ON GOA TOUR

ANJUNA BEACH:

Location : Anjuna is a small village in north Goa, on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It lies 18 km away from Panaji

The key attractions of Anjuna Beach:

Albuquerque Mansion & Chapora Fort

Wednesday Flea Market-Every Wednesday, at around 11 a.m.,(in ANJUNA & VAGATOR)

Evening -Anjuna is also known for its full-moon (acid house) parties.

CALANGUTE & BAGA BEACHES

Location: North Goa but south to Anjuna beach. and is just 15 km from Panjim,

KEY ATTRACTIONS


BEACH & SHOPPINGSaturday bazaar near the new Post Office is an ideal place for good bargainers. The bazaar offers commodities like fish, meat, grocery, textiles, earthenware, household articles and other provisions. Toys and trinkets, piglets, chicken, eggs, brooms and all the traditional, rural produce find their way into the Saturday bazaar.In the center of Calangute, there is a nice Tibetan market. It offers all kinds of gems and silverwork, wooden statues of the Buddha's and Hindu deities.

Dona Paula Beach:

It lies 7 km(south west) away from Panaji.


KEY ATTRACTIONSWater SportsWater sport facilities are the key attraction of this beach. The Dona Paula Sports Club offers water-scooter, cycle, and motorboat rides. Other water sports include windsurfing, parasailing, water-skiing, toboggan ski-biscuit, skibob, sports fishing, snorkeling, harpoon fishing, kayaking, and yachting.

There are several shops along the beachside, which sell variety of goods ranging from eatables to clothes.


Colva Beach:

Among the best beaches, Colva is Goa's longest beach with 20 km of virgin white sands, palm fringed and sun drenched. Colva is a small village in south Goa on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It lies 39 km away from Panaji.

FAIRS AND FESTIVALSThe Beach BonanzaThe Beach Bonanza fair is held on successive Sundays from mid-April onwards, where frenzy visitors in merriment participate in live music, dance, and other entertainment.


Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary :

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is set 10 kms in the northeast direction of Usgao Tisk village in North Goa. It is one of the small preserves in Goa, covering the area of just 8 sq. kms. You can see here the Indian bison, jackal, black-faced langur, wild boar and different species of deer. Besides animals, tourists can also enjoy sights of multiple species of birds and butterflies. Dudhsagar Waterfalls With the most meaningful name, 'The Sea of Milk', the Dudhsagar Waterfalls are located on the Goa and Karnataka border. It is at a distance of 60 kms from Panaji. Water in large amounts falls from the height of hundreds feet and forms for one of the most picturesque natural phenomena. It is a Goa's popular destination for nature lovers, hikers and trekkers.



MISC INFO:

calangute beach and baga beachare in one shore , u can find cheap hotels , small hotels near calangutebeach , and it has also good night life with pubs like mambo and the famous tito's

Tourist should never fail to sail on the Mandovi River during moonlight to experience the real beauty of the river cruise during Goa tour.

Night Party
Check out Ingo's Night Bazaar, Anjuna's Market, Tito's, Kamaki, Mambo's, Congo Lounge, and Geoffreys for more information

SHOPPING:
Anjuna’s Wednesday market, Colva’s Sunday market, Ingo’s Saturday night market, Velha Goa galleria, Government Emporium and scores of different markets are usually flooded with crowds enjoying the festive atmosphere and indulging in some binge shopping on the spur.

Hope this information helps you much. Soon will be back with tourist plan for Goa.