Showing posts with label South India. Show all posts
Showing posts with label South India. Show all posts

Saturday, July 16, 2011

South India, South India Tours, South India Tours Travel, South India Tourist Places

Places To Visit in South India

Kerla 
Kerala, the land of green magic, is a narrow, fertile strip on the south-west coast of India, sandwiched between the Lakshadweep Sea and the Western Ghats. The landscape is dominated by rice fields, mango, cashew nut trees and coconut palms. The Western Ghats, with their dense tropical forests, misty peaks, extensive ridges and ravines, have sheltered Kerala from invaders, but at the same time, have encouraged maritime contact with the outside world.


Kerala is full of good things. This small State in the southern tip of the Indian peninsula is an easy winner owning to its great mind-blowing landscape and infinity of intriguing customs, high-intensity cultural life and educated public so often dressed in white. From Kasargode to Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala is choc-a-bloc with places that attract tourists and travelers from all over the world. Undoubtedly, Kerala is fast emerging as the foremost travel and tourism destination in India. 

There is no other state in the country that can present so much enthusiasm for life as it is visible in Kerala. Despite high population, the economic condition in Kerala is in much better shape than most of the other Indian states. Basic civic facilities available to the common people are well in place and people know what there rights are. 

Cities of Kerala:-Alappuzha, Kochi, Trivandrum, Thrissur, Kannur, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Thekkady.

Tamilnadu is bounded by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh in the north and Kerala in the west. The eastern and western tips of the Tamilnadu are defined by the Point Calimere and Mudumalai wildlife sanctuaries while the northern extreme is Pulicat lake and the southernmost tip is Kanyakumari, the land's end. Tamil Nadu is principally washed by the Cauvery, originating in Coorg in neighbouring Karnataka. Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu is known for its beautiful beach resorts.

Cities of Tamilnadu:-Chennai, Coimbatore, Kanyakumari, Kodaikanal, Madurai, Mahabalipuram, Rameshwaram, Trichy ( Tiruchirappalli ), Thanjavur, Ooty ( Udhagamandalam ).

Kerala Beaches Kerala Backwater
Kerala Beaches Kerala Backwater

Ooty Tamilnadu Temples
Ooty Tamilnadu Temples



Karnataka Karnataka, the "Lofty land" is bounded by Andhra Pradesh in the east, Maharashtra in the north and Tamil Nadu and Kerala in the south. A long coastline hedged by miles and miles of tall, waving, palmgroves frames this pretty land. The majority of the Karnataka state lies on the Deccan Plateau. Bangalore is the state capital.
Karnataka boasts a diverse flora and fauna, which make it a nature tourist's paradise. The state's long and colourful history, and the many forts, temples, mosques, and churches make Karnataka a great place to explore. 

Garden city Bangalore, Jog Falls,the beaches of Karwar and Malpe, Golgumbuz in Bijapur, the stone temples of Belur and Halebid, Mysore Palace, the list is endless.

Cities of Karnataka:- Bangalore, Hampi, Hassan, Mangalore, Mysore.

Hampi Mysore Palace
Hampi Mysore Palace Somnathpur

Andhra Pradesh This is a story of an ugly duckling turning into a swan. From one of the poorest and least developed Indian states to a computer-friendly one, it is a miracle of sorts for Andhra Pradesh. Situated south of the Vindhyas, it shares a common history with its neighbours, Maharashtra, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The medieval city of Hyderabad is its capital.
 
Andhra Pradesh is known for the famous Sri Venkateswara temple at Tirupati, Charminar, Salar Jung Museum, Golconda Fort in Hyderabad and Buddhist viharas at Nagarjunasagar. Also visit the wildlife and bird sanctuaries of Kolleru, Manjira, Kawal and Papikonda. Andhra has a nearly 1000 km-coastline with eight of its 23 districts having direct access to the sea. Famous beaches are Visakhapatnam Bheemunipatnam, Kakinada, Chirala, Kalingapatnam and Mypad.

Cities of Andhra Pradesh:- Guntur, Hyderabad, Kurnool, Nellore, Tirupati, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam, Warangal.

Hampi Mysore Palace 






Charminar Mecca Masjid



Somnathpur Somnathpur
Golconda Fort
Somnathpur

Pondicherry Legend has it that the great sage Agastya came to Vedapuri, by which name the present Pondicherry was once known, only to worship Vedapuriswara, one of the oldest deities worshipped here. The deity, Lord Shiva, the presiding spirit of Vedapuri, was also known as "Agatiswara" the Lord of Agastya. Pondicherry was traditionally a seat of learning and Vedic culture. Such a tradition must have developed from the presence of a great sage in a remote past, surrounded by seekers and disciples living in his Ashram.
Pondicherry is just a speck on the map of India. Yet, men have been fascinated by this speck from time immemorial. It attracted to its shores the Romans and the Chinese. It saw the advent, rise and fall of Buddhism, the resurgence of Hinduism and the penetration of Christianity and Islam through two millennia.
Mysore Palace Somnathpur
Pondicherry Church Chidambaram

Andaman & Nicobar Floating in splendid isolation, east of the Indian mainland is the archipelago of 572 emerald islands, islets and rocks known as Andaman & Nicobar Islands. This union territory stretches over a length of more than 700-kms. From north to south with 36 inhabited islands. Once a hill range extending from Burma to Indonesia, these undulating islands are covered with dense forests and endless variety of exotic flora and fauna. 
 
The topography of the islands is hilly and abounds in evergreen forests. The sandy beaches on the edge of meandering coastline are fringed with coconut palms that sway to the rhythm of the sea. The sea around the islands offers excellent scope for adventure water sports. The rare flora and fauna, underwater marine life and corals, crystal clear water and mangrove lined creeks, offer a dream view of the rare gifts of nature.

The clean roads as well as unpolluted fresh air attract any nature lover, who seeks absolute peace and tranquility in the lap of Mother Nature. Adventure tourism like trekking, island camping, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc., are the major attractions here. A visit to these islands is a memorable lifetime experience.

Mysore Palace Somnathpur

Lakshadweep Be warned. There are some thing that are really hard to find in Lakshadweep. Like fast cars, or shrinks, or tranquilizers. They do have all that water though. Bright and clear as liquid glass. Fringed by white stretches of sand where the only throngs you'll ever see are of the sandpipers on the shore. And you could sleep by the seaside with the night sky as your ceiling. Therapy has never felt better.  
Geographically similar to that other divers' haunt, Lakshadweep is like Maldives without the crowds. 400 kilometers off the coast of Kerala, this group of 36 coral islands and atolls can be reached by a twenty - hour sea journey from Cochin. Of the ten inhabited islands, only two, Bangaram and Kadmat, are open to foreigners and there are dive centers on both these islands. The langoons are home to a spectacular world of marine life, so unexplored, you may well have a site named after you.

Places to see : Bangaram, Kadmat, Kalpeni, Kavaratti, Minicoy, Agatti.
Islands- Amini, Androth, Bitra & Pitti. 

Minicoy Boat Race Somnathpur
Minicoy Boat Race Water Sports in Lakshadweep


Source: rbstravels.com

Friday, July 15, 2011

Kerala Hill Stations, Kerala Tourist Hill Stations, South India, Famous Hill Stations in Kerala

Hill Stations in Kerala


Hill Stations in Kerala-Kerala’s unique topography includes some of the best hill stations in South India. The hills draped in emerald green plantations topped with misty halo make it worth your trip uphill. Watch the majesty of the undulating mountains, the meandering rivers, the tea plantations and the purple hills dominating the vista. Experience the summer resorts which are thousands of meters above sea level and along with it – the joy of being in the lap of nature. 


Chithirapuram , Idukki Kerala
About 10 kms from Munnar, Chithirapuram is simply picture perfect, with its main attractions being the old playgrounds, Pallyvasal Hydel Project and lush tea plantations. The hill town slumbers in the midst of its picturesque surroundings. A tour to Chithirapuram unveils its natural bounty and immense agricultural potential. The Spices Board of Kerala has under its ambit two major nurseries, with one being at Chithirapuram.

Top Station , Idukki, Kerala
The highest point in Munnar, Top Station offers panoramic views of the countryside and the sprawling tea estates. The summit also offers clear views of the plains of Tamil Nadu and the edge of the Western Ghats

DevikulamLake, Devikulam , Idukki Kerala
Devikulam is a small and beautiful hill station, 1800 metres above sea level. 7 kms from Munnar, this hill station with its unique flora and fauna and pleasant weather makes an ideal summer haven. Said to be the highest lake in Munnar, the Devikulam lake is perfect for trout fishing. A local folklore says that Goddess Sita took a dip in the waters of this lake. There is a temple close by which was built in her honour. The lake can be visited only after getting prior permission from the Tata Tea Regional Officer, Munnar. Not far away from the lake is the spectacular Pallivasal Waterfalls that is frequented by picnickers for the sheer manifestation of nature in its various ways

Munnar , Idukki, Kerala
This idyllic hill station with sprawling green tea estates was the summer resort of the erstwhile British Administration in South India. Munnar, (Mun meaning three and aar meaning river) derives its names from the location it is situated at- at the convergence of three mountain streams- Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, set at an altitude of 1600 m above sea level. The places of interest in this hill station are: the TeaMuseum, CSIChurch, MountCaramelChurch, Mattupetty Dam, BlossomInternationalPark, Kundala, Top Station, Echo Point, and DevikulamLake among many others

Peermede , Idukki, Kerala
The hills spread with tea, coffee, cardamom, rubber and eucalyptus estates were once the summer retreat of Travancore Kings. The place seems to have derived its name from the Sufi saint Peer Mohammad, was apparently the first spice trader of the region. The places worth visiting in this quaint little hill station are: Eagle Rock or Parunthumpara, St George’sChurch, Thrisangu Hills, SummerPalace and Panchalimedu.

Vagamon , Idukki Kerala
A tranquil hill station that lies on the western edge of Idukki, and borders Kottayam, Vagamon is an exotic location with endless meadows and hills. Be it the rocky terrains or the flora and fauna in abundance, Vagamon has everything to make you feel in the midst of nature. Kurisumala (a Christian pilgrim centre), Kurisumala Ashram (a catholic monastery), Murugan Para (a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan) and the PineForests are some of the places of interests.

Kalvary Mount , Idukki
The Kalvary Mount, 35 km from Thodupuzha provides a breathtaking view of the forest and the vast reservoir. It is an ideal place for trekking, bird watching and if you get lucky, you might just spot a herd of elephants.

Mattupetty , Idukki, Kerala
13 km from Munnar, situated at an altitude of 1700 m, is the delightful tourist destination called Mattupetty. The Shola forests in and around Mattupetty are ideal for a trek. The Mattupetty lake as well the dam where one can indulge in boating are ideal picnic spots. The Mattupetty Dairy Farm run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project is another attraction. A large variety of high yielding cattle is reared there.

Possadi Gumpe Kasargod Kerala
A small hill resort located on the east of Manjeshwaram, Possadi Gumpe is an ideal picnic spot. 323 m above sea level, Possadi Gumpe is reminiscent of the beautiful valleys of Ooty. It is the perfect place for a long trek through the woods. Konakkad and Ranipuram are also ideal trekking territories.

Kottancheri Hills Kasargod Kerala
Kottancheri Hills are in the rain forests near Konnakkad, 30 km north east of Kanhangad. It is a beautiful picnic spot, ideal for trekking. Thalakkaveri in the BrahmagiriMountains of Coorg is near these hills.

Charalkunnu Pathanamthitta Kerala
Charalkunnu is a popular hill station 17 kms south east of Pathanamthitta town. This picturesque hill station offers a panoramic view of the nearby valleys. The
PampaRiver flows in the low lying areas. A camp house on the hill provides comfortable lodging. Charalkunnu is also a famous retreat and convention centre.
 
 
Elaveezha poonchira KottayamKerala
Located at a distance of 55 kms from Kottayam and 20 kms from Thodapuzha, this is another picnic spot located in the midst of the beautiful hillocks near Kanjar. ‘Elaveezhapoonchira’ means ‘the valley where leaves do not fall' and is so named because the place has no trees. This is also one of the best places in Kerala to witness the sunrise and sunset. It is easily accessible from Palai in Kottayam district. The place is surrounded by three enchanting hillocks: Mankunnu, Kodayathoormal and Thonippara, making the place ideal for trekking.


Koottickal, Vadakemala and Panchalimedu Kottayam Kerala
Koottickal and Vadakemala are in the Western Ghats near Mundakkayam. Koottickal is a beatiful place with mountain forests and an artificial lake created by the Chek-dam on the Manimala river. Amruthamedu, a place famous for medicinal plants, is nearby. The famous pilgrim centre Erumeli is 12 km away from here.

Nelliampathi  Palakkad Kerala
Situated about 80 km away from Palakkad, Nelliampathy is a hill station in the Nelliampathy forest ranges. A series of ridges cut off from one another by valleys of dark evergreen forests make this breathtaking hill station all the more special.

Anamudi Palakkad Kerala
Anamudi is the highest peak in the Western Ghats in India, having an elevation of 2,695 metres (8,842 ft). It is a perfect spot for trekking enthusiasts. The grass slopes starting from the plateau make for a considerably easy hike uphill. The first recorded ascent of the Anamudi was by General Douglas Hamilton of the Madras Army on May 4, 1862. However, it is likely that there had been earlier ascents by local people. 

Dhoni Palakkad Kerala
Dhoni, 15 kms from Palakkad, is a fairly long climb, a 3-hour trek from the base of the Dhoni Hills. This reserve forest area with its small yet captivating waterfalls has many tourists all through the year. Dhoni provides trekkers the opportunity to explore its hilly terrains. Its lush green surroundings are a pleasure to watch. Dhoni is also famous for its farmhouse, harbouring hundreds of cattle of Swiss variety.


Attappady Palakkad Kerala
Located 38 km north-east of Mannarkad, Attappady is a beautiful ensemble of mountains, rivers and forests, Attappady is of great interest to anthropologists as this is the habitat of many tribes like the Irulas and Mudugars. The Malleswaram peak is worshipped as a gigantic Sivalinga by the tribes who also celebrate the Sivarathri festival with great pomp and show. A PWD Rest House and a few private hotels offer accommodation at Agali.

Ponmudi Thiruvananthapuram Kerala
The enchanting hill station of Ponmudi is at a distance of 61 kms from Thiruvanthapuram. Located 915 metres above sea level, its narrow, winding pathways and dark woods make it an exotic location. A multitude of beautiful wild flowers, colourful butterflies, rivulets and springs and the deer park nearby are just some of the reasons for visiting this alluring hill station.

ChembraPeak Wayanad, Kerala
The highest peak in Wayanad, the ChembraPeak is 2100 m high. It offers stunning views of the nearby hills and valleys. An ideal place for a trek, the District Tourism Protection Council rents tents, sleeping bags and other trekking gear to interested tourists.

Lakkidi Wayanad, Kerala
One of the highest locations in Wayanad, Lakkidi commands a picturesque view. Lakkidi, the gateway of Wayanad, lies atop Thamarassery, a Ghat pass at an elevation of 700 m. above mean sea level. The lofty mountain peaks, the gurgling stream, luxuriant vegetation and the bird's eye view of the deep valley on the south, with its winding roads, are indeed breathtaking. The 12 kms. long journey from Adivaram to Lakkidi through ghat road with nine hairpin bends amidst thick forests, is a fascinating experience. As a popular Hill Station in
India, Lakkidi also boasts of the second highest degree of rainfall.

Pakshipathalam Wayanad, Kerala
Pakshipathalam is about 7 kms away from Thirunelli and trekking is the only mode of reaching this place. Pakshipathalam, is a picturesque sleepy little place. Pakshipathalam – as the name suggests, has a large population of birds. Here virgin forests, rivulets and steep hills together offer challenging avenues for trekking. A cave which rishis (saints) are believed to have used for meditation in ancient times, has become a major attraction for tourists.


Vythiri Wayanad, Kerala
Vythiri is one of the most beautiful hill stations of Kerala located at about 100 kms from
Kozhikode (Calicut) about 1300 m above sea level. The place is famous for its lush green sprawling plantations of coffee, tea, cardamom, pepper and rubber. The main attraction for the tourists visiting Vythiri are its unique and adventurous ‘Tree Houses’, houses built on trees above 90 ft from the ground in the tropical rainforest providing picturesque view of the valley. You can spend a long time just sitting in your lounge on the balcony, experiencing one of the most privileged views in the rainforest, especially at sunset. 

Aryankavu Hills Kollam Kerala
One of the peaceful and Beautiful Tourist places in Kerala. Known as The Valley of Western Ghats Range (SahyParvatham).Situated about 73 kms east of Kollam, Aryankavu is one of the important pilgrim centres of the district.
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Achencoil Hills Kollam kerala
Achencoil Situated about 80 kms from Punalur is an important pilgrim center.


 Photo Gallery of Kerala Hill stations


Beautiful Hill Stations in Kerala
                                                                   Munnar
 Munnar
                                                                      Munnar
Munnar 
    Munnar

Lakkidi
 Lakkidi
Lakkidi
 Lakkidi
Ponmudi 
Ponmudi 
Ponmudi 
Ponmudi 
Devikulam 
Devikulam 
Devikulam
 Devikulam
Peerumedu
 Peerumedu
Peerumedu
 Peerumedu
Vagamon
 Vagamon
Vagamon
Vagamon
Aryankavu Hills
Aryankavu hills at Mansoon


Tags: Kerala Hill Stations, Kerala Tourist Hill Stations, South India, Famous Hill Stations in Kerala,Hill Stations in Kerala Photos, Photo Gallery of Kerala Hill stations, Images of Kerala Hill stations, Pictures of Kerala Hill stations