Friday, May 31, 2013

Incredible India - 2

Darjeeling is a popular tourist destination which is located in the Mahabharat Range or Lesser Himalaya at an average elevation of 6,710 ft (2,045.2 m). It is noted for its tea industry and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Darjeeling is the headquarters of Darjeeling district which has a partially autonomous status within the state of West Bengal. Darjeeling grew in prominence during the mid 19th century when, because of its climate, the British first established a hill station there after leasing it from the Chogyal of Sikkim and later discovered that the area was particularly well suited for tea plantations. In 1849, the British annexed the area and Darjeeling became a part of British India. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was opened in 1881 (it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the town became the de-facto summer capital of India during the days when the Raj was governed from Calcutta.

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Mussoorie - A Dream Come True

Mussoorie is a hill station in the northern Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is located about 290 km north from the national capital of New Delhi. This hill station, situated in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, is also known as the Queen of the Hills. A picturesque town in the Himalayan region, Mussoorie was once the most sought after summer retreat for the British. The town was a perfect escapade from the oppressive summer heat in northern India. Well-known for its splendid climate, amazing flora and fauna, and solitude surroundings, Mussoorie served as a secret summer getaway, known only to a few British officers. However, in the later years, the place gained popularity and became the central hub for societal gatherings for the elite British families. For them, the idyllic city of Mussoorie was a perfect representation of English countryside in India in the middle of snow peaks Himalayan range. Mussoorie has always been a popular choice among young couples as a desired honeymoon destination for its private spots and stunning natural beauty. As you go strolling around the city of Mussoorie, you are sure to find several British-styled architectures that remind you of the rule of the British Raj in India.

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

Incredible India - 1

Fuji Park, Japan

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a national park in Yamanashi, Shizuoka, and Kanagawa Prefectures, and western Tokyo Metropolis, Japan. It consists of Mount Fuji, Fuji Five Lakes, Hakone, the Izu Peninsula, and the Izu Islands.




Varkala Beach

Stunningly picturesque Varkala beach provides a relatively peaceful alternative to the now commercialized Kovalam. The setting of this beach is striking enough to take your breath away, with a long winding stretch of cliff and views that extend over the Arabian Sea. A paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels, and guest houses. Nestled at the bottom of the cliff is a long stretch of sparkling beach, reached by steps leading down from the cliff top.



The town of Varkala is about 5km inland, centered around the train station, and can be reached via autorickshaw for Rs.40




The resort area lies along two cliffs, north and south, overlooking the beach areas. The main Papanasam beach is between these, while less crowded Black Beach is to the north. This entire area is easily accessible by walking the fine sidewalk along the cliff edges. 


Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Wayanad

Wayanad is a bright green mountainous region that stretches along the Western Ghats. It has a great deal of scenic appeal. Abundant coconut palms, thick forests, paddy fields, and lofty peaks form the landscape. Due to the nature of its terrain, the area also has much to offer adventure enthusiasts. Popular attractions include trekking to Chembra Peak and Meenmutty Falls, exploring old Jain temples, climbing to Edakkal Caves, and wildlife spotting at Muthanga and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuaries. Another highlight of Wayanad is the many delightful homestays in the area. 



 The mountains, the winding lanes and the thick forests on either sides give you an ethereal experience.In the Muthanga wildlife sanctuary at the heart of Wayanad,animals like the Indian elephant, spotted dear, bison are easily spotted in their natural habitats,others animals like tiger and leopard can also be seen if you are lucky.The Edakkal caves give you paintings that are some 4000 years old.The Bamboo forests are an excellent picnic spot.For the adventurer ,trekking in Muthanga,Edakkal and Pakshipathalam can be a lifetime experience.Homely stay at the resorts in Wythiri, away from the hustle and bustle of the cities can be a refreshing experience.Other places of interest are Jain temple,Meenmutty waterfalls,Kuruva islands and the Soochipara waterfalls. How to reach there? Nearest Airport - Calicut 109 Kms Nearest Railwaystaion - Calicut Road : N H 212 (Kozhikode-Mysore) passes via Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery.

AP Tourism

God's Own Country - Munnar, Kerala


Munnar is a hill station in South Indian State of Kerala which is surrounded by Tea Gardens. This place attracts the tourists with its abundant tea estates, waterfalls and plush vegetation.