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God’s own Country

Munaar

Munnar is a small town in the Idukki district along the Western Ghats. In Tamil, Munnar means three rivers. There are many other villages and towns around the area, people residing here are mostly Tamilians and Malayalees. With an elevation of 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level, Munnar is located at the Western Ghats and is one of the finest hill stations in Kerala. If you are interested in flora and fauna, Munnar will offer a plenty of exciting species to look for. Munnar is rich with exotic flora and fauna because of its climate. The Neelakkurinji flowers are most famous among them as they bloom once every 12 years. The whole valley turns violet ,and offer tourists to witness this nature’s one of most elegant gifts

This hill station is famous for trekking and the favorite trekking spot is the Aanamudi, which is the highest peak in the Western Ghats. The Munnar hill station was once a summer resort for British Officials at the era of pre-Independence. They played an important role in developing the tea-estates there.

Interesting Facts:

  • Munnar Echo Point is a scenic location which is lapped amidst the picturesque mountains of Munnar.  Listen to your own voices hitting the ravines and coming back to you, it is a magical experience and the beautiful clean lake formed just beside the hillock, makes the place even more splendid.Located close to the Top Station is another must-see spot, the Echo Point, known for its natural resonance. The echoes are not all that this point is popular for, the beautiful river flowing through the green grassy valley with tea and coffee plantations makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers. This is an amazing spot for photography.
  • Munnar is considered as the hill station which was once the summer resort for the British Government Elites.
  • Munnar has the highest peak of the Southern part of India called Anamudi Peak, which makes for an ideal spot for trekking. So, if you are a trekking enthusiastic, put your shoes on and trek away!
  • Munnar, today is the commercial centre for some of the world’s highest tea-growing estates.

Munnar has a wide range of adventurous sports to offer including rock-climbing, paragliding, trekking, cycling is just to name a few. Because of the natural beauty of the hills, these activities become more enjoyable.

Munnar is famous for the wild Neelakurinji orchids, which bloom once in twelve years when the entire valley turns violet.

You must not miss the Top Station. This is the highest point in Munnar, offers gleaming views of the hills, rivers and valleys surrounding the Western Ghats.

Munnar is a food haven for food lovers! All dishes here are cooked in coconut oil and garnished with crushed coconut.From puttu and kadala curry to appams with stew, Munnar offers a variety of food.

  • Best time to visit Munaar
  • Munnar enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. It is a perfect place to visit between April and mid-June for a summer vacation and October and February for winter holiday. In the monsoon season, due to rains, Munnar’s landscape comes to life.

How to reach Munaar:

  • Via Air:

The closest air terminal is Cochin International Airport, which is around 125 km far from Munnar.Once you arrive at Cochin airport, you can hire a cab to Munnar.

  • Via Train:

The closest railway station from Munnar is situated in Kochi or Ernakulam. You can book a train from any part of the country to this railway station in Kerala. There is also Aluva Railway Station which is closer to Munnar. Once you reach either of this station, book a cab and journey by road to the beautiful hill station of Munnar.

  • By Road:

The final journey to Munnar can only be completed by road. State-run or private transports, handling from different towns in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are the most ideal approach to get to Munnar by street.

Picturesque landscape, refreshing lush green tea plantations, wonderful climate with a Misty clouds , rich abundant flora and fauna. If you are looking for a peaceful and rejuvenating holiday in the hills, then book yourself a hotel in munnar right away! Munnar is the ultimate destination for the most relaxing time ever. There are plenty of interesting activities to do and absorb the beauty of the lush green scenery everywhere with a steaming hot cup of freshly brewed tea! We bet the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word Munnar is the tea estates, sprawling across the town .

We went to Munaar from by Car. The distance from Bangalore to Munaar is around 480 kms . There is a good connectivity of roads.

It will take around 10 hours to reach Munnar if one begins early in the morning ,We started our journey at 3 am to avoid the traffic . The journey will go via

Bangalore → Hosur → Krishnagiri → Salem → Avinashi → Udumalpet → Marayoor → Munnar

We packed a lot of food and water to avoid unnecessary breaks ,as the journey is long ,Roads are in a very good condition and once you enter the chinnar wildlife , the adventure begins. Breathtaking views narrow roads and the steep mountains is how I can describe the distance from Chinnar wildlife to Munaar .

It is definitely a place of tranquility and peace. You will find neverending tea plantations, pristine valleys, hill ranges, forests, waterfalls, rare flora, and fauna. I had an incredibly wonderful time in Munnar not just because of its breathtaking landscape but because people are so nice in the region.

.’Road trips are always fun. You can play your favourite music and enjoy the magnificent views outside your window. Take short stops to admire scenic spots and taste the local cuisine. The overall experience can be refreshing and lift your spirits.The route goes through the thrilling Chinar wildlife sanctuary with narrow and steep roads ,one can enjoy the nature at its fullest .Once you cross the wildlife Sanctuary you will be surprised to see the tranquillity of Munaar,truly a ‘God’s own Country

Thankyou

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Avani Hills/betta

Avani betta

At a distance of 30 km from Kolar and 90 km from Bangalore City ,Avani is a small village in Kolar district of Karnataka. It is one of top historical places to visit as part of your Bangalore trip and among the popular sightseeing spots around Bangalore. It is also a popular location for Trekking.

  • Place: Avani betta, Avani Hills, Kolar, Karnataka
  • Distance: 90km from Bangalore
  • Type: Trekking, historical temple
  • Trek Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Trek Lenght: 2 kilometre
  • Trek Duration: 1 hour one way

The village of Avani received a prominent place mainly due to the legends associated with it. As per the local belief, sage Valmiki, the author of the epic Ramayana was residing here during the period of Ramayana.According to legends, the famous sage Valmiki resided in the village of Avani and gave shelter to Lady Sita during her exile from Ayodhya. Lady Sita, who was pregnant at that time, resided in the ashram of sage Valmiki. In due course of time her twin sons Luv and Kush were born there. It is in Avani where the famous battle took place between Lord Rama and his sons Luv and Kush.

One of the main attractions of Avani is the Sita-Parvati temple that is situated on top of the hill. It’s about an hour trek from the base to the top of the hill and the views from the top are breathtaking.

We visited this place in the month of September ,and decided to leave from Bangalore in the afternoon to avoid the harsh rays of sun and also to witness the sunset from the top of the hill.We were accompanied by kids hence carried ample of eatables and plenty of water,which is highly recommended as the place does not have any eatery/shops in the vicinity.One must carry enough water .Trail is easy to moderate so kids can visit the place .It is a must visit for all Bangloreans , Trekk lovers and who wants to explore the culture of India.

Thankyou

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French Capital of India

Puducherry (Pondicherry)

Often referred to as the ‘French Capital of India’, Pondicherry is a vibrant city located on the south-eastern coast of India.There’s a little piece of France in India and it’s called Pondicherry. Pondicherry is one of the seven Union Territories of India. The Union Territory of Puducherry includes four coastal regions namely Puducherry, Yanam, Mahe, and Karaikal. Pondicherry was once the home for the French and they blended South Indian culture with their own unique tradition. A beautiful City with clean sandy beaches, laid back colourful streets and European architecture.

Just like Goa, Pondicherry can be visited round the year. The sun may get slightly harsh in the summer, but the clean beaches, the colonial vibe, at these places will definitely add to your memories.

Pondichery is one of the most mesmerizing and charming places in South India. This town has retained its old-world French charm, Pondicherry gives you a very close feel of the French culture ,and the French influence is very obvious in the city right from the food to the architecture.

Pondicherry, is a place located 160 kms south of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Pondicherry provides its visitors calm, quiet and peaceful atmosphere. From yoga and meditation to pottery or just sitting by the beach, there are numerous ways to unwind in Pondicherry.

As you walk around, especially in the town’s old French quarter, you might have a momentary lapse as to whether you are in India or France! The architecture is mostly French-inspired.Officially known as Puducherry and popularly known as Pondy, Pondicherry is a lively destination that offers everything- colonial architecture, pebbled beaches, historic sites & heritage, a beautiful seaside promenade, and more

Pondicherry is known for its French-style colonial buildings, beautiful temples, splendid promenade, sandy beaches, etc. There are various reasons why you should visit Pondicherry. 

Attractions :

  • Pebbled beaches-
  • Paradise Beach 
  • Serenity Beach
  • Auro Beach
  • Beautiful Temples and Churches
  • Local Cuisine
  • Sri Aurobindo Ashram
  • Auroville
Auroville

Bangalore to Pondicherry is about 6 hours. Hence, a lot of travelers plan their holiday at Pondicherry.Just at a distance of 307 kilometres from Bangalore it is the top weekend Destination for Bangloreans.

We planned our Holiday in the month of January and booked a Beach resort ‘,le pondy‘ . Situated close to Paradise Beach, this beach resort offers all the luxurious facilities you want on your family vacation.

Amazing location, beautiful accommodation, excellent surrounding and the restaurant serving awesome breakfast and seafood preparations for dinner! A must visit.

Le pondy beach resort

Make sure you add Pondicherry to your South Indian adventure. You honestly cannot miss it.

Thankyou

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The City of Destiny

Vizag

Vishakhapatnam, also called Vizag is a city and port, of northeastern Andhra Pradesh state. Vishakhapatnam is  also referred to as, ‘Goa of the East Coast’, ‘The City of Destiny’, and ‘Jewel of the East Coast’. Vishakhapatnam has a rich history and was part of the Kalinga Empire.It was an ancient Port city which had trade relations with the Middle East and Rome.

It is the headquarter of the Eastern command of the Indian Navy, the largest city in Andhra Pradesh and has Indian’s most modern shipyard.

Submarine measuem
Rushikonda Beach

Interesting facts:

  1. Asia’s first submarine museum opened here, One of it’s kind. A real Submarine which is retired from services, INS Kursura, stands high right beside the Beach road, acting as a link between the curiosity of general public and depths of Indian Navy.
  2. It is a major bases in Vishakhapatnam which is also its headquarters and is responsible for states of Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
  3. The land of Lord Narsimha.
  4. Third largest city in Eastern Coastal India.
  5. India’s first Nuclear Submarine INS Arihant was constructed here.
  6. Manganese ,iron ore and oilseeds are exported at Visakhapatnam, and the city has an oil refinery, a steel plant, and industrial complexes for the production of petrochemicals, fertilizer, sugar, and jute.
  7. Visakhapatnam Port is the fifth-busiest cargo port in India. The city is a major tourist destination and is particularly known for its beaches, ancient Buddhist sites, and the natural beauty of the surrounding Eastern Ghats.
  8. It is Famous for Fishing industry, road–rail connectivity, many heavy industries like Hindustan Petroleum, Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, Hindustan Shipyard, Visakhapatnam Port Trust, National Thermal Power, Bharat Heavy Electricals Naval Science and Technological Laboratory and Naval Dockyard .
  9. The deepest seaport of India lies in Vizag. The Gangavaram Port .
  10. The first ship to be constructed fully in India after independence was built at the Scindia Shipyard and named Jal Usha. It was launched in 1948 by Jawahar lal Nehru.

Places to visit:

  1. Yarada Beach.
  2. Katiki Waterfalls.
  3. Kailasagiri.
  4. Indira Gandhi Zoological Park.
  5. Araku Valley.
  6. VUDA Park.
  7. Borra Caves.
  8. INS Kurusura Submarine Museum.
  9. Rushikonda Beach.
  10. Rama Krishna Beach.
  11. Dolphin’s Nose.
Bora caves
Bora Caves
Ramakrishna Beach
Araku valley
Fun at the beach

Thankyou

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Venice of the East

Allepy(Alappuzha)

Alleppey is the heaven for the nature lovers who want to soak in the greenery and amazing beauty of backwaters.Alappuzha, famous for its boat races, beaches, marine products and coir industry, is a world renowned backwater tourist destination of India.  Alappuzha backwaters and Alappuzha beach are the must-see tourist attractions in the district. Also well-known as the ‘Venice of the East‘.The never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, shimmering water, and long canals around Alappuzha make it a delightful destination.

Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea . It is the administrative headquarters of the Alappuzha district and the 6th largest city in Kerala. Along with Kumarakom, Alappuzha is among the most famous destination of Kerala Backwaters. A houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a delightful experience.It is a magnificent destination in Kerala with a mix of Backwaters and Beach.The backwaters in the past were used for business as a mode of transportation, fishing, and agriculture and with the passage of time emerged as a tourism hotspot.

The backwaters are so popular that they are listed among ’10 paradises on the world’ by National Geographic Traveler magazine.Among all the places which have backwaters, Alleppey and Kumarakom are the most preferred choice for backwaters experience. The beaches look their best early November through to March as well, so look out for some spectacular sunsets.
Sultry summers set in by April to the end of May with fairly high outdoor temperatures.
Monsoons arrive by the first week of June right through to the end of August. Cool temperatures with overcast skies and green all around make this a visit like none other.

Allepy Backwaters

Few Interesting facts:

Kathakali folk dance
Boat racing
  • Cruising the Alleppey backwaters is one of the most popular ways to explore Kerala, a southern state in India.
  • Another definitive feature of Alappuzha tourism is the classic dance form of Kathakali, a collaboration of dance, drama, story-telling and painting all with the make-up and animated movements.
  • Alappuzha is also the hub of Coir manufacturing which is made of the coconut husk.
  • Fish and rice are the staple food of the whole state. Alleppey fish curry, Crispy Banana Chips are few more.
  • Boat races held in these backwaters are world renowned . Tourists from around the world come to Alleppey to view this majestic view.
Allepy Backwaters
Coir Handicrafts

Visiting Allepy was one of the most astonishing experience I have ever had ,witnessing the splendid natural beauty of the Backwaters, surrounded by coconut trees and never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, shimmering water, and long canals around Alappuzha make it a delightful destination. It is a must visit place for all the travellers.It also offers you the most authentic mouth watering Malyali cuisine and you can bring along beautifully crafted Coir handicrafts.

Thankyou

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        God’s own Country

Wayanad

Wayanad is unique as it is situated in an elevated picturesque mountainous plateau in the Western Ghats, known as ‘The Land of Paddy Fields‘ by the native tribes of this region, Wayanad lies in the Western Ghats at an altitude of 2100m. This is the only district of Kerala that borders both Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The most attractive feature of Wayanad is the forests, which are as old as 3,000 years.Wayanad is the perfect definition of an adventurer’s paradise.

Wayanad district is bordered by Karnataka (Kodagu and Mysore districts) to the north and north-east, Tamil Nadu (Nilgiris district) to the south-east, Malappuram to the south, Kozhikode to the south-west and Kannur to the north-west.

Kerala’s least populous district, Wayanad offers the most spectacular view  with misty mountains, splendid forests, pristine rivers, and cascading waterfalls, Wayanad is ‘the’ hill station  in South India.Wayanad, the green paradise is nestled among the mountains , forming the greener part of Kerala. Clean and pristine, enchanting and hypnotizing, this land is filled with history and culture. Located at a distance of 76 kmfrom  the sea shores of Kozhikode, this hill station is full of plantations, forests and wildlife. Wayanad wildlife sanctuary is contiguous to Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandhipur in Karnataka, thus forming a vast land mass for the wild life to move about in their most natural abode.Rich in bio-diversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Which has been established with the specific objective of conservating the biological heritage of the region , the sanctuary is very rich in fauna and flora.

Interesting Facts :

  • Lakkidi, Vythiri and Meppadi are the high rainfall areas in Wayanad. High altitude regions experience severe cold .The misty environment of Wayanad offer a wide range of trekking opportunities, plantation visits and wildlife tours.
  • Wayanad district has the largest population of Adivasi in Kerala.
  •  Due to its pleasant climate and picturesque views, Wayanad is often referred to as the Ooty of Kerala
  • Wayanad has no Railway line.

Tourist Destination :

  • Edakkal Caves
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Sri Mahaganapathy Temple at Thiruvangoo
  • Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Jain Temple at Sultan Bathery
  • Karappuzha Dam
  • Kuruva Islands
  • Soochippara Waterfalls

Shopping in Wayanad:

Shop for Spices, coffee, pepper, honey, tea, bamboo products, ivory craft and coconut shell craft.

My stay in Wayanad was like visiting a fairy world amidst verdant and Misty Surroundings .We went from Bangalore ,it takes around  6-7 hours to cover the distance,  most of the path passes through hilly terrain.The journey from Bangalore to Wayanad is easy and as you enter kerela you can witness  the lush green blessing of nature. It is one of the most memorable  road trips I had .We booked two properties  , Chateau woods resort   and Vythri village resort ,Both were located at  harmonious and lush  green surroundings ,offering   the splendid views of forest and the tea plantations,which can refresh your soul from deep within.

Chateau woods

Cliff Cottage Chateau woods
Chateau woods
View from Chateau woods
Vythri village resort Wayanad
Vythri village resort

There is something to satisfy the wanderlust of every adventurer. It is a place you need to add to your travel bucket list today.

Thankyou

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Hidden gem near Bengaluru

Mandargiri hills

Located at the foothills of Mandaragiri betta(hills) .It is nearly 65kms from Bengaluru and is ideal for a day trip,a family picnic or an excursion.Mandaragiri hills also famously known as Basadi Betta, which falls under Tumkur district of Karnataka in India. Its short distance makes Mandargiri hills one of the most convenient weekend destination for a quick one-day road trip from Bangalore as it takes less than two hours to reach this Jain heritage center.

Jain Temple

Attractions:

  1. The extensively beautiful Pinchi-shaped Guru Mandir (Jain temple) at the foothills of Mandargiri Hills, designed with bright green & blue peacock feather like resemblance.This temple shaped in the shape of pinchi using the texture of peacock feather is one of its kind and is certified  as the “Unique Jain temple structure”.The height of this temple is 81 feet and covers the area of 2400square ft.
  2. The Chandranatha Thirthankara statue next to the Guru Mandir.
  3. The ancient Digamber Jain Temple at the top of Mandargiri Hills.
  4. A picturesque view of the lake behind the hills,surrounded by lush green landscape.
  5. Lake Mydala.
Lake Mydala

So we planned our trip in the month of October ,which was an ideal time to explore outdoor hidden gems in and around Bangalore ,as the weather is pleasent and the sun is not too Harsh during that phase of the year .

We started from Bangalore at 12 pm ,as we were accompanied by kids,i preffered to pack Home cooked food and Grabbed a good amount of drinking water .we took a halt in between had our lunch in the car ,and got refueled for the journey .We reached our destination at around 2 pm. We visited the beautiful Temple first .

Reaching the top of Mandargiri hills would require you to climb roughly 450 steps which took us approx. 20 minutes. Not recommended for old age people or people suffering from knee problems. Sunset from Mandaragiri hills is a spectacular sight and should be seen and the last.

Best time to vist this place is in the early morning or evening time to see the beautiful view of Sunset & Sunrise .

The carved out stairs at Mandargiri Hills

Though the Climb was not so easy but worth the splendid view it offers .kids were super excited and were enjoying the mini trek .Once we were on topof the Hill we could feel the pure and quaint atmosphere surrounded by lake and the green landscape ,One can easily spend a day here relaxing in the lap of nature .You can enjoy the cool breeze at the top of the hill,a must visit place for every benglurian.

Serene landscape

Note: No restaurants nearby , only a tea shop at the vicinity ,So plan accordingly.No ticket charges for the place.Carry plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Thankyou

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Ooty

Ooty is a town and hill station in the Indian state of Tamilnadu The name “Ooty” is short for Ootacamund (officially Udhagamandalam). Ooty is located in the Nilgiris, or Blue Mountains, a mountain district. Ooty stands at about 7,500 feet above sea level.

The town of Ooty is tucked in the heart of the Nilgiris, making it a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Owing to its perfect geographical location on the hills, it has remained an all-time favorite retreat for travelers.The lush green landscape covered with tea estates, valleys, and forested lands on one hand and the classic vibes of the good old days make this hill station the perfect place to escape. The expansive greenery, the pleasant weather, and the endless adventure options are what Ooty is famous for.The quaint and quiet hill station is one of the most popular mountain destinations in South India. Ooty is the headquarters of the Nilgiris district, with Doddabetta as the highest point. It is located 86 km from Coimbatore and 128 km from Mysore.Ooty enjoys a pleasant weather all through the year and is also the most popular destination in South India.

Ooty pine forest

Few interesting facts:

  1. When the East India Company formed the Madras Presidency, Ooty served as its summer capital. The officers of the company would retire to this hill-station to evade the blazing summer of south India.
  2. Ooty has a small-scale industry based on oil extracted from eucalyptus trees. These huge timbers grow in abundance across the Nilgiri Mountains.
  3. The Dodabetta Peak, about 10 kilometres from Ooty, is the highest peak of south India at 2,623 metres from the sea level.
  4. The famous Botanical Garden of Ooty has a preserved fossil of a tree-trunk which is approximately 20 million years old.
  5. The Ooty Lake is actually an artificial lake. It is one of the very few artificial lakes of India situated at an altitude of 2,000 metres or above.
  6. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is UNESCO world heritage site and has one of the last few working steam engines in the world: 
  7. Nilgiri Mountain Railway mountain route has  16 tunnels,  250 bridges, 205 sharp curves and extraordinary natural scenery of the Nilgiri Hills visible all along the way.
  8. Due to this amazing experience with nature UNESCO announced this in World Heritage List as Mountain Railways in India in 2008.
  9. Home of the largest squirrel (The Malabar squirrel), the tallest wild cattle (The Indian Bison), Nilgiri thar and a huge host of other Flora and fauna Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve
  10. No plastic Zone ,Tamil Nadu is a pioneer in the field of banning single-use plastic altogether.This preserves the beauty and the biosphere of the place.

Most popular tourist places:

Pykara falls
  1. Ooty Lake
  2. Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
  3. Pykara Lake.
  4. Pykara Falls.
  5. Doddabetta Peak.
  6. Avalanche Lake.
  7. Mudumalai National Park.
  8. Government Rose Garden.
  9. Tea plantation,tea factory , Chocolate factory.
Tea estate
Nilgiri tea

I recently visited the place and to my surprise found it to be the cleanest and greenest Hill station I have ever seen ,it lured me by its calm and quaint atmosphere.

We started early morning from Bangalore around 6 am and reached Ooty by 3 pm noon.The road was good and Quiet scenic.The route which we took was: Bangalore – Mandya – Mysore – Gundlupet – Bandipur – Mudhumalai – Masinagudi – Ooty.

Crossing The National park was a cherry on my Cake.We had a chance to discover the nature in depth.Though we could not spot a Tiger but were lucky enough to see the group of deer and fawns,Elephants and Peacocks.Once we crossed the National park then was the turn to climb 36 Hairpin Bends,the curvy road to Ooty.As we were crossing the Bends the ambience was getting more cleaner and brighter .Once you are on the Hills you can feel the magical spell it offers.

Things to Shop:

  1. Ooty’s famous Tea .
  2. Do not forget to buy the home made Ooty Chocolates with ample choices.
  3. Mouth melting Ooty cookies known as Varkey.
  4. Spices
  5. Eucalyptus Oil
Ooty Chocolates
View from Sinclair Retreat Ooty
Pine Forest

Thankyou

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A perfect weekend Gateway From Delhi.

Nanital

Nainital, the well known Hill station of Uttarakhand known for its panoramic view, beautiful lake and wonderful atmosphere. Nainital is located in the Kumaon region in the state of Uttarakhand. It shines like glazing beauty in the Himalayan mountains because of the many lakes reflecting the sunlight. Nainital is a paradise for nature lovers.Set amidst the towering peaks of the Kumaon Hills, the lake resort of Nainital has a lot to offer. From boating to  picnicks on the hills to exploring Jim Corbett, Nainital has all that you could hope for in a hill station.

Nani Lake

Located at an altitude of 1,938mts above sea level, Nainital derives its name from Naini Lake. Nainital is located in the Kumaon region and is popularly known as the Lake District of India. is set in two parts, Tallital and Mallital, with the lake separating them. Tallital is the southern side of the lake, while Mallital consists of the northern upper reaches.

Nainital is a famous tourist destination of India, attracting hundreds of both domestic and foreign tourists every year.  Some of the important places in the district of Nainital are Haldwani, , Ramnagar, Bhowali , Ramgarh, Mukteshwar, Bhimtal, Sattal and Naukuchiatal.

Few Interesting facts:

  1. It is believed that the Naini Lake is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths or The most popular is based on the story of the death of the goddess Sati. The goddess Shakti is worshiped at the Naina Devi Temple, known by locals as Naini Mata Temple on the north shore of the present-day lake.
  2. The golf course in Nainital dates back to the year 1926. The 18-hole golf course happens to be among the oldest ones in the country. However, the golf course was made available for public use from the year 1994.
  3. It was a British sugar merchant by the name of P. Barron who discovered Nainital Lake in 1839.
  4. The  Naukuchia Tal has nine corners. It is believed that anyone who can see all the corners at once will disappear.
  5. Due to the lake on its northern end, it rains almost every afternoon in Nainital. It sounds funny but it’s true.

If you are planning to visit  Nainital, the best time to visit there is   between May to July.

Naukuchiyatal

Eco Cave Garden

Eco Cave Gardens is a network of inter-connected natural underground caves and hanging gardens. Located  near Sukhtal, the gardens offer an enthralling journey of narrow winding roads and weathered caves. The site has an enchanting garden with musical fountains. A stroll across the Garden stretch and passing through the underground cave definitely makes for an exciting family or friends hangout. It is a great place for Children with lots of fun activities to be enjoyed.

I went to this place a long back but can still feel the enchanting beauty of this Lake District and would definitely like to witness it again. Nanital is a best place to get rejuvenated and a destination away from the hustle bustle . From Delhi it is a 7 to 8 hours road trip , and perfect weekend Gateway for a family .

Thankyou

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Uttrakhand

Dehradun

IMA Dehradun

Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand and is the most preferred destination of the Indians. It is a beautiful valley that is popular for its adventure, spiritualism and the beautiful nature that the place is blessed with.

Beautiful view of the valley from the Hills of Mussoorie.

It was Founded by Sikh Guru Ram Rai ji, who came to Dehradun in 1676 and stayed in the  the religious camp established by him: a “dera”, or camp, in the”Doon ” valley  and the place got its name ‘ Dehradun ‘in which Dehra means Dera and Doon means Valley.

Doon School

Dehradun is the educational hub of India and is home to some of the very popular schools and colleges. Doon School, Welham Girls School, Rashtriya Indian Military College and the Forest Research Institute are some of the famous educational institutes prevalent in the region.

Talking about the weather, that Doon people  boast about, it can literally rain any moment. And you can see one side of the road wet with the shower and
the other one dry, You would never find it too hot here. Winters would be amazing, chilly winds, long drives, and all that calmness. The nights maybe chilly, but then winter mornings here are awesome, the sun would shine bright. One can easily layback in their verandah enjoy the food or the evening tea . In summers, well the temperature would never go above 30-35 deg.

Paonta Sahib ,situated in Himachal Pradesh is an hour drive from the City.

Mussorie and Dhanaulti Sahastradhara, buddha temple or rishikesh and haridwar, there are a lot of places to  explore which are just an hour’s drive from the city, like Paonta sahib (The birthplace of Sahibzada Ajit Singh Ji, the eldest son of Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji.)

It is all really close to the nature and very less commercialized.You can visit Shhastradhara, which is a great scenic spot, Tapkeshwar temple of Lord Shiva, Santaula devi temple

Forest Research Institute

Some interesting facts:

  • Dehradun is the capital city of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is located between the rivers Ganga and Yamuna. The city is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and known for its beautiful landscape.
  • The Guru of Kauravas and Pandavas and Dronacharya, has meditated and lived here for a long period, well it’s a belief.
  • Is the Litchi capital of India.The city and its surrounding areas offer just about the right climate for bumper Litchi crops. You may also find some pristine tea gardens across the Doon valley.
  • DOON SCHOOL which is rated among the best school in India, and is almost 75+years old.
  • Forest Research Institute,the premier institute in the field of forestry is located there and is also a place where you can spend a day with friends or family clicking beautiful memories.
  • IMA (Indian Military Academy) is the place where every year many Indian Army cadets come for their initial training of developing a career as Indian Army soldiers. They groom men really well.
  • Dehradun is known for special variety of Basmati rice and Lychees.Dehradun is covered with Lychee trees. 

Best place for primary & higher education in india…

1-Indian Military academy.

2-ONGC headquarter.

3-Survey Of india head quarter.

4-Indias famous Forest research Institute.

5-Wadia Himalayan bhuvigyan kendra.

6- University of Petrolium & Energy studies.

7-DRDO,Ordinance factory..

8-Beautiful Hill mussourie & ITBP training centre mussourie.

Writing all this makes me nostalgic! A lot to say about this city…. which cannot be explained in words…..As it is my Maternal home ,we used to visit Dehradun every year in our winter vacations and stayed for a whole lot of days ,use to enjoy the calmness of the City , the Bun samosa ,spicy Tibetan noodles,the lucious litchies and the delicacies prepared by my Grandma and how can I forget the special Rusks of Dehradun the Sunrise Rusks i can still feel the aroma of those freshly baked Rusks .Those were the good old days …

Thankyou