Srirangapatna (British called it Seringapatam) is a small town, 13 km from Mysore in southern India. Tipu Sultan ruled the Kingdom of Mysore from Srirangapatna in the 18th century. The whole town is surrounded by the Cauvery river which makes Srirangapatna a rare island town. The town achieved fame and political importance under Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, who made it the capital of Mysore. It was the scene of at least one of the three battles that Tipu fought against the British who were based in Madras, and is the place where he was ultimately killed during the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War in 1799. The town, amongst other things, is famous for a thousand-year-old temple dedicated to Sri Ranganatha Swamy (a form of Lord Vishnu), after whom the town obtained its name. The Sultan was supposed to have patronised the temple himself, and the story goes that he had to lose one of his sons as hostage to the British to keep the temple. Some of the other attractions include the Jumma Masjid Mosque) and Daria Daulat Gardens.
Situated in the southern part of the Deccan Plateau, Mysore District is an undulating tableland, covered in parts by granite outcrops and fringed by verdant forests. From ancient times, this district has played a significant role in the history of South India. Mysore District is a popular tourist destination, offering several attractions ranging from the royal splendour of Mysore City and its fabulous Dasara Festival to exquisite temples, pilgrimage centres and scenic spots. Mysore city is at 770m above sea level and 140 kms from Bangalore. Also known as the City of Palaces, Mysore retains a quaint charm, that never fails to enchant. Mysore was the capital of the Wodeyar dynasty, feudatories of the Vijayanagar Empire, who declared their independence in the 16th century and ruled in Mysore until independence, barring three decades when Haider Ali and his son Tipu Sultan wrested power from them. Mysore today, is a pleasant city with an old world charm, contributed by its broad shady avenues, well laid out gardens, fine buildings and a salubrious climate.
Within 90 minutes drive from Bangalore and 1,478 meters above sea level, It was Tipu Sultan's summer retreat and Tipu's fort walls still stand as testimony to history. The Tipu's Drop, a 600 meter high cliff, where prisoners were hurled down the precipice is an awe-inspiring sight. Atop the hill is the Yoganandishwara temple. Silver Oak offers you and your family, a picturesque 'hill-station' get-away, a tranquil ambience, and clean fresh air. This is a unique opportunity to actively participate in rural life, as Silver Oak is an eco-friendly farm on ten acres of fertile land, located on the early slopes of the famous Nandi Hills. The location is picturesque by day and by night, the ambience tranquil, the weather comfortable year round, and we do have our share of a large variety of beautiful birds and 'sublime mornings and sunsets.
Bandipur Tiger Reserve situated in Mysore District of Karnataka State of India was among the first nine Tiger Reserves created in India at the launch of Project Tiger in 1973. It is contiguous to Madhumalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu state to south and Wynad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala state to the south-west.To the north-west lies Nagarhole National Park. The highest peak is Gopalaswamy hill. The main perennial rivers of the Reserve are Nugu, Kabini and Moyar. The Nugu river flows in the middle of the Reserve. Whereas, the Moyar river forms the southern boundary between this reserve and Madhumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. The Kabini river, across which a major irrigation dam has come up at Beechanahalli, forms the boundary between this Reserve and Nagarhole. National Park of Karnataka. The Kabini reservoir provides water facility and the grazing ground on the foreshore, for hundreds of elephants during severe and prolonged pinch period. Seasonal streams like Wadli, Chammanahalla, Aidasanahattihalla, Hebballa, Warranchi, Chippanahalla and Mavinahalla are also present. There are a few natural & artificial saltlicks available in the Reserve and are being regularly used by the wild animals. This park is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve - the first 'Biosphere Reserve' of India.
252 kms from Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level lies Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or Kodagu(originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest on steep hill'. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.
The inherent ambience of Pondy, as it is fondly called, becomes most evident in the oldest part of the town which flanks the seashore boulevard. Colonial buildings, some which trace back to the 18th century, line along a grid of straight clean streets and house the French institutions, private homes and businesses, and the sprawling premises of the famous Sri Aurobindo Ashram. The visitor is greeted by mellow colours of cream, yellow, pink and grey with flamboyant bougainvillae bursting over gates and compound walls of cool courtyards.
95 Kms from south-west of Chikkamagalur town is Kudremukh (horse face) range, so named because of the unique shape of the Kudremukh peak. Overlooking the Arabian sea, the broad hills are chained to one another with deep valley & steep precipices. As yet undiscovered by tourist, KUDREMUKH is secluded hill station which retains much of its pristine, natural beauty. Lush green forest interspersed with rivers, grassy slopes, captivating cascades and rare orchids. What a idyllic background for trekking! Yes, KUDREMUKH is trek's territory.
Ooty also known as Udagamandalam is the "Queen of hill stations" and the capital of Nilgiris district. It is one of the most popular tourist resorts in India. Nilgiris means "Blue Mountains". It is a land of picturesque picnic spots. Used to be popular summer and weekend getaway for the Britishers during the colonial days. It is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level. An added attraction for the tourists to Udagamandalam is the mountain train journey on a ratchet and pinion track which commences from Kallar, near Mettupalayam and wends its way through many hair-raising curves and fearful tunnels and chugs along beside deep ravines full of verdant vegetation, gurgling streams and tea gardens.
Hassan is at a distance of 187 kms from Karnataka's capital city of Bangalore. Hassan may be regarded as the showpiece of the great Hoysala heritage. The Hoysala empire had flourished here from 11th to 13th centuries AD. Hassan is the entry point for Belur, Halebid and Sravanabelagola. Present day Hassan is the headquarters of the district by the same name. The temperature is moderate and tourists can enjoy a good time throughout the year. Belur - The distance of Belur from Hassan is 38 kms. The Channekeshava Temple constructed in the year 1116 A.D is the major attraction of Belur. It is the only remaining Hoysala temple where prayers are still held. The period taken to complete the temple was 100 years. It is said that every Hindu deity is represented in the temple in some form or the other. Chennigaraya and Viranarayana are the other Hoysala temples in Belur. Halebid-Halebid is another place famous for Hoyasaleswara temple. This exquisitely built temple consumed almost 90 years for construction but could never be completed. The temple is another remarkable example of unique Hoysala art and architecture. Every wall of the temple has carved out images of innumerable Hindu deities, sages and saints, bird and animal forms. Halebid also has three beautiful Jain temples. Shravanbelgola Shravanbelgola is at a distance of 48 kms from Hassan. Shravanbelgola's claim to fame is the statue of Lord Bahubali also known as Gomateshwar. It is worth mentionable that the 17 metre high statue of Bahubali is the tallest monolithic structure in the world. One is required to climb as many as 614 rock-cut steps to reach the statue situated on top of a hillock. Shravanbelgola is also an important Jain pilgrimage centre.
Be Different this holiday. Break Away from the crowd. Venture into the unexplored Western Ghats. Head for Chikmagalur situated in the southwestern part of Karnataka. Carved against a mountainous canvas this beautiful malnad district is full of surprises.... lofty peaks... delightful dales... racing rivers.... sparkling streams.... captivating cascades... and the bracing mountain air - a balm to the work-weary
The hilly terrain of the Western Ghats, clothed in dense mixed and moist deciduous forests, make Mudumalai (the ancient hills) a most attractive wildlife reserve. The Mysore- Ooty highway runs through the Park, following the course of the Moyar River, which separates Mudumalai from Bandipur. Just 321 sq. km. in area, the hilly terrain provides diverse habitats. The wild elephant, gaur, deer and primates like the bonnet macaque and langurs all inhabit the Park. The predators include the tiger, leopard and the dhole - the Asiatic wild dog, which hunts in packs. The predators of the skies are the crested hawk eagle and the crested serpent eagle that can be seen circling above.
In the cool of the dense forests, among the stands of teak and bamboo thickets, are colorful birds -hornbills, the great black woodpecker with its dramatic red crest, mynas, barbets and parakeets. The tiny eared owl, the scops owl and the little scops owl are more heard than seen. The Annamalai Sanctuary, lying adjacent to Mudumalai is noted for two species that are exclusive to it -the Nilgiri langur and the lion tailed macaque.
Meandering through the woody landscape amidst the forests of Karnataka is the Cauvery – the most majestic and sacred river of South India. The river offers both adventure and opportunity for nature lovers. Nestled along this mighty river is the Bheemeshwari Fishing Camp, world-renowned as home to the great ‘Mahseer’ - the finest & the largest tropical sporting fish known to man. Tucked away from the milling crowds, yet close enough for you to reach, this camp offers a slice of nature that is entirely unique, one in which you can totally feel free
About four kms to the west of Udupi, Malpe is an important port of the Karnataka coast. It is situated at the mouth of the Malpe/Udyavara River. The river is navigable to small cargo boats for about ten kms during high tide. The place has fascinating natural scenic view. It has been a centre of commercial activities for a long time, and one plus point is that it is a natural port. There are three rocky islands to the west of it. The northern-most island is called Daria-Bahadurgad, the middle one Daria-Gadara-Kallu and the southern most Kari-Illada-Kallu. The Daria-Bahadurgad port is famous for its export of processed fish to foreign countries. The sea between the rocky islands and the shore is a safe anchorage for vessels during storms and rough weather. The oldest tile factory of the district set up by the Basel Mission exists here. Fishing and fish curing are the important industries of the place. There are temples of Balarama and Ananteshwara here. The image of Balarama has six faces. Perhaps this was originally a temple of Subramanya or Shanmukha, the six-faced deity who was named Balarama at a later date. It is said that Basavappa Nayaka of Bidanur built the Daria-Bahadurgad fort. Malpe is going to be developed into an important fisheries port. There is also a temple of Vadabhandeshwara here. At Kodavuru, a hamlet of Malpe situated one of the two well-known Shankaranarayana temples of the district. The deity here is in a double linga form. The sport is also known as Krodhashrama.
Even if Karnataka had nothing else to offer but Hampi, tourists would still keep pouring in" exclaims a poster of Karnataka Tourism. Saint VidyaraNya who was then the Jagadguru of Sringeri esta blished the seat of Vijayanagara empire in 1336 A.D, with the help of his devouted disciples Hakka and Bukka. The empire later became world famous for its suppo rt towards renovation/reconstruction of temples thoughout India. It also became renowned for re-establishment of Indian culture, it support for music, art and literature. With the prime purpose of caring for the people and their welfare, this empire stretched physically covering Karnataka, Andhra and Maharashtra and became a by-word for golden rule. Truly, HAMPI, which was the seat of the most famed VIJAYANAGARA empire of His Majesty, Krishnadevaraya, was indeed the capital of the largest empire in post-mogul India, covering several states. Although in ruins today, this capital city once boasted riches known far beyond the shores of India. The Vijayanagara empire streched over at least three states - Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. With his main port at Kalyan (now a part of Bombay) Krishnadevaraya not only provided stability to the region, but also enriched the art, sculptor, and in general, the culture of the whole region.
Mangalore is the seaport town has Ullal, yet another beach resort, the silvery beaches of which command breathtaking views of the sunset, especially, when viewed through the casuarina groves. It is an important port city and a major commercial centre having lot of Tourist attractions in and around. Manjunatha Temple, Tipu Sultan’s Battery and Jumma Masjid are few of the places of interest
One of South India's great temple towns, Madurai is synonymous with the celebrated Meenakshi Temple. Situated on the banks of river Vaigai, Madurai has a rich cultural heritage passed on from the great Tamil era more than 2500 years old. Madurai was an important cultural and commercial centre even as early as 550 AD. It was the capital city for the great Pandya kings. The Pandyan King Kulasekarar built a great temple and created a lotus shaped city around the temple. On the day the city was to be named, as Lord shiva blessed the land and its people, divine nectar (Madhu) was showered on the city from his matted locks. This city was henceforth known as Madhurapuri. Madurai is famous for Jasmine Flowers.
Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in the state, with a large network of inland canals earning it the sobriquet "Venice of the east". These large network of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. Alleppey was one of the busiest centers of trade in the past with one of the best known ports along the malabar coast. Even today it retains its charm as the centre for Coir carpet industries and prawn farming. Alleppey the ideal headquarters for backwater tourism as well as for visits to the lovely church filled town of Kottayam, and the town of Aranmula, famous for its historic Aranmula Snake Boat Race which is an annual event.
Alleppey is also known for its spectacular snake - boat races held on the second Saturday of August, every year. This competition - the Nehru boat race takes its name from India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who inaugurated in 1952. It is excitement all around as snake - boats, each manned by over a hundred oarsmen, cut through the waters like wind. The event is a tremendous success with tourists and the local population alike.
Mararikulam, a tiny fishing village confined with its virgin natural beauty welcomes the tourist to click some extraordinary snaps of the panaromic scenarios of the towering mountains and the cerulean blue sea. You as a tourist can explore the whole village observing the life style of fishing community of Kerala with its native traditions and customs. The tourists can enjoy the beach side with waves carassing the legs, sunbathe on the sea shore or simply cherish the solemn moments proving the desired privacy. The beach resort at Mararikulam is ideal for the tourists visiting Mararikulam for a perfect holiday. Stay at the beach resort to relax completely placing yourself in the laps of luxury. Kindly let us know about your tentative date of travel so that we are able to offer you advance booking of accommodation in the beach resort at Mararikulam.
Ramoji Film City, a tribute to the bewitching magic of cinema, is the dream destination for entertainment and relaxation. Millions of tourists from all over the world come to the complex every month to revel in its infinite leisure and recreation options. Spread over idyllic 2,500 acres and studded with hills, woods, lakes and striking architectural triumphs, Ramoji Film City is one of Asia's fastest growing tourism destinations.
Variously known as "Pearl of the Orient" and a "Tourist Paradise", the state of Goa is located on the western coast of India in the coastal belt known as Konkan. The magnificent scenic beauty and the architectural splendours of its temples, churches and old houses have made Goa a firm favourite with travellers around the world. But then, Goa is much more than just beaches and sea. It has a soul which goes deep into unique history, rich culture and some of the prettiest natural scenery that India has to offer. Much of the real Goa is in its interiors, both inside its buildings and in the hinterland away from the coastal area.
Globally reknown for its shore temples, Mahabalipuram was the second capital of the Pallava kings of Kanchipuram. 58 kilometres from Madras on the Bay of Bengal, this tiny sea - side village of Mahabalipuram, is set in a boulder - strewn landscape. Tourists are drawn to this place by its miles of unspoiled beach and rock-cut art. The sculpture, here, is particularly interesting because it shows scenes of day-to- day life, in contrast with the rest of the state of Tamil Nadu, where the carvings generally depict gods and goddesses. Mahabalipuram art can be divided into four categories : open air bas - relief, structured temples, man-made caves and rathas ('chariots' carved from single boulders, to resemble temples or chariots used in temple processions). The famous Arjuna's Penance and the Krishna Mandapa, adorn massive rocks near the centre of the village. The beautiful Shore Temple towers over the waves, behind a protective breakwater. Sixteen man-made caves in different stages of completion are also seen, scattered through the area.
Thirty years ago, Kovalam was a hippy idyll: a picture perfect tropical beach; a traditional fishing village providing fresh fish, fruits and toddy (coconut beer). Today this tiny beach is the focus of a multi-million dollar business, drawing thousands of tourists for a week dose of ozone, UV and a refreshing Indian Experience. Kovalam was brought to the public eye by the Maharaja of Travancore. Over the past three decades, the place has been well developed, and now figures prominently on the world tourism map. Kovalam is just 16 kms away from Trivandrum. Today Kovalam beach is known as the "Paradise of the South".
A drive along the NH-17 towards the north, to Maravanthe proves to be truly memorable. The gurgle of the waves, the soft gentle breeze kissing your cheeks and a round ball of crimson in the horizon transforms Maravanthe into a breathtaking fairyland.
Maravanthe (Kundapura taluk), about nine kms east of Kundapura is one of the most beautiful spots of South Kanara along the east coast. It is an enchanting place, where on the western side, the Arabian Sea is stretching, while on the eastern side, runs the Saurpanika River and in between them passes the west coast road. Thus only a road divides the sea and the river. Though the river has come down very near to the sea as near as 40-50 feet, it does not join the sea there. It looks as though the sea is higher in level than the river, which joins the sea at Gangolli about eight kms south of this site.
On the eastern side, is a fascinating panorama of coconut palm, green fields and evergreen forest of undulating countryside with the backward of the Kodachadri peak on the Western Ghat present itself with varied scenic beauty. There is a good scope and facility for boating both in sea and in river. Just on the bank of Saurpanika River, there is a Varahaswami temple with three cells which have Varaha, Narasimha, and Janardhana. The place has also a temple of Brahmalingeshwara. There is a proposal to develop Maravanthe as a major tourist spot.
Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, spread over 400 sq km of bamboo and moist deciduous trees, is located on the border of Goa and Karnataka. The park is rich in flora and fauna where nature’s eternal show is on display. Dandeli’s pristine and captivating landscape offers thrills rarely seen elsewhere. Rich, hilly forest terrain, deep river valleys, and meandering rivers make for a superb trekking experience with the fragrance of thyme and basil permeating the air.The Kali River dominates Dandeli, be it from its banks or from atop a mountain. The magical pull that it exerts over each visitor here is to be experienced to be believed.
It was somewhere between 1882 and 1883, when India’s first Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore stayed at Karwar. His brother Satyendranath Tagore, I.C.S., was the district judge of North Kanara, and Rabindranath was only 22 years old then. Fascinated by the beach and the abounding sea, Rabindranath, with his party on one moonlit night, set out on a rowing boat from one end of the beach. Crossing the point of confluence of the Kali River with the sea, they sailed on along the meandering river, upstream. On their way back, they glided down with the current until they reached the mouth of the river. The party got off the boat there, and walked back home on the milky white sands of the beach. It was now far into the night. The sea was calm and so were the casuarinas. That night, even when everything around him slept, something kept Tagore awake. He wrote “Prakritir Pratishoota” or 'Nature’s Revenge', a dramatic poem, and his very first play. As Tagore reflected later, this poem was the genesis of his whole literary career, and the inspiration of Karwar remained in all his later literary works. This is the place that we invite you to discover.