Leh ladakh
*add in Jammu Kashmir section
Area: 98,000sq km
Altitude: 7,500m Max.
Population: 250000
Religion: Buddhism, Islam. Hindu
Locational Status: Cold Desert
Its landscape, sky, shooting stars, silence, wizened faces, rosy cheeks, dragons and Zen - everything makes Ladakh a quite place to visit. This ethereal cold desert that goes by names such as 'The Last Shangrila', Moonscape, Little Tibet and so many others - all of which ring true, is a land that seldom fails to baffle or surprise.
The start and rugged landscape is situated amidst multiple-hued mountains, some smooth enough to rub your cheeks on, others scraggly as though termites have had a go at them for breakfast. Miles and stretches of this never-never land, surprised by quaint little vibrant green hamlets oozing wild roses and lavender, fringe the life-giving Indus River . Ladakh is a land like no other. Bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram, it lies athwart two other, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range.
In geological terms, this is a young land, formed only a few million years ago by the buckling and folding of the earth's crust as the Indian sub-continent pushed with irresistible force against the immovable mass of Asia . Its basic contours, uplifted by these unimaginable tectonic movements, have been modified over the millennia by the opposite process of erosion, sculpted into the form we see today by wind and water.
Yes, water! Today, a high -altitude desert, sheltered from the rain-bearing clouds of the Indian monsoon by the barrier of the Great Himalaya, Ladakh was once covered by an extensive lake system, the vestiges of which still exist on its south -east plateau of Rupshu and Chushul - in drainage basins with evocative names like Tsomoiri, Tsokar, and grandest of all, Pangong-tso. Occasionally, some stray monsoon clouds do find their way over the Himalaya , and lately this seems to be happening with increasing frequency.
But the main source of water remains the winter snowfall. Drass, Zanskar and the Suru Valley on the Himalaya 's northern flank receive heavy snow in winter; this feeds the glaciers whose meltwater, carried down by streams, irrigates the fields in summer. For the rest of the region, the snow on the peaks is virtually the only source of water. As the crops grow, the villagers pray not for rain, but for sun to melt the glaciers and liberate their water. Usually their prayers are answered, for the skies are clear and the sun shines for over 300 days in the year.
Madikeri/Coorg
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. Local Sights
Madikeri Fort
This 19th century fort, in the centre of Madikeri, houses a temple, a chapel, prison and a small museum. The fort offers a beautiful view of Madikeri.
Raja's Seat
According to legend, the kings of Kodagu spent their evenings here. But what's unforgettable about Raja's seat is the spectacular sunset that one can enjoy from here.
Around Madikeri
The most visited tourist spot in Coorg is the Nagarahole National Park which is known for it's wild-life population. One can find elephants, tigers, leopards, sambars, spotted deers, and bisons in plenty. There are facilities for over-night stay inside the Nagarhole park next to water-holes. Madikeri or Mercara is the main town of Coorg and is also a well known hill station. Some of the important places to visit around Madikeri are Raja seat -a well maintained garden with a great views of the hills, Abbi-Falls a beautiful waterfall, Bhaga-mandala and finally Tala-Kaveri -the birth place of river Kaveri, is an astoundingly beautiful place which is surrounded by mountains.
River Kaveri
Is one of the 7 sacred rivers of Sapta Sindhus of the Hindu scriptures, originated at a place is called Talakaveri in the Brahmagiri hills, at about 4,500 ft above sea level.
This place is marked by a kundike from where the river emerges as a small perennial spring, but flows underground again to emerge a short distance away.
There is a shrine near the kundike and a big tank in front of it where devotees baths before offering prayers. There are 2 temples, a Shiva temple and with a rare and ancient Shiva Linga, and another temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple has a holy Ashwantha tree where, according to legend, the Trimurtis - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh gave darshan to sage Agastya.
Legends also has it that every year on Tulasankramana day (approximately on 17 October) Goddess Parvati appears in the Kundike as the sacred teerthodbhava. This occasion is marked by the sudden unsurge of water in the kundike and is considered very auspicious
From Talakaveri, steps lead up to the nearby Brahmagri peak, where the 7 great sages called the Sapta Maharishis had performed a special yagna. From the peak, as well as on the drive to Talakaveri, tourists can enjoy a good view of the misty blue Brahmagiri hills.
Iruppu Falls
There is a sacred spot called Iruppu in south Kodagu on the Brahmagiri range of hills. River Lakshmana-tirtha flows nearby. Legend says that Rama and Lakshmana, warrior Gods, passed this way while searching for Rama's concert, Sita. Rama asked Lakshmana to fetch some drinking water for him. Lakshmana shot an arrow into the Brahmagiri hills and brought into being river Lakshmanatirtha. The river descends perpendicularly into a great cataract known as the Iruppu Falls . This place is believed to possess the power to cleanse one's sins and is visited by thousands of devotees from far and near on Shivaratri day. There is temple dedicated to Sri Ram, surrounded by paddy fields, from where it is a climb up to the falls through natural forest. This place can be visited from Gonikopal on the way to Nagerhole National Park by taking a detour after Srimangala, situated in the Kutta Road .
Abbey Falls
A big attraction for tourists and filmdom alike is the Abbey Falls , 8 kms from Madikeri. Even during the summer there is plenty of water in these falls.
The roar of the falls can be heard from the main road, from where a path goes through lovely coffee and cardamom plantations right up to them.
The chirping of innumerable birds which are easier heard then seen, fill the air with sweet music. Do remember to take your binoculars and camera when you go there.
Dubare
This is mainly an elephant capturing and training camp of the Forest Department, at the edge of Dubare forest, on the bank of river Kaveri, on the Kushalnagar - Siddapur road. The largest land animal is captured here with the help of tamed elephants and local tribals - the Kurbas - and is held captive for upto 6 months in large teak wood cages.
The tamed elephants attend to various jobs during the day and in the evenings they come down to the river to bathe and to be scrubbed clean by their mahouts. Afterwards the mahout obliges eager tourists for free elephant rides within the camp. In the evenings, all the elephants are offered a special treat of ladoos made of ragi and jaggery, each no smaller than a cannon ball!
Nagarhole National Park
The place derives its name from the winding river - Nagarhole meaning "snake river" - which flows through the park. The 640 sq km of gently undulating terrain at the foothills of the Brahmagiri hills is covered with thick tropical forest, grassy swamps and numerous rivers and streams. The park and animal life is part of the country's first "bio-sphere reserve".
The Forest Department conducts tours along well-defined routes for tourists, in the early mornings and evenings. One can be sure of seeing the bison, elephant, spotted deer, sambhar, barking deer, wild boar, mongoose, peakcock, jungle fowl and many other birds and animals.
Lucky people may see a tiger or panther or even a King cobra. Both trekking and going by private vehicles is allowed, though permission has to be taken first. Huts have been built for those who wish to stay in the wilds.
Valanoor
Valanoor, 30 kms.from Mercara,the back waters of river Cauvery is one of the most beautiful Angling sites in Karnataka. Types of fish include Golden-Masheer, Maral and Mapp. Licence / permit can be arranged by local tourist agents.
Nisargadhama
Bhagamandala is situated at the confluence of 3 rivers (the Cauvery, the Kanika and the Sujyothi). The temple here, built in Kerala style, has smaller shrines dedicated to various gods.
Nisargadhama
Known for its calm, serene beauty, this place is an ideal picnic spot visited by hundreds of tourists throughout the year.
Harangi Dam is a great picnic spot 36 kms from Madikeri.
Essentials
Kodagu can be reached only by road, as there is no railway or commercial air services that serves the area. The Mysore - Mangalore high way passes through Kodagu. The district headquarters Madikeri (Mercara), is 260 km from Bangalore and 120 km from Mysore . The distance from Mangalore is 136 km and from Cannanore and Tellicherry, it is about 115 km. There are regular buses plying from these places to Madikeri.
Pachmarhi - Verdant Jewel
Pachmarhi is Madhya Pradesh's most verdant jewel, a place where nature has found exquisite expression in myriad enchanting ways. Green shades embrace the mountains, and heard everywhere is the gentle murmur of flowing water.
Bridle paths lead into tranquil forest glades, groves of wild bamboo and jamun, dense sal forests and delicate bamboo thickets.
Complementing the magnificence of nature are the works of man. Pachmarhi is also an archaeological treasure-house.
In cave shelters in the Mahadeo Hills is an astonishing richness in rock paintings. Most of these have been placed in the period 500-800 AD, but the earliest paintings are an estimated 10,000 years old.
Priyadarshini (Forsyth Point)
This vantage viewing point marks the place from where Pachmarhi was discovered by Captain Forsyth in 1857. The British developed Pachmarhi as a resort and their influence is embodied in its churches and colonial architecture.
Jamuna Prapat (Bee Fall)
A spectacular fall in the stream which provides drinking water to Pachmarhi. The bathing pools above the fall are very popular.
Handi Khoh
Pachmarhi's most impressive ravine has a 300 feet high precipice and dramatically steep sides.
Apsara Vihar (Fairy Pool)
Easily accessible from Jai Stambh, this 'fairy pool' is an ideal picnic spot for families with small children, since the pool is shallow, deepening only towards the base of the fall.
Rajat Prapat (Big Fall)
Those seeking adventure will find it in this ten-minute walk over rocks and boulders from Apsara Vihar to the top of Rajat Prapat, the 'big fall'.
Irene Pool
This pool was discovered by Irene Bose, wife of Justice Vivian Bose, and named after her. The route upstream leads to a cave, through which the stream goes underground and then over a khud in a series of falls.
Jalawataran ( Duchess Falls )
The descent is steep and the trek strenuous for almost all of the 4 km/2 mile to the base of the fall's first cascade.
Sunder Kund (Saunder's Pool)
Crossing the stream below Duchess Fall and following a footpath about 2.5 km/1.5 mile in a south-west direction, brings one to a huge rocky pool that is excellent for a refreshing swim.
Mahadeo
Regarded as holy for countless of generations, Mahadeo hill has a shrine with an idol of Lord Shiva and an impressive Shivlinga. On the East side of the hill is an excellent cave shelter with beautiful cave paintings.
Chhota Mahadeo
Revered as a sacred spot, this is a narrow point in the valley with rocks overhanging a stream and a spring from where water cascades down.
Chauragarh
4 kms/2.5 mile from Mahadeo, it is one of Satpura's prominent land marks, the summit crowned with emblems of Mahadeo worship.
Jata Shankar
A sacred cave under a mass of loose boulders in which the Jambu Dwip stream has its source. A rocky formation of this place resembles the matted locks of Lord Shiva, hence the name.
Dhoopgarh
The highest point in the Satpura range, with a magnificent view of the surrounding ranges. A very popular spot for viewing sunsets.
Pandav Caves
Five ancient dwellings excavated in the sandstone rock in a low hill. Pachmarhi derives its name from these caves which, as the legend goes, once provided sanctuary to the five Pandav brothers. These caves are now protected monuments.
Tridhara (Piccadily Circus)
A popular picnic spot where two streams meet in a junction.
Vanshree Vihar (Pansy Pool)
A beautiful spot on the Denwa stream, cool and shady among trees, ferns and semi-tropical vegetation.
Reechhgarh
A wonderful natural amphitheater in the rock, approached through a cave-like entrance on the South-side.
Sangam (Fuller's Khud - Waters Meet)
This is the lowest of the picnic spots on the Denwa and offers fairly good bathing pools both below and above the meeting of the waters.
Catholic Church
Built in 1892 by the British, the Catholic Church is a blend of the French and Irish architecture. Its Belgium stained-glass windows add rare attraction and beauty to the building. The church has a cemetery attached to it and graves date from 1859, World War I & II.
Christ Church
Built in 1875 by the British, this Church's architecture is fascinating; its 'sanctum-sanctorum' has a hemispherical dome on top with its ribs ending with faces of angels. The stained glass panes adorning the walls and rear of the altar were imported from Europe . They present a gorgeous view as the sun rays pass through them. The nave of the church does not contain even a single pillar for support. The baptismal font is a rare brass piece and the bell is as old as the church and its chimes can be heard from a long distance.
Satpura National Park
Set up in 1981, Satpura National Park is 524 sq km in area. It spreads through dense forest of evergreen sal, teak and bamboo. The high peaks of Dhoopgarh and Mahadeo, Bori's legendary teak and bamboo forests, Pachmarhi's fascinating natural beauty of deep valleys, high mountains, rivulets, waterfalls and Tawa's vast reservoir combine to give this park unique beauty and a breathtaking variety of attractions. The park is home to the bison, tiger, leopard, bear, four-horned deer, blue-bull and a rich variety of birds.
Bison Lodge
Constructed in 1862, the Bison Lodge is the oldest house in Pachmarhi. It now houses a beautiful museum depicting the rich flora and fauna of Pachmarhi.
The Cave Shelters
Some of the best cave shelters and groups of shelters around Pachmarhi are : Dhuandhar , approached from the footpath to Apsara Vihar, the paintings mostly in white include a group of archers with the typical Gond bun and hooped earrings. Bharat Neer (Dorothy Deep) , has well executed animal paintings and when excavated in the 1930s yielded many pottery shards and microliths. Asthachal (Monte Rosa) , there are four shelters with paintings, comparatively early linear drawings.
Along the northern side of Jambu Dwip valley are some six shelters with many paintings of animals and human figures, including a detailed battle scene.
Harper's Cave , so named because of one of its paintings - a man seated and playing a harp is close to the Jata Shankar Shrine. The Chieftain's Cave derives its name from a battle scene showing two chieftains on horses. A terrace that runs the length of the South, South East and East faces of Kites Crag has some fine cave paintings, the majority of which are in white or outlined in red.
Important Note : While visiting Pachmarhi's beautiful spots, please avoid littering. Carry back with you all empty plastic bags and other trash and leave every point as you found it, spotlessly clean.
Excursions - PACHMARHI
Bori and Pachmarhi Sanctuaries -Being developed as wildlife sanctuary. Gaur (bison), barking deer, sambar and wild boar are among the animals found here.
Tamia : Overlooking the Narmada valley, Tamia is a picturesque resort on the Satpura ranges. From the Tamia rest house, the view of the Dudhi plateau from 330 metres of sheer overhanging cliffs is one of the most spectacular anywhere South of the Vindhyas. Tamia is 78 km/50 mile from Pachmarhi.
Muktagiri : (298 Km/190 mile)-Situated 97 Km/62 mile from Betul are the 52 Jain temples of Muktagiri.
Cairn Hill
Situated about 3 kms. on the road to Avalanche, Cairan hill is one of the few surviving original walks. The entrance road to the hill is flanked by dense cypress trees. The clearings underneath them make good picnic spots. The stillness and silence of the cypress woods is broken only by the sounds of birds in the surrounding shrubs that can be an unforgettable experience.
MIRIK - A floating fountain in the middle of the lake
Mirik a nest in the hills, is West Bengal's one of the hill resort at an altitude of 1767 metres with its own special charms - 49 km. from Darjeeling and 52 km. from Siliguri. 1.25 km. long lake is fed by perennial streams. A floating fountain in the middle of the lake is a joy for ever and very often you may find the glory of Kanchenjunga reflected in the lake waters.
A rich forest of thousands of Cryptomaria - Japanica trees clothe the slopes on the west. A 3.5 km. zig-zag footwalk takes you along the lake - a sleek foot bridge connects the garden on the east with the woods on the west. Alone or in company, you are sure to enjoy a boat-ride in the lake.
The Lake
The beautiful 1.25 km. long lake is the most attractive spot of the Mirik Tourism Project. The depth of the lake water varies from a minimum of 3 ft. to maximum of 26 ft.
The walks on the 3.5 km. long promenade around the lake is a fascinating one. The 80 ft. long arch-type overbridge across the lake is a wonderful engineering skill of the project. Arrangements of fishing in the lake is being implemented soon. Boating is available @ Rs. 40/- per hour per boat.
Kawlay Dara
For fabulous view of the plains as well as mountains. Beautiful view of sunrise and sunset can also be seen.
Deosi Dara
Another observatory point for stupendous landscape view.
Tea Estates
There are eight tea gardens in Mirik area. Thurbo T.E., one of the best tea-estates, is only 2 kms. from the lake. The factory may be visited with the permission of the manager.
Rai-dhap
An ideal picnic spot.
Orange orchards
About two kilometers from Mirik, situated on the spur, one can see beautiful orange orchards. Mirik is the largest supplier of oranges in West Bengal . One can also have glimpse of the village life of hill areas.
Cardamom grove
Cardamom groves can be seen any where near the marshy land.
Devi-sthan
The famous Hindu-temples "Singha Devi Mandir" on the western bank of the lake.
Excursion picnic spot & short trek
Dudhia - 30 k.m. from Mirik. A beautiful picnic spot. Accommodation-Double bedded Room Rs. 450/- lodging only. Restaurant attached.
T r e k s
Trekking from Mirik to Sandakphu, Phalut, has become very popular. Short Trek from Mirik to Kurseong via Balasan river & Namsu could be covered within one day only.
Mirik -Festivals & Fares
Waynad - Land of paddy fields
The name Waynad is derived from the expression 'Wayanadu' which means land of paddy fields . Waynad offers a climate of the hill station similar to that of Oottacamand, offering a panorama of undulating hills and dales. The hills which might have been thick forest once, are now plantations of coffee, tea and cardamom. There is luxuriant greenery all around.
On a clear day from the river border of Kabini, Waynad will seem to be a fairy land with the deep blue mountains juxtaposed with the less blue sky and white vagrant speaks of clouds amidst them.
The most characteristic aspect about Waynad is a large tribal population. Waynad has a small Jain Community consisting of the Gounders who came from Karnataka. They have built beautiful temples all over the district. The Kurichiyar of Waynad have a great martial tradition. They constituted the army of Pazhassi Veera Kerala Varma Raja who fought against the British forces in several battles. The descendants of those warriors are still expert archers.
Waynad district, nestles amidst the majestic mountains of Western Ghat, at a height of 700 to 2100m. above sea level, on the north eastern part of the state. It is bounded by Mysore , Kodagu and Chamrajnagar districts of Karnataka in the north & north-east and Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu to the west. Kalpetta town is the district headquarters.
The name, Waynad, is believed to have been derived from the word Vayalnadu, meaning the land of paddy fields. The present district of Waynad came into being on 1st Nov. 1980 on trifurcating of the then Kozhizhikode district The district presents a variation of climatic conditions. Nature has blessed this part of the state with mist clad mountains and verdant valleys. The district has enormous tourist potential due to its idyllic nature and nearness to major tourist destinations of. Udagamandalam (Ooty) in Tamil Nadu and Mysore in Karnataka.
It is an industrially backward district. Agriculture is the main stay of the district's economy. The rich cash crop plantations of pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments has perhaps made Waynad one of the biggest foreign exchange earners in the state. Besides plantation crops, paddy is the most important agriculture produce. The extensive lush paddy fields of the district are truly impressive.
The splendid scenic spectacle, with hills appearing deep blue in bright sunlight and mist covered most of the time, juxtaposing on the green of the paddy fields is mesmerizing. The east flowing rivers of Waynad are in striking contrast to the various rivers of the state. The Kabbani river of Waynad is a perennial source of water to the Kaveri river.
Banasura Sagar Dam
It is the largest earth dam in India , and is located 21 km from Kalpetta. Due to the undulating topography of the region, islands are formed upstream of the dam when the dam is full.
The islands in the backdrop of Banasura hills provide a spectacular scenic view.
Chembra Peak
It is the highest peak in the District, near Meppady town, 15 km from Kalpetta. The hill is a trekker's paradise. The district Tourism promotion Council provides guides, sleeping bags, canvases, huts and trekking implements on hire. The trekking to the Chembra peak is a risky mountaineering endeavour. The breathtaking scenic beauty of Waynad can be enjoyed from here.
Edakkal Caves , Ambalavayal
The magnificent cave is 3 km. from Ambalavayal which is 25 km. from Kalpetta. The rock cave in the Ambukuthy mountain is actually a cleft about 96 ft. long and 22ft. wide. The interesting pre-historic carvings on the rock wall are an archaeologists and historians delight. Burial sights and urns going back to 2000 years and more have been found here.
Kalpetta
It is the headquarters of Waynad district. Kalpetta is 72 km. north east of Kozhikode . The Jain temple dedicated to Vardhamana Mahaveera is one of the few Jain shrines in Kerala.
There is also a cave very near to the temple. The town houses the famous Maidani Mosque.
Ananthananthaswami Temple
There are many important Jain temples around the town like the Ananthanathaswmi Temple at Puliyarmala : The beautiful Jain temple is located six kilometres from Kalpetta. It is dedicated to Ananthanatha Swami, the third Tirthankara of the Jain faith. The icons of Paraswanatha Swami and Padmavathi Devi, set in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, have a thousand reflections in beautiful patterns of the mirrors placed on the inner sides of the temple walls. Santhinatha Temple at Venniyod. The temple is dedicated to the Jain saint Santinatha Swami. It is 20 km. from Kalpetta.
Kuruva Island
The 950 acres of lush island, is set between the tributaries of east flowing Kabbani river. It is an excellent picnic spot, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The island possesses rare species of birds, orchids and herbs. It is 17km east of Manathavadi and 40 km. from Sultan's Bathery.
Lakkidi
The 'Gateway to Waynad' is located 5 km south of Vayithiri. It is one of the highest locations in the district and commands a picturesque scenery. The 12 km. long journey from Adivaram (Foot of the Mountain) to Lakkidi is a fascinating experience. Pazhassi Tourist Resort-Mananthawadi is an ideal picnic spot in North Waynad and 34 km. from Kalpetta.
There is a good aquarium here. Coin operated toys for children and boating facilities are available. Pazhassi Raja, the lion of Kerala, who waged war against British East India company, was cremated here in 1805.
Pookot Lake
VyithiriIt is the most sought after tourist spot in Waynad. The beautiful natural fresh water lake is set amidst green mountains. Boating facility is available
Sultan Bathery (Sultan's Battery )
Hill station and historical centre, it is noted for a fort built by Tipu Sultan in the 18th century.
Thirunelli
It is situated 29 km. north of Mananthavadi. It is renowned for the temple, often called as 'Thekkan Kasi'. It is believed that a bath in the holy water of 'Papanasini' will wipe off all sins.
Waynad Festivals - Alliyurkavu Bhagawathi Temple
Valliyurkavu Bhagawathi Temple is located 8 km East Mananthavadi town is devoted to Goddess Durga. The temple is known for the two-week long festival attended by hundreds of adivasis. In the past, adivasis were sold as bonded labourers during this festival.
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