LAKKIDI-PALAKKAD-KERALA

LAKKIDI-PALAKKAD

          Lakkidi is a small village in Palakkad district of Kerala, India. Kunchan Nambiar, the great poet of Malayalam was born here. There is a railway station present in Lakkidi, where only passenger trains stop. River Bharathappuzha flows through the southern border of Lakkidi village. Lakkidi is accessible by bus connecting Thrissur and Ottappalam. Lakkidi can be reached from Palakkad by catching a bus that is going to Ottapalam, Pattambi or Shoranur.Lakkidi is divided in to three. Lakkidi Koottupatha, Pazhaya Lakkidi and Lakkidi Gate. Lakkidi is famous for the birth of great Malayalam Poet and discoverer of "Thullal" a traditional art. Major regional festivals are Chinakkathoor Pooram, on which all the people of a family have a get together

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TOURIST PLACES IN SOUTH GOA / OLD GOA -INDIA

ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH
                   Located in Old Goa, 10 kms from Panaji, Church of St. Francis of Assisi is a charming and stunning building built during 1517- 1521 with the perfect amalgamation of mix of Christian and Hindu Elements. The church was consecrated to the Holy Spirit but later on it was demolished and at present the church is constructed in 1661. Today the church is converted into a museum where ancient relics and old painting are kept for tourists and visitors display.
Beside these, there are many other Goa churches that have their own religious and historical importance. Few churches in Goa to name are Chapel of St. Catherine, Immaculate Conception Church, Church of Mary Immaculate Conception, St. Francis Xavier Church, Reig Magos Church, St. Cajetan Church and St. Anne Church. These are the few important Goa churches which are both historically as well as religiously important. But apart from all, these are the heritage of Goa tourism, that showcase the presence of the Portuguese as well as display the historical charm and past glory of Goa, India.

SE  CATHEDRAL
            Located 9kms from Panjim, Se Cathedral is one of the important churches in Goa and considered to be one of the largest in Asia. The Cathedral was started for construction in 1562 and finally it was finished in 1619. The architecture of the Cathedral is amazingly beautiful and showcases the perfect amalgamation of Gothic Elements and typical Portuguese Style. The Church also has giant bell also known as Golden Bell, which is also the major attraction of this exquisite Se Cathedral Church.

BASILICA OF BOM JESUS
             It is located in Old Goa, just 10 kms from the city of Panjim. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as it houses the preserved body of St. Francis Xavier, a member of Society of Jesus, who come to India along with Portuguese to spread Christianity in India. Every year thousands of tourists and devotees from all over the world come here to see the preserved body of the Saint on 2nd December. But now this practice is stopped to prevent the body from deterioration and damage.

PANAJI
        The capital of Goa and headquarters of North Goa District, a small and charming city on the left bank of silvery Mandovi River, with beautiful red-roofed houses, built in Latin style, also boasts of many modern houses, well laid gardens, statues and avenues lined with Glmohar, Acassia and other trees. Enchanting panorama unfolds from atop Altinho (HillTop).

MAPUSA
         The capital of Bardez Taluka, on the National Highway 17, is at the cross roads of the network of highways covering whole of North Goa. Weekly fair on Friday is held at the modern streamline market, attended by large crowds(03 KM)

PILAR
         Important religious and eductional centre of Christian Missionaries. The Church, Seminary and School atop hillock command a magnificent panorama of the countryside around and a fine view of Mormugao Harbour & Zuari River.(11 KM).

MARAGAO 
       The capital of South Goa District in the hinterland of Southern Goa in Salcate Taluka is a thriving commercial metropolis linked by rail to the rest of India & Mormugao Harbour and by National Highways, with Maharashtra and Karnataka. It has imposing old mansions and modern buildings.(33 KM)
Vasco-Da-Gama
           A modern, well laid out city close to Mormugao Harbour, has beautiful and extensive avenues. The air terminus of Goa at Dabolim lies on the outskirts of the city. It is also the railway terminus for passenger service on the South Central Railway.

MORMUGAO HARBOUR
           It is one of the finest natural anchorages on the West Coast of India and the hub of intense maritime activity.

CHANDOR 
          East of Margao the menezes Braganza House, mostly late 18th Century and previously owned by Lemon nationalist and Journalist Luis De Menezes Braganza has a series of magnificent rooms especially the great salon with its fine furniture and the largest private library in Goa.
POINTS TO REMEMBER

• Always wear a hat/cap when you are outdoors.
• Sunscreen is a must.
• Carry mineral water; make certain you buy it from a genuine dealer.    Drink often.
• Refuse plastic carry bags when you go shopping. Take your own carrybag. Keep Goa litter free and care for the environment.
• Venture into the sea ONLY if you are a good swimmer, and only at beaches manned by life guards. Drinking and swimming is more dangerous than drinking and driving.
• Seek information and assistance only from genuine Tourist Information Centres. Do not deal with touts and middlemen.

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GOA TOURISM MAP / TOURIST PLACES IN GOA / BEACHES IN GOA

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TOURIST PLACES IN NORTH GOA / FAMOUS BEACHES IN GOA -INDIA / SOUTH INDIA TOURISM

BAGA BEACH

BAGA BEACH
         Baga is known for its popular beach, Baga Beach with is brown sands, and creek, the Baga Creek. It is visited by thousands of tourists annually. Baga Beach is a popular beach and tourist destination in North Goa, India, located a few kilometers north from the famous and crowded Calangute beach. The beach contains rows of shacks and fishing boats, and at high tide the beach is narrow. The beach is named after the Baga Creek, which empties into the Arabian Sea at the north end of the beach. Baga Beach is also famous for its water sports and Dolphin cruises.

ANJUNA BEACH

ANJUNA BEACH
            The Anjuna beach in Goa is known for its full-moon (acid house) parties. Held for and by young tourists, these parties have attracted thousands of tourists. The trance party with dance, frolic, and merriment goes all night besides the fire. It is just the right place for lazing holidaymakers.Besides the calm waters of the Arabian Sea lapping softly on the Indian shore, Anjuna comes alive with its ever-famous full-moon parties and the Wednesday flea market to take one onto a trance trip. Anjuna Beach has been the haunt of the flower generation in the sixties and is now popular with the younger generations. It became popular because of its Trance Parties and the Hippies who tried to fuse the Eastern spiritual traditions with Western Music, ideas and art.Anjuna is a small Village in north Goa and is popularly called the freak capital in the world. Its significant tourist spots are the magnificent Albuquerque Mansion built in 1920 (flanked by octagonal towers and an attractive Mangalore tile-roof), the Mascarenhas Mansion, and the Chapora fort.
              Every Wednesday, at around 11 a.m., Anjuna breaks into a riot of colors. Lines of vehicles full of tourists start virtually raising clouds of dust in this area. Whatever one needs, from a used paperback to a haircut, one would find it here. The flea market is a heaven for hardcore shoppers and good bargainers, to bid on wonderful blends of Tibetan, Kashmiri and Gujarati trinkets and handicrafts, European snacks, cassettes of a noisy brand of music called 'Goa Trance', artificial ornaments carvings and T-shirts. An elephant ride and a photograph with a fake sadhu or a fake snake charmer can also be found here.
There are plenty of guest houses around the village, and even a couple of hotels. Someone planning a longer stay should look out for 'To Let' signs, as there are plenty of houses that are available on rent along the back lanes.

VAGATOR BEACH

VAGATOR BEACH
          This most photographed beach of Goa forms a bay that curves from the headland to the hillock crowned by the Chapora Fort.This beautiful arc of sand is located about 22 kms from Panaji and is part of the 30 km stretch of beach coastline along the west coast of Goa.
Adjoining Anjuna, Vagator is secluded, crescent shaped and situated on the Caisua bay along the Chapora river basin in the shadow of Chapora Fort. During the tourist season, it is a favorite venue for midnight parties. There are a number of buses that run from Mapusa and Calangute beach to Vagator. The nearest interstate bus station is at Mapusa.

SINQUERIM BEACH
        With its magnificent 17th century fort which has now been converted into a prison, Sinquerim is one of the finest beaches in Goa, offering international class facilities for water-skiing, parasailing, fishing, scuba-diving and wind-surfing.Home to the Taj Hotel Group, which dominates the headland around the historic Fort Aguada, Sinquerim is located some 13 kms from Panaji. The uninterrupted stretch of firm sand stretches all the way north to Baga, offering visitors a temptingly long walk along the beach

CANDOLIM BEACH
       Candolim is the first beach that can be approached from the city of Panaji and is like a gateway to the other more famous beaches. Though individual accommodation is available here, there are only a few hotels with restaurants attached. One highlight of Candolim is the parasailing and water skiing facility, besides other water sports.

AGUADA BEACH
         Aguada beach is almost synonymous with the top-notch Fort Aguada Hotel complex, a superb hotel that is built on the cliff, around the remnants of the early 17th century Portuguese fort. Although access to the beach is not possible through the hotel grounds, which are private, you can walk along Aguada beach, for in India private beaches do not exist.Drawn by the clientele of the hotel, Aguada beach has cafes, itinerant vendors of everything from Kashmiri carpets to massages, and a good range of water sports.

MORJIM BEACH
           The VIPs on this beach are the Olive Ridley turtles that come to nest here helped by a group of volunteers who guard the nests and help the hatchlings get into the sea. A favourite of Russian tourists, along with Ashwem beach close by, visitors will find signboards and menu cards in Russian!

ARAMBOL BEACH
          This is also a foreigners’ haunt with a large number of Tai Chi, non-permanent mehendi or henna, tattoo, yoga and meditation centres. Harmal Beach is the one place you cannot drive on to, but there are narrow lanes that lead to the higher reaches of the coast. You have to walk down a slope to the beach itself. The black rocks on the silvery beach make for some pretty dramatic scenery at sunset. Further up near the hill is a pool with soft yellow clay, which is said to have healing properties. Beauticians buy the clay as do the innumerable massage parlours in the area.

MIRAMAR BEACH
       This beautiful ‘urban’ beach, akin to Chowpatty in Mumbai, is located just 3 kms from Panaji. It lies adjoining the estuary of the river Mandovi as it opens into the Arabian Sea. It was originally known as ‘Gasper Dias Beach’, named after Gaspar Dias, a prosperous landlord and where a Portuguese fort once stood at the fag end of the 16th century. From the beach across the river is an excellent view of Fort Aguada. With its proximity to Panaji, and located near educational institutions, Miramar is very much both a family beach and a meeting point for young people. It is also a hot spot for fitness fiends and walkers. Tourists love the familiar atmosphere. Numerous hotels, including the spacious and well laid out Miramar Residency run by GTDC, dot the area. The beach is crowded with locals and tourists alike on most days. A memorial to Goa's first chief minister, the late Dayanand Bandodkar is located here.


FORT AGODA

         The fort was constructed in 1612 to guard against the Dutch and the Marathas. It was a reference point for the vessels coming from Europe at that time. This old Portuguese fort stands on the beach south of Candolim, at the shore of the Mandovi river. It was initially tasked with defense of shipping and the nearby Bardez District.
A freshwater spring within the fort provided water supply to the ships that used to stop by. This is how the fort got its name: Aguada, meaning Water. Crews of passing ships would often visit to replenish their fresh water stores. On the fort stands a four-storey Portuguese lighthouse, erected in 1864 and the oldest of its kind in Asia. Built in 1612, it was once the grandstand of 79 cannons, a moat around the fort also protected it.
Fort Aguada was the most prized and crucial fort of Portuguese. The fort is so large that it envelops the entire peninsula at the south western tip of Bardez. Built on the mouth of river Mandovi, it was strategically located and was the chief defence of Portuguese against the Dutch and Marathas.

CALANGAUTE BEACH
       Calangute beach in Goa is also known as the Queen of Beaches. The period from November to February is the most pleasant to visit here. It's 15km from the capital city Panjim. The beach itself isn't anything special, with steeply shelving sand, however it's capacity is large enough to accommodate the huge number of high-season visitors.The Calangute beach is usually crowded and the small resorts thrive in business during the holiday season. It is one of the most popular beach in Goa with a host of facilities to cater to visitors, including Golden sand along the beach and water sports. Calangute beach lies on the shores of the Arabian Sea of North Goa in India. Calangute is the most popular holiday destination in Goa. Excellent accommodation facilites are available, particularly at the tourist resorts and cottages. It has also become a good investment plan to buy properties in Goa.
            The beach in Calangute is also the perfect tourist haven, completed with shacks and stalls under the shade of palm trees selling everything from fried prawns and beer, to trinkets made of seashells. Its rainbow hued canvas has welcomed everyone to it always although it became popular across the globe only after the hippies discovered it in the 60's.
One of the places worth visiting nearby is the St. Alex Church. The Church of St Alex greets the visitors with its two towers and a magnificent dome gracing the façade. The inside of the church is a display of the line and beauty of its architectural style and attractive altars. Calangute's nightlife is surprisingly tame and provides a nice break from the wild parties at Anjuna. All but a handful of the bars wind up by 10.00 pm. One notable exception is Tito's at the Baga end of the beach, which stays open until after midnight in the off-season and into the small hours of the morning in late December and January.

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KODACHADRI-KARNATAKA

KODAJADRI

          Kodachadri- is a mountain peak with dense forests(altitude – 1343 m above sea level) in the Western Ghats in South India (Karnataka State). The name comes from native word “Kodacha” or “Kodashi” which means hill and “Adri” a Sanskrit word, both combined together coined the word Kodachadri. It is also called “Kutachadri” and “Kodashi Parvatha”. Kodachadri forms a background to the famous temple of Mookambika in Kollur. Situated in the middle of the Mookambika National Park, it is home to several endemic and endangered species of flora and fauna. The peak is barren due to strong winds and as such, the forest covered nature is visible all around and also several smaller peaks and hills exist. The important animal life include Malabar Langur, King Cobra, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Great Pied Hornbill,Paradise Flycatcher,Emerald Pigeon, Tiger, Panther, hyena, Bison,Python and many more, of which several are endangered
              Kodachadri seems to have attracted the attention of humankind since long time. Probably prehistoric men also trekked in this area and several monolithic structures or menhirs (big rocks with a length more than 12 feet) are found near Nagara- Nilsakal, at about 20 k.m from this place.Ancient mother goddess temple is there near the top of the peak and legend says that the goddess slayed Mookasura several thousand years ago. This belief can be compared with ancient practice of worshipping Mother Goddess during prehistoric time all over the world. At present, Kodachadri is popular among locals and Keralites since at least 500 years or more. Sage Shankaracharya is said to have visited this place and established Kollur temple. Original goddess is situated at the top of Kodachadri. Piligrims from Kerala,Tamil Nadu and Karnataka state visit Kollur and some of them Kodachadri also, remembering the visit of Sage Shankaracharya.

KODAJADRI

The Shola Forests spread over the surrounding hill range as well as on Kodachadri hill range is unique. Shola forests are said to be the life of steams and rivers of such hills. Plants in Shola forests are neither shrubs nor big trees, but medium sized green plants with tough trunks, which is suitable to withstand the strong winds the lash the mountain sides continuously. The speedy winds that lash the mountains during monsoon can easily uproot bigger trees but do no harm to shola forest. Shola forest also shelter different types of reptiles, birds, insects, vertebrates and the flora and fauna of Shola forest is unique. Other than Shola Forest, there is a good coverage of dense evergreen forest with high canopy.

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GOLDEN TEMPLE-TIBETAN MONASTERY-COORG-KARNATAKA

         

  The Tibetan Monastery or the Tibet Camp as locally called is located around 6 kms from Kushalnagar town towards Mysore. This Tibetan settlement at Bailkoppa or Baylkuppe is the the second largest Tibetan settlement outside Tibet. There are over 7,000 monks and students at the Tibetan monastery.After the Chinese took over Tibet, the refugees were settled at Bylkuppe near Kushalnagar and the Buddhist Monastery was re-established here in 1972. It houses over 7,000 monks and students today. 
The monastery not only attracts large number of young Tibetans seeking enlightenment and education, but also draws huge tourists from all over India and abroad.Bylakuppe Tibetan settlement camps close to each other, and has a lot of monasteries, nunneries. Most famous among them are the large educational institution Sera, the smaller Tashilunpo monastery and Namdroling monastery.

The 40 ft tall golden Buddha statues are the major attractions of Bailkoppa. The statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Amitayus are the notable ones. The walls of the temples and the institutions are decorated with colorful paintings depicting gods and demons from Tibetan Buddhist mythology. The altar is decorated with flowers, candles and incense sticks.Apart from the calm and peaceful surroundings there are shopping centers near the temples where one can shop for traditional Tibetan items like costumes, statues, carpets, jewelery etc.

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KOTTATHALACHI MOUNT / KOTATHALACHI HILL / KOTTATHALACHI MALA-KANNUR

kottathalachi hill

       Kottathalachi Mount is a famous Christian pilgrim centre in north Kerala. in kannur district It is located at around 2500 feet above the sea level. On Good Friday of 1958, the holy cross was installed at “Kottathalachi Mala” by Fr. Mathew Mannuramparambil. Since then the first Sunday after Easter is being celebrated here by thousands of pilgrims every year. At present there is road facility till the hill basin. the hill is located near pulinghome ,cherupuzha -kannur.Kottathalachi is known as the Malayattoor of Malabar. there is a wide verity of flora & funa

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MUNNAR HONEY MOON DESTINATION | TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN MUNNAR | HONEY MOON IN KERALA | MUNNAR TOURIST SPOTS

 Munnar, the famed hill station of south India in kerala, it is a romantic locale where natural beauty is everywhere to visit, explore and to enjoy. Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala – and the word ‘Munnar’ means three rivers in Malayalam.  
Situated about 1600m above sea level, the hill station had been the summer resort of the British Government during the colonial era. Imprints of the colonial past stand tall in the Munnar town in the form of English country cottages. Virgin forests, savannah, rolling hills, scenic valleys, numerous streams, huge splashy waterfalls, sprawling tea plantations and winding walkways are all part of the great holiday experience on offer for a traveler to Munnar. 
Munnar is also known for Neelakurinji, a rare plant which flowers only once in twelve years. The ‘kurinji season’ in Munnar is a magnificent sight when the hills and valleys get bathed in the blue of the Neelakurinji blooms.

It is one of the attractions that contributed to Kerala's popularity as a travel destination among domestic and foreign travellers. Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, and perched about 1600 m above sea level, the hill station of Munnar once used to be the summer resort of the erstwhile British administration in south India.
This hill station is marked by vast expanses of tea plantations, colonial bungalows, rivulets, waterfalls and cool weather. It is also an ideal destination for trekking and mountain biking.
Let us now explore some of the options in and around Munnar that would provide travellers ample opportunities to enjoy the captivating hill station of Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park

         One of the main attractions near Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park. Located about 15 km from Munnar, this park is famous for its endangered inhabitant - the Nilgiri Tahr. Spread over an area of 97 sq. km., this park is also home to several species of rare butterflies, animals and birds. A great place for trekking, the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mists. The park becomes a hot destination when the hill slopes here get covered in a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji. It is a plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats which blooms once in twelve years. The last time it bloomed was in 2006.

Anamudi Peak
           Located inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. This is the highest peak in south India standing at a height of over 2700 m. Treks to the peak are allowed with permission from the Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.

Mattupetty
          Another place of interest, located about 13 km from Munnar Town, is Mattupetty. Situated at a height of 1700 m above sea level, Mattupetty is known for its storage masonry dam and the beautiful lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides, enabling one to enjoy the surrounding hills and landscape. Mattupetty's fame is also attributed to the dairy farm run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where one would come across different high yielding breeds of cows. Mattupetty with its lush green tea plantations, rolling grasslands and the Shola forests is also ideal for trekking and is home to a variety of birds.

Pallivasal

         Pallivasal, located at about 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is the venue of the first Hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place of immense scenic beauty and is often favoured by visitors as a picnic spot.

Chinnakanal

Near the town of Munnar and the waterfalls here, popularly known as Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic view of the Western Ghat 

Anayirangal
When you have traveled about seven kilometers from Chinnakanal, you reach Anayirangal. Anayirangal, 22 km from Munnar, is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by tea plantations and evergreen forests.

Top Station
Top Station, which is about 32 km from Munnar is at a height of 1700 m above sea level. It is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. Travellers to Munnar make it a point to visit Top Station to enjoy the panoramic view it offers of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the spots in Munnar to enjoy the Neelakurinji flowers blooming over a vast area.

Tea Museum
Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.

Getting there:Nearest railway stations: Theni (Tamil Nadu), about 60 km away; Aluva about 110 km away.
Nearest airports: Madurai (Tamil Nadu), about 140 km away; Nedumbassery International Airport, about 125 km away.

HOTELS FOR STAY
    Stay at munnar is expensive (Rs. 1000 for single rooms) so you can choose another option is that stay at Adimali. it is about one hour journey from munnar to Adimali. there will get budget single rooms from 250 rupees per day (St. george residency adimali)
STAY AT MUNNAR

Michaels Inn Kumily Post Thekkady reservation@michaelsinnthekkady.com www.michaelsinnthekkady.com +91 4869 222355, 222356, Tariff Rs.1700 - 2800 Lake Palace (KTDC) Thekkady lakepalacethekkady@ktdc.com www.lakepalacethekkady.com, www.ktdc.com +91 4869 223887, 223888, +91 4869 222024 Tariff Rs.10000 - 25000 Greenwoods K.K. Road Kumily Thekkady reservations@greenwoods.in www.greenwoods.in +91 4869 222752, 224382, 222753, + 91 4869 223907 Tariff Rs.14000 - 21000 Periyar House (KTDC ) Thekkady periyarhousethekkady@ktdc.com www.periyarhousethekkady.com, www.ktdc.com +91 4869 222026, 222447, 222546, 321904, +91 4869 222526 Tariff Rs.1170 - 4615  HOME STAY Deer Villa Mundackal House Thekkady P.O Kumily +91 4869 223568 Tariff Rs.600-900/-

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MYSORE-KARNATAKA-INDIA | TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN MYSORE | ALL ABOUT MYSORE | MYSORE TOURIST GUIDE

MYSORE
       Mysore is the second largest city in the state of Karnataka. The city is situated at the base of Chamundi Hills and is famous for the Dussehra celebrations during which a large number of tourists visit the city. 
Hindu mythology says that Mysore was ruled by Mahishasura a demon who was later on killed by Goddess Chamundeshwari. Till the 15th century, the area where Mysore stands today, was known as Puragere. The fort was constructed in the year 1524 by Chamaraja Wodeyar III. 
Mysore city is the cultural capital of Karnataka. Dussehra is the most important festival of the city and this festival is celebrated for a period of 10 days. Started by King Raja Wodeyar I in the year 1610, the ninth day of the celebration is known as Mahanavami and the imperial sword is worshiped on this day. Processions constituting ornamented elephants, camels and horses are taken out. 
The style of painting prevalent is an outgrowth of the Vijayanagar school of painting. The typical characteristic of these paintings is the plaster of Paris work in which gold hydrofoils are pasted. 
Mysore is also known as City of Palaces. There are a large number of palaces around the city to be visited. The most famous attraction of Mysore is the Mysore Palace, which is best visited during the evening, when the whole palace is lit up with sparkling lights. The famous Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion is now being converted into a museum and is dedicated to folk culture.

Mysore Palace
One of the most magnificent buildings located in the heart of the city is the Mysore Palace. Spacious halls called Mantaps can be seen in the Palace. Paintings and architectural beauty décor the hall. The palace is a fantabulous assemblage of Indo-Saracen architecture. 
The palace gives a clean evidence that a royal structure existed during the period of Yaduraya and Krishnaraya when they came to Mysore in 1399 AD. 
The palace is open to visitors every day from 10 am to 5.30 pm. A charge of Rs 15 is made per head. The palace is illuminated from 7 pm to 8 pm on Sundays including public holidays and also during all the ten days of the Dussehra celebrations.

Brindavan Gardens
Brindavan Gardens is one of the most beautiful gardens in Mysore and a center of tourist attraction. This garden was constructed during the period of Krishnaraja Wodeyar. It is built across the Cauvery river and below the Krishnarajasagar dam. 
The garden is decorated with huge lawns and various kaleidoscopical courses of flowers. The main attractive feature of the garden is the ‘dancing fountain’. 
The garden can be visited at any time from 7 am to 8 pm on all days. The lighting of the garden during Dussehra is done every day and on other days from 7 pm to 8.45 pm.
Chamundeswari Temple
The Chamundeswari Temple is situated on a hill in the neighborhood of Mysore. Krishnaraja III during the latter part of the 18th century built this temple tower. He gifted the Nakshatramalika jewel which has Sanskrit poesies engraved on it. 
The temple is adorned with various epitomes of Nandi. The colossal Nandi is 15 feet wide and 24 feet long and was made during the reign of Dodda Devaraja. It also has a seven floor ‘gopuram’. The idol of the Goddess is made of gold and the entrance with shinning silver. The dumbfounding construction appeals to the visitors’ aesthetic senses.

St Philomena's Church This church was built to honor St Philomena and thus it got its name. The Maharaja of Mysore laid the foundation  stone for the church in the year 1933. The followed the Neo Gothic style of architecture. The Cologne  Cathedral was the inspiration of the Church. The church was planned by Daly a Frenchman. The congregation hall is called the nave. The two steeples of  the church are 53 meters in height. The main hall can hold a capacity of 800 people. The windows depict the  birth of Christ and the important events in his life. The cathedral is open from 5 am to 6 pm and no entrance fee is charged. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary The Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located about 5 km away from Srirangapatna. Spread over 57 acres, the sanctuary is a small island on the banks of river Kaveri. A bird lovers paradise, this sanctuary is a nesting  and breeding center for all kinds of birds.  One can see species like the herons, egrets, white ibis, little cormorants, dantes, open billed stork  etc. are some of the birds that can be seen in island while on a boat ride.  The best time of visit to the island is from June to October.Srirangapatnam Fort Srirangapatna fort, also called as Tipu’s palace is one of the most popular monuments in India.  The architecture of the palace is a mix of Indo-Islamic style and the huge Persian inscription on the  entrance gate embodies the date on which the fort was constructed, i.e 1537. This fort has ‘Lal Mahal’  which was the then residence of the most audacious king of Mysore, Tipu Sultan.  The fort was built in a double wall defense system and has four entrances, namely – Delhi, Bangalore,  Mysore & Water and Elephant gates. The two dungeons located at the lower chambers of the fort are  a must visit. These dungeons were used to detain the British soldiers who were arrested. Srirangapatna  Fort also houses a mosque and the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, that is famous  for its gopuram and thick fort-like walls.  Various paintings like ‘The storming of Seringapattam’ by Sir Robert Ker can be found on the walls.  The paintings depicting the glorious victory of Tipu Sultan over British, also adorn the walls. Do not miss  to see the Chaturvimsati pillars that  bore carvings of 24 forms of Vishnu, at the inner entrance of the fort. The tomb of Tipu Sultan can be  found in the vicinity of the fort.  The fort is scenically located on an island formed by the river Cauvery. On your visit to Mysore,  one must definitely visit this fort which is an emblem of history and culture that lived and flourished  during the glorious times of Tipu Sultan. Gumbaz Gumbaz is the burial chamber of Tipu Sultan, his father Haider Ali and mother Fatima Begum.  It is built on a lifted platform and is circumvented by various other tombs of his relatives and nobles.  The Gumbaz has magnificent ebony doors decorated with ivory which was presented by Lord Dalhousie.  The interior walls are covered with lacquer Tiger stripes which is Tipu's favourite. A corridor lined by pillar s of black amphibole walls Gumbaz.  Masjid-e-aksa a mosque is situated next to the Gumbaz. The Gumbaz is surrounded by a beautiful gardens  adds to its beauty.

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TOURIST PLACES IN COORG / KUDAKU-MADIKKER / CAUVERY NISARAGDHAMAI-KARNATAKA

MADIKERI      Madikeri is the headquarters for the district of Coorg and where you will find many interesting tourist attractions. Some of the more notorious attractions are the former Palace, the Raja Seat, the Omkareshwara Temple, the Fort and the Gaddige or Rajas' tombs. The town can be found 1525 meters above sea level on the plateau of the Western Ghats. A prince from the Haleri dynasty, Muddu Raja founded Madikeri in 1681 under the original name Muddu Rajakeri, which became Madikeri. Madikeri is officially know as Mercara CAUVERY NISARAGDHAMA    Nisargadhama is a beautiful island off the state highway, two km from Kushalanagar town and 28 km from Madikeri. The 64-acre island, surrounded by the Cauvery river, can be accessed by walking across a hanging bridge. Its breathtaking beautiful surrounding are lush with thick foliage of bamboo groves, sandalwood and teak trees. It has lovely river-side cottages which can accommodate five persons. Elephant rides and boating are some of the other attractions. There is a deer park, children's park and orchidarium in the resort. RAJA'S SEAT      Raja's Seat in the town of Madikeri is where the kings would sit and watch the sunsets with their consorts. This is considered one of South India's most scenic locations. The view from Raja's Seat is breathtaking as you gaze upon the green valleys and towering hills. This is the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine and watch cars curving up the road to Mangalore that lies in the valley like a flowing ribbon. The government has set up a garden all around Raja's Seat. This is the ideal place to go for a morning stroll. OMKARESHWARA TEMPLE Omkareshwara Temple The Omkareshwara Temple was established in 1820 by Lingarajendra II with Mumammadan style architecture, which featured a center dome and four corners with turrets. According to legend, the king put a pious Brahmin to death unjustly and built the temple to appease the Brahmin's spirit. The Omkareshwara Temple is like a Muslim dargah and has a Linga near the door of the entrance. The history of the temple was inscribed by the king on a plate made of copper that is hanging at the frame of the door to the temple entrance. MADIKERI FORT Mercara Fort Mercara Fort can be found on elevated ground atop Madikeri. The fort was originally made out of mud and rebuilt by Tipu Sultan with stone, only to be wrested back by the Coorg King in 1791.There are two mortar elephants, built life-size to catch the visitors' eyes as they enter the fort. Inside the fort, the British took out the temple of Virabhadra in 1855 and replaced it with the gothic-style Anglican Church, which has since been converted to a museum. The Madikeri Palace is inside of the Madikeri Fort and is home to the office of the Deputy Commissioner. The Palace was established by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II in 1814. The two-story structure was renovated by the British two times and a clock tower and portico for the commissioner's car was added in 1933. ABBI FALLS Abbi Falls Coorg's most popular waterfall is a 8 km drive from the main town. GADDIGE Gaddige, also know as Rajas' tombs or the tombs of Virarjendra is a significant monument in Coorg. The royal tombs provide a commanding view of the entire town. In 1820, the tomb of Lingarajendra was built. In addition, there are tombs for two army commanders and a priest. There is a plaque to commemorate General Biddanda Bopu. The tombs are Muhammadan style with center domes and turrets. Even the bars of the windows are made of fine brass and adorned with beautiful engravings. TALACAUVERY Talacauvery Every year, at a predetermined time, water gushes out from a small pond at Talacauvery, the birthplace of river Cauvery. Talacauvery is located 44 km from Madikeri, on the slopes of Brahmagiri Hill. Besides being a pilgrimage center, Talacauvery is known for its natural beauty. BYLEKUPPE Tibetan cultural dances being peformed at the monastery premises in Bylekuppe Bylekuppe near Kushalanagar is one of the largest Tibetan settlements in south India. It has several monasteries and the prominent among these are the Great Gompa of Sera Je and Sera Mey and the Namdroling monastery. The Mahayana Buddhist University is at Sera. Another important monastery is the Tashi Lhumpo monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama. The gold-coated Buddhist statues in the monastery are imposing and unique, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetans. VALNUR FISHING CAMP Valnur fishing camp is located near Kushalanagar on the banks of the Cauvery. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in angling for the majestic Mahseer after obtaining fishing permits from the Coorg Wildlife Society. Valnur is also a bird-watchers' paradise. DUBARE RESERVE FOREST & DUBARE ELEPHANT CAMP This is another scenic spot located 15 km from Kushalanagar famous for its elephant training camp. It is also an ideal place for angling in the swirling waters of the Cauvery. Every year, at a predetermined time, water gushes out from a small pond at Talacauvery, the birthplace of river Cauvery. Talacauvery is located 44 km from Madikeri, on the slopes of Brahmagiri Hill. Besides being a pilgrimage center, Talacauvery is known for its natural beauty. HARANGI DAM The Harangi dam near Kushalanagar has a beautiful reservoir, ideal for a week-end stay. No matter if you are a nature lover or a history buff, you will find something to suit your fancy in the district of Coorg

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