Trivandrum

Trivandrum

Trivandrum is also recognized as Thiruvananthapuram , which is the capital of Kerala the state of India.  Trivandrum is headquartering Kerala and serving lots of small towns and cities. This beautiful tourist place of India is positioned on the west-coast near the tremendous south region of Kerala. The nation father Shri Mahatma Gandhi referred this place as Evergreen city of India. Trivandrum is characterized by its rolling land and territory of low coastal mounts and active trade alleys. 

 Approximately, one million (1000000) residents are living in Trivandrum according to 2011 censuses. This largest and most crowded city of Kerala is offering ample of beautiful spots of nature. The wider municipal agglomeration is containing population of 1+ million. Around 80% sector is related to information technology in the city, which is working as the biggest hub of the software application region of India.

Several central and local government offices are situated in Trivandrum. The high end educational institution makes this place first choice for higher studies. VSSC (Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre) is the world-famous Indian Institute for providing education of IIST (Space Science and Technology). The next big center for education is IIITM (Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management) which is another demanding center for technical studies. There are many other big centers and education institutes in which students from abroad are also doing various courses.

Areas to stopover in Trivandrum

Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Palace Museum, Kovalam Beach, Museums  with Gallery & Zoo, Veli Tourist Village, Padmanabhpuram Palace, Akkulam Boat Club, Kerala Legislative Assembly, Shangumugham Beach, CVN Kalari Sangam, Ganesh Temple, Neyyar Dam and Ponmudi are some famous tourist places of Trivandrum.

Sri Padmanabhaswamy Shrine: this temple is the most attractive place for Hindus, though entering to the temple is possible if the person wear only dhoti or sari. This holy shrine was built in the Dravidian technique by Ruler of Travancore. This Vishnu temple is constructed in 1733, and this temple was blessed to the serpent Anantha, who gave the name Thiruvanathapuram to this city.

Kovalam Beach: Kovalam is the small area having a beautiful beach which is only 16 kms away from the station of Trivandrum. This beach is the unique and notorious wonderful view of sea, which could be the pride to watch especially for beach lovers. It is turned as first choice for local people to hangout on holidays and weekends. The word Kovalam denotes an orchard of coconut trees so visitors will find ample of coconut trees at this beach.

Palace Museum: The palace which is converted into a museum is open for visitors, and its complete name is Puthen Maliga Palace Museum. Here tourists will see the wings of the palace constructed by Kings of Travancore. The timing for museum is 8.30 am to 12.30pm & 3 pm to 5.30 pm.

Gallery & Zoo, Museums: attainment to Trivandrum is not complete until the tourist does not visit the zoo and a collection of museums. Set of museums are situated in a park in the north side of Trivandrum. General time for museums is between 10am to 4:45pm, and days are Tuesday to Sunday.

The Zoological Gardens, Planetarium and Science & Technology Museum are also best spots of this beach city. Timings are between 10am to 5pm every day, and an entry fee is Rs.2 only. Tourist can enjoy 40-minute shows in Planetarium at noon daily.

Padmanabhapuram Palace: Padmanabhapuram Palace is famous spot as the rulers of the city use to live in this palace. Padmanabhapuram comes in small portion of Tamilnadu, but it is counted as the area of Trivandrum. Local buses are available from the city to reach this palace. 

Veli Tourist Village: the village service with ample of water sports and allowing a tourist a beautiful view of Arabian Sea is a Veli tourist village. Garden, Waterfront park, children's park, floating bridge, restaurant, etc. are some more spots to enjoy at this spot. This village is just 8 kms away from Trivandrum.

Akkulam Boat Club: this club is offering picnic and boating facility to the visitors. Local people are also reaching the spot regularly on weekends and holidays.

Shanghumugham Beach: this pleasant destination in Trivandrum is calm and permits mind peace to visitors. Walking on wet sand and watching fishing could be different experience.

Ganapathi/Ganesha Temple: this temple is situated in East fort dedicated to lord Ganesha.

Neyyar Dam: dam lying on low hills of Trivandrum is having a beautiful view of city. The western ghat at this spot is astonishing, which is just 32 kms away from the city. This famous picnic spot is having lake and a charming dam site. Tourist can enjoy the lion safari at this location, which is major star of location.

Ponmudi: the hill resort Ponmudi is the cool and calm place for a tourist. The pleasurable traveling of the hill is stunning.

Reaching Trivandrum

By Air: Trivandrum is the biggest IT city and have international airport. The major flights with various international corners are available from this airport. The public and private airlines both have regular flights to Trivandrum. Indian cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, and Kochi are directly connected to this airport.

By Rail: the big railway station of Trivandrum permits long route trains to reach the city. It is connected properly with key destinations of Kerala.

By Road: The huge roadways network connects the city with ample of cities of Kerala such as Kochi, Kumarakom and Alleppey. The beautiful view during the journey will be diverse experience for visitors. State buses and taxies are available to reach Trivandrum. 

Machilipatnam

Machilipatnam

Machilipatnam is the best Indian tourist place also identified as Masulipatnam. However, the name was given under British rule. The city is positioned in Krishna district, AP (Andhra Pradesh). The good distance of this beach city is 347 kilometres from Hyderabad, state capital.

In early period the city was named as Maisolos, though it got new names at regular intervals. Port in the city is positioned on the south-eastern side of town. Machilipatnam words mean the place of fish so this city is also recognized as the fish town. The fishing harbour with 350 vessels is effective things to watch in Machilipatnam. However, Tsunami affected the city in 2004, and countless fishing towns got disturbed nearby the town.

The tropical climate and greenery of the city make it unique destination then other Indian tourist places. Moderate climate of the city allows visitors to enjoy the place properly. However, the temperature increases between April to June.

Kuchipudi Dance: The world-famous category of Indian dance Kuchipudi was originated in Machilipatnam that means the place is rich in art and cultural activities. The fabric Kalamkari and Kalahasti are famous throughout the world.

Tourism: Bandar Kota or Machilipatnam Fort is first choice for visitors in this beach city. Next spot in this Indian tourist place is the old light house, next are temples and last with the best spot is the beach. Devotees of Sai Baba can reach to the biggest temple of Baba at Machilipatnam.

Some other big shrines in town are Sri Ramalingeswara Temple, Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, Sri Nageswara Swamy Temple, Batchupet, Kojjillipet, Sri Ranganayaka Swamy Temples, Sri Bhadradri Temple, R.Pet shrine, Sri Ramulavari Temple, Main Road, are the famous temples in Machlipatnam,and Panduranga temple.

Sai Maharaj Devalayam is the spot containing the tallest sculpture of Sri Shirdi Sai Baba. The state of Baba is recorded as the tallest baba’s sculpture in Indian Book of Records. Dattashram is the religious site of Machilipatnam has an antique temple of the lord Shiva.

Beaches: Machilipatnam city is also recognized as beach's city having long, pristine, broad and light coloured sands. Manginapudi beach is the special destination for seashore lovers, though Palletalapalem is another beach available at just 11 km distance from the city. Palletalapalem is also known as a gateway to the nation India. Here visitors can visit to Sri Ganga Namma Temple established in 1977 particularly at time of huge cyclone came in South India.

Attaining to Machilipatnam

By Air: Biggest and closest air head to reach this beach city is Vijayawada. The gap of the airport to the Machilipatnam city is only 57 kms, and the port is connected with countless direct flights from almost every major city.

By Rail: Machilipatnam railway station is linked with many major cities of India so reaching this Indian tourist place is possible through rail as well. The next big rail head to attain the spot is Chilakalapudi, which is only 6kms away. Vijayawada is next big station linked with big station of India. The distance of station from Machilipatnam is only 72 kms. 


By Bus: Bus network to reach Machilipatnam is possible from Bangalore, Guntur, Konoor and Hyderabad.

Puri - (Krishna Dham)

Puri - (Krishna Dham)

Hare Krishna Hare Krishna
Hare Rama Hare Rama

Puri is the city of God situated on the Bay of Bengal. This favorite beach city of God is 65 kms away from capital Bhubaneswar, Orissa. This Indian tourist place is also recognized as Jagannath Puri. The Jagannath temple of 15th century is famous throughout the world. This religious place is valuable part of Char Dham pilgrimages of Hindu religion. 

 

Experts say the beaches of Puri are best for swimming in India. Their resorts are famous too as the hospitalities of Puri are top class. The position of most of the resorts is geographically, which means the tourist can take pleasure of the sunset and sunrise from their accommodation or beach.

Puri city is the most respected coast in India’s Bay of Bengal. The Rath Yatra of Puri is conducted every year in June or July, though the YATRA is conducted in complete nation at different days in same months.  Rath Yatra (chariot procession) is pulling the 45 feet high and 16 wheel chariot in the whole street. Approximately, 4500 devotees pull the chariot throughout the street. The sun temple of 13th century is another religious spot situated at 35 km distance from Konark city.

Spots in Puri:

Jagannath Temple: established in 1135 by Anantavarman Choda Ganga to protect Lort Vishnu (Purushottama). Presently, Jagannath Puri is the important holy place in Hindu’s four Dhams. This shrine is elaborately shaped with high shikhars. Internal chamber of the temple is sustained by 16 pillars. The Rath Yatra conducted from this temple to Lord Krishna’s aunt temple is special thing to watch. In this YATRA, three chariots are made, one for Lord Jagannath, 2nd for his sister Subhadra and 3rd for his brother Balbhadra.

Markandeshvara Tank: as per Legends of India Lord Vishnu become the Neem tree situated close to the temple. This religious spot is having some more temples surrounding such as Gundicha, the Sunaragauranga, the Lokanath, the Tota Gopinath and the Daria Mahabir temples. Religious people visit the temple regularly and dip into this holy tank.

Sudarshan Workshop and Museum: here tourist can watch the replicas of the holy chariots. God idols in different shape are also available at this workshop.

Beaches: beaches of Puri are world-known for golden sands, sunrises and sunsets. Experts call the beach most safe and secure beaches of India for swimming. Tourists are reaching Puri around the year to take blessings of Lord Vishnu as well as enjoying the holy beaches and pond.

Few big getaways from Puri that tourist can enjoy are:

Konark (only 35 kms away): Konark is the very well-known place for the only big Sun Temple in India. The big 12 pair wheeled chariot tired by seven strong horses is the dignity of this small city.

Balighai (only 8 kms away): The incredible beach where the tourist can take pleasure of most alluring beach side ornaments is Balighai, though visitors have to travel 8 kms to reach the destination.

Sakshigopal (only 20 kms away): the next wonderful spot is the temple of Lord Sakshi Gopal. This Lord Krishna temple is world-known for architectural grandeur.

Raghurajpur (only 10 kms away): the next famous Indian tourist place near Puri is Raghurajpur where a tourist can enjoy paintings and art galleries.

Pipli (only 36 kms away): the craft and handmade items at Pipli are most demanding even in abroad. The cloth pouches and various craft items are supplied to different countries as well. The embroidered covers with obscure appliqué are fine examples of work done by Puri workers.

 

Next big destination from Puri is Bhubaneswar and Kolkata, which are full of various tourist destinations.

Best time to reach puri is between Octobers to April as the temperature in summer season goes to 30 degrees or more, whereas winter average temperature is 17 degrees.

Attaining to Puri:

By Air: BPA (Biju Patnaik airport) situated at Bhubaneswar is the big air head to reach Puri. This airport is only 56 kms away from the city. Tourists have to spend approximately Rs 900 for taxi or cab. Bhubaneswar airport is directly connected with almost every big airport of India such as Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai. Though International flights are not available for this airport, but the global tourists can reach to Kolkata to reach Puri with no worries.

By Train: the big railway station of Puri junction is connected with almost every city of India. Frequent and direct trains from the different cities allow travelers to reach the spot easily. The big railheads connected to Puri are New Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai. Tourist can get trains from Bhubaneswar, Bangalore (six trains), Chennai (14 trains), Delhi (seven trains), Hyderabad (three trains), Mumbai (three trains), and many other cities.

By Bus: OTDC (Orissa Tourism Development Corporation) buses are available linked with diverse cities of Orissa to Puri. Direct and regular buses from Bhubaneswar, Konark and Cuttack are attainable for the tourist.

Mangalore

Mangalore

Mangalore is the port city of Karnataka, India. The city is having another name in Tulu language as Kudla. The Bangalore city is just 357 kilo meters away from Mangalore. This natural beauty Indian tourist place is located between the Western Ghats hills and the Arabian Sea. Mangalore city was named following Hindu goddess Mangala Devi. The two big rivers known as Gurupura and Netravati of Mangalore behave as a staging center for Arabian Sea traffic. 

Looking at the history of the city it was ruled by many rulers such as Hoysalas, Kadambas, Chalukyas, Vijayanagar dynasty, Rashtrakutas and Portuguese. Mangalore was the part of the Madras government until the independence of India. The modest weather of city permits visitors to reach the spot anytime. Around, 75 % of coffee and most of the cashew is exported from Mangalore port that means the port of Mangalore is connected to the world through sea.

Some known languages that people speak in Mangalore are Tulu, Kannada, Konkani, and Beary. Here the tourist will find rolling hills, freshwater streams, coconut palms, and red clay tiled buildings. The city is placed on eighth position in the list of clean city of India.

Interesting tourist places of Mangalore city:

Sultan Battery: this is the black stone protection area built by Tippu Sulthan to stop battle ships to enter the Gurupura River.  Tourist has to travel for 6 km distance from Mangalore City Bus Stand. Presently, it is the abandoned destination but a tourist will learn about the city's history by visiting this place.

Kadri Manjunath Temple: this shrine is the ancient historic destination for a tourist in Mangalore. Temple is constructed in the square boundary on the high hills, which attracts the visitors. Devotees of Lokeshwara are reaching the temple in the large amount every year. The statue of Lokeshwara is made of bronze. On the hills, people can visit 'Jogimutt' and some caves of Pandavas. The only distance of 4 kms from NMB (Nehru Maidan Bus stand) allow visitors to reach the spot easily.  Visitors can also watch the seven sacred pools at this place.

St. Aloysius Church: this church is just 1 km distant from Nehru Bus stand. Here the paintings on the church walls are best thing to watch. The artist Antony Moshaini form Italy made all these paintings at the time of Portugal rulers. The construction period of church was between 1899 to 1900. 

Shri Sharavu Mahaganapathi Temple: the city is world-famous for religious centers. Visitors will find countless temples such as Sharavu, Mangaladevi, Kadri, Kudroli and many more shrines. Sri Sharavu Sharabeshwara shrine is outstanding among all temples of Mangalore.

Light House Hill Garden: this garden is located at 1 km distance from the city bus stand. The astonishing sea view from the hill and sunset vision with sailing ships could be diverse experience for visitors. The renovated garden at hill is beautifully decorated, which gives amazing feeling to visitors.

Kudroli Gokarnath Temple: this pilgrim spot is just 3 kms away Nehru bus stand. Temple has been recently renovated so it is another best tourist spot of Mangalore.

Mangaladevi Temple: This is another pilgrim place of the city situated only 3 kms away from bus stand. The construction of the temple was done by Ballal family of Kerala.

Seemanthi Bai Government Museum: the next tourist place of Mangalore is museum located at 4 km distance from Nehru city bus stand.

Kadri Park: those who love greenery should visit Kadri Park located at 5 km distance from bus stand.

Mangalore Port: sea lovers can reach to Mangalore port situated just 10 kms away from the bus stand. Experts describe the harbor as India’s 9th biggest port. 

Surathkal Beach: beach lovers can reach to picturesque Surathkal beach of Mangalore. The clean surrounding with light house is special spots at this beach.

Tannirbavi Beach: another beach at Mangalore is Tannirbavi popular for sunset view.  Travelers have to cross 12 kms distance from local bus stand to reach the spot.

Someshwar Beach: this is one more beach of Mangalore situated at just 11 kms distant. Here tourist can enjoy great rock lying on the beach.

Ullal Darga: the major mosque of the city is "Ullal Darga" constructed in 1958. Uroo's festival at this place is special to watch, though the festival is celebrated after every five years.

Some other visitor’s spots in Mangalore are Rosario Church, Milagres Church, Sharavu Maha Ganapathi Temple, Kudupu Temple (9 kms away), Polali Rajarajeshwari Temple (22 kms away), Bengre (2 kms away), boat riding center and Kotepur.

Bandipur National Park (310 kms), Chikmagalur hill station (146 kms), Coorg (159 kms), Goa (360 kms), Kozhikode (221 kms), Madikeri hillstation (143 kms), Mysore (260 kms), Ooty (397 kms), Srirangapatna (278 kms), Wayanad (260 kms), Bangalore (372 kms) are few more gateways near to Mangalore City.

Attaining to Mangalore:

By Road: Mangalore roads are clean and properly managed by administrations. The NH (National Highway) 48 and NH 17 is linked to many other big cities and towns of the nation. Private and government buses are available from various cities of India to reach Mangalore.

By Train: Mangalore is the big city directly connected through train from various parts of the country. Kerala -Mangalore Railways, Konkan Railways, and Hassan Mangalore Railways are direct trains allowing visitors to reach this Indian tourist place easily.

By Air: The closest Bajpe airport to reach Mangalore is just 16 kms away. Bajpe airport is connected by domestic flights from various parts of the country.

Alappuzha - Kerala

Alappuzha - Kerala

Alappuzha is the Indian tourist place also known as Alleppey. This city is under Alappuzha region of state Kerala, India. As per records Alappuzha city is the oldest designed town served as the lighthouse city from long years to serve the Arabian Sea ships. The city is also known as sixth largest urban place of Kerala with average populace of 177029. Reaching Alleppey allow visitors to take pleasure of Kochi located at only distance of 62 kilo meters, though Trivandrum is also the spot near to Alappuzha city situated at good distance of 155 kilo meters. Here the tourist can enjoy canals, beaches, backwaters, and lagoons. Experts call this place as "East Venice” and must visit holiday destination. Tourist must carry the Malayalam dictionary because the primary language of the city is Malayalam.

This important Indian tourist place is more popular for Backwaters. The houseboat journey and stay could be diverse and delightful experience for visitors. The city is covered sea sites where travelers can enjoy NTBR (Nehru Trophy Boat Race) event conducted on the lake of Punnamada. However, tourists have to visit the city in August to take pleasure of event.

Places of Attraction:

Karumadi: the first spot for visitors is Karumadi located at just 3 kilometers of the city. The major attraction is black granite statue recognized as Karumadi Kuttan. Experts say the statue is from the lord Buddha’s days.

Krishnapuram Palace: The well built Palace of Alappuzha known as Krishnapuram was constructed during the ruling period of Marthanda Varma. He was the Travancore king of Alappuzha city in 18th century. The structure of building was made of Kerala features with gabled tops, dormer windows and slender corridors.

Pandavan Rock: next spot for visitors is Pandavan Rock recognized after the name of Pandavas from Mahabharata. They stayed in the cave at this place during their exile. This ideal spot is at walking distance only

Alleppey Beach: the very well-known beach of Alleppey is referred as Alappuzha Beach also. This shore is more than 137 years old. Vijaya Beach Park at this beach is special spot for visitors.

Kumarakom Backwaters: the canals, waterways and lagoons surrounding the city are unique things at this place. Kerala is world-famous for backwaters so travelers are reaching the state, though among all destinations Kumarakom backwaters are most demanding and first choice for nature lovers and travelers.  Rented houseboat is available at Kumarakom spot which is again a best time pass location for travelers. The professional boats with house are having living room, single bedroom, the bathroom, and the deck.

Houseboats: Sea lovers are regularly reaching the Kerala for enjoying the state, though the houseboats are also special vacation spots people are attaining. The boats are having countless facilities which make it more luxurious sector for tourist. The trip can become leisure journey for visitors who like to enjoy houseboats.

Pathiramannal: this Indian tourist place is the small island originated on the lake Vembanad close to Alleppey City. This wonder place can only be attained through boat. Nature lovers will definitely enjoy Pathiramannal visit.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: next destination for visitors is Kumarakom national park also known as birdwatcher's haven. This park is spread in 14 acres area and huge variety of diverse birds is special thing to watch in park. Birds from dissimilar nations are reaching Kumarakom at different intervals which means people will get the chance to watch special birds like Siberia floras.

Ambalapuzha Temple Festival: The festival known as Amabalapuzha Temple Fest was recognized during the 15^th century. The ruler who started this fest was from Chembakassery Devanarayana family. Experts say the kings and monarchs of Devanarayana dynasty were extremely spiritual. They established the idol of God Krishna in this temple and started celebration for the welfare of the city.

St Andrew's Church: this 1866 built church is special with Scottish Presbyterian architectural design. The construction was done for the Scottish officer’s specially.

Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race: Alappuzha is the destination also popular for a water race called as NTSBR or NTBR. The nearest lake of Alleppey is Punnamada where this race is conducted. This spectacular race is conducted every year in August.

Attaining to Alappuzha:

By Air: reaching Alleppey or Alappuzha is possible through air, road, rail and water. The biggest and nearest international airport to reach the city is CIA (Cochin International Airport), though travelers have to travel the distance of 78 kms in North direction. The next close international airbase to reach this city is TIA (Thiruvananthapuram International Airport). TIA is only 159 kms away from the Alleppey City. The mentioned airbases are properly connected with domestic airlines of India so tourist can reach the city with no worries.

By Train: Alappuzha station is just 4 kms away from the city. The direct trains from Mumbai, Trivandrum, Chennai, Cochin, and Bokaro are available to reach Alleppey City. Banglore, Calicut, Manglore, and Amritsar, are also the major stations from where tourist can attain the trains.

By Road: Kerala Transport Administration is having state buses to reach the town from various parts of the state. The white and brown line of private buses is available from Erattakulanagra Temple and various stations of the city. NH 47 crosses the city so people having own vehicle can easily attain to the city by road.

By Boat: lots of backwaters make this spot easy reachable through water. NW-3 (National Waterway-3) is best way to enjoy the nature and reach this tourist destination.