215 Results found for Search: scenic beauty
1. Aerial Ropeway, Nainital.
Ride a cable car from Mallital to Snow View Point. This enchanting half a mile will be filled with breathtaking aerial views of the eye-shaped Naini Lake, the rolling hills and the distant white peaks of the Himalayas. The aerial ropeway of Nanital has been developed using sophisticated Swiss technology making it one-of-its-kind in the country. A cable car can accommodate up to 12 people, and can speed up to 6 meters per second and slow down to 0.5 meters per second.
2. Akal Wood Fossil Park, Jaisalmer.
A 17 kilometer (11 miles) drive from Jaisalmer along the road to Barmer brings you to this park that takes you back to pre-historic times. Akal Wood is a fossil park where once stood a verdant forest 180 millions years ago. The area then got submersed under the sea and the tree trunks ended up being preserved in the form of fossils. When the sea gave way over time due to subsequent geological activities causing the present sandy basin, these fossils came to the fore.
In that geological era there were only non-flowering trees. Therefore the wood fossils are considered to represent gymnosperms like Chir, deodar or red wood of lower Jurassic age.
3. Anayirangal, Munnar.
Anayirangal is a popular picnic destination with a reservoir and dam, about 22 kilometers (14 miles) from Munnar. It is a place of exquisite beauty complete with tea gardens and evergreen forests surrounded by stark hills. Capture in your lens the lush green carpet of tea plants from different perspectives. Take in a panoramic view of the serene waters of the reservoir ensconced amidst dense Tata Tea estates, and the low hanging clouds.
4. Annandale, Shimla.
Nestled at an altitude of 1864.5 meters (6117 feet), Annandale is a glade, and in fact the largest stretch of flat ground in and around Shimla. During the British rule, the place was used as a venue of their fetes, dances and other celebrations, which later became the Gymkhana club. Being the only flat ground for miles around, the glade served as the perfect playground and venue of horse races, archery competitions, croquet, and football tournaments. In the present day, Annandale is a popular picnic spot and a place to enjoy a game of cricket, football and polo. It also has a 9-hole golf course, which along with the cricket ground is maintained by the Army.
5. Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls, Kumarakom.
Seemingly in the bosom of the rubber plantation of Kumarakom is this picturesque spot where a 100-foot (30 meters) waterfall cascades in numerous streams through jagged rocks. This site of exquisite beauty called ‘Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls’, is about 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Kottayam town and 2 kilometers (1.25 miles) along a sludge track from Kumarakom. Here brooks gurgle as they flow through the lush rubber vegetation, and the water roars down the mountain from such a height. Aruvikkuzhi is a popular picnic spot and is not missed by any traveler to Kumarakom.
6. Arvalem Waterfall, Goa.
About 9 kilometers (6 miles) from the south of Bicholim town is one of Goa’s most striking natural wonders, Arvalem Waterfall. When you emerge out of the Rudreshwar temple and descend down the stairs, you will be faced with a 24-feet-high (7.2 meters) waterfall that roars down onto a huge lake. The emerald water of the lake entices you to take a refreshing dip. Take back some memorable photographs of the majestic waterfall shedding its silvery showers all year long. Stroll around the area, soak up the verdant greenery and explore the majestic falls from different perspectives.
7. Attukal, Munnar.
For more waterfalls and scenic beauty, drive about 9 kilometers (6 miles) from Munnar to Attukal. A lush area between Munnar and Pallivasal, Attukal opens up a spectacular panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills. Begin early in the day so that you can take a long trek through the evergreen forest and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The views worth cherishing are the roaring Attukal Falls that assumes a cascading and roaring beauty immediately after the monsoons (monsoons are from June to August). Watch the white foaming water thunder down from a great height and create a cloud of mist. Attukal is one of the most photographed attractions of Munnar.
8. Benisagar Dam, Khajuraho.
If you've had your fill of temples, art and architecture, Beni Sagar Dam is a good getaway. Barely 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Khajuraho, it is built across River Khudar. The dam spreads across 7.7 square kilometers, and provides tranquil views of water flowing through the lush green Central India landscape. It is safe for swimming and angling.
9. Bishnoi Village Trip, Jodhpur.
For nature lovers at large, this community has become a pole star. At the core of the Bishnoi philosophy is living in harmony with one’s surroundings. Visit any Bishnoi village around Jodhpur, and you’ll see the Khejri tree thriving. Black Bucks, Neelgais and Chinkaras are invariably at hand as well. The community treats them as family members and fiercely protects them.
The community’s legend in the region took root some three centuries ago. Back in 1730, the Maharaja of Jodhpur ordered the chopping down of some trees around village Khejarli. The wood was to be used in Mehrangarh Fort.
10. Devikulam, Munnar.
Devikulam, a hill station with sprawling tea gardens is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Munnar, at an altitude of 1800 meters (6000 feet) above the sea level. A landscape of mineral water springs, a serene lake, tea estates, gum trees in red and blue, undulating valleys, jungle streams and stark hills, Devikulam exudes a fanciful, romantic ambience. This lovely hill station is best explored on foot while making photo stops along the way. In the heart of the landscape is the legendary Sita Devi Lake that has crystal-clear waters.
11. Echo Point, Munnar.
About 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Munnar and on the way to Top Station, Echo Point is a brilliantly scenic lake embankment, and true to its name echoes everything you shout out. Nature walks are a very popular thing here owing to the lovely green slopes, the grasslands often shrouded in mist, and a fresh mountain breeze to keep you company. Echo Point is a popular adventure tourism destination, with adventure seekers choosing to trek their way though the fragrant wilderness of spice and coffee plantations.
12. Flatts, Nainital.
In 1880, a massive landslide flattened a large portion of land to the northern side of Naini Lake. This stretch of land is now popular with locals and tourists for the numerous recreational activities it offers. Close to it is the Naini Devi Temple, a popular pilgrimage spot of Hindus. The area around it has a chat bazaar specializing in local snacks, and bhotia bazaar selling an array of fancy souvenirs. Whilst you enjoy snacks and select souvenirs, acrobats, magicians and musical bands add an extra bit of zest to the atmosphere, although only during high season.
13. Jagatsukh, Manali.
One of the most picturesque places in Manali, Jagatsukh is an erstwhile capital of Kullu, about 6 kilometers south of the main town. This beautiful hamlet is one of the biggest in Kullu District and opens up a bucolic scenery of lush farmlands, quaint country houses, ancient temples, alpine forests and stark hills silhouetted against a bright blue sky. The Shiva temple built in a peculiar shikhara style is a popular attraction here. Appreciate the architecture of this wooden temple standing against a splendid backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas. Also explore the smaller shrine of Gaurishankar, the chalet-roofed temple dedicated to goddess Sandhya Devi and the Sharvali Devi temple in the nearby village of Shooru.
14. Karumadi village, Alleppey.
The quaint Karumadi village is about 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) east of Ambalapuzha which is 14 kilometers (8.75 miles) from Alleppey. Surrounded by brackish water and lush paddy fields, the village is popular for its Karumadi Kuttanm – a black quartz statue of Buddha said to belong to the 9th or 10th century, standing by the side of the public canal. Historians are of the opinion that Buddhism prevailed prominently in Kerala in the 9th and 10th century, and the idol stands testimony to this. In fact, there are many interesting traditions related to the Buddha statue and attracts archaeologists and travelers to Karumadi each year.
15. Kothi, Manali.
An erstwhile base camp for a trek to the 3978-meter-high (13,260 feet) Rohtang Pass, Kothi is a 12 kilometer (7.5 miles) drive from Manali on the Lahaul-Spiti-Leh highway. Some years back travelers would stay overnight at this camping site before setting out on foot to Rohtang Pass, which is now accessible by bus, jeep and pony. You can still spend the night here at the PWD rest house perched atop a ridge overlooking a narrow valley, opening up stunning views of the frosty Himalayan ranges and the lush alpine wilderness. Interestingly, many Hindi movies have been shot in this beautiful locale surrounded by snow-capped pinnacles, glaciers and verdant valleys.
16. Kundala Dam and tea plantation, Munnar.
Kundala is a beautiful green town, about 20 kilometers (12.5 miles) from Munnar, along the way to Top Station. Golf lovers in particular visit Kundala because of its sprawling nine-hole golf course owned by Tata Tea Ltd. A place of exquisite beauty, other things to look out for in Kundala are the artificial lake and dam, not to mention mountain slopes thick with evergreen tea plantations. The shimmering blue lake is the most photographed part of Kundala. Undulating hills laden with tea gardens surround this picturesque lake and offer a wonderful panorama. Take a stroll in the tea estate, click some pictures and enjoy the refreshing mountain breeze.
17. Lands End, Nainital.
Nestled at an altitude of 2118 meters (approx. 6949 feet) about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from Nainital, Lands End is a vantage point to view the undulating hills with their terraced fields and small cottages. You can also enjoy exquisite views of the pristine Khurpatal Lake from here.
18. Lock Heart Gap, Munnar.
A popular adventure tourism destination, Lock Heart Gap is a 13-kilometer (8 miles) drive from Munnar and offers some wonderfully scenic trails. It is a part of Mattupetty known for its sprawling tea estates. Set out on a trek into the jungle, look-out for its rare flora and fauna, and simply enjoy the cool mountain breeze. Lock Heart Gap is perpetually shrouded in mist - its hills barely a pale silhouette. Behold the breathtaking panorama of evergreen tea estates, undulating valleys, dew-soaked grasslands, a spine of hills in the horizon, and streaks of cloud drifting over tea gardens.
19. Marayoor, Munnar.
A brilliantly scenic 40 kilometer (25 miles) drive from Munnar on Udumalapet Road brings you to the rain-shadow village of Marayoor, on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. The natural beauty of this tired countryside relieves every weary traveler and becalms their minds. Stroll through this sleepy village, breathe in the fresh mountain air and bask in the quietude. Watch little wisps of cloud sail down the valley, the distant dark hills, rivers and brooks cut their way through sometimes grassy and sometimes rocky patches.
20. Mattupetty, Munnar.
Drive through the bright green tea gardens of Munnar to Mattupetty, some 13 kilometers (8 miles) away at an elevation of 1700 meters (5667 feet) from the sea level. Once at Mattupetty, behold views of sprawling tea estates with little wisps of cloud floating over it, a smudgy blue sky and verdant grasslands. Outside of scenic beauty, travelers have another reason to visit Mattupetty. The place is home to the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project working towards the improvement of the cattle breed functions. Interestingly, over a 100 variety of high yielding cattle are reared here. You can see as many as three of eleven cattle sheds at the farm.
21. Naggar, Manali.
About 25 kilometers (16 miles) from Manali at an altitude of 1760 meters (5867 feet) lies the picturesque Naggar village, an erstwhile capital of the Rajas of Kullu for about 1400 years. Naggar is on the left bank of Beas River and opens up a vista of wooded slopes, waterfalls, quaint homesteads and the snow-covered Himalayan pinnacles in the backdrop. The area is dotted with ancient temples, not to mention the popular, 16th century Naggar Castle from Pal Dynasty. Built by Raja Sidh Singh, this imposing stone edifice served as the royal residence and latter as the state head quarters of the kingdom till the middle of the 17th century. Now, converted into a hotel by the tourism department, the castle commands a majestic view of the Kullu Valley.
22. Naina Peak - China Peak, Nainital.
The highest point in Nainital at an altitude of 2,615 meters (8579 feet), Naina Peak or China Peak, as it is also known, opens up exquisite 360 degree views of the Himalayas. The path leading to Naina Peak is lined with towering deodars, cypresses and speckled with scarlet clusters of rhododendrons blossoms. Before you the frosty pinnacles of the Himalayas stretch into distance and down below the eye-shaped contour of the Naini Lake looks like a cut out from a picture postcard.
23. Nehru Kund, Manali.
Nehru Kund is a beautiful cold water spring named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, about 6 kilometers (3.75 miles) from Manali, on the Manali-Keylong road. It is believed that the former Prime Minister loved to visit this place and drink the crystal-clear water from the spring whenever he stayed in Manali. Even today Nehru Kund attracts travelers for its scenic beauty, serene atmosphere and lush greenery.
24. Nyayamakad, Munnar.
About 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Munnar on the way to Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls and an endless stretch of verdant greenery. Behold the spectacle of water tumbling onto fern-fringed pool from a hill at a height of 1600 meters (5333 feet). Enjoy a peaceful mountain walk, stop along the way to take photographs and simply soak up the scenery. Walk up to the Nyayamakad gap to take in brilliant views of the Munnar valley covered with a green carpet of tea plantations.
25. Pandavan Rock, Alleppey.
Pandavan Rock is a popular picnic spot close to Alleppey. The rock gets its name from the Pandavas of the epic Mahabharata who stayed in a cave here during the time of their exile. A brief climb brings you to this spot, and once at the top of the rocky outcrop you can take in exceptional views over Alleppey.
26. Pathiramanal (sands of midnight), Kumarakom.
Pathiramanal, meaning the Sands of Midnight, is a green little island in Vembanad Lake, on the border of Kottayam-Alleppey Districts in Kerala. You can reach the island by boarding a ferry along the Kumarakom-Muhamma water route. It will take about 40 minutes from Kumarakom to arrive at Pathiramanal. From the jetty close to Baker’s Mansion, the island is about 5 kilometers (3 miles) away, and from Kumarakom approx. 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) towards northwest. Your boat journey will be filled with some priceless moments of life on the backwaters. Almost always keep your camera handy!
27. Pothanmedu, Munnar.
You will know you have arrived in Pothanmedu when the air begins to carry with it a rich aroma of spices. Perched atop a high ridge, Pothanmedu is a scenic locale that comes in sight while traveling on NH 49, some 3 kilometers (2 miles) before Munnar. This vantage point affords a spectacular panorama of coffee, tea and cardamom plantations hemmed in by a pale shadow of the misty hills. It is a great thrill to watch approaching vehicles, no more than tiny dots, circle the winding route from this height!
28. Power House Waterfalls, Munnar.
The roar of this waterfall cascading down a steep rock about 2000 meters (6667 feet) above sea level can be heard from a distance! The thundering Power House Waterfalls is about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Munnar, on the way to Thekkady. The verdant Western mountain ranges add to its scenic beauty, making it an ideal stopover on the way to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The torrents of water plunge down Power House falls is said to emanate from Devikulam, a pastoral hill station few kilometers from Munnar. The waters of the fall are believed to have curative powers and that it acts as a natural massage.
29. Rahala Waterfalls, Manali.
Rahala Waterfalls is a picture perfect getaway characterized by deodar forests, silver birch trees, a clear blue sky and fresh mountain air. This natural spectacle formed from the trickling of precipitous rocks and melting glaciers, is at the starting point of the snow-covered Rohtang Pass. The sight of water tumbling down from a height of 2,501 meters (8337 feet), with the frosty pinnacles of the Himalayas in the backdrop leaves you breathless. The surrounding area is ideal for a stroll and offers numerous photographic opportunities.
30. Rohtang Pass, Manali.
About 50 kilometers from Manali town, Rohtang Pass is situated at an altitude of 3,978 meters (13,051 feet) on Keylong-Leh Highway. A gateway to the twin valley of Lahaul and Spiti, Rohtang Pass remains open in summers from May/June (depending on the prevailing weather conditions) to October when regular buses ply between Manali-Keylong/Darcha, Udaipur, Spiti and Leh.
31. Scenic Spots, Shimla.
This quaint hill station is filled with natural attractions, although much of its beauty has been marred by the recent emergence of high-rises. These scenic points at some distance from the bustling Mall Road and main Shimla, offer a green retreat to weary travelers. Some such natural wonders are Chadwick Falls, Glen Forest and Tara Devi Hill, Prospect Hill and Summer Hill.
32. Garjia Temple, Corbett.
This is an ancient temple dedicated to local deity Garjia Devi atop a tall ridge in the midst of Kosi River. About 14 kilometers (8.75 miles) from Ramnagar en route Ranikhet, Garjia temple is a pretty little shrine surrounded by copious greenery and flanked by the gurgling Kosi River. Ramnagar is the last bus terminus from where the temple site is some 14 odd kilometers, which one can cover in a private taxi or own vehicle. A fair is held in the temple premise on Kartik Poornima when devotees from Kumaon and across the country throng it to take part in the festivities and offer their prayers to the Goddess.
33. Snow View, Nainital.
At an altitude of 2270 meters (approx. 7447.5 feet) Snow View Point offers brilliant panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas including the stark white Nanda Devi peak, one of the highest peaks of the range. Nainital town, which is 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) away, can be viewed from here, though it will look miniscule from this altitude. You can also hire a telescope at the site. One of the more easily accessible peaks of Sher-ka-Danda hills, Snow View Point is connected to the main town by the aerial ropeway (1000 and 1600 hours).
34. Solang Valley, Manali.
Lush green in summers and milky white in winters, the picturesque Solang Valley is about 13 kilometers (8 miles) from Manali between Solang Village and Beas Kund. Affording views of glaciers and the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, Solang Valley receives many adventure sports enthusiasts year round. When the snow melts in summer and the valley reveals a lush green carpet, holidaymakers camp on its slopes and take up zorbing - an adventure activity in which a giant ball with room for two people is rolled off a 200-meter-hill (667 feet), besides paragliding, parachuting and horse riding.
35. Tiffin Top, Nainital.
A popular picnic destination in Nainital, Tiffin Top or Dorothy’s Seat is at an altitude of approx. 2292 meters (7520 feet). From here you can take in awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas and the town below. The site gets its name ‘Dorothy’s Seat’ from a stonework bench built in memory of an English lady, Mrs. Dorothy Kellet, who used come here to paint. The site till today gets painters and photographers in every season that come to capture the bucolic beauty of the hills in summer and their starkness in winter. The atmosphere is so peaceful and serene that you will feel like spending hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the exquisite surroundings.
36. Top Station, Munnar.
Affording an awe-inspiring view of the Western Ghats, Top Station at an altitude of 2200 meters (6800 feet) is a desolate outpost on the spur of a promontory. This vantage point is in fact a part of the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu, about 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the interstate border, opening up phenomenal views of the mountains and the plains of Tamil Nadu. A 40 kilometer (25 miles) drive up north of Munnar brings you to this wonderful place that got its name courtesy the Middle Station and the Lower Station that were once linked to it by a ropeway. Explore the abandoned aerial ropeway site that linked the foothills with the tea gardens.
37. Vashisht Hot Water Springs And Temple, Manali.
About 3 kilometers from downtown Manali, across the gurgling Beas River, Vashisht is a tiny hamlet with natural sulphur springs. Emanating from the mountains of Vashisht, the sulphur springs gush hot and medicinal, endowed with great healing powers. Above the main square stand two old stone temples dedicated to sage Vashisht and Lord Rama. Legend has it that the great sage had narrated Yoga Vashishta, an ancient scripture to Lord Rama. This, ostensibly, was an extremely profound discourse that offered an insight into the inner world of consciousness. The smaller of the two temples dedicated to Vashisht opens to a partially covered courtyard with an ornamental shrine that has blackened by years of oil-lamp and incense smoke.
38. Veega Land, Kumarakom.
Spread out over 30 acres and about 300 meters (1000 feet) above sea level, Veega Land is an amusement part with a difference, for it finely combines nature, creativity and technology. Amusing fun seekers, adventure enthusiasts and leisure travelers, Veega Land offers 26 thrilling water slides, dancing musical fountain, auditoriums with live shows, floral gardens, beautiful promenades, sparkling blue pools, six restaurants and a wave pool. And you are welcomed within by Ammu, a baby elephant. A tour of Veega Land feels like a fairytale adventure, what with a seven-storied Vintage Castle and a charming Caterpillar Village to capture your imagination.
39. A walk through the Markets to the Fort, Almora.
Exploring Almora’s bazaars (markets) can be a fascinating experience for people who love to take in the atmospherics of a place. Start from the main thoroughfare, the Mall. Lined with small shops and abuzz with life, they offer a good opportunity to observe people, clothing, mannerisms etc. Lala Bazaar, Malli Bazaar, Karkhana Bazaar and Thana Bazaar are the popular ones offering locally made copper utensils, clothes among other knickknacks. Architecture buffs will notice the mix between local styles of construction and the British. The main clock tower erected in 1886 is one such example.
40. Akkulam Lake and Tourist Village, Trivandrum.
The picturesque Akkulam Lake is about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from Ulloor junction in Trivandrum city, and about 10 kilometers (6.25 miles) from the central railway station. Set on its banks is the Akkulam Tourist Village with a sprawling children’s park, snack bar and paddle pool. There is also a large swimming pool where you can enjoy a refreshing dip before heading out to the snack bar for a cup of coffee. The Akkulam Lake is a part of the Veli Lake, and the tourist village is spread out on a sand bar that separates the Veli Lagoon from the Arabian Sea.
41. Aruvikkara Dam, Trivandrum.
About 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Trivandrum, on the banks of the serene Karamana River is this lovely picnic destination called Aruvikkara. The place is popular for its verdant surroundings, a beautiful dam, and the Durga temple. Near the temple is a meandering stream replete with fish that quite fearlessly swim close to the shore in schools to have the crumbs thrown in by the visitors. The fish here are considered holy, and feeding them is believed to cure ailments such as warts, whiteheads and blemishes on the skin. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.
42. Bakrota (Bakhrote) Hills Walk and the Dainkund trail, Dalhousie.
This is a delightful walk of around 5 kilometers (3 miles) that encircles Lower Bakrota and can extend longer to the hill of Dainkund (Dhyankund). From the top of Dainkund, on a clear day, you can even see the three main rivers of the area the Ravi, the Beas and the Chenab as they flow in the distance. En route there are colonial houses, small attractive spots where you can stop for a breather or a snack and all the while, there are excellent views of the snow-ranges, woods and valleys. One of the spots en route is the Subash Baoli, where noted freedom fighter and creator of the Indian National Army (INA), Netaji Subash Chandra Bose walked and contemplated
43. Binsar, Almora.
If you are a pure mountain lover, do not miss this. Plan your trip in a manner that you reach this place around sundown (as most traveling by road from Delhi would). Wake up early next morning and the view of major peaks like Chaukhamba, Panchchuli, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot, and Kedarnath among others will leave a lasting impression. Rarely does one get a panoramic view of snow peaks that Binsar offers. This was a favorite of Pandit Nehru, whose family once owned a property here. It has since changed hands, but if you wish to experience a piece of history head for Khali Estate.
44. Bright End Corner, Almora.
About 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) from the hub of Almora en route to Sualbari, this point draws people for its sunset and sunrise. Set against the snowline peaks, they offer great experiences. A comfortable walk from town, allocate substantial time to this attraction as there are a few other points of interest around here as well. Located at a stone’s throw is the Vivekananda Library. Book lovers can browse their favorites in a quiet, serene setting here. Further down is the Vivekananda Memorial. Swami Vivekananda famously compared the beauty of the mountains here with the sea at KanyaKumari. Both of which left indelible marks on his conscious.
45. Bund Garden, Pune.
One of the oft-visited recreation spots for old and young alike, Bund Garden, with its attractive floral cover, is among the well-known gardens of Pune. The place owes its name to a mini dam (bund) built across the right bank of the Mula-Mutha rivers under the instruction of Phiroze Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy. Known today as the Mahatma Gandhi Udyan, the Park is visited by joggers in the mornings, aged people in the evenings, couples and families during the weekends and holidays, and bird lovers during the winters.
46. Chinmaya Tapovan and Ghaniara, McLeodganj.
At Sidhbari, on the banks of the rivulet Bindu Saras, Chinmaya Tapovan is an 'ashram' that was established several years ago by the late Swami Chinmayananda, a noted exponent of the ancient Hindu religious text, the Gita. The complex includes a 9 m high image of Lord Hanuman, a magnificent Rama temple, a meditation hall, a school, and a health and recreation centre. A short distance from Chinmaya Tapovan, the village of Ghanhiara is perhaps better known for its quarries of fine slate that have been used as roofing material for ages in the region. Close to the village, there is the temple complex of Shri Aghanjar Mahadev, dedicated to a local manifestation of Lord Shiva.
47. Dal lake, McLeodganj.
The Dal Lake lies on the vehicular road between McLeodganj and the village of Naddi. This small ‘mid-altitude’ lake is at a height of 1775 m above sea level and is in the tiny village of Tota Rani. The lake is backed by thick woods of majestic deodar (Himalayan cedar) trees and there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva along its northern bank. Every September, this is also the site of a major local fair that is attended, among others, by large numbers of the transhumant Gaddi people. Beyond the Dal lake is the village of Naddi that offers some magnificent views. Past Naddi, is one of the most magnificently sited houses in all McLeodganj, ‘Talnu’.
48. Haripur-Guler, McLeodganj.
Haripur is 55 km from Dharamsala via Ranital. This was the capital of the princely state of Haripur Guler - an offshoot of Kangra. Haripur fort has been ravaged by time and is not as well known or as large as the Kangra fort but it is strategically built. The location is picturesque and the Banganga rivulet gives it natural protection. Inside, there are a few carvings but they are blurred and difficult to reach – though eighteenth century travellers who visited the fort recorded that the Guler palace of Haripur fort had exquisite paintings and carvings. A major school of miniature paintings was also based here. After the construction of the Pong Dam and the flooding of the area by the waters of the Maharana Pratap Sagar, many people in Haripur had their lands submerged. Haripur yet holds several old temples and remarkable city gates with large stone carvings of deities from the Hindu pantheon that testify to a long gone creative impulse.
49. Jageshwar, Almora.
Set deep in the deodar (cedar) woods, Jageshwar is a big draw for many. Nature, religion and culture coalesce here in a heady concoction. As one descends from the high road, the sound of water streaming by and the sight of thick deodar woods fill your senses. Located right next to the river bed under the canopy of towering deodar trees, is a delightful temple complex dedicated to the ‘lord of the mountains’ - Shiva. As one goes temple hopping within the complex, the murmur of water and the swish of wind passing through the deodar needles doubly enrich the experience.
50. Kalatop, Dalhousie.
Kalatop is a wildlife sanctuary that rises past Dalhousie and then goes down towards Khajjiar and Chamba. This covers an area of around twenty square kilometers and within its confines, are a dozen little villages. These pockets of habitation share space with animals and birds like the Serow, Goral, Yellow Throated Marten, Leopard, Black Bear, Barking Deer, Flying Squirrels, Monal, Koklas and Chukor. Altitudes within the sanctuary vary between approximately 1200 meters (3937 feet) and 2800 meters (9100 feet). Temperatures can drop to -10 degrees Celsius in the heights in winter and can touch 35 degrees Celsius in the lower sections in summer. The sanctuary is criss-crossed by several brooks and streams that pour their wash into the river Ravi.
51. Kalimath, Almora.
Kalimath is strategically located in the sense that it on the one hand offers commanding views of the snowline and on the other picturesque views of Almora town. Located 5-odd kilometers (3.12 miles) from Almora, it also houses a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The area around Kalimath is very popular with foreigners.
52. Kappil Lake, Varkala.
About 6 kilometers (3.75 miles) north of Varkala town is the scenic Kappil Lake that gives way to the enchanting world of Kerala backwaters. This serene estuary meanders through dense coconut groves before merging into the Arabian Sea. The bridge over the lake is quite a vantage point to view the backwater stretching white and grey to the distant blue horizon. Boating is another great way to browse this tranquil waterway. For this measure Kerala tourism has set up the Kappil Boat Club in the area, from whom you can hire row/pedal boats.
53. Katarmal Sun Temple, Almora.
This is a remote temple complex. For a start there’s no road route. Transport is available till Kosi river. The next 2 kilometer stretch has to be done on foot, a trek if you like. There it stands in splendid isolation amidst thick deodar trees. At 2116 meters (7053 feet) above sea level, it is offers a great experience for those looking for some quiet and adventure. It is a big hit with foreigners who visit the Almora region.
This Sun Temple was built by a Katyuri Dynasty King named Katarmalla. This dynasty preceded the rule of the Chands, and ruled over large parts of present day Uttarakhand and western Nepal. A medieval construction, it came up in the 9th century.
54. Khadakwasla Dam, Pune.
To take a break from their hectic life and schedule, Pune-ites often flock to the nearby Khadakwasla Dam during weekends. Built across the river Mutha, at a distance of 20km southwest of the city, the Dam, named after the nearby village, was constructed in 1870s with the utilitarian purpose of serving as a source of water. It has now become a hugely popular haunt, especially during the monsoons, where Pune-ites recuperate from the drudgery of the past six days of the week, munching on fast food served by numerous vendors, while enjoying the serene view of the adjoining area.
55. Khajjiar, Dalhousie.
At a distance of 22 kilometers (13.6 meters) from Dalhousie, the attractive saucer - shaped glade of Khajjiar has a circumference of about five kilometers. Along the edges of the glade, thick forests of deodars, Himalayan cedars drape the slopes and are criss-crossed by narrow walk trails. These forests are part of the Kalatop wildlife sanctuary. Fringes over foreheads, the snow line frames this picture of pastoral beauty which is often enhanced by flocks of sheep and goats moving to different pastures. In the centre of the glade, rests a large pond which is fed by the springs and brooks that traverse the glade's green carpet. A mini-golf course maintained by the army is in one corner.
56. Maharana Pratap Sagar (Formerly called the Pong Dam Lake), McLeodganj.
The Maharana Pratap Sagar was formerly called the Pong Dam Reservoir. This water-body came into being when the Pong Dam was built. Over the river Beas, this has an area of about 45, 000 hectares at maximum flooding. In 1983, this was declared a wildlife sanctuary and this water body acts as a stopover for a range of migratory birds - especially from Siberia. 220 species belonging to 54 families have been sighted. Twenty-seven species and sub-species of fish belonging to six families have been recorded in these waters. The land portion of the sanctuary that adjoins the waters holds deer, ‘sambar’, wild boars, ‘nilgai’, leopards and claw-less otters. The Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports has a branch at the Sagar.
57. Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary, Trivandrum.
Neyyar Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary is about 30 kilometers (18.75 miles) east of Trivandrum at the foot of the Western Ghats. A charming dam site, the region is a treasure trove of some rare medicinal herbs. The adjacent Neyyar Lake is ideal for a boat ride and opens up glorious panoramic vistas of the dense wilderness and the dark silhouette of the Western Ghats in the backdrop. This dam was built in 1958 on the basins of the three main rivers namely Neyyar, Mullayar and Kallar. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses the Dam and is an abode of wild animals such as elephants, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, wild boar, porcupines, jungle cats, tigers and snakes among others.
58. Nurpur, McLeodganj.
The remains of the fort at Nurpur hold a rare treasure in the Brij Raj Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Krishna is enshrined as a black marble image alongwith his devotee, Mira Bai - whose image is in white marble. The statues are regarded to have brought to Nurpur from Chittorgarh in Rajasthan, during the reign of Raja Jagat Singh in the early seventeenth century. The structure of the temple is unpretentious but this Spartan building has been endowed with a rare and lavish treasure in its verandah which is covered with magnificent wall paintings. Many of these paintings have lost their lustre over the passage of time, but are yet remarkable. Nurpur is also well known for its fine shawls of pashmina and silk.
59. Panchpula, Dalhousie.
Connected by a narrow but good road, Panchpula is about 3 kms from Dalhousie’s General Post Office. At Panchpula, is the clear stream that gushes down from the heights of Dainkund (Dhyankund). This stream still provides a primary source for the town’s water (this also was also the base of the supply for the Balun Cantonment) and was a part of the original master-plan when Dalhousie was being settled. By the roadside, a memorial in the form of an elegant obelisk, surrounded by water-pools fed by the stream, has been built at Panchpula in memory of the freedom fighter, Sardar Ajit Singh. En route, to the memorial, the waters of the Satdhara springs are believed to have therapeutic properties.
60. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Trivandrum.
Peppara is about 50 kilometers (31.25 miles) on the north east of Trivandrum city en route to Ponmudi hill station in South Kerala. The sanctuary is spread across 53 sq. kilometers of dense forest and eucalyptus plantation on the Western Ghats. The Peppara Dam built on the serene Karamana River adds to the scenic ambience of the sanctuary. Its rocky terrain dissected in places by crystal-clear streams makes it very popular with trekkers. The park is merged partially with the Palode reserve (24 sq. kilometers), and the Kottoor reserve (29 sq. kilometers) – all the three reserves together form the whole of the area covered by the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary.
61. Ponnumthuruth (Golden Island), Varkala.
The verdant Ponnumthuruth (meaning Golden Island) is in the middle of the placid backwaters near Varkala. Untouched now for centuries, this virgin island is a vibrant ecosystem home to a variety of flora and fauna. There is a still beauty about the place, occasionally broken by the rustling of wind through palm trees, the twittering of birds or the gentle lapping on water on the white beach. Amble down the coastline, enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and listen to the fishermen as they hum earthy songs while casting their nets in the lake.
62. Shankhumugham Beach, Trivandrum.
About 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the main city and adjacent to the Trivandrum Airport, Shankhumugham Beach is a favorite haunt of sunset lovers. ‘Aarattmandapam’ (aaratt meaning holy bath of the deity) - an iconic stone pavilion on the beach for use by the Padmanabha Swamy Temple – is synonymous with Shankhumugham. The beach starts to get crowded near evening when it is cast in a soft orange glow. The sea at Shankhumugham is a splendid blue and flat, making sunset watching an incredibly dramatic experience. Stroll down its brown sandy expanse and enjoy the wind in your face.
63. Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala.
Amid tall palm groves and neatly tended lawns nestles the architectural Sivagiri Mutt atop a steep cliff – Sivagiri hill - soaring over the bright blue sea of Varkala. This deeply revered pilgrimage centre of the Keralites is about 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) from the iconic Janardhana Swamy temple. Built in 1904 the Sivagiri Mutt is the headquarter of Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust founded by the renowned spiritual leader and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru (1856 – 1928). Today the mutt is home to the memorial of the great philosopher and receives throngs of believers from across Kerala and outside during the annual festival (30th December to 1st January).
64. Tagore Bhawan, Almora.
Situated on a hill top in the cantonment area of Almora, this place has a lot of significance for history and literature lovers. Modern India’s greatest poet, Rabindranath Tagore is supposed to have penned his Nobel winning work – Gitanjali - at this place. Tagore had a special affinity for the Kumaon hills, and was prolific during his stay here. Many of his landscape paintings were also inspired by the grand Himalayan views from this point. When his daughter, Renuka, wasn’t keeping well, he brought her to these salubrious surrounds. It is also said that he came for solace to these beautiful hills after the death of his beloved daughter.
65. Thiruvallam Backwaters, Trivandrum.
Thiruvallam is a green backwater getaway about 6 kilometers (3.75 miles) from Trivandrum, popular for canoe rides. At the confluence of Killi and Karamana rivers, Thiruvallam opens up a vista of sleepy fishing villages thick with exotic flowers fringing the serene backwaters. The place is also popular for its temple dedicated to Lord Parashurama believed to be the creator of Kerala. A Hindu pilgrimage destination, the Parashurama temple is thronged by devotees to perform rituals in honor of their ancestors. Away from the bustle of Trivandrum city, the confluence of the two beautiful rivers at Thiruvallam creates an idyllic setting for navigation.
66. Varkala Beach, Varkala.
A serene coastal town fringing the Arabian Sea, Varkala is a municipality in Trivandrum about 51 kilometers (32 miles) to its north-west. The soaring cliffs lining the azure sea and jutting into it in places make the Varkala landscape exceptional and striking. Behold this breathtaking scenery of cliffs thick with swaying palms standing sentinel over the sea, and down below a pristine stretch of sand laid-out like a ribbon washed by small white waves. Geologists have coined the term ‘Varkala formation’ for these red sedimentary cliffs that are a unique geological feature in the otherwise flat Kerala coast.
67. Veli Tourist Village, Trivandrum.
Trivandrum’s most popular picnic destination, Veli Tourist Village is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city centre, very close to the Trivandrum airport. The picturesque Veli Lagoon is separated by a narrow sandbar from the Arabian Sea; this sandbar is the Veli Tourist Village complete with a waterfront park, floating bridge and great water sports facility. Particularly popular with children, the place gets extremely crowded on weekends. A major draw to Veli is the large inland lake separated from the ocean by a narrow sandbar. Enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lagoon and the Arabian Sea beyond on a pedal boat or row boat.
68. Vettekkada Beach, Varkala.
This one is a short distance from Varkala town near Kappil backwaters. Vettekkada is an isolated stretch of fine sand affording stunning sunset views. Lounge on the beach and spend indolent hours gazing at the azure slopes while soaking up the tropical sun. Capture from different perspectives the blue sea merging with a clear blue sky.
69. Corbett Falls, Corbett.
To a weary traveler, Corbett Falls is quite a find on the Kaladhungi-Ramnagar highway, some 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from Kaladhungi. Corbett Fall cascades through the year onto fern fringed pools amid pristine greenery. Get off on the highway lined with tall dense trees, and trek along the narrow meandering road through a wilderness of teak and bamboo for about 2 kilometers. The silence of the woods grows deeper as you trail further inside. You will be able to hear the dry leaves crunch under your shoes, the rustle of wind through trees, the murmur of flowing water, and bird songs.
70. Morning Safari in Jhirna, Corbett.
Jhirna tourist zone is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Ramnagar. Until 1994, Jhirna was a farming village when it was successfully relocated under Project Tiger. Typical of a Shiwalik landscape with narrow gorges and dense bamboo patches on the hills to the north, Jhirna is seen as a favorable habitat for tigers, leopards, deer, and a host of mammals such as sloth bear and wild boar. The region supports a great variety of avifauna, making it popular with bird-watchers through the year. To undertake a jeep safari into the open grassland of Jhirna, you have to obtain a permit issued by the Corbett Tiger Reserve reception centre.
71. Evening Safari in Jhirna, Corbett.
Jhirna tourist zone is about 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Ramnagar. Until 1994, Jhirna was a farming village when it was successfully relocated under Project Tiger. Typical of a Shiwalik landscape with narrow gorges and dense bamboo patches on the hills
72. Morning Safari in Bijrani, Corbett.
This part of the Corbett jungle is accessible from Ramnagar, some 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) away, and opens up an endless vista of grasslands interspersed with thick sal forests, and a silhouette of the distant Kumaon peaks. Entry to this zone is through Amdanda Gate. Birjani is host to a diversity of wildlife such as tiger, wild dogs, jackals, sloth bear, barking deer, Indian python, leopard, king cobra, and elephant including an array of reptiles and rare birds. Jeep safari is the most popular way of exploring this terrain; you can also enjoy elephant rides that take you into the remote reaches of the park.
73. Evening Safari in Bijrani, Corbett.
This part of the Corbett jungle is accessible from Ramnagar, some 3 kilometers (1.87 miles) away, and opens up an endless vista of grasslands interspersed with thick sal forests, and a silhouette of the distant Kumaon peaks. Entry to this zone is through Amdanda Gate. Birjani is host to a diversity of wildlife such as tiger, wild dogs, jackals, sloth bear, barking deer, Indian python, leopard, king cobra, and elephant including an array of reptiles and rare birds. Jeep safari is the most popular way of exploring this terrain; you can also enjoy elephant rides that take you into the remote reaches of the park.
74. Full Day Canter Safari into Dhikala Core Area, Corbett.
With sweeping views of the Patli Dun valley and the Kanda ridge in the backdrop, Dhikala is a grassy plateau located high above the gurgling Ramganga river. The region is host to an array of wildlife such as elephants, chital, hog deer, tiger, leopard, and numerous bird and reptile species, making it popular with ardent wildlife lovers. In fact, it is Corbett’s most prominent safari destination, what with tourists making a beeline for Dhikala to enjoy a full day jeep/canter safari. The Dhikala tourist zone is at the edge of the Patli Dun valley through which the Ramganga flows in numerous streams.
75. Morning Rickshaw Ride in Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur.
It is one of the most popular National Parks in India. Strategic location and diverse birdlife combine to make it ever attractive. Barely 180 km from the capital en route the Delhi-Agra-Jaipur circuit, it forms a part of many international tourist itineraries. And given its proximity to three major cities, domestic tourists too throng the place in large numbers.
76. Evening Rickshaw Ride in Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur.
It is one of the most popular National Parks in India. Strategic location and diverse birdlife combine to make it ever attractive. Barely 180 km from the capital en route the Delhi-Agra-Jaipur circuit, it forms a part of many international tourist itineraries. And given its proximity to three major cities, domestic tourists too throng the place in large numbers.
77. Manikaran, Manali.
Just 85 kilometers (52.81 miles) from the picturesque town of Manali rests one of the most sacred places for Hindus and Sikhs alike. Situated at a lofty altitude of about 1760 meters (5774 feet) in the Parvati Valley between the rivers Beas and Parvati is Manikaran, a place that’s best known for its hot thermal springs, which pilgrims believe to be laden with healing properties. Conflicts of opinions about the existence of minerals like sulfur and iron or radioactivity, for that matter, still looms at large even as the Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib obliges visitors with rice, dal (pulses) and vegetables cooked in this very hot water for langar (community meal) everyday. A day’s excursion to Manikaran is a must for people visiting Manali or Kullu as the sheer tranquility and spiritual ambience of the place will seep in to soothe your senses in a rather remarkable way.
78. Bhimtaal Lake Tour, Nainital.
A trip to Nainital is literally incomplete without a visit to the majestic Bhimtal Lake. Recorded as the largest lake in Nainital district and the second largest in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Bhimtal rests poetically flanked by the serene Kumaon hills. What makes Bhimtal more fascinating is the existence of a small island right in the middle of this multifarious fish-filled lake. This island - the erstwhile resting ground for a restaurant that was the toast of tourists who would flock to grub at a most unusual and beautiful eating joint - is now home to a grand island aquarium. Today, the aquarium plays host to a large variety of aquatic life from places like South Africa, Mexico and even China and easily compensates as an equally popular tourist attraction. Just a little away from Bhimtal Lake (about 4 kilometers or 2.4 miles), calmly sleeps Naukuchiatal, the nine-cornered lake. Naukuchiatal, the deepest lake around, attracts a large group of migratory birds every year just before autumn and offers a spectacular display for bird watchers in the endless azure expanse. Another interesting lake near Bhimtal is Sattal (about 12 kilometers or 7.4 miles away), which literally means seven lakes because that’s what it is actually – a group of seven smaller lakes.
79. A Drive on the Indira Gandhi or Pamban Bridge, Rameshwaram.
Straddling the Palk Strait, the Pamban or Indira Gandhi Bridge links the Rameshwaram island with mainland India. Covering about 2.3 kilometers, Pamban Bridge is touted as the second longest bridge in the country (after the Bandra-Worli sea link), and an engineering marvel. Pamban Bridge actually refers to both the road and cantilever railway bridge. Opened for traffic in 1914, the railroad bridge doubles up as a double-leaf bascule bridge that can be raised to allow ships to pass from under. Originally, the bridge was for meter-gauge trains, but in 2007 Indian Railways upgraded the bridge to support broad-gauge trains on it.
80. Akhnoor, Jammu.
Located twenty kilometers from Jammu, the small town of Akhnoor lies on the banks of the river Chenab in the foothills of the Pir Panjal ranges – which are a sub-system of the Himalaya. Excavations at Akhnoor date back to the times of the Harappan (Indus Valley) Civilization. The old fort dominates the town. Excavations within its walls have revealed the remains of Harappan and pre-Harappan civilization which date back some 4,000 years and this is believed to be the northern-most site that has been found so far of this civilization. The fort was built by Raja Teg Singh in the middle of the eighteenth century at a time in the history of the region when several forts were built as outposts a little away from the towns they were designed to protect.
81. Camel's Back Road, Mussoorie.
Camel's Back Road is in lower Mussoorie. It is a 3-kilometer (1.86 miles) stretch between Library Chowk and Kulri Bazar. The road is named after a natural rock here that resembles a camel's hump. Camel’s Back Road is famous for horse rides and long walks. This place is relatively quieter than the rest of lower Mussoorie due to the fact that vehicles are not allowed here. Horse riding can be enjoyed at INR 100 for 2.5 kilometer (1.55 miles). You can also explore Camel’s Back on a rickshaw that cost INR 25 for a ride.
82. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Chail.
The Chail wildlife sanctuary was once the private hunting reserve of the Maharajas of Patiala and on 21 March 1976, was notified as a sanctuary. With altitudes ranging between 701meters ( 2300 feet) to 2,180 meters (7152 feet), the sanctuary has an area of approximately 11, 000 hectares (approximately a hundred square kilometers) and includes the town of Chail and several surrounding villages. The sanctuary has a variety of wildlife that include the rhesus macaque, leopards, the Himalayan black bear, the crested porcupine, the wild boar, the common langur, hares, 'ghoral', 'kakkar', 'sambhar', red jungle fowl, flying squirrels and the 'khalij' and 'cheer' pheasants. Decades back, a herd of European red deer was also introduced by the maharajas in the area. By the gate of the Sanctuary is a small breeding and rehabilitation center for pheasants.
83. Chamba, Khajjiar.
The town of Chamba is 22 kilometers (13.67 miles) from Khajjiar and local lore has it that it that this was founded at the instance of Sahil Varman’s daughter, Chameshni . Replete with history and built and intangible heritage, Chamba has several attractions which include the Laxmi Narayan group of temples with six main 'shikara' style ones and several smaller shrines. The Hari Rai temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and stands by the Chaugan gate.The temple of Sui Mata lies on the Shah Madar hill. The Champavati Temple was also built by Sahil Varman, and there is reason to believe that this was named after his daughter who is now worshipped as a goddess. The Bansi Gopal temple is also built in the ‘shikara’ style and temple lies on the banks of the river Ravi. The Sita Ram temple is located in Chamba’s ‘Mohalla Bangota’. The Chamunda Devi Temple is built high on the hill above town. The Rang Mahal palace was built in the eighteenth century and additions were made later. The Akhand Chandi palace lies opposite the Lakshmi Narayan temples and this imposing building once housed Chamba's ruling family. St. Andrew's Church is over a century old and is a dressed-stone structure with lancet windows and epitomises the bare minimum of decorative devices used in Scottish churches. The Bhuri Singh Museum is named after Raja Bhuri Singh who ruled Chamba between 1904 and 1919; this was opened in 1908.
84. Dalhousie, Khajjiar.
Dalhousie is 22 kilometers (13.67 miles) from Khajjiar. With its ' old world charm ' and lingering echoes of the Raj, today’s Dalhousie covers an area of about seventeen square kilometres. There are several good walks, excellent views in all directions and substantial measure of ‘unspoilt charm’. Apart from the overall ambience, Dalhousie has several places of interest. There are four churches in Dalhousie and its suburbs. These are - St. Andrew's Church and St. Oswald’s Church in Bakloh and Balun; St. Francis' Church, at Subash Chowk and St. John's Church, at Gandhi Chowk. Panchpula has an obelisk built in memory of the freedom fighter Sardar Ajit Singh. Fed by a stream, a series of water pools with small waterfalls surround the memorial. Subash Baoli is where the noted freedom fighter Netaji Subash Chandra Bose spent a large portion of 1937, walking and contemplating near this spot which is surrounded by deodar woods. A variety of carpets with traditional Tibetan designs are woven at the Tibetan Handicrafts Center. Bara Pathar has small open temple dedicated to Bhulwani Mata while the Laxmi Narayan Temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Vishnu. The town is fringed by the Kalatop Sanctuary which has a variety of wildlife and is covered with thick woods – primarily of Himalayan cedar, deodar; Khajjiar is a part of this sanctuary.
85. Gunhill, Mussoorie.
A curious daily ritual is associated with the Gunhill from the British era, in which a cannon would be shot from the top of this flat-hill. Hence, the name Gunhill. Today, it is one of Mussoorie’s popular tourist sites. Gunhill is the second-highest peak of Mussoorie after Lal Tibba and offers clear and beautiful views of the Himalayan peaks. The most popular way to reach Gunhill is through the Mussoorie Ropeway. The Ropeway is an enclosed cable-car system that begins from the Mall Road and goes up to Gunhill.
86. Hathipaon and the Park Estate, Mussoorie.
Hathipaon and The Park Estate is a beautiful place within Mussoorie. It is an ideal location for a picnic or a trek. Though vehicles are allowed to go right up to the estate door. A rented taxi costs INR 400 and takes about three hours to complete the trip, including travel time and two hours at Hathipaon. Alternatively, tourists can drive up to Hathpaon, from where a short trek uphill leads to the Park Estate. There are no arrangements or facilities available here so visitors are advised to carry their own water and food.
87. Hatu peak, Narkanda.
The peak of Hatu towers over Narkanda and is at an altitude of 3136 meters (10,288 feet). This marks the line before the hillside moves down to valley of the Satluj river. The peak can be accessed by a narrow motorable road from Narkanda which is functional during the summer months. Alternatively, there is an 8 kilometer (5 mile) hike trail that passes through dense woods of cedar, spruce and oak; if you are a good walker, this is a far better option as it will unfold vistas that remain screened by windshields. The view from Hatu is absolutely breath taking. Below lies the river valley and the hillside that reaches down, is covered with thick forests, little villages, apple orchards and terraced fields. Across, is the magnificent spread of the Greater Himalaya with a permanent cover of snow; the Kinner Kailash (one of the legendary abodes of Lord Shiva), the Shrikhand and the Kullu ranges are all clearly visible from here. The temple of Hateshwari Mata on Hatu Peak is dedicated to a local embodiment of Devi Durga.
88. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Khajjiar.
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary surrounds Khajjiar. This rises from the glade to a point above the town of Dalhousie and in the other direction, goes down towards the valley of the River Ravi. The sanctuary covers an area of around 2,000 hectares (a little over twenty square kilometers) and within its confines, are a dozen little villages. These pockets of habitation share space with animals and birds like the Serow, Goral, Yellow Throated Marten, Leopard, Black Bear, Barking Deer, Flying Squirrels, Monal, Koklas and Chukor. Altitudes within the sanctuary vary between approximately 1200 m and 2800 m. Temperatures can drop to -10 degrees Celsius in the heights in winter and can touch 35 degrees Celsius in the lower sections in summer. The average precipitation (rain as well as snow) is around 670 mm per year.
89. Kotgarh and Thanedar, Narkanda.
The contiguous settlements of Thanedar and Kotgarh form the core of Himachal’s apple -growing heartland. This pocket of charming mountain countryside is also reputed to have amongst the highest per capita incomes in South-east Asia. And all this prosperity is due to Satyanand Stokes, who introduced the American varieties of apple in the area and modern systems of marketing and packaging. The collection of some half a dozen large and small villages that lie below Thanedar – and named after the main hamlet – give the name to the area below, ‘the Kotgarh valley.’ The little wooden church of St. Mary at Kotgarh predates the apples. A school was established here in 1843 and the church built in 1872; this was run by the Moravian missionaries and the Church Missionary Society. While this may be what more recent times have given the area, apart from the forests and magnificent views that hold the deep valley and the snow-ranges, nature has also given Kotgarh a small lake, Tani Jubbar and by its side is a small temple built of wood and slate. This is the site of a local fair held at the end of May.
90. Kumarsain, Narkanda.
The small village of Kumarsain lies along a side-road that branches off from the Hindustan Tibet Road between Narkanda and the valley floor of the river Satluj, en route to Rampur. Kumarsain was a small princely state with the same name. As a princely state, it was a feudatory of Bushair, immediately preceding the Gurkha Wars of the early nineteenth century. At the end of the Wars, its Rana, ruler was given independent charge by a ‘Sanad’ issued by the British in 1816. The tiny Ram-Sita temple in the little bazaar is worth a visit. Below the village, and quite clearly visible from its height, is the ‘Kot’ or Thakurdwara of Koteshwara Mahadev, a local manifestation of Lord Shiva. At some distance below the Thakurdwara, is a smaller temple, also dedicated to the same deity, Koteshwara Mahadeva.
91. Lal Tibba, Mussoorie.
A brief walk up from Landour leads to Lal Tibba (meaning red hill), the highest point in Mussoorie. It stands at an altitude of 8000 meter above the sea level. From Lal Tibba, you can behold breathtaking views of the lower Himalayas. The AIR and Doordarshan towers are also located here. The Doordarshan tower or TV tower is a popular landmark in Mussoorie. The area is also very popular with shoppers as there are many markets in the vicinity. Sisters’ Bazaar is one of them. The locally-produced jams are a must-buy here. Perched on top of Lal Tibba is Childer’s Lodge, which opens up a spectacular vista of the hills and valley stretching into distance.
92. Landour , Mussoorie.
Landour is situated in upper Mussoorie. An engraved arch was put up by the municipality at the beginning of the Landour stretch claiming that while Mussoorie is the Queen of Hills, Landour is the tiara of the Queen. The famous Woodstock school is situated here and is a landmark. The area has long winding roads that are lined on one side by majestic deodar and pine groves. Here the air is nippier compared to the lower hill, and cleaner too as it is far away from shops and vehicular traffic.
93. Lower Mall and Monkey Point, Kasauli.
The Lower Mall starts just after the bus stand and Christ Church that lies above it. Facing the town with your back towards the bus stand, this is the fork on the left. After a little rise and then a dip, the road is more or less level right up to Monkey Point, which marks its end. Snatches of colonial architecture come up right in the beginning.. Throughout this narrow stretch are large, colonial bungalows with little gardens and stone retaining walls covered with mosses and lichens. All along are pines, grassy slopes and occasional cedars and elms. During the monsoon months, this is all lush and packed with wild dahlias and morning glory. Some three kilometres from the bus stand, the Lower Mall comes to an end at Monkey Point.
94. Marine Drive, Mumbai.
One of the defining images of Mumbai is that of Marine Drive. Skirting the bay shaped in the form of a flipped C, this palm-fringed avenue is one of the busiest roads in Mumbai. The 3-kilometer stretch, with the waters of the Arabian Sea to one side and modern highrises, Art Deco buildings and the Gymkhana Cricket Maidans to the other, form a tantalizing view. In-between the two runs a curving cemented road with a broad promenade for walkers. Only Miami has more number of Art Deco buildings along the waterfront than Mumbai, most of which were built by the Parsis. By evening when city lights take full effect, the ‘Queen’s Necklace’ shines radiant. Dramatically illuminated, if seen from an elevated point (Oberoi hotel offers a great perspective), Marine Drive looks like a necklace with streetlights resembling a string of diamonds.
95. Mekedatu, Bangalore.
Mekedatu, about 93 kilometer (58.12 miles) from Bangalore, literally means ‘goat’s leap’. This is because here, the river Cauvery, which is more than 150-meter wide at the Sangama (confluence), peters down to a 10-metre wide gorge. Legend has it that a goat being chased by a tiger leapt across the gorge in a desperate attempt to escape death. And it did because the tiger gave up the chase. The point where the goat leapt is now much wider due to erosion. There’s a mythological twist to the tale too.
96. Mukkombu (Upper Anicut), Tiruchirappalli.
Upper Anicut or Mukkombu is about 18 kilometers (11.25 miles) from Trichy at a point where River Kollidam branches out from the main river, Cauvery. It is a lovely picnic spot skirting acres of verdant greenery. The place also has a well-manicured park, where you can spend time in solitude and enjoy the glorious scenery.
97. Mussoorie Jheel, Mussoorie.
Mussoorie Jheel was developed jointly by the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority and the City Board as a tourist spot en-route Mussoorie from Dehradun. The Jheel is an ideal place to catch your breath after a long drive on steep and winding mountain roads into Mussoorie. The Jheel offers magnificent views of the surrounding hills covered with greenery, and not to mention, fresh mountain air. A brief distance from the lake, there are several roadside cafes popularly called "Maggi points". You can enjoy a hot cup of tea with sandwiches here.
98. Polo and Cricket Ground, the MES bungalow and Military School, Chail.
One of Chail’s famous landmarks, without any significant structure on it, is the polo and cricket ground. This was built in 1893 after leveling out the top of a hill. At 2444.4 meters (8019 feet) this is the highest cricket pitch and polo ground in the world – though it has its share of challengers. The label, ‘highest’ is at times applied to other places as competitive cricket is no longer played here and some polo grounds in Afghanistan and Ladakh claim a greater altitude. Polo too has not been played on this field for several years. Be that as it may, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh was an avid cricket player and the teams that have played here, have included the MCC. Bhupinder Singh was not averse to a spot of fun at cricket too. This once included a match with all the players dressed as women. The Maharaja took the crease in nun's black habit - sporting an equally black beard.
99. Ramanagaram, Bangalore.
If you’ve watched Sholay or David Leans’ A Passage to India, you’ve already seen Ramanagaram or the Land of the Seven Hills. Less than 50 kilometer (31.25 miles) away from Bangalore on the Bangalore-Mysore Highway, this town is famous for a number of things apart from being a movie locale: the huge rocky outcrops that are every rock-climber’s dream come true, the silk market - one of the biggest in India (it’s also called Silktown), historical temples nestled in the hills, and the stone and granite quarries. The town gets its name from Ramagiri Hills or Ramadevara Betta which finds a mention in Valmiki and Thoravi Ramayan.
100. Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai.
Mumbai, in all probability, is the world’s only city that has a National Park within its boundaries. And Borivili National Park is undoubtedly the largest park (single green patch) in the world located within city limits. A flight landing in town during the day gives a nice aerial view of the city forest surrounded by concrete and shantytowns. It’s the teeming city’s green lungs and plays a vital role in purifying the pollution of the city. Officially known as the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, it lies on the northern fringes of suburban Mumbai, near the Borivili neighborhood. Get off at Borivili station to reach the Park.
101. Kanyakumari Day Excursion, Trivandrum.
The southernmost tip of the Indian mainland, Kanyakumari is truly unique destination. Sprawled out on the shore of this great ‘Triveni sangam’, the confluence of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean, Kanyakumari is known for its beautiful temples, chief among them is the Kumari Amman temple, a colorful beach bazaar and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial standing sentinel over the sea. Just as famous is the Padmanabhapuram Palace, an 16th century monument made entirely of wood. Less than 100 kilometers Trivandrum, Kanyakumari is just a few hours drive away, through smooth metalled roads that offer gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside.
102. Alpathar Lake, Gulmarg.
Some 13 kilometers (8 miles) from Gulmarg, at an altitude of around 3,840 meters (12598.4 feet) is the little lake of Alpather. Like many other high-altitude lakes in the mountainous parts of the western Himalaya, this lies in a shallow mountain bowl and is surrounded by limited plant growth and a substantial amount of scree. A well marked path from Gulmarg reaches the lake which lies at the base of the Apharwat Mountain. Not unexpectedly, the lake freezes over fairly early in winter and remains under a sheet of ice till the late-summer thaw in June-July. Even then, this triangle-shaped water body holds chunks of ice that resemble a shattered windscreen. In the silence, you can occasionally hear the ice cracking in the warm sunshine of summer. Interesting, and unusually for high altitude lakes, at times, this has some avian life too.
103. Chashm-e-Shahi Gardens, Srinagar.
The Chashm-e-Shahi garden is the smallest of the Mughal-style gardens in Kashmir and is barely a hundred and eight meters long and thirty-eight meters wide. But like a little cameo, this is also one of its prettiest ones. ‘Chashm-e-Shahi’ translates as the royal spring and the perennial spring waters in this garden are believed to have therapeutic powers. The garden is located some eight kilometers from the city and is a couple of kilometers off the road that leads to the Nishat. This commands an excellent view of the Dal lake and surrounding areas
104. Gondola Lift - Gulmarg to Kongdori, Gulmarg.
Today, the gondola car is one of the main attractions of the place. The first of two sections of the cable car rises from the cable station at Gulmarg at an altitude of 2699.6 meters (8856.9 feet) to Kongdori at an altitude of 3099.6 meters (10169.2 feet) – a vertical rise of 400 meters (1312.3 feet). It is a thoroughly enjoyable experience taking the ten minute ride up to Kongdori. At this raised vantage position and with the easy movement, the view all around can be enjoyed to its fullest. The first section of the trip goes through tall fir trees and then the landscape opens quite dramatically.
105. Gondola Lift - Kongdori to Apharwat, Gulmarg.
The second stage of the Gulmarg-Apharwat cable car project was completed in May, 2005. This stretch connects Kongdori station at 3,099 (10167.3 feet) meters with the heights of Apharwat at 3,979 meters (13054.4 feet) – Apharwat is the mountain that looms over Gulmarg and is the magnet for serious skiers. With the second stretch, this cable car system has become one of the longest and highest gondola projects in the world. The vertical rise between Kongdori and Apharwat is 880 meters (2887.1 feet) and this stretch is somewhat longer than the first one, and covers over five kilometers. The view, not unexpectedly, from the heights of Apharwat has a greater compass than that from Kongdori.
106. Khilanmarg, Gulmarg.
A path of some six kilometers and an ascent of some six hundred meters from Gulmarg will take you to the little highland dale of Khilanmarg. The narrow bridle path is lined by grassy knolls and a variety of trees and shrubs that include masses of daises, mulberry, berberis and walnut among others. Should you prefer riding to walking, ponies may be hired for this little hike. While the ascent is focused on the path ahead, once you are at the top – and on a clear day – an absolutely magnificent vista unfolds.
Clearly visible is the western marker of the Himalayan chain, the Nanga Parbat and the twin peaks of Nun (7,135 meters/ 23,408.7 feet) and Kun (7,077 meters/ 23,218.5 feet).
107. Nishat Bagh, Srinagar.
The Nishat Bagh, the ‘Garden of Happiness or Gladness or Bliss’ dates back to around1633 and is believed to have been created by Asaf Khan during the reign of the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan. This is located about four kilometers from the Chashm-e-Shahi garden and is on the banks of the Dal lake and has the backdrop of the magnificent Zabarwan and the more distant Pir Panjal mountains. This originally had twelve terraces but now, eleven remain.
108. Shalimar Bagh, Srinagar.
Unlike the other Mughal gardens of Kashmir, the Shalimar was not just a garden but also served as the summer residence of the Mughals and were created by Jahangir in 1619. And even when the power of the imperial Mughals came to an end and their successors came to Srinagar no more, the garden remained popular with the Pathan rulers and Sikh governors – and later, with European visitors who used the marble pavilion as a residence. Also unlike the others, this has a more somber feeling and the play of water with canals, predominates. And today, the garden still evokes the aesthetic of formal gardens set by the Mughal kings and the Shalimar is considered by many as the culmination of their design of hill-gardens.
109. Avalanche Lake, Ooty.
25 kilometers from Ooty is one of the most breathtaking sights of nature -- Avalanche Lake. The result of a landslide in 1823, Avalanche is a treasure of orchids, magnolias and a budding tree range with a trout stream running by. On the lake is a dam called Canada. The construction of this dam was funded by Canada and hence the name.
Avalanche Lake provides a great trekking opportunity and is also a great picnic spot. Many cyclining enthusiasts also ride up to Avalanche Lake in the mornings. Close to Avalanche Dam is a Trout Farm which is the only place in India where Trout fish is bred. The only stay arrangement is the forest department guest house which will require prior approval and permission.
110. Bactrian Camel Ride, Nubra Valley.
Bactrian camel rides are a major form of tourist activity in the Nubra Valley today. The double-humped camels, which were once used as pack animals have now become increasingly popular among a large number of tourists who come here for this most unusual experience. This highly interesting ride is flagged off from different locations and takes tourists through various points of interest along the Silk Route. Swaying rhythmically with the movements of these twin-humped, large even-toed ungulates you can be your own Lawrence of Arabia and eye such sights as the graveyard of Hor, Diskit Monastery and The Dalai Lama’s palace.
111. Batseri, Sangla Valley.
The village lies along a hill slope and has narrow well marked paths – with a little marker at every little crossing. Along its slopes and level stretches, Batseri also displays some of the unusual traditional architectural methods of the area. The small temple of Badri Narayan is an exemplary piece of craftsmanship with superb carvings along its panels and finely worked slate for the roof. An interesting little piece of sacred architecture is the large prayer wheel housed in a little shelter high up the village; it is turned by stream waters.
112. Bhimakali Temple Complex, Sarahan.
The complex walls of the temple encase approximately an acre of land and hold buildings and courtyards. The temple itself may well be considered as the most resplendent example of a style that is considered indigenous to the area. Here, along with a host of other deities are the two images of Bhimakali; one portrays her as an unmarried maiden and the second, as a mature woman.
113. Chamundi Hill, Mysore.
Chamundi Hills is best place to get a panoramic view of Mysore. The uphill drive is picturesque and misty, very often. At an average elevation of 1000 meters, Chamundi Hill holds a large statue of Mashishasur, the mythological king of Mysore who was slayed by goddess Chamundi because of his evil deeds. In case you want to make the trip more religious or are looking for a bit of adventure, there are 1511 steps that lead one up to the hilltop; the first 400 being the more challenging because of the sharp incline. On the way you will pass the huge status of Lord Shiva’s Nandi Bull. The climb is quite challenging and recommended for the physically fit.
114. Chemrey and Takthok Monasteries, Leh.
Belonging to the Drugpa order of Buddhism, the Chemrey Monastery was founded in the early 17th century by Lama Tagsang Raschen under the tutelage of King Sengge Namgyal, although a theory presented by acclaimed historian Luciano Petech declares it as a monument built in 1664 to honor the king after his death. The monastery holds, among many relics, the famed one-storey high statue of Padmasambhava who was also known as Guru Rinpoche and even regarded as the second Buddha by the Nyingma school followers.
Takthok Monastery, variably known as Thag Thog and even Thak Thak, is a mid-16th century monastery, which is the only one in Leh to follow the Nyingma school of Buddhism. Interestingly, the literal meaning of Takthok is ‘rock-roof,’ named so because of the discovery of a cave inside the monastery, which was believed to have been inhabited by Padmasambhava for three years to meditate during the 8th century.
115. Cherai Beach, Kochi.
Cherai is Kochi’s finest beach. Located on the northern end of Vypeen Island, its picturesque setting makes it a runaway hit with locals and tourists alike. The narrow stretch of land has the sea on one side, and the backwaters on the other. Coconut palms and paddy fields add to the picture postcard effect. Often referred to as ‘The Princess of the Arabian Sea’, the beach has seen quite a few resorts come up in recent times. About 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from the mainland Ernakulam, one can take a bus to Paravur and then an auto rickshaw to Cherai beach. For the more adventurous, we’d recommend a boat ride from either Fort Kochi or Ernakulam to Vypeen Island, and then a road transport option to Cherai on the northern tip.
116. Chitkul, Sangla Valley.
Chitkul is the last inhabited village in the valley. The drive to this is along a road that lies close to the river bank. Chitkul is a village where the wood and stone structures seem to have been inspired by a old-fashioned fairy tale. This also has three temples dedicated to the goddess Mathi. The main temple is believed to be around six hundred years old.
117. Choglamsar SOS Village, Stok Palace, Leh.
The SOS Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV), a milestone achievement and an enthusiastic foray into social development, is an institutional effort at spreading child education initiated through a joint collaboration of his Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Indian Government. Aptly dubbed as the “Oasis in the Desert,” the SOS TCV became operational in 1975 and now offers quality education to more than 1400 children, backed up by modern facilities and the support of about 200 dedicated staff. Built in the first quarter of the 19th century by the last ruler of Ladakh, King Tsespal Tondup Namgyal, the Stok Palace is a four storey edifice constructed over a large heap of moraine. Within the palace complex is the Stok or Stak Museum, which houses such valuable royal family artifacts like thangkas, traditional attires, jewelry, weapons and Buddhist art. An interesting thing that you will notice here is the decking of the ceremonial headdresses (Peraks) of the kings with valuable stones like turquoise, coral, lapis lazuli and even gold.
118. Coonoor, Ooty.
Coonoor is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills at an altitude of 1800 meters above sea level. Coonoor essentially is a small tea garden town at a lower elevation than Ooty. The often misty and year round cool weather makes it perfect for tea plantations. Coonoor is a popular base for a lot of Nilgiri treks. Trails lead up to Lambs Rock, Lady Cannings’s Seat and Dolphin’s Seat among other lesser known ones. These are popular uphill viewpoints providing excellent view of the Coimbatore plains and the vast tea and coffee plantations. Law’s Fall (5 kilometers) is another famous trek trail leading further to Droog. Droog has ruins of a 16th century fort atop a 750 meters high hill and is surrounded by many springs said to have medicinal properties.
119. Diskit Gompa, Nubra Valley.
As the largest and the oldest surviving monastery in the Nubra Valley, Diskit Monastery or Diskit Gompa occupies a special place in the history of Tibetan Buddhism and belongs to its Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) sect. Changzem Tserab Zangpo, the disciple of Tsong Khapa, the founder of this sect, established the monastery in the 14th century. The architecture of the monastery is typically Tibetan with various (slightly damaged but few renovated) murals inside it depicting paintings of the Guardians of the world, whose images grimly grace the second floor chamber as well. A visit to the Diskit Monastery will offer you a chance to develop a wholly fresh perspective about life, one that will only deepen your ties with spiritualism.
120. Doddabetta Peak, Ooty.
The scenic uphill drive en route to Kotagiri can take you to the highest point of the district - Dodabetta Peak. In Kannada language, Dodda means Big and Betta means Hill. Standing 2,623 meters above sea level, this big hill offers an unbelievably refreshing view of the surrounding geography.
On a bright, clear day you can get a view of distant Coimbatore, Mysore and Chamundi Hills. The reserve forest around the peak is also an important attraction.
121. Excursion to Khardung La Top, Leh.
Khardung La or Khardung Pass – a much romanticized high altitude adventure trail – happens to be the gateway to Nubra and Shyok Valleys. Standing proud at an altitude of 5359 meters (17,582 feet), contrary to the signage and the local voice claiming it to be 5602 meters (18,380 feet) high, Khardung Pass is the road that’s sporadically trod by adventure-streaked bikers and military personnel trucking supplies on to Siachen Glacier alike. Known by locals as Khardong La and even Khardzong La, it has a strange and mesmerizing effect on people who visit it, and even those who wish to go there. So much so that sometimes tourists hang around patiently for days, waiting for the accursed road-blocking snow to shy away and leave the stage for some breathtaking tripping. You will also come across a fantastic rock formation dubbed “India Gate,” which will dramatically stress on the fact that nature takes its own course when left alone – and how.
122. Fishing, Sangla Valley.
n 1965, on the left bank of the river Baspa, a small trout farm was established and this now covers an area of an acre and a half. Located near the Hubra stream, whose waters finally flow into the Baspa, Brown trout (salmo trutta) fingerlings are raised in the farm and released into the Baspa.
123. Glenmorgan Tea Estate, Ooty.
25 kilometers from Ooty is Glenmorgan tea estate. This is a beautiful tea estate with a captivate lake at the foot its base. Glenmorgan is one of the oldest tea estates around Ooty. You can explore the tea garden and the Toda tribe establishments around Glenmorgan and also take a mechanical rope trolley to the power house at Singara which is 3 kilometers down the hill. Glenmorgan provides an excellent view of the Pykara power house at Singara, the Moyar valley and the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary. Even the distant planes of Mysore can be seen from here.
124. Hikes and treks, Sangla Valley.
The Sangla Valley has some of the finest easy hikes that can be done in the western Himalaya – and some grueling trek trails too. There are what an experienced trekker will call ‘easy walks’ like the ever popular Batseri to Raksham walk that takes a couple of hours and passes through woods of Himalayan cedar (deodar) and birch, or the somewhat more demanding Raksham to Chitkul hike.
125. Kanum, Kalpa.
For all practical purposes, Kanam (Kanum) is a complete monastic village of Buddhists, though its heart is the Lundup Ganfel gompa, the ‘Temple of easy religious merit’ which is located on the top of the village. The temple may have been rebuilt on the old plinth but the structures adjoining this are of considerable antiquity. This mix of the old and not so old is apparent all over the village; for example the structure that houses the stucco statue of Manjusri Manjughosa is of relatively recent construction, but the image itself is much older.
The monastery is of considerable significance and dates back to time of Rinchensang-po, the ‘Great Translator’. This is located at the base of the Nessang valley – and is on one of the old trade routes that led to Tibet. Kanam is accessed by a side road from Spillo and is sixty kilometers from Kalpa at an altitude of 2699 meters above sea level. The village has seven large and small temples that date back several centuries and numerous reliquaries. The word ‘Kanam’ is believed to come from the first letter, ‘Ka’ of the sacred texts, the Kangyur and ‘nam’, or place – and thus, ‘a place of sacred books’.
126. Karanji Lake & Regional Museum of Natural History, Mysore.
Karanji Lake is one of the prime lakes of Mysore and a major tourist attraction managed by the Mysore Zoo. Located around the Karanji Lake is the Regional Museum of Natural History exhibiting the flora, fauna and geology of South India. India’s biggest walk through aviary is based on the shores of Karanji lake. It has been beautifully built with two water falls and small ponds and is home to 40-50 birds of different species. The aviary has birds like hornbill, kingfisher, white-peacock, turkey an
127. Kotagiri, Ooty.
33 kilometers southeast of Ooty, Kotagiri is one of three popular hill stations in the Nilgiris along with Ooty and Coonoor. The land has some gold mines which were used in the Raj period and was then a preferred British destination. The large number of British style cottages surrounding this area bear testimony to this. John Sullivan’s bungalow in Kannerimukku, 20 mins drive away, is open for public viewing.
This area just below Coonoor along the slopes of the Nilgiri hills has been the traditional home of the 'Kota' tribes. The name ‘Kota-giri’ means ‘Mountain of the Kotas’. While the Todas are the traditional agriculturists of the Nilgiris, the Kotas have traditionally been artisans and are experts in the art of pottery and terracotta baking. A very reclusive community, their reluctance to mix with outsiders has resulted in a sharp decline in their numbers.
128. Krishna's Butterball, Mahabalipuram.
On the other side of the Mahabalipuram beach, a massive boulder looks to have stopped short of sliding down a smooth rocky slope. This gigantic boulder, about 5-meter in diameter, is called Krishna’s Butterball, and is set amid lush greenery. Among a spattering of hillocks, this particular rock - precariously resting at an angle of 45 degree – catches your eye first-up. The site is hugely popular with tourists who take to clicking goofy photographs with the rock in the background.
129. Leh Palace, Namgyal Tsemo Hill, Leh.
The nine-storey high Leh Palace is one magnificent edifice, which was built by King Sengge Namgyal in the 17th century with an uncanny resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. With the Ladakh mountain range as its backdrop towards the north, the Leh Palace is an architectural marvel that opens up sprawling views of the entire town and its surrounding areas from the rooftop. Further up from the Leh Palace, the Namgyal Tsemo Hill rises over it like a kingly ceremonial headgear and is the resting ground for an ancient fort ruin. What remains of this fort today are mere bricks and stones, offering testimony to a once great campaign that King Tashi Namgyal had undertaken in the 16th century. This fort is said to have been the earliest royal residence of the Namgyal dynasty and is flanked by some temples built in veneration of the guardian deities. Amazingly, these temples are still standing today, unlike the fort, and are visited everyday yet by a monk who opens the doors to light the butter-filled lamps every morning and evening in adoration of the deities.
130. Morang, Kalpa.
The village of Moorang is one the most beautifully located ones in the district of Kinnaur and lies on left bank of the river Satluj near the confluence with the Tirang. The river Satluj has played a considerable role in shaping the history and culture of Kinnaur. This river is sixteen hundred kilometers long and is a tributary of the Indus and has its source in a lake known as the ‘Rakshasa Taal’, literally ‘the lake of demons’. On the western highlands of Tibet, some three hundred kilometers east of the Indian border, its waters are separated by a bare two kilometers from its famous twin, the fabled tarn of Mansarovar - which is also referred to as Ma-fa-mu and Mapan Lake. At a height of just over 4,500 meters these lakes rest in the Nagari prefecture of China. Apart from the west, which faces the river, Moorang is surrounded by high mountains. The path to the village goes through apricot orchards and with the backdrop of the high hills, the river valley and traditional architecture, this creates a remarkable visual treat.
131. Nako, Kalpa.
For good reason it is often said that Nako is the most attractive village in Kinnaur – it is majestically sited and is a place where time seems to have stood still for centuries. Its hundred or so stone houses are built around a little lake and depending on where you stand, the visual perspective is such, that at times, many of them seem to be half buried under the soil. The lake is fringed with trees of willow and poplar and every bit of flat land has been made arable.
Nako is at an altitude of 3,662 meters above sea level and at a distance of a hundred and twenty-eight kilometers from Kalpa; the village is a couple of kilometers above the Hangrang valley road. The village deity is called Deodum. The main monastic complex of Nako lies towards the north of the village and has four temples. The site is believed to have been the site of a large Drugpa monastery and was founded by Lotsaba Rinchen Zangpo, during the reign of King Yeshe-Od of the western Tibetan kingdom of Guge. The complex is called the Locha lha-khang. On the southwest are the remains of some monks’ chambers and a few chortens.
132. Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Ooty.
Among the gems of Indian Railways is the 46 kilometer Nilgiri Mountain Railway connecting Mettupalayam to Ooty. The narrow gauge train ride is a major attraction of Ooty. Most first timers opt for this experience. The train pulled by steam engine runs through lush green forests, tunnels, bridges, streams of water and tea gardens making this a picturesque journey.
In 2005, Nilgiri Mountain Railway was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list as an extension of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways.
Originally planned in 1854, the mountain rail line finally got completed in 1899. This was originally operated by the Madras Rail Company. The tracks were made of 50 lb rails. Enroute are some 250 bridges, of which 32 are the major ones. The 16 tunnels en route add to the exciting experience. At no point does the train go beyond 30 kmps on the Non-Rack System and 13 kmps on the Rack System. Between Mettupalayam and Coonoor, the line uses the Abt rack and pinion system to climb the steep gradient.
133. Ooty Lake, Ooty.
The Ooty lake is wonderful for evening and early morning outings. The lake spreads across two kilometers and is in an irregular ‘L’ shape. On one end is the Ooty boat house which provides various kinds of boats for hire at a fee and refundable deposit amount from 8 am till 6 pm. The variety includes motor boats, pedal boats and rowing boats among others. The visual perspective of the surrounding hills with trees all around from the lake make for a great experience.
134. Pangong Tso (Lake), Pangong.
Pangong is on the must do list of most travelers to Ladakh. Not without reason! The stark beauty and serenity of the lake has been known to touch a tender chord in even the most hardened traveler. After getting used to the parched landscape of Ladakh, Pangong comes as breathtaking sight. Often, the haunting play of light and shadow on the hills around the lake greets visitors. And when the clouds clear, sun rays play magic with the crystal clear water imparting colors from aqua to shades of orange. The effect is surreal.
Most travelers to Ladakh do a day visit to Pangong from Leh. An overnight stay is highly recommended though. Given that the two-drive is over 300 kilometers, it is advisable to stay either by the lake side or at small settlements en route. A lifetime’s experience shouldn’t be rushed through anyways!
135. Pykara Falls and Lake, Ooty.
Ardent Bollywood fans will recognize the Pykara Lake and Falls in no time. This has been a favorite location of movie makers for a long time now. Originating from the Mukurthi peak, Pykara River flows down through a series of cascades. The last two falls -- 55 and 61 meters respectively, are called the Pykara Falls. Further down is a dam, source of water and irrigation to the area, and the breath taking Pykara Lake. Tamil Nadu Tourism has organized a boating facility at Pykara Lake.
136. Raksham, Sangla Valley.
A chocolate-box hamlet, Raksham is set before a mass of dark rock and moraine and is at an altitude of 3,115 meters above sea level. The place-name, ‘Raksham’ is supposedly a derivative from ‘rak’, a rock and ‘sham’, bridge - local lore has it that the Baspa’s waters corroded a stone dam leaving a span over the top - and thereby created a natural bridge at the spot. The village has some charming wood and stone houses and rests at the end of what can best be described as glen with thick forests.
137. Rampur, Sarahan.
By the banks of the river Satluj, Rampur was the seat of the former princely state of Bushair ( Bushahr, Bushehar ). This is forty-five kilometers from Sarahan. Apart from serving as the gateway to Kinnaur, today’s Rampur is famous for its grand traditions and the Lavi fair held every November and as the site of the huge hydro project, the Nathpa-Jakhri.
Legend has that when the town of Rampur was to be settled, three lamps were lit at different spots along the valley floor and it was at the place where the lamp remained burning through the night, that the town finally was finally built. The town may have been founded by Raja Kehri Singh in the seventeenth century or by Raja Ram Singh in the eighteenth. The rulers moved down from their traditional seat in Sarahan to the banks of the river. Bushair was one of the richest princely states in the hills and was an important centre for trade between Tibet, Kinnaur and the lower areas.
138. Recong peo, Kalpa.
Recong Peo is the administrative headquarters of the district of Kinnaur. For a long time, these were at Kalpa and were shifted lower down the same hill a couple of decades ago. The turn off from the Hindustan-Tibet Road is at Powari and seven kilometers after a steady ascent, one comes to Recong Peo. Most of this small town has been built fairly recently. One has to pass through this on the way to Kalpa and the distance between the two is thirteen kilometers. As from Kalpa, the view from Recong Peo is of the majestic peak of Kinner Kailash, regarded as one of the mythical home of Lord Shiva and the seventy-nine foot high free standing rock by its side that resembles a ‘shivalinga’ and changes color as the day passes
139. Sadras, Mahabalipuram.
About 13-kilometer (8.12 miles) from Mahabalipuram towards Kalpakkam, there is an idyllic beach resort, Sadras, known for the ruins of a Dutch Fort. Take a stroll in the Dutch cemetery and look up the finely carved headstones and the inscriptions on them. Actually, Sadras is an anglicized version of the ancient town of Chadhuranga Pattinam. Sadras was set up in the 17th century as a Dutch colony, and an important centre for weaving fine muslin cloth for export. This little village was a flourishing weaver settlement until the Dutch conquered the domains from the Carnatic rulers in 1612.
140. Sanasar, Patnitop.
In terms of topography and climate, Sanasar is fairly similar to Patnitop. But there is one substantial difference, Sanasar is quieter by far – the number of visitors is fewer and there is a fair bit of activity and adventure sport. Sanasar is around twenty kilometers from Patnitop on National Highway 1 A. This is a wide saucer-shaped meadow covered with grass and is backed by woods of majestic Himalayan cedar (deodar) trees. The word Sanasar, comes from the small lake on the downs – the word ‘sar’ means lake.
One activity that Sanasar is popular for is para-gliding and this is available in the months of April, May, August, September and October. The time you are up above the ground varies from a few minutes to longer – and much of this depends on wind conditions. The altitude normally varies between one hundred and fifty feet over the ground, to two hundred and fifty. The ride is done in tandem with an expert – you are strapped to him for safety. For those who find the climb back up the hill somewhat trying, ponies are available to ride back
141. Sangla village, Sangla Valley.
The village has the main market of the valley where essentials are available. Apart from its size and the fact that some of the hotels and rest houses are based there, Sangla village on its own belies the true beauty of the area. Surrounded by houses, and placed in the center of the village is the old temple of Bering Nag. The temple is an attractive wood and stone structure that houses the principal image of the deity.
142. Shanti Stupa, Leh.
There is a very tranquil structure that rests at an altitude of 4,267 meters (14,000 feet) on a hilltop in Changspa village, about 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from Leh. The Shanti Stupa was built by the Nipponzan-Myohoji order of Japan, a religious community that has been engaged in the construction of peace pagodas and temples in various parts of the world. The architectural treatment of Shanti Stupa is really unique. You will be greeted with a highly striking dual-level structure featuring a carved relief of the Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma) at the centre of the first level, flanked by two deer and some Buddhist followers. Post sunset, Shanti Stupa is completely illuminated, offering visitors a unique experience.
143. Shey, Thiksey & Hemis Monasteries, Leh.
Located in the upper Indus Valley, the Shey Palace was built by King Deldan Namgyal (aka Lhachen Palgyigon) in 1655 to serve as a summer retreat for the Ladakhi kings. He added the Shey Monastery within the palace complex in the same year to honor his departed father, Singay Namgyal. The monastery houses a 12 meters (39 feet) high gilded copper statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha in a seated posture, which is presumably the second largest in Ladakh. The Thiksey Monastery is a fort monastery that’s built in the likeness of the Potala Palace of Lhasa, Tibet and houses about 60 monks. This is the most important monastery in Ladakh and governs ten more monasteries under it. Painted in red, yellow-ochre and white, this fort monastery offers some amazing views of the Shey Palace and the Stok Palace across the Indus Valley flood plain. About 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Leh at a height of 3,657 meters (12,000 feet), the Hemis Gompa is one of the highest monasteries of the world. The rare 17th century murals and the painted stone reliefs adorning the courtyard gallery make the Hemis Gompa a true heritage site, which is why the Archaeological Survey of India submitted its name to UNESCO in 1998 to be considered in its list of World Heritage Sites.
144. Shivanasamudra Falls, Mysore.
85 kms east of Mysore and situated in the Mandya District are the Shivanasamudra waterfalls, ranked amongst the top 100 waterfalls of the world for their volume of water. This also happens to be the second largest waterfall in India and hence is a major tourist attraction. The Cauvery branches into two streams- Gaganachukki (the western stream) and Bharachukki (the eastern stream). As these stream fall 200 ft downwards, the surrounding hills and forests of Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary create a mesmerizing picture. Gaganchukki stream attracts more tourists and can be watched from the Shivanasamudra watch towers. The Shivanasamudra falls create a panoramic view as the Gaganchukki streams falls down sharply.
145. Spituk, Phyang, Leh.
The very first feeling that will overcome you when you behold the Spituk Monastery is an overwhelming calmness that you had longed for all your life. And that’s because monastic life here is an example for others to follow if only to achieve spiritual enlightenment. This tri-chapel designed monastery has a huge collection of antique thangkas, masks of deities, weapons and images of Lord Buddha and Amitayus, besides a high throne for the Dalai Lama in the Dukhang (main temple). Phyang Gompa is another ancient Buddhist monastery that was once a part of several monastic structures gifted to Chosje Damma Kunga during the period of Dharmaraja Jamyang Namgyal. The most interesting thing about this monastery is a 900 year old museum within the complex, which is a vast storehouse of enormous-sized thangkas, firearms and weapons from China, Mongolia and Tibet, idols of various deities and Kashmiri bronze artifacts.
146. Sumur village & Samstemling Gompa, Nubra Valley.
At an elevation of 3096 meters (10,157 feet) and 28 kilometers (17 miles) from Panamik, Sumur village rests along the Nubra River and is an amazingly picturesque settlement with vast expanses of green fields reaching up till the valley parapets. Other than Diskit, Sumur is the only other village in Nubra Valley that organizes a grand festival every year with camel races, ibex and peacock dances, traditional archery competitions, traditional marriage ceremonies, war dances and even flower exhibitions. However, the biggest attraction of Sumur village is undoubtedly the Samstemling Gompa or Samstemling Monastery. As an entire complex comprising seven different temples, it is a fabulous storehouse of a huge collection of thangkas and arduously restored frescoes, which can be found, distributed neatly across the several prayer halls here.
147. Talakad, Mysore.
Talakad is situated 45 kms from Mysore. River Cauvery makes a sharp bend at Talakad creating a panoramic view of sandy landscape. A very scenic location combined with religious significance has Talakad a major draw. This pilgrimage centre houses the magnificent Lord Shiva temple – Vaidyeshwara. Built in beautiful Dravidian style using granite, it draws pilgrims from all over India. Talakad once had over 30 temples, many of which now lie buried in sand.
The Panchalinga darshan pilgrimage is held here every 12 years. Devotees visit the 5 temples of Talakad. The Curse of Talakad on the Wodeyar dynasty in the 16th century is a folktale that is believed to have submerged Talakad's history under sand dunes and left the Wodeyar dynasty without any rightful heir to the throne since 1600s. Despite all the excavation efforts, the temples continue to get submerged in the sand dunes. It’s beautiful to walk down the lush green pastures and suddenly discover sand dunes in the most unexpected location.
148. The Tea Factory, Ooty.
Nature has endowed the Nilgiri mountain range with two plants that shape its perception in the eyes of tourists. The gush of blue Kurinji flowers which make the hill appear blue (hence the name Nilgiri which means 'Blue Mountains') and the splendid stretch of tea gardens. A visit to a tea estate is highly recommended.
There are many tea estates around Ooty, however a visit to ‘The Tea Factory’ is a must. This will make you a tea drinker if you are not one already. Sitting atop a hill surrounded by tea gardens, the Tea Factory displays the entire process. Visitors can witness the entire process by which the fresh green leaves get processed to reach your morning cuppa. There is a nominal fee to enter the tour and it’s worth every penny. The trip ends with samples of freshly brewed tea. You can also buy various flavored tea from here - plain tea, ginger tea, chocolate tea and the best ever masala tea.
149. Tiger Caves, Mahabalipuram.
These mysterious caves are about 5-kilometer (3.12 miles) north of Mahabalipuram in the pretty coastal hamlet of Salurankuppam. Set by the sea amid dense casuarinas in a landscape of small hillocks and big boulders, the Tiger Caves are actually rock-cut temples built in an open-air theatre style to host cultural events during the Pallava period. The main shrine is dedicated to Goddess Durga, while the entrance to the cave has carved heads of an animal that resembles a tiger. Legend has it that the animal depicted is the mythological ‘Yali’, thus the name ‘Yali Mandapam’.
150. Batasia Loop, Darjeeling.
About 5 km from Darjeeling, the Railway Loop is a marvelous feat of engineering. It is fascinating to watch the toy train wind its way round the loop. The War Memorial constructed in the memory of brave sons of Darjeeling who died in different action since 1947, is worth a visit.
151. Changu Lake, Gangtok.
A trip to Sikkim is not complete without sighting the Changu Lake. A glacial lake in East Sikkim, Tsomgo or Changu as it is popularly called means ‘Source of the Lake’. It is 40 km away from Gangtok and takes 2½ hours to reach by a hired car. The journey to the lake is an enchanting one with a number of beautiful waterfalls en route. The lake is surrounded with beautiful flowering plants/trees like primula and pine, thereby producing a breathtaking effect.
The lake remains frozen throughout the winters right up to April. To enter the lake area, tourists, especially foreigners, are expected to possess a permit, which can be easily arranged by a registered and recognized travel agent or from any of the Sikkim Tourism offices.
152. Do Drul Chorten, Gangtok.
Do Drul Chorten is a very important stupa in Sikkim. An uphill walk up to the monastery with alpine forests on either side leads to a calm and picturesque setting. This holy stupa was built under the direction of Late Truslshi Rimpoche in 1945. It is part of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
There are 108 prayer wheels and the wheels have a special meaning. Turning of these wheels goes along with the chanting of the mantras engraved on them. While turning the wheels, one ought to say 'hail to the jewel in the lotus'. One can see the devout and monks do the same. The sound of a collective chant emanates from the prayer and meditation rooms in the monastery can also be heard in the background.
153. Enchey Monastery, Gangtok.
Shaped in the form of a Chinese Pagoda, Enchey Monastery worships Buddha, Loki Sharia and Guru Padmasambhava. This 200 year old monastery can be reached by taking regular buses, jeeps or by hiring taxis from Gangtok. The drive to the monastery is dotted with colorful blooms, intermittent waterfalls, beautifully stacked shops of green leafy vegetables and local produce. The green of the forest and the hazy blue of the sky merge with the spiritual flavor of monastery area and the effect is transcendental.
Emchey means ‘a solitary temple’. True to its name the monastery is surrounded with tall pines and glistening mountain ranges, instilling one with a typical quiet and calm, so intrinsic to any spiritual exercise. The beautiful landscape adds to this spiritual content.
The monastery houses hundred monks belonging to the Nyingma order.
154. Pemayangtse Monastery, Pelling.
As one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim and surely the most sacred of them, Pemayangtse Monastery holds a special place in the labyrinth of the state’s cultural history. A moment of reclusive peace, a feeling of mind-whirling introspection, a newfound urge to set off on an unending soul search – Pemayangtse makes you go through all these and more. Of course, when a place means something like “perfect sublime lotus” literally, your mental projection would scarcely head towards some other direction. Pemayangtse Monastery is a tri-level building filled with some magnificent artifacts of great historical value on each of the floors. The third floor of the monastery contains what would be the most fascinating of the lot – a seven-tiered painted wooden structure of Guru Rinpoche’s abode, Zandog palri, done up with dragons, rainbows and an entire ensemble of all the Bodhisattvas.
155. Rabdentse Ruins, Pelling.
Rabdentse was the seat of the second capital of the then princely state of Sikkim. It became the second capital of Sikkim after the second Chogyal (monarch) shifted his royal base from Yuksom in 1670 to this very place. Bounded by a valley thickly overgrown with virgin forests, Rabdentse Ruins is really a remarkable sight. Even the leisurely walk to the ruins will take you through a scenic route that will seem like a poetic illustration out of a fairy tale, with goldfish-filled placid lakes and exotic species of orchids giving you company all the way. The parapet of the former capital affords some of the most spectacular views of the misty mountains beyond. The best time to visit this ruins would be the spring season when the whole valley comes alive, enhancing the splendor of the destination by greater levels.
156. Sangachoeling Monastery, Pelling.
Sangachoeling Monastery, the second oldest monastery in Sikkim rests peacefully on what looks like a mesa, about 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) southwest of Upper Pelling. Literally meaning the “land of the sacred spell,” Sangachoeling Monastery was initially built in 1697, although the original structure crumbled under the impact of a serious earthquake. The surreal ambience of the monastery is ideal for visitors who want to enjoy some quality soliloquy and meditate amongst the resplendent nature around. The followers of the Nyingma-pa sect hold the Sangachoeling Monastery in great reverence, even as the historical complex is considered a great centre for Tibetan Buddhism studies in India.
157. St. Paul's School, Darjeeling.
St. Paul's School is one of the India's oldest and pre-eminent public schools, known for its academic tradition and alumni. At about 7500 feet above sea level, it offers a great scenic pleasure and has the famous Kanchenjunga mountain range right behind. St Paul is physically separated from Darjeeling by its location on a high hill that is a few kilometers above the main town. Large expanses of wild land and greenery surround the campus, affording the campus a spectacular view of the town, the high foothills and snowy peaks of the Himalayas.
158. Tiger Hill, Darjeeling.
Situated at an altitude of 2590 meters (8482 ft.) and 13 km from the town, this spot has earned international fame for the magnificent view of the sunrise over "Kanchenjunga" and the great Eastern Himalayan Mountains. Even Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, is visible from here. The snow-clad Himalayan ranges have a majestic presence in the background and Mount Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest peak, is visible on bright sunny days and is a major tourist attraction.
159. Abbey Falls, Coorg.
Just 8 kms from Madikeri, Abbey Falls is a very popular tourist spot. A steep climb from town leads visitors to this pretty falls tucked within plantations. The final walk to the location through lots of trees sets one up for the final view. Cascading from a 70 feet drop, this waterfall leads up to a pool through coffee and cardamom plantations. You can access Abbey Falls through private coffee estates.
160. Alchi Gompa, Alchi.
Settled calmly on lowland terrain south of the river Indus in the village of Alchi is the oldest and the most magnificent monastic complex (Chos-'Khor) known as Alchi Gompa. The Alchi Gompa is a storehouse of some of the most impressive Indo-Tibetan murals and artwork, which clearly fuel the word that the great translator had brought several artisans from Kashmir for the construction work. Created somewhere between the 11th century and the 13th century, the ancient murals are still preserved in immaculate shape even after all these years and exhibit an artistic style that was highly popular in Kashmir at one time.
161. Baralacha La, Sarchu.
Post Rohtang Pass this is the first of the high passes that travelers encounter while driving in from the Manali side. Road condition starts to deteriorate after Darcha and the drive up to the 4,890 meter (16,040 feet) Baralacha La becomes a huge challenge. As the altitude rises sharply, many start noticing the first sign of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) in the form of nausea, loss of appetite, breathlessness etc. In addition one can also get a cold-stroke. While the thrill of reaching the summit is heady, it is advisable to take it easy and not over stretch oneself. Spend as much time here as possible to acclimatize. Do not overeat, the golden rule here is ‘eat less, drink more.’
162. Bear Shola Falls, Kodaikanal.
Picture a family of bears meeting at a watering hole to quench their thirst. That’s what the early inhabitants of Kodaikanal got to see at this waterfall, thus christening it the ‘ Bear Shola’ Falls. This scenic picnic spot, situated a little outside the main town is actually a remnant of water overflowing from Kodai Lake. You can hire a taxi or bicycle to come here, and enjoy a child’s nursery tale-like picnic in the Palani hills.
163. Bhaganmandala, Coorg.
Bhaganmandala is a popular pilgrimage spot situated on the upstream banks of the River Kaveri and is also known as Dakshin Kashi
164. Bryant Park, Kodaikanal.
Spread over 20 acres, Bryant Park is a gorgeous world of nature’s many colors. This beautiful botanical garden was planned and built by an English Forest Officer, HD Bryant in 1908 CE and is also named after him. Home to over three hundred varieties of assorted plants, trees and flowers, the park is renowned for its scenic sitting. Surrounded by the lush green hills and valleys of Kodaikanal, the park in bloom is a riot of color. For horticulturalists and even the casual green thumb, the park is a treasure trove, which one can spend days admiring.
165. Chandra tal and Kunzam Pass, Kaza.
The lake of Chandratal is at an altitude of 4,300 meters above sea level and lies in the flood plains of the river Chandra between the Kunzam and Rohtang Passes. This is perhaps the most accessible high-altitude lake in Himachal Pradesh and is about twelve kilometers north and off the Kaza – Keylong highway. The Kunzam Pass at 4551 meters above sea level is what connects the two sub-divisions of the district, Lahaul and Spiti. The pass remains closed for a substantial portion of the year.
166. Chettalli, Coorg.
Chettalli, a 170 acre Horticultural farm, is home to a variety of exotic fruits and flowers and home to the Regional Coffee Research Station.
167. Coaker's Walk, Kodaikanal.
A kilometer-long pedestrian pathway carved out of the steep mountains, Coaker’s Walk overlooks the landscape on the southern side of Kodaikanal. First constructed in 1872, by a British officer, Lt. Coaker, this walkway offers some of the most breathtaking views and panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. The walk is a photographer’s delight as the landscapes from here are resplendent with natural beauty. Along the walkway are alcoves set at short distances where you can sit and drink in the beauty of the valley while being buffeted with the strong breeze.
168. Dhankar, Tabo.
Dhankar is seven kilometers from the turn off at Schichling on the Tabo-Kaza highway. Centuries old, Dhankar is an excellent example of how fort-monasteries were built in the area and speaks volumes for the building skills of its makers. Perched atop a series of outcrops along a spur, Dhankar has a formidable appearance as it rises tier by tier. The structures are connected, one to the other by passages cut along the rock face, sharp staircases and ladders and narrow corridors. For a long time, this was the old capital of Spiti and the seat of the ruler, the Nono. As Spiti was placed between relatively powerful neighbors – Ladakh, Kullu and Bushair – it was subjected to repeated attacks.
169. Dolmen Circle, Kodaikanal.
For people interested in anthropology and paleontology Kodaikanal provides a very interesting attraction, Dolmen Circle. Pre-historic remains dating as far back as 5000 BCE have been excavated from here. Dolmens are tripod-like structures that mark the dwelling and burial grounds of Neolithic people dating back to the Stone and Iron Ages. These sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of the prehistoric man. Several copper and brass utensils and ornaments have been uncovered from the dolmens. Kistavens, marking the burial places of these people can also be found in this area.
170. Dubare Elephant Training Camp, Coorg.
A Karnataka Forest Department initiative, Dubare Elephant Training Camp is a base which tames wild Asiatic Elephants to help the locals. It’s a sight to watch the elephants bathe and how they respond to the commands of the mahouts.
The Dubare Elephant Camp has played a vital role in history, as during the King's rule in Mysore, it was at this camp, that the elephants were trained for the famous Dussera festival at Mysore. Today, the Karnataka Forest Department trains more 150 elephants, out of which Dubare is the most significant one. Apart from the elephants, you can also lovely species of birds such as partridges, peacocks, kingfishers and woodpeckers.
171. Fotu La, Lamayuru.
Located 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) west of Lamayuru, is the highest mountain pass on the Srinagar-Leh Highway. Fotu La (Pass) stands at an imposing height of 4,108 meters (13,478 feet). A visit to the Pass marks the high point of a beautiful drive from Leh to Lamayuru. Most travelers doing a day trip to Lamayuru ought to touch this high mountain pass just to get a feel of the rarified air and grand views. Having said that, the impact of visiting Fotu La is just as enthralling when approached from the Kashmir Valley side.
172. Guru Ghantal Monastery, Keylong.
The Guru Ghantal Monastery is at a distance of eight kilometers from Keylong and is located in the village of Tupchiling – Gandhola; this is at an altitude of 3,020 meters above sea level. This lies high over the confluence of the rivers Chandra and Bhaga and is regarded as the oldest monastery in Lahaul. This is approached by a steep and somewhat daunting ascent. Two great figures of Trans Himalayan Buddhism were associated with it - Padmasambhava and Rinchensang-po.
173. Hikim, Kaza.
One of the most remarkable of Spiti’s monasteries is located in the village of Hikim. This is one of the two Buddhist monasteries of Spiti under the Sa-kya-pa order. Unlike the second, which is of relatively recent origin and is located in Kaza, the one at Hikim is believed to date back to at least the fourteenth century. This is also known as the Tangyud Gompa or as the Sa-kya-gong-mig Gompa and is believed to have been the place where sacred texts, the eighty-seven volumes that form a part of the Tangyur texts were revised by a team of scholars under the venerable Sa-kya lama, Ch’os –Kyi-O’d-zer in c. 1310. An interesting sidelight to this scholarly enterprise was the fear the lamas generated in wrongdoers and robbers as they were supposed to be past-masters in tantra. This castle like monastery is located at an edge of a narrow and deep valley at a strategic height and overlooks the town of Kaza – the altitude is 4,587 meters above sea level. Its immense mud walls of this monastic keep have been visually accentuated by the simple but effective device of ochre and white stripes that make the walls seem higher than they actually are. As a castle of defense, there are minimal openings at the back and the main gate opens into a courtyard. This was also one the monasteries supposedly patronized and used by the Nono, the tutelary ruler of Spiti who expectedly, had his own cell – which was located to the right of the courtyard. The little village of Hikim lies at the foot of the monastery.
174. Iruppu Falls, Coorg.
Located in the Brahmagiri Range of district Kodagu (Coorg), the Iruppu Falls is also referred to as the Lakshmana Tirtha Falls. It forms the starting point of Lakshmana Tirtha River, a tributary of Cauvery.
The walk up to the Falls is very picturesque. You cross a small bridge, and walk up the muddy stairs surrounded by moss, ferns and tall trees accompanied by the sound of the gushing waters. There is a small square space with some benches kept facing the Falls for visitors to relax after the climb and enjoy the beauty of the Falls.
175. Khardang Gompa, Keylong.
Kardang is at a distance of five kilometers from Keylong and is clearly visible from most parts of the little town. This has a historic monastery that lies above the tiny village (also named Kargang) and is located across the river Bhaga. With a backdrop of bare mountains, the 'gompa', Buddhist monastery is believed to date back to the twelfth century and is one of the most revered places of the Drug-pa (Red Hat ) sect of Vajrayana Buddhism..
176. Ki, Kaza.
Backed by a high mountain and placed on a rise that juts out of its sheer face, is the setting of the Ki (Key, Kye) gompa, in Spiti. On the left bank of the river Spiti, the Ki gompa, is regarded as the largest in the sub-division. It is a collection of rooms and a labyrinth of corridors that do not follow any defined plan, but seem to have grown over the years. Portions of the structure are three stories high, while others are lower. No definite date can be ascribed to the construction of the gompa - that acted both as a monastery and as a fort. Some scholars believe this to have been built by Dromton (1008 - 64 CE). Others differ and place its origins in later centuries, but by and large, most concur that it was built before the fifteenth century.
177. Kibber, Kaza.
Past the base of the Ki monastery the road climbs up to Kibber, which at 4,205 meters above sea level was, till recently, the highest permanently inhabited village in the area accessible by road; this position has been taken by the village of Komic that is somewhat higher. The road distance between Kibber and Kaza is sixteen kilometers. The village is a small one and has less than a hundred houses. This lies on top of a bare outcrop of limestone with terraced fields on the sides. There is one main street and narrow paths access the other houses as well as the couple of small basic home-stay places and hotels.
178. Kodai Lake, Kodaikanal.
The Kodai Lake is the heart of this scenic hill station and also lends its name to the town. The star-shaped lake, nestled amongst green mountains is the place where all visitors to Kodaikanal converge. There is a lot to do around the lake as well. You can take a quick gallop on horseback or rent a bicycle to ride around the lake, or just stroll along the stone-paved promenade to soak in the beautiful mountain air. Enjoy the cool breeze and observe the boats gently float across the shimmering water. You can even rent a boat and cruise or row around the lake yourself. But if all this seems like too much activity, just park yourself in any of the surrounding restaurants and enjoy the delicacies as you savor the scenery.
179. Kodaikanal Golf Club, Kodaikanal.
Established in 1895 CE, the Kodaikanal Golf Club is one of the oldest in India. A par 72 course, it boats of 18 holes, spread over 150 acres, it extends to a length of other 6,426 yards. Originally a nine-hole course, it was designed and established by twelve avid British golfers. It has a number of very interesting and challenging holes which have been named on their special characteristics. Though entry is restricted to members, golf enthusiasts can become temporary members and catch a quick round.
180. Kodaikanal Observatory, Kodaikanal.
Located at 2,343 meters (7,690 feet), on the southern tip of Palani Hills, the Kodaikanal Observatory is the highest point in the area. Established in 1898 CE, it is a solar observatory, owned and operated by Indian Institute of Astrophysics. It also houses an Astronomical Science Museum that organizes public tours and night sky observation events. Science enthusiasts can also stop by and admire the many models and pictures in the gallery, or spend hours in the library. But the highlight for any visitor is the Kodaikanal Terrestrial Telescope, which offers striking views of the surrounding sights.
181. Komic, Kaza.
One of the highest villages in world and the highest permanently inhabited one in the region now to be connected by a vehicular road, the tiny hamlet of Komic is situated at an altitude of 4,275 meters above sea level. Temperatures in summer touch the high twenties (Celsius) and plummet to the minus twenties (Celsius) in winter. With a dozen or so families and little over a hundred residents, this village comes in the periphery of the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. The Sanctuary has animals like the ibex, blue sheep, red fox, Tibetan woolly hare, Tibetan wolf, lynx, the pika and the Tibetan wild ass; this sanctuary is also home to the rare and elusive snow leopard. Despite the altitude and the adverse climate, the villagers grow peas, some vegetables and barley in their fields and rear livestock.
Komic has a double storied Buddhist monastery dedicated to Gyawa Jampa or Matreya Buddha, the Buddha of the Future.
182. Korzok Gompa, Tso Moriri.
The nearest airport from Tso Moriri is about 220 kilometers (136.70 miles) away at Leh and goes by the name of Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport.
183. Kungri, Tabo.
It is a combination of a few very rare things that give Kungri a distinctive identity. There is, of course, the remarkable ‘high-desert and narrow-valley’ terrain that is the hallmark of Spiti. Add to this a monastery that is one of the oldest in the area, the location in valley of the river Pin (which is a part of the Pin Valley National Park) and that this valley is the home of the wandering monks, the ‘Buzhen’ whose feats of breaking rocks with their bare hands and impaling themselves on sword points without even a nick to show for it, are legendary. The monastery at Kungri was built in the fourteenth century and is under the Nyingma-pa order of Vajrayana Buddhism (the Nyingma-pa is considered to be the oldest of the four original orders).
184. Kurinjiandavar Temple, Kodaikanal.
Kurinjiandavar Temple is a popular local shrine dedicated to Lord Murugan. Its name being an amalgamation of two Tamil words, ‘kurinji’ which means hilly region and ‘andavar’ which means God, the temple is quite literally named after Lord Murugan, the God of the Hills. The shrine is popular among the locals who visit in a steady stream. For the more casual visitor to the area, the temple is a good place to get excellent views of the surrounding Palani hills and Vaigai Dam. Another interesting feature here is the presence of the bright purple Kurinji flower, which cover the hillside and bloom only once in 12 years.
185. Lamayuru Monastery, Lamayuru.
Located 130 kilometers (81 miles) west of Leh, Lamayuru enjoys an important position in the pecking order of monasteries in Ladakh. While most important monasteries in Ladakh are part of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat order), Lamayuru belongs to the Drikung Kagyu sub-sect of the Kagyu (Red Hat) order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Lamayuru significance stems from the fact that it is the oldest surviving monastery of Ladakh. It was founded by Naropa, a Buddhist scholar from Nalanda University who came looking for his guru Tilopa, a master of Tantra. After a twelve year stint with his guru, Naropa established this monastery in the 11th century. He scripted the famous treatise, The Six Yogas of Naropa. Among Naropa’s followers was Marpa, who is regarded as one of the founders of the Kagyu order.
186. Langza, Kaza.
Langja is at an altitude of 4,400 meters above sea level and, in a manner of speaking, this provides a window to the evolution of the entire Himalayan chain. Millions of years ago the Earth's land mass consisted of two giant continents. There was Gondwanaland in the south and Laurasia in the north. A huge chunk of land severed itself from upper Gondwanaland and swept right across the mighty Sea of Tethys that separated them. Again, after millions of years, this giant engine crashed into the Asian continent. The force of the impact created the Himalaya mountains and the land that had pushed it ahead, is now India. Scattered all around Langja are ammonite fossils – that date back to the time when all this land was under the sea.
187. Lha-lun (Lalung), Tabo.
Lha-lun or Lalung lies in Spiti’s marginally explored Lingti Valley and is at an altitude of 3,658 meters above sea level. This is fourteen kilometers from the main road and is the largest village in the valley carved by the Lingti stream. The place name, Lha-lun is a derivative of two words and means 'land or area of the gods'; this is from ‘Lha’ = deities or gods and ‘Lung’ or ‘Lun’, land or area. The mountain of Tangmar that towers over the village is said to be the residence of the primary deity and that the mountain changes color with the moods of the deity – it has a reddish hue when he is angry and a yellowish one when he is pleased. The picturesque village has around fifty houses.
188. Likir Monastery, Alchi.
Situated about 52 kilometers (32.31 miles) from Leh and 9.5 kilometers (5.9 miles) north of the Srinagar-Leh highway, Likir Monastery or Klu-Kkhyil (Water Spirits) Gompa as it is known was built in the 11th century by Lama Duwang Chosje. Literally meaning “The Naga – Encircled,” Likir stands enclosed by the bodies of the two great serpent spirits, the Naga rajas, Nanda and Taksako. The architecture of the monastery is quite unique with thangkas of the guardian deities and a Bhavacakra mandala held by Yama himself gracing the verandah. An unusual sight that will catch your attention is a 25 feet statue of a sitting Sakyamuni dominating the roof at the entrance of the monastery. Interestingly, there’s also a small museum inside the monastery, which contains valuable artefacts that are 300-400 years old, including Tibetan thangkas, manuscripts, robes and even earthenware.
189. Mahabaleshwar Club, Mahabaleshwar.
Built in 1881, the Mahabaleshwar Club offers many recreational facilities, including a badminton court and mini golf course. For a very nominal fee, even non-members can enjoy the facilities available at the club. The club boasts of a jogging track encircling the premises. The Club also offers a panoramic view of the Venna Lake below. Every year, Christmas is celebrated here with much zeal and aplomb by the club members. The Club consists of the Frere Hall which was built in 1864. It is designed as a library, meeting hall and theatre.
190. Mahabaleshwar Temple, Mahabaleshwar.
One of the most eminent Hindu temples is the Mahabali or the Mahabaleshwar Temple, after which this scenic hill station is named. Devoted to Lord Shiva Shankar, it is situated in Old Kshetra Mahabaleshwar around 6 km north of the main town. The temple is built as per the Hemadant architectural style of South India. It is enclosed by a 5-feet stone wall. The temple comprises two sections: the sanctum sanctorum and the central hall. The sanctum sanctorum consists of a swayambhu or self-originated lingam more than 500 years old and the shiv bhakts from all over flock here to worship and to be blessed.
191. More Plains, Sarchu.
The More (also pronounced as ‘Moray’ and ‘Moreh’) Plains are one of the highlights of the Manali-Leh highway. Soon after Sarchu one leaves the Himachal Pradesh border and enters Jammu and Kashmir. 70 odd kilometers from Sarchu is Pang, the next settlement in the region. Soon after Pang the narrow road rises to open up to a high altitude plateau. The 45 kilometer long stretch of seemingly endless landscape is referred to as More Plains. At an average attitude at 15000 feet, the panoramic vistas that travelers encounter are exhilarating. It very often sweeps most travelers off their feet. Encountering the More Plains forces travelers to redefine their idea of the plains! Flanked by distant mountains on either side, the enormity of these Plains in front comes as a pleasant surprise.
192. Other monasteries around Keylong, Keylong.
Twelve centuries after the Buddha attained 'nirvana', the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo married Wen Cheng from the court of China's Tang dynasty and Bkrikuti Devi, a Nepalese princess. Under their influence, Buddhism slowly developed in the Central Himalayan and Trans Himalayan regions till it became the predominant faith. When the kingdom of Guge rose in western Tibet after the assassination of the king, Lang Darma, it encompassed the present day tracts of Spiti, Lahaul, Zanskar and upper Kinnaur. The strong cultural and religious identity of the region dates back to those years.Lahaul, and the area around the town of Keylong has twenty large and small Buddhist monasteries and Buddhist shrines.
193. Pambar Falls, Kodaikanal.
If you remember the Liril soap ad of the girl in the waterfall, then, you know what Pambar falls look like! Yes, Alyque Padamsee did his first Liril shoot at the Pambar Falls. But the scenic falls have enthralled tourists much before that. It is the point where the Pambar river after criss-crosses across wooded mountains and rugged landscape drops magnificently as Pambar Falls, also known as the Grand Cascade. The fall is gentle and dainty, making it ideal for tourists to get under! However, beware of the slimy boulders and vigor of flowing water during the rainy season.
194. Panchganga Temple, Mahabaleshwar.
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Panchganga Temple lies adjacent to the Mahabali Temple, at the point of origin of five holy rivers namely Krishna, Savitri, Gayatri, Koyna and Venna; and is thus called Panchganga Temple: ‘panch’ means five and ‘ganga’ river. It is also known as Krishnabai Temple. The temple has a beautiful stone carved statue of Gaumukhi (head of the Holy Cow) and the five rivers flow out from the mouth of this statue. The temple is host to specatacular Krishna idol. This ancient temple was constructed by Raja Singhandeo, the ruler of Devagiri in the 13th century. A massive renovation of the temple was was undertaken by the greatest Maratha king, Shivaji in the 16th century.
195. Pillar Rocks & Devil's Kitchen, Kodaikanal.
Located 8 kilometers (4.9 miles) from the town, Pillars Rocks is one of the most popular short excursions from Kodai town. A set of three gigantic boulders standing adjacent to each other, amidst a wooden glade, the Rocks are an awe-inspiring structure. Around 122 meters (400 feet) in height, the tops of the Rocks can be access after a short, steep trek up round the hillside. The dark, deep chambers between the rocks are inhabited by bats and perhaps aptly called Devil’s Kitchen.
196. Pin Valley, Tabo.
In 1987, the Pin Valley was declared as a National Park. This now has a core area of 675 square kilometers and a buffer zone of another 1,150 square kilometers. This is home to over twenty species of animals and birds. The highly endangered snow leopard is one – whose population is estimated at a bare dozen. Other species include the Ibex, Bharal, Red Fox, Maarten, Weasel, Snow Cock, Bearded Vulture, Chukor, Golden Eagle, Griffon and Himalayan Chough.
197. Pinjore Garden, Chandigarh.
Built in classic Mughal-style, the Pinjore Gardens are located some 22 kilometers outside of Chandigarh in the eponymous district. Designed by Nawab Fidal Khan, a competent architect and a foster brother of the Emperor Aurangzeb, these beautifully landscaped, terraced gardens are a welcome change from the overwhelming urban beauty of Chandigarh. One of the rare sites of historical importance, the Pinjore Gardens are a lovely example of a Paradise garden, distinctive in its intersecting waterways and quadrants.
198. Plantation Hikes, Coorg.
There are a few Plantation Hikes that are conducted regularly in and around Coorg. These hikes take you through coffee territory, and visitors can feel the plants and the coffee beans. One of the popular ones being the Mojo Rainforest Trek that takes you on a trek to the 1,100 meter rain slope on the Western Ghats. You can contact the Coorg Wildlife Society regarding trekking options, guides and campsites to plan your treks or contact the Coorg Adventure Club to know more.
199. Pratapgadh Fort, Mahabaleshwar.
A trip to Mahabaleshwar is incomplete without taking the detour to the gigantic Pratapgadh Fort, the pride of the Maratha reign. The fort actually comprises two ancient forts: an upper fort built on the top of the hill and the lower one immediately below on the South and the East. The fort is a colossal labyrinth of ponds, chambers and long serpentine walkways, some of which lead to trap doors that open to a steep 100-meter fall. The Bhavani Temple and the tomb of Afzal Khan are other tourist attractions located near the fort. Legend has it that Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was blessed with a shining sword here at the Bhavani Temple.
200. Raja's Seat, Coorg.
Located at a vantage point in town, Raja’s Seat is a very popular stop in Madikeri. Set on the western edge of Madikeri, people throng the place to catch the sunset view. The sun going down against the backdrop of distant hill ranges is a sight to behold. View of the Coorg Valley with paddy fields and forests between Raja's Seat and the distant ranges add to the picturesque setting. Apart from the breathtaking view of the valley, Raja's Seat also gives you a brilliant view of the road leading to the coastal city of Mangalore.
201. Rizong Monastery, Alchi.
Driving down about 73 kilometers (45 miles) from the town of Leh you will come across one of the most structurally intriguing monuments that is the Rizong Monastery, which is also known as the Yuma Changchubling locally. Founded in the year 1831 by Lama Tsultim Nima and following the Yellow Hat or Gelugpa order of Buddhism, the monastic complex is famed as a “paradise for meditation” with highly firm regulations of celibacy set for the followers. There is a firm belief attached to the monastery, which reveals that the great Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the sanctums of the caves around the monastery long before it was constructed. About 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) or a pleasant 45 minutes walk away from the Rizong Monastery is the Jelichun Nunnery, also known as Chulichan (Chomoling), the spiritual sanctuary of more than 20 nuns. Fascinatingly, even the nuns lead a life of celibate monasticism here, lending a great hand to the success of the monastery, their only compensation being the opportunity to inch closer to higher spiritual learning.
202. Rose Garden, Chandigarh.
When in Chandigarh drive in to Sector 16 and enjoy the sweet colorful aroma of roses at Zakir Hussain Rose Garden. Spread over 30 acres of land, it houses over 17,000 species of plants of which 1600 alone are species of roses of every possible shape, size and color. The landscape of the garden is beautifully sketched with manicured lawns, rocks and picturesque narrow paths leading to rose beds. The sweet smell and green ambience will soothe your senses and is a welcome diversion from the urban splendor of Chandigarh.
203. Sarchu, Sarchu.
An otherwise high altitude, barren patch of land on the Manali-Leh highway, Sarchu comes into sharp focus from June to September every year when heavy snow on the highway begins to thaw. Adventure buffs (mostly on motorbikes) from the world over make a beeline to traverse this spectacular route. Sandwiched between two high mountain passes – Baralacha La and Nakee La – Sarchu is one of the two important night halts on the Manali-Leh highway along with Keylong. It becomes a transit camp site on one of the highest highways in the world that traverses five very high mountain passes. Travelers are advised to go slow and acclimatize at important points en route. The terrain both before and after Sarchu rises to dizzying heights and it becomes imperative for travelers to break journey here! Sarchu is generally the second night halt while driving from Manali, and the first while coming in from Leh.
204. Scenic Points, Mahabaleshwar.
Mahabaleshwar being a plateau surrounded by valleys on all sides has various scenic viewpoints offering panoramic view of sloping lush vistas, gushing waterfalls and dense forests. Most of these points are named after eminent British officers who served in the East India Company and were associated with the early development of this evergreen hill station. Some of the famous points are the Lodwick Point, Arthur’s Seat (also known as Queen of All Points), Wilson Point or the Sunrise Point situated at the highest point of Mahabaleshwar at 4710 ft, Bombay Point or the Sunset Point, Helen’s Point, Carnac Point, Babington Point, Falkland Point and Kate Point.
205. Shashur Gompa, Keylong.
Shashur Gompa lies on the same slope as Keylong and is three kilometres from the town. In arid trans-Himalayan Lahaul, this monastery is surrounded by a rare patch of woodland and the name ‘Shashur’ means ‘in the blue pines’. The ‘gompa’ was founded in the seventeenth century by Deva Gyatso. The festival of Shashur Tseshe is held every June / July when monks dressed in masks and colourful costumes perform dances. The monastery is known for the images and paintings it houses. Thangka paintings at their simplest are painting on cloth - and can be rolled up. It is invariably a vertical image, usually painted on cotton or linen and occasionally, silk. Traditionally, the common images coming down to the present day, are episodes from the ‘Jataka tales’ or depict the life of the Buddha. Others have the Dhyanibuddha, Amitabha, the Bodhisattvas and female deities like Tara who appears - with variations - in five major forms of different colours and is regarded as the protector of her followers.
206. Silver Cascade, Kodaikanal.
Situated on the side of a sweeping ghat road that connects Madurai and Kodaikanal is a tall shimmering curtain seemingly made of diamonds. Formed by the outflow of water from Kodai Lake, this dramatic waterfall is the Silver Cascade. The sight and sound of this waterfall brings a cheer in the hearts of travelers, as the pure sound of the waterfall silences the cacophony and chaos of traffic. A picturesque waterfall, formed when the water leaps over a 55 meters (180 feet) high cliff face to crash thunderously into a lake, near a wide bend in the Ghat road, Silver Cascade regularly stops traffic. Especially during the peak summer seasons, when cars packed with happy families of vacation stop to admire the scene.
207. Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh.
Like almost of Chandigarh, Sukhna Lake too owes its origin to the French architect Le Corbusier. While designing the modern city of Chandigarh, Le Corbusier and his team dammed a season stream called Sukhna Choe near the foothills of the Shivalik range. Creating an artificial lake some 3 kilometers in wide, Sukha Choe was became a part of Chandigarh as Sukhna Lake. A popular and scenic recreational area, the Lake is also a venue for water sports activities such as boating, sailing, kayaking and water skiing. It even hosted the Asian Rowing Championships once. The Lake is also a popular venue for cultural events.
208. Tabo Monastery Complex, Tabo.
The primary complex at Tabo has the following temples – 1. The Temple of Enlightened Gods (gTsug Lha-khang). This is also known as the Assembly Hall (du-khang) and is the core of the complex. This has a vestibule, an assembly hall and a sanctum. The central figure in the assembly hall is the four-fold Vairocana. In Vajrayana Buddhism, he is regarded as one of the five spiritual sons of the Adhibuddha – who was the self creative primordial Buddha. 2. The Golden Temple (gSer-Khang). Once said to have been layered with gold, this temple was exhaustively renovated in the sixteenth century by Senge Namgyal, ruler of Ladakh. 3. The Mystic Mandala Temple or Temple of Initiation (dKhil-hKhor-khang). This is where the initiation of monks takes place. The wall facing the door has a huge painting of Vairocana who is surrounded by the eight Bodhisattvas. 4. The Bodhisattva Maitreya Temple (Byams-Pa Chen-po Lha-khang). This has an image of the Bodhisattva Maitreya that is over six meters high. The temple has a hall, vestibule and sanctum. The array of murals within depicts the monastery of Tashi-Chunpo and Lhasa’s Potala Palace. 5. The Temple of Dromton (Brom-ston Lha-khang). A small portico and a long passage lead to its hall. The doorway is intricately carved and the inner walls are covered with murals. This lies on the northern edge of the complex and is regarded to have been founded by Dromton (1008-1064 CE) an important disciple of Atisha.
These five temples are accepted as the oldest ones at Tabo and the following are later additions. The Chamber of Picture Treasures (Z’al-ma), The Large Temple of Dromton (Brom-ston Lha-khang), The Mahakala Vajra-bhairava Temple (Gon-khang), and The White Temple (dKar-abyum Lha-khang) came onto being in the next phase.
209. Tala Kaveri, Coorg.
Talakaveri is the origin of the Kaveri River that flows in full strength during the monsoons. The river is looked up on by the Kodavas as their mother, and hence Talakaveri becomes a venerated site. Talakaveri is situated 12 kms away from Bhagamandala and 47 kms from Madikeri. It’s situated on the hills of Brahmagiri close to Bhagamandala and is considered to be one of the seven holy rivers from the Sapta Sindhus mentioned in the Hindu scriptures.
210. Tanglang La, Sarchu.
Tanglang La is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. While the veracity of highest pass is in a constant state of flux with newer passes opening up without the world at large getting to know of them, what remains untenable is that it is the highest pass on the Manali-Leh highway. At about 17,582 feet (5,359 meters), Tanglang La is beautiful in its serenity. Travelers enthusiastically take pictures with the happy thought that post Tanglang La Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) will begin to peter out. The thought of reaching the relative comfort of Leh adds to the heady feeling of scaling such a high pass.
211. Thadiyandamol, Coorg.
One of the highest peaks in the Western Ghats, Thadiyandamol stands at a height of 1,747 meters and is ideal for experienced trekkers. You can access its peak with an 8 km drive from Kakkabe, located at a distance of 35 kms from Madikeri. Though you can access two-thirds of the route by jeep, but the final climb is quite difficult yet rewarding with the beautiful view from top.
212. Tso Moriri, Tso Moriri.
When you feast your eyes on as beautiful a creation as Tso Moriri, you do not have to be a science scholar to understand what a remnant lake is, but merely be thankful that it is there for the world to behold. Tso Moriri or Lake Moriri, which has donned the mantle of Tsomoriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, owing to the efforts of the conscious locals and WWF-India, is a high altitude lake in the Changthang sub-division of Leh. Tso Moriri is known to be the only breeding ground of the bar-headed goose in India and the black-necked crane outside China, besides attracting other species like the great crested grebe, brown-headed gull, lynx, the Himalayan marmot, the Tibetan sand fox, Tibetan ass and the Himalayan blue sheep. An interesting aspect of a visit to this amazing lake is the four/five-day trek from Tso Kar, which is the toast of most adventure travelers-streaked travelers today.
213. Udaipur Trilokinath, Keylong.
Trilokinath and Udaipur are both approximately equidistant from Keylong and are about 53 kilometers away. In turn, both are separated by a distance of about eleven kilometers. Both lie in Lahaul’s Pattan valley and are just off the river Chandrabhaga – as the river Chenab is known in Lahaul. The shrine at Trilokinath is its primary draw and this is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists and both pay homage to a single image. Udaipur lies on the right bank of the river and has an ancient temple dedicated to Devi Durga in her manifestation as Markula (Mirkula ) Devi with some fine carvings.
214. Venna Lake, Mahabaleshwar.
Surrounded by abundant greenery on all sides, Venna Lake is a tourist hotspot. The lake was constructed in 1842 by Shri Appasaheb Maharaj, Raja of Satara. Experience sublime natural wonder, by going for a boat ride in the misty evenings. If you prefer adventure over serenity there are horse rides next to the lake that are quite a favorite with children and adults alike. There are a number of small eateries dotting the banks of the lake. The city market and the ST Bus Station are just 2 kilometers from the lake, and makes for a lovely rejuvenating walk.
215. Waterfalls, Mahabaleshwar.
Waterfalls form an integral part of Mahabaleshwar’s breathtaking hilly terrain and are a major tourist draw. One of the most important and popular waterfalls are the majestic Lingmala Waterfall. Falling unbroken from a steep height of 600 feet to see the water gushing down is a sight to behold. Other popular waterfalls that also double up as ideal picnic spots for families and youngsters are the Chinaman Waterfall and the Dhobi Waterfall. While the former is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens the latter is nestled snugly between the two scenic viewpoints Lodwick Point and the Elphinstone Point.