Who doesn’t love visiting Goa?? Get everyone? If you're looking forward to visiting Goa anytime soon,
then you must know the top ten beaches that you should visit so that you can make the most of your
holiday. Goa is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and great Portuguese-influenced
architecture. If you are a beach lover, then Goa is surely a destination that you should visit, as it is
loaded with Azure waters and palm-fringed shores that offer a perfect blend of relaxation and
adventure. The beaches of Goa will offer you different experiences for every traveller.
Calangute beach
This is known as the queen of beaches, and it is one of the most prominent beaches of Goa. The
golden sands stretch for miles that offer you a perfect setting for sunbathing and leisurely walks. You
can come across shacks restaurants and bars where you can enjoy amazing gowan cuisine and
refreshing drinks. You should surely not miss out on the opportunity to indulge in thrilling activities
like parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
Baga beach
Just next to Calangute Beach, Baga Beach is a lively destination which attracts locals and tourists.
With the bustling nightlife beachside checks, there is something for everyone here. If you are a party
lover, then you should surely visit this beach during the day. You can relax on the sun loungers and
take a dip in the Arabian Sea, and as the sun sets in, you can just hop onto your favourite beach bar
and dance your heart out.
Anjuna beach
Anjuna Beach is famous for its bohemian vibe, and if you are a backpacker or a free-spirited
traveller, then this one is just for you. You can come across dramatic red cliffs which offer you a
picturesque setting, and you can enjoy it like never before. It is prominent for its Wednesday flea
market, where you can get your hands on unique handicrafts and clothing.
Palolem Beach
This beach is nestled in South Goa and is a Crescent-shaped paradise. It offers a great escape from
the bustling crowds. You can relax on the soft sands and take a leisurely swim or just rent a kayak to
explore the hidden covers. this beach is home to several beach huts that provides you with a perfect
retreat, especially if you are on a honeymoon.
Vagator beach
Vagator Beach is nestled between towering cliffs, and it is known for its amazing vistas and laid-back
atmosphere. It is generally divided into two parts, including a big Vagator and a little Vagator. The
beach is known for its beach clubs, cafes, and restaurants. You can enjoy sunset parties on this
beach.
Candolim beach
The beach is known for its serene and peaceful experience. With an amazing ambience and the least
crowded shores, the beach offers you a relaxing retreat away from the bustling tourist hub. You can
take a romantic stroll against the shoreline and bask in the sun or indulge in some water sports like
jet skiing and parasailing. The beach is prominent for its upscale resorts and beachfront properties.
You can unwind in luxury here.
Morjim beach
The beach is known as Little Russia because it is prominent among Russian tourists. The beach is a
hidden gem nestled in north Goa, and it is known for its pristine beauty and serene atmosphere. The
beach offers a great escape from the crowds, and it is a nestling site for olive Ridley turtles; you can
witness magnificent creatures during the nesting season. You can also come across charming beach
shacks where you can savour amazing seafood and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
Arambol beach
It is located in the northern, western part of Goa, and it is prominent for its bohemian and
alternative vibe. If you are an artist, musician, or spiritual seeker, then you should visit this location.
You can come across live music yoga centres and a lively atmosphere that would help you relax. You
can enjoy the amazing sunsets which adorn the horizon.
Agonda beach
Agonda Beach is a must-visit for you if you're looking for a peaceful, unspoiled beach experience. It is
nestled in South Goa, and it is a long stretch of pristine sand that offers a great serene and idyllic
setting. The beach is lined with great palm trees, and it offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
You can just unwind on the sun loungers and take a refreshing swim. The beach is known for its eco-
friendly beach huts and shacks, which provide a great rustic experience that makes you feel close to
nature.
Colva beach
The beach is nestled in South Goa, and it is one of the biggest and one of the most prominent
beaches of the region. With a huge expanse of white sand and waters, the beach attracts tourists
who look forward to getting a mix of relaxation and entertainment. You can indulge in some water
sports activities here, like jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. You can also take a leisurely
walk along the shoreline and enjoy delicious Goan cuisine.
In short, these beaches offer a great experience where you can relax and rejuvenate. All the beaches
have their own unique charm, so you can choose the one which aligns with your preferences.
Masinagudi is one of the best places you can visit in Tamil Nadu. It is a prominent wildlife sanctuary
and hill station surrounded by amazing lush green forests and wildlife sanctuaries. Whether you are
planning to go alone or with your family, there is something for everyone here. If you have made up
your mind to visit this beautiful space, then you can get all the details here. You should plan in
advance to make the most of your vacation!
Places to visit in Masinagudi
Mudumalai wildlife sanctuary
it is one of the most prominent attractions in Masunagudi as it is home to a wide range of wildlife
like elephants, leopards, tigers, deer, and a lot more. While you are here, you can take a cheap safari
or an elephant ride to explore the amazing sanctuary and also spot some wildlife.
Bandipur National Park
It is nestled near masinagudi, and it's another prominent wildlife sanctuary that you can explore if
you are travelling with your little ones. It is a prominent place that you should visit because it's home
to elephants, leopards, and Indian bison. You can take a Jeep safari while you are here to explore the
century.
Moyar river
This river is a beautiful spot in masinagudi. It is one of the best places for you to relax and enjoy the
beautiful spot. It offers a great panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. At the river, you
can go swimming or indulge in fishing activities.
Needle rock viewpoint
This point is a popular tourist spot that offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding valleys.
It is also one of the best places to catch the jaw-dropping sunset. You can get beautiful views that
you will remember for the rest of your life.
Ooty
Masinagudi is nestled near Ootyand it is a great hill station in Tamil Nadu. You can take one day trip
to Ooty and explore the beautiful attractions like the Botanical Garden lakes and the peak.
Maravakandy dam
If you are planning a picnic with your friends or family members, then this dam is your best bet
because it offers a great environment where you can relax. The best part about this dam is it is
located near masinagudi.
Kalhatti falls
this is a beautiful waterfall Nestle near Masinagudi, Surrounded by lush green forests. You can visit
this place with your friends and family and have a picnic In nature.
Toda Tribal village
This village is located near Masinagudi, and it's a great place where you can learn about the local
tribal culture. The Todas are one of the unique tribes, and they have their own language and
customs, so while you are here and you want to take a local experience, then you should visit this
place and learn about new things.
Things you need to know before visiting Masinagudi
If you are planning to visit this place, then you should consider some things which are mentioned
here.
Accommodation
There are different accommodation options available here that range from budget to luxury. You
should book your accommodation in advance, especially if you're planning to visit during the peak
travel season. This will make it very easy for you to accommodate, and you don't need to face any
inconvenience.
Weather
The hill station has a tropical climate that ranges from 15 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius. The
best time to visit the hill station is anywhere between October and May, as the weather during this
time is really pleasant and makes it very easy for you to explore outdoor activities.
Food
The hill station offers a range of local and international cuisine, so you should stick to hygiene and
clean food outlets only. As you are here for travel, you should avoid eating raw or undercooked
food.
Transportation
The hill station is pretty well connected by road and private vehicles, and you can either hire it or
just rent it to travel around the area. It is very important for you to be aware of the terrain and road
conditions before you start the journey.
Clothing
It is advisable for you to carry light and comfortable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. You
should also carry warm clothing during the winter months as the temperatures are likely to drop at
night.
Wildlife and forests
The hill station is nascent in the forested area, and it is home to different wildlife like elephants,
tigers, and leopards. You should be aware of the rules and regulations of the forest department
while visiting the hill station, and you should not disturb the wildlife.
These are some amazing places that you can visit while you are in Masingaudi. You can also take
note of all the things that you should consider while visiting this place so that you can make the most
of your getaway.
Do you want to take a long bike trip in India? If yes some tips that you should know about before you
plan your trip. India offers the most beautiful landscapes and scenic routes for long bike rides,
making it a prominent destination for adventure enthusiasts. But a long bike ride-sharing requires
proper planning preparation and safety precautions to ensure a safe and affordable adventure.
Plan your route
Before you start to bike ride, you need to plan your route to complete it successfully. The country
offers amazing landscapes, from mountains to beaches, and every region has its unique beauty.
Before you set out on your journey, you need to research the route and consider the factors like
distance, weather, and road conditions. It is very important for you to understand the terrain of the
region that you would like to travel through at the types of roads you will encounter. You can also
use online maps and travel guides to plan your itinerary so that you can have some alternative
routes in case of any roadblocks or issues.
Keep your bike prepared.
A well-maintained bike is very important for a safe and enjoyable bike ride. Before you set out,
ensure that your bike is in great condition. Check for brakes and tires besides the chain and make all
the repairs. You need to ensure that you have a toolkit in place beside some spare parts in case
there is any breakdown. You need to carry extra petrol or diesel if you do not find any fuel station
nearby.
Always pack light
Packing light is very important planning to go on a long bike ride. You should only pack the essentials
like clothes, water, and snacks besides a first aid kit. This allows you to ride your bike better. It is also
very important for you to carry some rain gear and a warm jacket as the weather condition is
completely unpredictable in India. You should avoid over-packing as it can weigh you down and
affect your balance on the bike.
Consider wearing protective gear.
You should wear protective gear as it is very important for your safety for a long bike ride in India.
Stop helmets, gloves, and elbow pads are very important as they can help you prevent injuries in the
event of an accident. It is important for you to wear comfortable clothes which allow you to move
freely and keep you ventilated.
Stay hydrated as much as possible.
Dehydration can lead to common problems during long bike rides, especially during the summer
months. You should carry a lot of water and hydrating drinks and take regular breaks to rest and
hydrate. You can carry electrolyte powders to mix in your water to prevent dehydration issues.
Follow all the traffic rules.
You must know that India has one of the highest road traffic accident rates in the world. It is very
important for you to follow the traffic, and it is important for your safety while riding on Indian
roads. You should consider keeping to the left, using indicators, and avoiding overtaking in
dangerous conditions. You should be aware of the driving habits of other motorists and pedestrians,
especially if you are riding in crowded cities.
Take some breaks
Long rides can be tiring for you, and it is important for you to take some rest and stretch. You can
take breaks at the scenic spots or the roadside cafes while enjoying the joy. You can use these
brakes to hydrate yourself, take some photos or explore the local markets.
Stay alert
India roads can be a little chaotic, and it is important for you to stay alert and aware of your
surroundings. You can watch out for other vehicles and pedestrians besides animals on the road. You
should avoid riding at night or in adverse weather conditions. You can use high-beam headlights
during foggy or rainy weather conditions.
Consider carrying limited cash.
While the majority of the places in India accept cards and digital payments, you should carry some
cash with you for emergencies, or you can even buy items in remote areas. It is important for you to
carry limited cash because ATMs are not available in all areas, and cash can be really useful in such
situations.
Stay aware of cultural differences.
India is a diverse country with different cultural practices and beliefs. While travelling through
various regions, it is important for you to respect the local traditions and customs. You should be
mindful of what you're wearing and how you behave in public places, especially near temples or
religious sites.
A long bike ride in India can be a really exciting and memorable experience. You need to plan it
properly and take safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. You can follow all these
tips to make the most of your bike ride.
While talking about the diving destinations across the globe, we ghoomophirosisters extracted a lot about this location. It is still not clear why people move past the Philippines, so uninformed and oblivious of what it is and how they should treat this native diving destination. The archipelago, mountains, remote villages, and the beautiful landscapes in the surroundings should make this country a must-visit. However, we will recommend the Philippines as a haven for diving for various other reasons as well.
Here are a few reasons you should dive in the Philippines.
1. Proximity with Coral Triangle
We ghoomophirosisters engaged in unlimited fun in this country, primarily due to its convenient location. Situated at the tip of the Coral Triangle, which is the hub of biodiversity, the place harbors over two thousand species of fishes and no less than about six hundred coral species that facilitate the reef formation. Now that is exciting, and divers should love to explore this region. According to reports, the Coral Triangle also houses about six to seven species of marine turtles. Moreover, the Coral Triangle is also inclusive of some other diving destinations of Indonesia, which are away at the center of the triangle.
2. Diving in the coral reef and finding a dive shop
We can tell you from personal experience what exhilaration stirs your mind when scuba divers dive into the warm waters of this country. Still, the favorite season for diving should be the drier months from December to May. During these months, you can view marine life more clearly. However, you should be familiar with the changing weather conditions of this country during the last few years.
Even though the people of the Philippines have different dialects according to the region, English is the official language of the country. Therefore, like us ghoomophirosisters, you will find books, forms, road signs, and newspaper in English. You will not have a speck of problems while visiting the country.
3. Striking beaches
There are endless beaches in and around the Philippines where you can enjoy just like us. With pristine beaches and nearing about seven thousand islands, the transparent and blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and China Sea will leave you in astonishment. From White Beach and Lombok Beaches to Alona Beaches, the diversity of beach area makes this region a must-visit for scuba divers. During every trip you arrange to all the sixteen regions of the Philippines, we ghoomophirosisters learned a lot about the customs, beliefs, behavioral traits, and the culture of this country.
4. Experience true diving fun
The diving opportunities in the Philippines are endless, whether it is underwater or land. Some islands are sandy, while others are rocky with clear water around. Moreover, you can also enjoy snorkeling just as we did from every location.
5. Taking a Bangka
We had countless fun while taking the local boat called Bangka, which is available for local transportation, recreation, and fishing. How pleasurable it was for us to find the native fishes, such as clownfish and anemone. Viewing the marine fishes at the bottom of the reef is an experience we will cherish in our hearts forever.
If you want to spend hours relaxing and revitalizing in the marine location, visiting the Philippines of diving is worth the price you pay.
India is a stunning country, a magnificent blend of ecosystems, customs, and cultures. The country is full of several offbeat attractions and many stunning tourist spots that cannot be visited by riding a motorcycle. But cycling is the perfect way to discover India’s rich topography and history.
Picture yourself cycling through meadows bordered by the tall alpine trees or around the swanky beaches and the breathtaking coastline, picturing cycling across flowing rivers and winds in the hair; everything sounds picturesque and thrilling, it’s not. In no way can the excitement of visiting new parts of India on cycle be substituted.
Any of India’s most delicate cycling routes travel across its loveliest scenery, whether the tourist is looking for a quick city tour or a cross-state, the list of circuits that should be encountered once in a lifetime given below.
1. Munnar to Anamalai- Witness the Best of South India:
The 220 km marked itinerary traces the best cycling route from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Starting from Munnar, the cycling journey will go through secret hamlets, including Madupetty, Marayoor, Amarvathy, and end in Tamil Nadu at Annamalai Hills. In just four days, the bike trail will give cyclists the best of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
2. Bangalore to Goa- Experience the Greatness of Nature:
Bangalore’s journey to Goa can take one to the diverse Karnataka and Goa landscapes. From Bangalore’s busy streets to Chikmagalur’s small lanes to Gokarna coastal side roads, the famous trek stretches from north to south across the state and leads on to Goa. This 698-kilometer long cycling path begins from India’s popular electronic area, Bangalore. It will also connect to Mysore, a heritage area. Open roads and sparkling Gokarna beaches should make it to the end stage, Goa.
3. Chennai to Pondicherry- Journey along the Coast:
East Coast Path, alias State Highway 49, encompasses some of Tamil Nadu’s most stunning squares till Pondicherry. The cycling journey begins from Chennai, travels through Muttukadu, Mahabalipuram, Kalpakkam, and finishes at Pondicherry, the former French territory. During the ride, sparkling mud, swaying palms, and white sand are also seen.
4. Mysore to Ooty via Bandipur- Feel the Adrenaline Rush:
This trek should carry you on a roller coaster journey, just in 2 days, it has so much to give. Smooth and open roads at Mysore’s outskirts can drive one to Bandipur’s lush green jungles. Never know that one might see tigers or some other wild animals while cycling. Furthermore, the roads carry one to Masinagudi, and finally, after the awkward hairpin bends, you will reach Ooty.
5. Mangalore to Goa- Combine Wheels and Water:
It’s one of the most laid-back and comfortable cycling tours on the list. One can see various moods in nature during the trip. NH17 is the main highway that links directly with Goa and Mangalore. This journey will lead you to the clean sandy beaches, sacred temples, chattering waterfalls, and enchanting national parks, far from the city’s hustle-bustle.
6. Mumbai to Daman:
This charming little location about 170 km north of Mumbai doesn’t get the recognition it merits very much. As a holiday spot, Daman has everything you like-beaches, forts, casinos, and cheap liquor.
7. Somnath to Diu (Gujarat):
The cash crop farms that are enclosed by coconut trees grow. The views are stunning. The sea which runs all along is to add to the experience. The beauty of the ambient water is adequate to steal away the breath.
8. Rameshwaram:
Rameshwaram is among India’s best cycling roads. The blue waters are going to render you speechless. You ‘re going to wonder why India is so much more beautiful than you thought.
9. NH17 Udupi Trail – Mumbai to Trivandrum:
This trip will fulfill all your sensory needs, for sandy beaches or enchanted woods. Start at Mumbai and go to Mangalore or be an explorer, and take the longer path to Trivandrum, whichever way is undoubtedly a guaranteed treat.
10. Leh to Khardung La:
Bike on the highest motorway in the country, from Leh to Khardung La, above which the Siachen Glacier & Khardung La has the highest motorized path in the country. It is one of India’s most arduous yet beautiful cycling routes.
If you are looking to view some beautiful sunrise, then night trek at Skandgiri should definitely on your list. If you are planning a Skandagiri Trek then here we are with answers to most of your questions.
How to reach Skandagiri Trek
Skandagiri is an easy to approach place via all three means of transportation, namely, air, rail, and road. If you are planning to reach the place from some far off place then you can go in for taking the airways or the railway depending on your ease. In both the cases, the cleanest airport, as well as the nearest railway station to the hills of Skandagiri, lies in Bangalore. Once you have reached the city of Bangalore via flight or train, you next have to take up the roadways in order to cover the remaining distance. The distance between Skandagiri Hills and Bangalore is nearly 62 Kms. You ought to know in advance that the Skandagiri trekking distance is 10 km. if you are planning to climb the hill and at the same time you walk at a normal high pace then it will take you around 5 hours at the maximum to climb the entire trek. Ideally, it takes nearly 2 hours to get to the peak but the time is directly proportional to your speed as well. Having reached the peak, you can then relax for some time in the picturesque laps of nature enjoying the most stunning view of the Nandi hills that are there in the surrounding. Descending the peak takes you around 1 and a half hours.
When to go on Skandagiri Trek
All the months except the rainy season are good for planning a trek to this beautiful place. However, to get the best out of scenic views winters as well as monsoons are considered ideal to plan for the trek. In winters you have access to the clear sky which means stargazing without any interruption from the clouds. While in monsoons, the flora and fauna lead you the fresh zeal to trek. In summers also, trek to Skandagiri can be planned but it’s up to you if you can beat the scorching sun or not. So, be careful at choosing the time of the trek.
What to do on Skandagiri Trek
There are not as many places of attractions as you would like this place to have. However, the few that the place offers are worth all your time. Other than enjoying the stargazing at night and scenic views in the daylight, there are other options also to explore. You can explore the Vivekananda Falls in the stunning Kethenahalli village which is at a distance of 12 km from Chikkaballapur village. Ranganatha Swamy Temple is also a must-visit. Nandi Hills offers you attractions like Tipu’s Drop and Tipu’s Summer Residence. Mountain biking in Nandi Hills is another option followed by paragliding. Amrita Sarovar and Bhoga Nandeeshwara Temple, as well as Brahmashram Cave, are other things that you can enjoy.
What to eat at during Skandagiri Trek
Eating should not be a major issue on your way to the trek. There are plenty of shacks as well as tea stalls on your way along the trek. These are well supplied with snacks, tea, cookies and cold drinks in addition to much obvious water. if you intend to have a proper lunch then you can settle down at any of the limited restaurants in Chikkaballapura for few minutes. To name a few, Kamat Upachar Restaurant, Hotel Babuji, Chandru Hotel, and Swathi Restaurant are some of the options that you can explore.
To wrap up, these are the most reasonable answers to all your questions pertaining to the Skandagiri Trek that you must have had in mind. Other than these, if there is something more that you need to know about then you are free to drop us your question in the comment section below and we will revert at the quickest.
Karnataka continues to gain popularity among tourists on the back of its biggest attraction – the Nightlife of Bangalore, the markets of Mysore, etc. However, there are some hidden gems that remain unknown. Today we bring you a list of Bangalore’s hidden wonders
1. Bidar
Bidar’s wealth of monuments is simply inconceivable – with 61 monuments of which at least 30 are tombs. It has been associated with the Mauryan empire and finds a mention in Mahabharata, Harivamsa, Bhagavata, Purana, Malavikagnimitra, etc. The monuments here though were mostly built by Muslim rulers.
2. Anegundi
A 20 km ride on State Highway 49 from Hampi will take you to the next item in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders – Anegundi. It is claimed this almost forgotten town served as the Kishkindha, the kingdom of monkey kings Bali and Sugriva mentioned Hindu epic Ramayana and which was also the abode of the monkey god Hanuman. Anjanadri Parvatha is believed to Lord Hanuman’s birthplace and has a temple dedicated to him right at the top. Apart from that, there is not much to see here apart from the lush greenery. That said, Anegundi has a history far older than Ramayana – and is said to have been settled in for four billion years based on researches carried out by geologists who have found stone age traces here.
3. Badami
The first in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is Badami. In its most glorious days, Badami was the capital of Badami Chalukyas but now it is a relatively forgotten town though it still stands in all its splendor. Among the sites to see is Agastya Lake next to which are cave temples design in Dravidian architecture, made of two giant sandstone hills.
4. Arbi Falls, Dashrathnagar, Manipal
Arbi falls are located at a distance of 5 kilometers from Manipal which, in turn, is located at a distance of mere 64 kilometers, the nearest major tourist destination of Karnataka via NH 66 and SH 67. From the base of the hill, the falls is just a small hike away. This hidden wonder of Bangalore is relatively unknown to the mainstream tourists and thus a nice peaceful place – far more peaceful than more popular waterfalls and thus making it second in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders.
5. Shivagange
Third, in our list of Bangalore’s Hidden Wonders Despite being located so close to Bangalore, Shivagange peak continues to get ignored by the tourists. For locals, though it is an important Hindu pilgrimage site. The site of the worship comprises of Shivalinga-shaped mountain and a spring that comes out of it locally known as Ganga. The site is also home to sculptures of Nandi or Basavanna that are brilliantly carved on the top of a steep rock. You can reach the site after an easy hike too.
There are some other temples nearby – and you must also see the cave temple of Sri Gangadhareshwara that, if mythical legends can be believed, is connected by a secret tunnel to the garbha griha (sanctum sanctorum) of another temple to the Gavi Gangadhareshwara temple in Bengaluru.
6. Augumbe
Now something that fiction lovers can’t ignore, this relatively unknown town has been labeled as Cherrapunjee of South. However, the reason why it makes to our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is it’s having served as the basis of Sahitya Academy Award-winning author RK Narayan’s magnum opus Malgudi Days.
If you have a nostalgia for the imagined town of Malgudi immortalized by Narayan’s works, you must visit the Malgudi Mane here. We also recommend watching the sunrise on Kundadri Hills.
7. Bijapur
Established around a thousand years ago, by the Chalukyas of Kalyani, Bijapur was initially christened as Vijayapura or the City of victory. If you are a history freak, the lack of Bijapur’s popularity might bewilder you. The city has several historical monuments like Ibrahim Rauza, Gol Gumbaz, Anand Mahal, umma Masjid, Jod Gumbaz, J Saat Manzil, Jal Manzil, etc – mostly built during the rule of Adil Shah dynasty, still waiting to be recognized by the tourism industry. It is this very lack of popularity though which has earned it a place in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders.
8. Mullayanagiri
Mullayanagiri is named after the great sage Mullapa Swamy, a temple to whom is dedicated to the peak of the mountain. Despite its location near Bangalore and it’s being one of the best if not the best trek in the state, Mullayanagiri fails to attract tourists.
8. Shivanasamudra
Shivasamandua is a small island town where Kavei drops down to form to incredibly beautiful waterfalls -Gaganachukki and Bharachukki which are together called the Shivanasamudra falls and earn it a place in the list of our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders.
The town also has ancient temples such as those dedicated to Sri Ranganathaswamy, Sri Someshwara, etc that constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture.
9. Shettihalli
The Church here, Shetttihali Church is also known as the Submerged Church and the Floating Church and is the next item in the list of our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders. It was built by French missionaries in the late 1800s and later become an abandoned sight with the construction of the Hemavati which leaves it partially submerged during monsoons.
10. Chitradurga
Next in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is Chitradurga, claimed by many to be the birthplace of Hidimba and Hidimbi, the demon brother-sister duo from the Mahabharata. The place is home to rocky hills and beautiful valleys a fort known as Kallina Kote or a stone fortress that has 18 temples.
According to a legend, Obavva, the wife of a guard, once single-handedly managed to kill several soldiers of Hyder Ali’s (Tipu Sultan’s father) army who were trying to infiltrate into the fort with an Onake (which is a long wooden club meant used by women pounding paddy grains), before giving in to her injuries.
11. Marvanthe
Next in our our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is Marvanthe. Marvanthe is home to Karnataka’s most amazing sea beaches. A drive on National Highway is another valuable experience worth having as you drive between the Souparnika river which flows right next to the Arabian Sea.
12. St. Mary’s Island
Last in our list of Karnataka’s Hidden Wonders is St. Mary’s Island. Named as one of the 26 Geological Monuments of India in 2001, by the Geological Survey of India, the island is supposed to the place where Vasco De Gama first landed before he ‘discovered’ India. According to the legend, it was he who named the island upon landing here.
Conclusion
Even with this additional list of attractions, we can’t fully enumerate all the wonderful places there are in Karanata. There are, for example, Talakadu, the temple town of Banavasi, Karkala, Gadag, Bylakuppe, etc – not to mention Hampi which we believe has made it to the list of prominent attractions ever since the publication of V. S. Naipaul’s infamous book ‘India: A Wounded Civilisation’. But we do hope this gives you some ideas. Tell us what other places should have made it to this list in your opinion. Do tell us in the comments below. J
You cannot travel to Gujarat but miss out on the epic journey to the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. Deadly as they may sound, Asiatic Lions are a glorious sight to behold and you will not find the sight anywhere apart from Gir.
History of Gir Forest
Girl National Park was made into a wildlife sanctuary in 1965 but even before that, back in the 1900s the lions of Gir forest were declared protected by the then Nawab of Junagadh. Since when Junagadh was a princely state, lions used to be hunted down for pleasure following which only 15 lions remained in the forest. The Nawab decided to conserve the remaining lion population and put a ban on hunting them for trophies. Asiatic Lions once used to be found in Africa, Northern Greece and some other parts of the world but now Gir National Park or the adjoining area is the only remaining habitat of 411 Asiatic lions.
Located in Gujarat, it is the only forest where Asiatic Lions (Panthera leo persica) can be spotted. Situated 65 km away from Junagadh, this Wildlife Sanctuary covers 1412 sq kilometre area. The people of Gujarat refer to it as the pride of Gujarat. We have been to tiger reserves (since there are 15 in the country) but Gir was the first and only Lion reserve we had the chance of visiting.
How to reach the Gir national park?
By road: Junagadh and Rajkot are the nearest cities and public transport is available to take you to Gir.
By Air: Rajkot airport is the nearest airport and is about 3.5 hours away from Gir.
By Train: Junagadh Railway station is the nearest railway station.
Get a permit beforehand
Ever since The Supreme Court has restricted the number of safaris per day in wildlife sanctuaries, it is hard to get a permit. We booked a permit online but it has to be done two months in advance since Gir National Park is on high-demand among wildlife enthusiasts. Safari permit itself costs Rs 500 online and it is the same if you buy it at the counter as well. But considering the long queues at the counter, we were happy about booking our slot online months in advance. Along with the permit, there are separate costs for the jeep and the guide. So overall, the safari would cost you Rs 2200. A jeep accommodates 6 people and you can mention it all while booking online along with giving the ID proof of one individual.
Best safari time-slot and pre-safari work
Gir has 3 slots available in a day for Safaris: 6-9 am, 9am-12pm and 3-6pm. The best time slot is the morning slot because there is less heat and the chances of spotting a lion are also higher. After booking online, all we had to do was go to a separate online counter and get our route number. 7 routes go inside Gir Forest and everyone is allotted their jeep, guide and route. We got Route 4. The entire process took about 10 minutes.
Our visit to the Gir National Park
Gir National Park was always on our list of places to see before we die since it is one of the most talked-about destinations for every wildlife enthusiast. While once the population of lions in Gir used to be scarce, now the density is high due to the efforts of the Forest Department. We visited Gir during April and stayed at The Gateway Resort, Gir which is quite close to the forest range.
The Resort helped us book a lodge for the morning safari and after our morning coffee early at 5 am, we were ready to greet the majestic lions. The best way to travel around Gir National Park is in the jeep so firstly we travelled to the Forest Department office and switched jeeps to go deep inside the forest that we were there to explore.
The safari began at 6 am and we waited at the gates for the morning safari to begin. Gir forest is a dry deciduous forest. The jeep covered uneven paths and gradually we went deeper into the dense forest, our eyes focused on any flash of yellow and our ears keen to hear dry trees and twigs break under the impact of the jeep tyres. We scanned around, careful and excited to see if we could be the ones to spot the lion before our guide. The first animal we came across was a peacock followed by many deers.
An hour passed with us staring at the trees and forest cover. By this time, the sunlight had also started creeping in and spreading on the ground. We had started getting a bit disheartened until we heard a loud roaring sound and our jeep came to a halt. The sound was making ripples across the otherwise quiet forest. Soon, a bike appeared and on it, one man who the guide told us was the caretaker of the lions. He told us a story of how lions had gotten familiar to their scent and uniform that one time a cub had taken it to an injured lioness so he could get her help. He was the one who took us to the lions. The jeep’s engine was turned off and there was complete silence all around. The caretaker was making a kind of whistling sound and we were waiting patiently in our jeeps, hoping to spot a lion or a lioness.
Soon, a majestic lioness came walking with her three cubs. The cubs roared but it was a tiny shrill sound that made us smile with joy. Both our guide and the caretaker were alert and observed their every step. Even though they were familiar with the scene, they are careful in case there is an unprecedented attack.
The lioness got closer to our jeep and we were both scared and excited. We stood still and tried to click a picture only when the lioness turned around or was at a distance. It sat down a short distance away and we started clicking as many pictures with as many angles as we could. The best part about the sight was the tiny cubs who played with grass and often jumped on the lioness in their playfulness.
After staying there for short while, we moved ahead hoping to see another such sight. We came across other animals like a fox and some deer who merrily walked around in the forest. There were some small cottages built by tribals in the middle of the forest as well. The tribe coexisted with the lions in the forest and despite it being a National Park, they were never forced to leave.
We did not catch another sight of the lions but were quite satisfied with the earlier spectacle. Our guide kept pointing out different birds to us and we were surprised by his keen eyesight. The fact that he could point out a brown oil sitting in a brown tree shows something about his expertise. On route 4, there lies a Kamleshwar Lake near to a tower that gives a spectacular view of the jungle. Kamleshwar Lake was the habitat of many crocodiles so we were told to maintain our distance but we were still able to spot the back of a crocodile from a distance. The guide kept us hoping for a leopard sighting as well which is very rare. But unfortunately, we could not spot one.
By 9 pm, our Safari had ended and we moved back to our resort.
When to visit?
The National park is closed during Monsoons so the best time to visit is summers. Gujarat has a very hot climate so during summers, the lions come out to drink water and move around a lot. They are visible at watering holes more often than in any other season. One can visit even in winter since the weather is better and you don’t have to suffer the harsh climate in an open-jeep but the chances of spotting a lion in winter are less. What’s a visit to Gir without spotting a lion in all its glory?
Where to Stay?
There are many hotels and resorts available at Sasan Gir, the best one being The Gateway resort which is part of the Taj Group. Then there is the Sinh Sadan Guesthouse which belongs to Gujarat Tourism. Whatever hotel you book, check the location and availability of a swimming pool. You would want a place as near to the forest as possible for the best experience. Also, after a hot day in the safari, soaking in the pool feels heavenly.
Karnataka has something … correction, lots of things for all kind of art lovers. Wildlife, coffee plantations and dense forests for nature lovers; countless adventures for adventure lovers; forts, palaces, etc for History freaks; artifacts, sculptors, etc for art lovers as well as temples, dargahs, etc for ones with the religious bent of mind.
Today we bring you a list of 5 Offbeat Trek in Karnataka that every adventure lover should give a try:
1. Kumta Beach Trek
When it comes to holidays, there is no such thing as sea beaches. And thus the first our list of 5 Offbeat Trek in Karnataka will end in Kumta Beach Trek. The beach is located at a distance of over 460 kilometers from Bangalore and offers all major delights that a beach can offer. Its distance from urban worlds ensures the freshness of the air that will greet you here. The trail, which starts at Vanalli Beach and ends at Nirvana beach, has Kumata beach as a base camp, is surrounded by equally beautiful sights of hills and natural vegetation on both the sides as well as 10 pristine beaches.
Best visited during the winter season, the 20 kilometers trek is not too difficult in terms of terrain but can be a test of your endurance. Make sure to see the stunning sunsets and sunrises.
Add to the fun by camping on beech and sleeping under ever-gorgeous stars and enjoying local cuisine near a bonfire while playing group games.
2. Nishanimotte Trek
Coorg has been dubbed as the adventure capital of India but it also has several numerous other attractions – and one of them is Nashnimotte Trek, the second in our list of 5 Offbeat Trek in Karnataka. The 14-kilometer long trek in western ghats is surrounded by dense deciduous forests, meadows, ridge walks, etc on either side offering a moderate level of difficulty to the trekkers. The trek is the best experience in our opinion in Autumn-spring season. Besides such outdoor activities, like camping and cooking for oneself, the trek also offers opportunities to see the Talacauvery Temple and Bhagamandala Temple
3. Kurinjal Trek
This trek is located among the hills of incredible Kudremukha National Park. The national park takes its name from a hill which is shaped like the mouth of a horse ( the Kannada word Kudre means ‘horse’ and much means ‘mouth’).
This beautiful valley has several wild animals including tigers, langoors Baring deer, etc as well as the tall trees characteristic of Deciduous vegetation. Situated at a distance of over 350 kilometers from Bangalore, the trek is an amazing opportunity to go hiking in a place where you are also likely to come across wildlife. But first of all, make sure to obtain required permission from the forest department of the region. You will have to take special care not to litter or spoil in any manner the natural beauty of the place in any manner. The moderately difficult trek is a 16-kilometer long passage through every changing terrains and can experience all times of the year as being based in a hill station, it has a cool temperature through the year. On this trek, you will come across rich natural vegetation, some wildlife, Somavati Waterfall and, if you like, you can drive ahead and watch Belur temple.
4. Nagalapuram Trek
Next in our list of 5 Offbeat Trek in Karnataka is Nagalapuram trek. This 13 km trail oversees several pools and waterfalls. Since one of the main objects is taking a dip in waters, we were clever enough to take along water jackets which we ended up needing.
The trek is comparatively easy unless you are considering those dips in the water. Recently it has attracted many crowds and which has created a lot of litter and river too is getting pollution. Some measures need to be taken about that. Travelers too need to learn not to spoil the natural beauty of the place.
5. Kopatty Trek
Kopatty Trek of Coorg will be last in our list of 5 Offbeat Trek in Karnataka. The relatively easy 8-kilometer trek is ornamented with the lush greenery of tropical forests on either side. An arc at the entrance to the trail will lea you to Mahavishnu temple nearby. The first two kilometers or so of the trail are a tarred road that has paddy fields on either side. A muddy Jeep trek follows for another few minutes till you reach a stream, another few minutes later, you will enter the forest which again lasts only 2 kilometers before you hit a green meadow. A ten-minute ride to a flat top later you will be able to get a 360 degree of western ghats in all its paranormal beauty.
This trek offers you a chance to experience being in Coorg’s famous coffee plantations and a chance to visit Talacauvery Temple and Bhagamandala Temple
Conclusion
Being greedy foodies we are, we eat more than our share of food, well more than many people’s share of food, and that is all the more reason for us to go trekking every once in a while to stay fit. And these treks offer additional perk in the form of amazing sights they have to offer. What about you? What are your favorite treks in Karnataka? J
Karnataka is increasingly growing popular venue among tourists because of the diversity of geography, wildlife, natural vegetation, food, art and culture, mountains, valleys, rivers, sea beaches, historical sights, temples, shrines, adventures ….. and well everything that the state offers. Today Ghoomophiro brings you a 7-day itinerary that will with least of effort from you will try to ensure you get a bit of, preferably the best of all the pleasures this state has to offer.
How to reach Karnataka?
We recommend setting your first camp in Bangalore, the silicon valley of India. It has its own international airport 40 kilometers away from the city and a railway station right at the heart of the city. Air, rail or road – the city is well connected by all those ways to the rest of the world.
Day 1
Brunch at MTR
Okay before you head to the most iconic place of the city, you might be hungry in that case we recommend to let your first meal in the state be Mavalli Tiffin Rooms (MTR) – a south Indian legend and the best place to enjoy authentic Udupi food.
Afternoon- Bangalore Palace
Okay now your bellies full, you can easily spend your afternoons in Bangalore Palace. An amazing palace that needed 80 years to be completed and has courtyards that are reminiscent of the Victorian era. We won’t go into details and let the beauty of the palace speak for itself.
A late lunch – Street Food
Before moving to the next destination, we recommend trying some street. Otherwise, if you are more into luxuries the ITC Pavillian about 20 minutes from the palace is a good alternative.
Evening – ISKCON Temple
The ISKCON temple at Yeshwanthpur Industrial Suburb has a building which shows architectural genius and is the perfect place to spend your first evening in Karnataka. The temple opens at 4:15 p.m. and is bound to impress you especially if you have a religious bent of mind.
Nightlife
From temples to night clubs, may gods forgive us but then Bangalore is not seen if you have not seen its nightlife and for this you must head to MG road where you can visit a number of clubs (Arbor, Hoppipola, Indian Brewing Company to name a few) – we suggest trying more than one of them
Day 2
Breakfast and Head to Mysuru
Since you must be tired or having a bit of hangover from last night, we shall start the second day a bit late but not too late for you can rest a little in your three hours long ride to Mysore after having breakfast in hotel itself. We recommend hiring a personal ride especially if you are traveling in groups.
Early Lunch
Take lunch in one of the local food points, preferably Vinayaka Mylari. For the sweet dish, try Mysore’s own invention – Mysore Pak.
Afternoon attractions – Mysore Palace
Mysore Palace will make you forget the Bangalore Palace a little. It attracts the second largest number of tourists in India, second only to Taj Mahal among monuments.
Mysore Palace. Those facts should be enough for you to imagine the aesthetic pleasure the palace has to offer to its visitors.
Afternoon attractions – Saint Philomena Church
Also known as St. Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the tallest in Asia. This church is designed with Neo-Gothic architecture that takes its inspiration from the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.
Evening Attractions
And now is the time you get yourself shopping – maybe buy a few souvenirs too. We recommend rosewood artifacts, Mysore paintings, small stone sculptures, etc for souvenirs. Shoppers might want to buy sandalwood products (you can buy the government factory and see them manufactured), coffee powder (brought here from Croog, famous for its coffee plantations), and Mysore sarees.
Dinner – Tiger Trail
What makes Tiger Trail amazing is the sights you will be feeding your sights on as you eat your food. We highly recommend getting your hands on famous Mysore Paan as a sweet dish.
Night attractions – Karanji Lake
The beautiful Karanji lake is surrounded by a butterfly park, India’s biggest walk-through aviary and a little further is located a natural museum of History. Take your time and enjoy all these as much as you can before setting to rest for the night.
Day 3
Breakfast – The Old House
The old house is exactly what the name suggests – an old house only also an amazing food point to enjoy breakfast. The trouble is you will have to be here early to find a seat or you will just have to settle for some other food point.
Morning – Chamundeshwari Temple
Breakfast is done. Drive the 13km to the Chamunda Hill and keeps your eyes open to enjoy the enchanting views that will greet you in the one-hour journey. Chamundeshwari temple is one of the 18 Shakti peeths of the country and is one of the important places of pilgrimage for Hindus.
Lunch – Foodie Restaurant
This semi-popular food restaurant falls on your way back to Mysore and is a great place to have your lunch.
Afternoon – Jaganmohan Palace and Art Gallery
The Jaganmohan Palace used to be the home to the famous Mysore royal family (of which Tipu Sultan was the most famous ruler) before the construction of the Mysore Palace. The palace has now been turned into an art gallery. This is just the place for the art lovers to lose themselves in.
Evening – Drive to Hasan and see Bhagawan Bahubali temple en route
Once you have been able to break away from the art gallery. Drive for 3 hours to reach Hassan. The Jain temple Bhagawan Bahubalit temple falls in the way and it has a gigantic Gomateshwara statue that was carved out of a single stone as far back as in 981 A.D.
Dinner at a local’s house
There are not a lot of commercial entities, thus we recommend having some packed food with you or eating at a local’s house. You can go to bed early tonight.
Day 4
Early Morning – Vasantha Mantapa and Chennakeshava Temple
Hoysala is famous for its ancient temple Vasantha Mantapa. Visit the temple after having some local breakfast or snacks. Then head to Belur and see Chennakesava Temple there which has been recommended as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then head to Chikamagalur – a one and a half hour drive away.
Lunch and afternoon attractions – Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
We know you must be tremendously hungry by this time. First, have your early lunch at Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary.
And once you are full, spend the afternoon exploring this amazing sanctuary full of exotic flora and fauna after wishing for yourself luck good enough to see a tiger.
Trek to Kudremukh
Spend the evening hiking on the trek to Kudremukh. The trek is surrounded by brilliant vegetation and is quite easy.
Dinner and Nightime
Take a guest house here and after dinner, request your guesthouse to set a campfire out in open. While your night away doing lazing bonfire things, playing antakshari, telling stories, etc.
It’s time for some backpacking, to experience nature up close and personal. A visit to Kudremukh can only be possible via an easy trek. Once up there, you’ll thank yourself for going ahead with it.
Day 5
Morning – Kudremukh National Park
After having an early breakfast, you can try your luck once again at spotting a tiger in Kudremukh National which has countless other gifts endowed to it by nature for every visitor here to enjoy.
Lunch
Mangalore is a coastal town and thus it has delicious seafood to offer. Thus unless you are a vegetarian, we recommend some local seafood, fishes in particular specifically at Machali, a famous local restaurant.
Afternoon – St. Aloysius Chapel
Constructed by Italian Jesuits who have played a tremendous role in education and general social upliftment of Mangalore’s Catholic community, the church is an architectural marvel with beautiful paintings done all over the walls that are
Evening – Sultan Battery and Tannirbhavi Beach
As evening arrives, head straight to Sultan Battery to enjoy the tremendous sight of sunset from the Batterywatchtower. Once done with that, go to Tannirbhavi Beach and while away your time lazying around the beach.
Dinner
Have your dinner by poolside in the Cardamom Restaurant and make sure to follow it up by Pabbas Ice Creams
Day 6
Morning – Mangala Devi Temple
The temple is dedicated to Mangaladevi. after whom the city is named. It was built by great Hindu saint Lord Parashurama. This brilliant piece of architecture is mostly made of wood staying true to the region’s ancient traditions.
Once you have your fill with the temple, head straight to Coorg.
Lunch
Eat at some local food joint of your preference.
Afternoon – Madikeri Fort
Madikeri is a hill in Coorg and its top has the fort that has in it artifacts that once belonged to the legendary local ruler Tipu Sultan.
Evening – Go microlight Flying
Microlight Flying is one of the rarest experiences to be had in India but Coorg, the adventure capital of the country, offers it for you. The microlight gliders can hold up to two people and have the ability to rise up to 5000 meters and fly at an impressive speed of a hundred kilometers per hour. Please note that there are a number of other adventures you can have instead – rock climbing, river rafting, kayaking, Quad Biking, etc. The choice of adventure is up to you.
Dinner
Have dinner at a food joint nearby and go to bed early in order to be freshened up for the last adventure of the trip and journey back to home.
Day 7
Morning – Dubare Elephant Park
This elephant Park is one of its kind in India – and a must-visit place for the elephant lovers of the country. The elephants are groomed, trained, fed by naturalists in a natural environment and you can participate in these activities under their guidance.
Once you are done here, if you still have time before your flight back home, you can head to a coffee plantation and experience walking amidst them.
Conclusion
We have tried to bring as much of best of Karnataka as possible to you in these 7 days. You can change this itinerary according to your wishes. Nature lovers may want to spend more time in Mangalore or Coorg; while adventure lovers will definitely wish to spend more time trying their hands at adventures Coorg has to offer and a lover of urban nightlife won’t find just one night at Bangalore sufficient. If, on the other hand, you are greedy for all those things like us, you may want to elongate your trip or visit it again. After all, you can never have enough of Karanatka. J
