The Butterfly Beach

The Butterfly Beach

As we know Goa is famous for its beaches.
The Butterfly beach is a beautiful beach situated towards the north of the Palolem beach.This place is simply awesome and nice..

Yea the question is where is it? If you want to make it there.. there is only one way.. water. Butterfly beach does not have any accommodation & can be reached by hired boat or a hired kayak if you feel adventurous. You can also hire a boat to go birding on the Backwaters which are located on North side of Palolem. Early morning would be a great time for Birding.

The isolation is a blessing in disguise as the island offers visitors a solitary charm and the thrills of any other Goan beach sans the overcrowded stretches of shorelines. The dolphins are extra acrobatic in the waters surrounding the island.

Butterfly island situated towards the extreme northern end of the Palolem Beach, is one of the most photogenic island and natural marvel.Butterfly beach Goa is famous for Dolphin play and highly picturesque Magical Sunset. On the tour of Butterfly beach tourists have good chance of watching sea urchins, sea cucumbers etc.

The Butterfly beach is in form of a small isolated cove and can be reached best by a boat from the Palolem beach. One can enjoy the thrilling ride by the paddle boat towards the beach and also see some dolphins on the way.

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Things to do in Goa

With 47 years of its vibrant existence, Goa is the smallest but richest Indian state blessed by some of the Most Refreshing Beaches making it a paradise on earth. Densely dotted with Beautiful Historical Churches, the place of Peace-Loving People is a fast developing tiny state attracting 1.2 million foreign tourists every year. Besides some Famous Hotspots and Carnivals, there a collection of some offbeat places and events of Goa that makes it a destination to stay for much longer than you planned.

Things to do in Goa -

Scrutinize the experience of Barracuda diving :-

If you have a heart as big as Goa’s try doing the most adventurous and impactful activity in Goa with ever changing aquatic beauty of goanwater bodies. Go into blue to experience the view of angelfish, butterfly fish, lionfish and cuttlefish.

Arombal Beach :-

The newest habitat for hippies and Friday freaks is all available with great collection of Italian and German food and drinks. A busy beach with foreign tourist including Russian beauties and plenty of local visitors make it a perfect place for live music.

Explore canonized place Keri village:-

A very clean, healthy and must visit village of Goa that is immensely popular for its Ayurveda treatments is located 8km form center of Ponda. It’s a perfect destination for people looking for peace and harmony after a discotheque and party life on a vacation.
 
Chapora fort Goa :-

The most pleasant place to wander with your hands locked in the hands of your beloved offering fantastic view of the Chapora River to Pernem on the north side, Vagator on the south hand and the Arabian Sea in the West. Enjoy the view of the distinct water bodies at a same place.

The delving Goan caves :-

Covered with sand of laterite, these caves are nicely cut to the edges with excellent finishing. The best places for perfect photo shoots are the picturesque cave of Arvalem, Lamgau and thaRivona caves of Goa. Disinter these marvellous caves and get your lists of clicks go long.
6. Reconnoitre the Arpora Saturday night market

Arpora Night market Goa :-

An amazing place to be there on Saturday leaving the whole world aside. The Arpora market, every Saturday night, has a centre stage with live music performances and stall galore. A retro styled market with cultural collections from all over the world continuous evolving vibrant and awesome.

Fresh water Crocodile watching :-

The carnivore is never so eye catching anywhere except Goa. Along with wild peregrine falcon and the collared kingfisher one can easily view crocodiles sunbathing in muddy beaches with their dagger like teeth exposed.
 
Goa Cathedral :-

Very very sacred and immensely beatified Sé Cathedral of Santa Catarina is the largest church in Asia and certainly the most beautiful one. It is the most celebrated church with a “golden bell” said to be one of the best in the world.

Watch dazzling Dolphins in Goa :-

Hit the beach for sunbathing and barbeque and get fascinated by a dolphin sighting trip. Shoot the most adorable natural pictures of dolphins on your camera and get an experience with these most loved creatures of mother earth.
 
Panjim sunset Boat cruise :-

An hour long cruise on the Santa Monica which takes guests out on a relaxing and smooth sail down the River Mandovi from the Santa Monica jetty in Panaji is still worth craving for. While the vessel sails s down the river passes the amazing Adil Shah Palace you can enjoy amazing food and drinks and watch the ultimate sun set of India with music and Portuguese dances.

These Ten Offbeat Things to do in Goa are definitely worth perspicacity to make the most of a sensational place.

Article source by :- thrillophilia

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A Meeting with Blackbucks at Velavadar

A Meeting with Blackbucks at Velavadar

Velavadar Blackbuck National Park is a paradise for bird and animal lovers in Gujarat...
The Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, near the west coast of Gulf of Cambay in Gujarat is spread over 34.52 sq km area. From a conservation viewpoint, a unique feature of the park is that it is the only tropical grassland in India to be given the status of a national park.

Mammals

Velavadar has India's largest population of Blackbuck, the elegant Indian Antelope. India's largest antelope, the Nilgai or Blue Bull, is easily seen in this national park. People can find the endangered Indian Grey Wolf, the nocturnal Striped Hyena, Indian Fox, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat and hare, gerbil, field mice, mongoose and hedgehog.

Birds

The park is a good place to watch grassland birds like larks, bushchats, wheatears, sandgrouse, francolins and quails. The park's specialties include Saras Crane and Stolikza's Bushchat. Magnificent eagles, falcons and endangered vultures can be seen at Velavadar. In winter, Velavadar National Park hosts the world's largest harrier roost - Montagu's Harrier, Pallid Harrier and Marsh Harrier can be seen in large numbers, while Hen Harrier is occasionally spotted. The lakes and seasonal marshes are important places to watch pelicans, cranes, storks, ducks, herons and other water birds.

Getting to Velavadar :-
Nearest airport is Bhavnagar and it is at a distance of 72km/1 hr from Velavadar. Bhavnagar airport is connected with Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports with daily frequency.

Ahmedabad airport is at a distance of around 4 hours from the Velavadar National Park. It receives international and domestic flights.

Best time to visit: From mid October to late March, April - June are recommended for mammal sightings at water points. The park remains open from 6 am to 6 pm.

Article source by :- timesofindia

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Monsoon drive to Jog Falls, Kalhatti and Hebbe Falls

Monsoon drive to Jog Falls, Kalhatti and Hebbe Falls

You see the thing with waterfalls is you won’t be fully delighted until you get up close and personal with it! Awesome feeling it is, experiencing the full force of the thundering cascades, the feeling of being completely dwarfed by the towering cascades, the feeling of being justly rewarded after hours of walk in the dirt and leech infested trails at the first sight of the white cascades! Waterfalls.. it’s all about waterfalls!

Monsoons are an inviting time for the true nature lover to get out of the comfort of their cozy homes and step into the muck for spectacular scenery that comes alive this season!
I went on four monsoon trips till now and have come up with the monsoon magic series of which you have already read about my Kumara Parvatha experience. Today let’s take a journey to the Malnad and Chikmagalur regions of Karnataka.

Route Followed from Bangalore to Shimoga - On google Maps

Distance from Bangalore to Shimoga – 270 kms.
Friday night(July 30th 2009), five of us set out on a quest for Dabbe but ended up at Hebbe on Sunday afternoon! Since this was a monsoon special, we wanted to trek to some relatively unknown falls and Dabbe Falls were just the thing we wanted. Some googling to get some buzz words to ask people like Dabbe Falls, Hosgadde, Sagar and we were all set for the adventure. We decided to drive down to Sagar as it would give us more flexibility. We started from Bangalore at around 12.30 AM Friday night. The roads were pretty decent and we were covering good distance at a good speed. We were all meeting after a long time. So with lots of catching up to do, the night went by swiftly. We took our first break at 4.30 or so near a small village called Birur. A hot cup of chai and we took to the roads again. We reached Shimoga by 6 AM Saturday and the sleep deprivation had already left us worn out. A quick nap at hotel Navrang which was strictly just about OK and the investigation started. We had no route plan to go to Dabbe and we trusted the locals enough to come unprepared. Here’s the typical conversation that ensued on the eventful day.

One of us: Do you know how to go to Dabbe Falls?
One of Them: I know Hebbe Falls..I know Abbey Falls.. what’s this Dabbe?

Nice… we ask them where it is and they ask us what it is instead. :-|
A slight variant.

One of us: Do you know how to go to Dabbe Falls?
One of Them: Do you mean Hebbe?

Right… we got confused between a D and a H!

A lot of phone calls and local inquires still got us no closer to Dabbe Falls than we were from before. With nothing better to do, we decided to go on the customary touristy kind of tour to the Jog Falls and then head to somewhere else. Little did we know that Jog Falls was going to keep us busy all day long!

Jog Falls:

A different view of Jog Falls that you've already seen - Perspective

The drive to Jog Falls from Shimoga was awesome. And by awesome I do not mean the quality of the road (which was good anyway) instead it is the quality of the scenery that keeps you company all along. And the cherry on top was the lovely rain. Jog Falls is at a distance of 103 kms from Shimoga and we started from Shimoga at around 10 and reached Jog Falls by 12.00. Hunger pangs led us to the nearest makeshift hotel and not even a glance at the poor mighty Jog Falls. Fill your stomach first and then fill your senses seemed to be the motto! After a sumptuous meal, we headed towards the view points and it was still raining.
 
At first glance, it was not that impressive. The exact feeling was okay.. So this is Jog Falls. Nothing great about it and especially nothing great at all when compared to its earlier glory! A huge green valley, on one side lies the view point and on the opposite side falls the Sharavathi River. Falling from a height of 830ft, it is a pleasure to watch the tiny ant sized humans at the bottom of the falls. It was not until we started to get down the fun started rolling in. It is almost a near vertical slope but the stairs go zig-zag down the way. And mind you, there are a lot of steps,1380 to be precise(Yea ok! I didn’t count. They were numbered). And getting back up is going to be super tough if you are not up to it. Shaky knees and vertigo are the possible side effects.

Once at the bottom, we did wade through the crowd, streams and boulders. We did a lot of boulder hopping over the slippery rocks to reach a high point adjacent to the pool. Slippery that it was and the cold shower from the top made it an enthralling experience. It was 4 PM and we were now looking at the Herculean task of getting back up. It took us half an hour to reach the top.

From here we headed to the Bungalow viewpoint right opposite this view point which takes one on top of the plunge. If you take a left from the bridge on your way back from Jog, it leads to the Bungalow view point. We spent a good one hour watching the water drop from various rock faces. It was 6.30 by the time we headed back to Shimoga and reached Shimoga by 9 or so. A day well spent.

On the way to Shimoga Friday night, we saw signposts showing Kalhatti falls and Hebbe Falls at a distance of 34 and 42 kms off NH-206. Since we had nothing better to do on Sunday either, we decided to visit Kalhatti Falls on our way back to Bangalore.

Kalhatti Falls:

A diversion from NH-206 and after 32 kms, we reached Kalhatti Falls. All along the way, we could see a two tiered falls on the distant mountain. I am not sure if those were Kalhatti Falls or Hebbe Falls or something else. If any of you readers know, please let me know. So a decent drive along the estate and we reach a place which says Kalhatti Falls, only to find it is a small shrine.

If the big waterfalls we saw on the way were the origins of Kalhatti and we saw its smaller downstream version, then I would say “Kalhatti, I will come again!” Royally disappointed in Kalhatti, we head towards Hebbe.

Hebbe Falls-

This is how we ended up at Hebbe starting our quest for Dabbe! A good 42 kms from NH-206, the route passes through beautiful scenery, mountains and clouds keeping you company for most parts. We could see Mullyangiri from a distance and the guys played with some weird creepy crawlies for quite a while! Duh Guys! Then we reached the crossroads where the signpost said 1 km to Mullyangiri and 13kms to Hebbe Falls.

From here, the ride to Hebbe though the green pastures and the estate lands easily could be one of the bumpiest rides of your life. You need to hire a jeep unless you own a SUV. We were running late already and only one jeep was left which was more of cargo jeep. It had no seats and you could fit in some 5-10 goats in it. We 5 got into it and hung on to our lives while the driver mercilessly whizzed past the rugged terrain. And then suddenly, we found ourselves amidst a sea of greenery and mist covered mountain tops. That was a jaw-dropping sight! The landscape was very different from the usual Western Ghats that we saw until now. The dried, dark bark of the trees, the super red soil and the super green grass was the sight that welcomed us into the valley. Mesmerized we took in the views with great pleasure while still hanging on to our lives..Literally!

A good hour later we reach a small house in the estate from where Hebbe Falls was a 30 minute walk. It was now that the driver deemed fit to enlighten us about the possible leech attack on our way to Hebbe. This wouldn’t have been a problem if not for the broken slippers of Sujeet and the flip-flops of the rest. A handful of salt and we headed on the muddy path towards Hebbe. We crossed the stream a couple of times, we slipped, we managed before we were treated to the majestic tiered falls - Chikka Hebbe and Dodda Hebbe meaning the little Hebbe and the big Hebbe. The trek to the second level of the falls (Dodda Hebbe) takes 3 hours it seems. Here the showers were drenching us even at a far distance from the drop. Taking pictures was a real challenge with the showers directed upon us by the conspiring wind. I did not want to get wet. But I wanted a picture of me in front of the falls. So I went near the falls only to be totally camouflaged by the surrounding rocks and totally got drenched to the core. Well yea.. I was the one who wanted to get up close and personal. Who am I to complain now! It was delightful as ever. The guys had a good time under the falls. Satisfied, we started back.

It was 9’O Clock in the night and we were somewhere in Bangalore outskirts stuck in traffic with nothing good to look forward the next day. The past two days along NH-206, we spotted signposts full of Waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, Temples, hills, viewpoints. An option for each kind. But now we were looking at signposts showing “Mekhri Circle” “Yashwanthpur” and a couple of more uninteresting destinations. What an unwelcoming welcome that was. But all good things come to an end.

You see, also the thing with mountains, waterfalls, forests, rivers is , that no matter however many times you have seen the sight before, each time it is a revelation nonetheless. That is reason why you will see me raving about the mountains, waterfalls, rivers or the forests in each one of my posts. Just as beautiful as ever!

Article Source by :- travelwithneelima

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The Comforting Retreats in Gorgeous Indian State Goa

The Comforting Retreats in Gorgeous Indian State Goa

Asia / Hotels

A comfortable place to stay in a Tourist Spot makes the journey more enjoyable. Goa is a paradise for beach lovers. Sprawling sands of different hues are a marvel of this tiny tourist destination. Clear waters of the sea are clear and inviting. Hours can be spent on a beach doing just absolutely nothing apart from gazing at the blue sky above.

Goa Hotels comes with all modern amenities. But this does not necessarily mean that these hotels are modern to look at too. The traditional look hides the modern to please a tourist’s sense of the traditional. 

5 Star Deluxe Hotels also have a long chain. The dreamy holiday location has some extremely sensuous accommodations. The hotel comes with an offer of suites, rooms, apartments, villas, conference hall, adventure sports, children centre and squash playing facilities etc.

Majorda Beach Resort is another one out of the Luxury Hotels Goa. From Dabolim airport the accommodation is just at a distance of twenty minutes. It is one grand place among the 5 star deluxe hotels Goa. The resort enjoys 20 acres of wide open space. The place is much visited for its famous five dining places like the Sea Shells which is best known for its delicious fish meals. Buffet Breakfast can be enjoyed at the Garden Café. Tropical drinks are available with light snacks. Special cottages offer a private stay at the resort, especially for the honeymoon couples.

Goan hospitality can be enjoyed at Renaissance Goa Resort which is very near to the beautiful beach of Colva. One can shop at leisure at the nearby market place of Goa. Studio apartments offer a peaceful stay for those on the lookout for a quiet holiday.

Article source by :- travelzink

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Tour to Shimla – The Most Loved Picnic Spot in India

Tour to Shimla – The Most Loved Picnic Spot in India

Impressive hills and dense greens form the key elements of Shimla – The summer capital of India. Located at an average height of 2,200 meter, the hill station offers picturesque countryside, wonderful climate and viable social standards for nature lovers and honeymooners. Apart from that, The Colonial Heritage that is retained in its grand old buildings makes all the history buffs fall in love with it.

Magnetic Attractions

Himachal State Museum & Library

Showcasing a rare collection of ancient historical sculptures, paintings, coins, photos and other items from all over the state and various other parts of the world – this museum houses many historical books and manuscripts.

Vice Regal Lodge & Botanical Gardens

Popular as Rashtrapati Niwas, this huge structure is located on the Observatory Hill. Completed in 1888, this six-story building is surrounded by well-maintained gardens and lawns. It is now converted into Institute of Advanced Study.

Seven Hills

This is the most fascinating element of Shimla that draws a number of tourists from all over the world. The seven hills standing majestically in the valley are Prospect Hill (with the temple of Kamna Devi), Summer Hill (with the Himachal Pradesh University), Observatory Hill (with the Indian Institute of Advanced Study), Invererarm (with the State Museum), Bantony (with the Grand Hotel), Jakhoo (with the Hanuman temple) and Elysium (with Auckland House and Longwood).

Adventure Activities

While enjoying Shimla vacations, all the adventure enthusiasts can go for exciting activities like Fishing, Golfing, Mountaineering, Paragliding, Ice Skating, Skiing and Trekking. Moreover if you wish to enjoy the most Colorful Festivities, the city becomes alive during Ice Skating Carnival, Rhyali Festival and Summer Festival.

The Ridge, the Mall, Glenn and Annandale are also included among The Most Popular Picnic Spots of the city. Those option for spiritual tour to Shimla, have choices like Bhimakali Temple, Jakhu Temple, Kalibari Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple and Tara Devi Temple.

Shimla tourism is the favourite of almost all the tourists enjoying their tours to north India. It is one such key destination of north India tourism that offers something or the other to almost all kinds of tourists with varying tastes. Go through Shimla travel guide and you will observe that there is no dearth of attractions in this popular hill station.

Article source by :- manalitourpackage

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West India :- The Land of Sunset and Konkan Strip in India

West India :- The Land of Sunset and Konkan Strip in India

West India is a land which witnesses the Sunset in the last in the entire nation. As per the Political Map, West India consists of Three Indian States which are Maharashtra, Gujarat and Goa. All the states of West India are well connected by Air and Road and quite well by Rail also.

Maharashtra consists of interesting places like its State Capital Mumbai which is also known as the Financial Capital and Bollywood Centre of India, Pune which is a growing city in the field of Information Technology and Nagpur which was earlier the State Capital of Maharashtra and is also famous for its Orange Plantation. Hill Stations like Matheran and Mahabaleshwar are also very prominent holiday destinations in Maharashtra.

Gujarat is famous for its prominent Business Centric Cities like State Capital Ahmedabad and Diamond Trade City Surat. It also consists of places like Pilgrimage Destination Dwarka, Saputara which is Gujarat’s only hill station and the famous desert named “The Rann of Kutch”.

Goa consists of interesting cities like its State Capital Panjim, Vasco and Madgoan. This state is regarded as one of the best Holiday Destinations of India and the state is famous for its beaches. At the moment, Panjim is not connected by Rail and the nearest station to Panjim is situated in Madgaon. Trains from Thiruvananthapuram to Delhi Nizamuddin like the Rajdhani Express and Duronto Express travel via Madgoan.

West India for Tourism as well as for Business Purposes. Now the beaches of Maharashtra and Gujarat also want to compete with the beaches of Goa for boosting their own State Tourism. Thus, traveling in West India can be a great experience for witnessing various nice beaches and food cuisine like Sea Food which the Arabian Sea has to offer.

The Rail Network in the State of Goa is developing at a good pace. In a few years, Goa will be strongly connected by Rail with the rest of India, especially with its neighboring states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The Road Network is also developing at a good pace and the Aviation Network has already been established. Many foreigners also visit places in Goa and the rest of

.

article source by :- indianbhraman

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Famous Tourist Places to Visit in India

Famous Tourist Places to Visit in India

India is a fantastic country to celebrate holidays with all the aspects of life. Synonymous with so many names, India is one such country whose significance and splendour is just beyond the words and visual delight. Thus, numerous tourists from all over the world visit India to explore its enchanting beauty. India consists of array of awesome Tourist Destination. So anyone wants to have a vacation, again India stands to be the first position. Another reason for finding India as the finest destination by tourists to enjoy their holidays is because of its diversity. India has different cultures, different languages and different religions. If you travel from North to South and West to East you can find out how different India is from other countries. India's mind blowing diversity leaves an everlasting impression on everyone's mind.

  
Famous Tourist Places to Visit in India

The major  top tourist destination in India which make you a remarkable travel experiences are :-

Kerela :-
The Green Paradise
Naturally Kerala is the most beautiful State in India. The beautiful hill stations, scintillating backwaters, beautiful beaches, thrilling waterfalls, exotic wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, historic towns and cities and of course the ancient Ayurveda form are the major tourist attractions of this enchanting South Indian state.Best time to visit Kerala is September to March.

Kashmir :-Heaven of India 
Kashmir is the northern state of India .The beauty of Kashmir made people call it the paradise on earth. Mughal gardens and Srinagar houseboats are important attractions of this state.Gulmarg and Pahalgam are also awe inspiring which elate the tourist for their wonderful vacations.The best time to visit Kashmir is between November and March.

Goa :-
Land of Beaches
Goa is a abundant blooming tourist destination in south western India. This place is famous for Beaches. The array of fabulous beaches in this state make it lovingly called as land of beaches and the beaches capital of India. People from all over the the world visits here for spending some time in these exotic beaches. Goa Tourist season is from October to December and from May to June.

Darjeeling :-
The Queen of Hills
Darjeeling is the most picturesque hill town in the State of West Bengal located on Indo-Nepal border. Tea gardens, picturesque meadows, the beautiful views and variety of trekking options are the main attractions of Darjeeling. It  is a fascinating place where you can see Buddhist monasteries. Besides this Mt. Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain on Earth, giving a magical aura to the Darjeeling that leaves one's senses intoxicated.The best time to visit this hill station is between April and June and September and December.

Kullu Manali :-
The Snowpoint
Kullu and Manali are the neighbouring hill stations located in Himachal Pradesh in one tourist destination site on the northern parts of India Manali is blessed with pleasant and moderate climate which attracts the tourist. Kullu Manali  give every traveller a chance to know about nature of Indian Himalayan states.The period between April and October is the best time to visit this Hill station.

Uttarakhand :-
The Land of Gods
Uttarakhand is situated in the northern part of India and known as “The land of Gods”. This state is famous for its peaceful environment. So tour to this state is escape from the noisy environment of the city life. Uttarakhand is also famous for pilgrimage shrines such as Char Dham Yatra, Haridwar, Tungnath and Panch Kedar, Devprayag, Hemkund sahib and Mansarovar Kailash. Best time to visit Uttarakhand is April to June and September to November.

Taj Mahal :-
The Symbol of Love
Taj Mahal is one of the eight wonders in the world.This beautiful costly tomb situated in Agra. A tour to Taj Mahal is a once in a life time experience. This wonder is made by Mughal Emperor Shajahan in memory of his Wife Mumtaz Mahal. So this tomb is also expressed as ‘the symbol of love’.Agra can be visited throughout the year, but one must avoid the extreme hot summers (April-June) and rainy season (July-Sept).

article sources by :- indiaholiday

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Ratnagiri , Konkan city in Maharashtra

Ratnagiri , Konkan city in Maharashtra

Ratnagiri is the beautiful city in Maharashtra, India. It is the district city, which is located in the southwestern part of Maharashtra on the coast of an Arabian sea. It is the small district city but having large number of options to attract travelers. It is the evergreen city and one of the famous tourist spot in Maharashtra.

It is blessed with the different tourists assets, like rising hills on the east, deep Arabian sea on the west, hot springs, waterfalls, rivers, creeks, forests and many more. All these points attracts tourists from the entire country. It is also a birthplace of Lokamanya Tilak and many well known Indian personalities who had sacrificed their lives in the war because of which this port city has acquired remarkable place in history of India.

Ratnagiri offers refreshing environment to its visitors. Its beautiful seashore, pleasant weather and unspoiled forests makes your trip unforgettable. The sun kissed beaches of white silvery sands, hemmed with swaying coconut palms, and ever green lustrous mangroves, makes Ratnagiri a dream destination to nature lovers. Due to which , most of the economy of the Ratnagiri is depend upon the tourism.

Tourists Attraction in Ratnagiri

Places Of Devotion :- Ganpatipule, Hedvi, Parshuram [Chiplun], Hatis, Velneshwar, and Rajapur
 
Rock Shelter :- Sangameshwar, Panhalekazi
 
Sea Banks :- Kelshi, Guhaghar, Murud, Palshet, Velneshwar, Harne, Purnagad and Ganpatipule
 
Birth Place Of Prominant Personalities :- Malgund, Ratnagiri, Palgad, Dapoli
 
Forts :- Bankot, Ambolgad, Mandangad, Ratnadurg, Jaigad, Mahipatgad
 
Water Falls :- Parshuram, Marleshwar, Prachitgad, Unhavare, Tural, Aravali.

All of these places are very beautiful places and mostly visited by the tourists. To enjoy all this you just to choose good hotels in Ratnagiri for comfortable staying. From Ratnagiri we can also visits some of the exotic locations like

•    Goval ghat
•     Hatlot ghat
•     Tivare ghat
•     Amba ghat
•     Anaskura ghat
•     Vanadi valley

Ratnagiri is also very famous for the king of Mangoes i.e. Delicious golden Happus (Alphonso) mangoes. The heavy rainfall results into highly eroded landscape in the coastal region. Fertile alluvial valleys produce rice and coconut as the main crops. Fruits and cashew nut cultivation is being promoted in this region.

The sprawling city is endowed with the majestic hills, appealing seashore , cascading waterfalls and many of the historical and glorious monuments. The beauty of Konkan and the pleasant atmosphere make this locality a best place to explore the nature. A unique hill station with a mountainous terrain, trance plains and garish structures, Ratnagiri is a sure destination to enjoy these vacations.










article sources by :- anjali026

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Sindhudurg Fort, Maharashtra

Sindhudurg Fort, Maharashtra 

Historic Monuments, Maharashtra, Sindhudurg  

India is full of interesting historical forts. A beautiful and well preserved example is the spectacular Sindhudurg Fort in Maharashtra, looking out over the Arabian Sea.

HISTORY

 
Sindhudurg Fort was built in 1664 by King Shivaji. The strategic rocky island location was carefully chosen to counter foreign forces, and to keep the nearby villages in check.

Located 510kms south of Mumbai and 130kms north of Goa the construction was done under the supervision of Hiroji Indulkar, an able architect. It is said that Shivaji invited 100 Portuguese experts from Goa for the construction of the fort and that 3000 workers were employed round the clock for three years to build Sindhudurg.

After Shivaji, Sindhudurg passed through the hands of Rajaram-Tarabai, Angres, Peshwa and the Bhosales of Kolhapur. It was briefly captured by the British in 1765 Ad And was renamed by them as ‘Fort Augustus’. Later in 1818 AD, the British dismantled the fort’s defence structures.

STRUCTURE

  
The 48 acre Sindhudurg fort has a four km long zigzag line of a 9 metres high and 3 metres wide rampart with 42 bastions.

The fort is approachable from the Malavan pier by a boat through a narrow navigable channel between two smaller islands of Dhontara and Padmagad. The main gate, flanked by massive bastions, faces the city.

One of the most interesting features of this port is that the design of main door is an enigma, a hallmark of Maratha Architecture of fort building so that the entry can’t be located by attacking forces. The technique was so deceptive that the entrance was concealed due to blind curves. The zigzag pattern of outer wall was so built that the enemy would be visible from any point inside the fort and the troops inside could fire their guns and cannons effectively.

INTERESTING FACTS AND ATTRACTIONS INSIDE THE FORT

Shivaji’s palm and footprints are preserved here on dried lime slabs in a tower. Inside the Fort, temples of Bhavanimata, Shambhu Mahadev, Jirimiri, Mahapurush and Shivajeshwar are worth seeing, all of which are in good condition. Chatrapati Shivaji’s younger son Rajaram in his remembrance built this temple. Shivaji’s idol stands in a boatman’s attire inside the temple and probably only one of its’ kind in the country – where the image of Shivaji is without a beard. Outside the southern wall there is a small beach, called Ranichi Vela (Queen’s private beach), where Queen Tarabai, daughter-in law of Shivaji, used to enjoy her sea-bath. Inside the fort there are three wells of drinkable water, which is a nature’s marvel as sea surrounds the fort on all four sides.
On a rocky island between Sindhudurg and the coast stood the small fort of Padmagad, now in ruins. It acted as a shield for Sindhudurg and was also used for shipbuilding
The fort also houses a coconut tree which has a branch and also gives fruit. (No other coconut tree has a branch.)
There is a hidden passage that starts in a temple that looks like a water reservoir and goes under the island for 3 km, under the sea for 12 km, and from there 12 km to a nearby village. The tunnel was used as an escape route for the women if the enemy entered the fort. However, the British partially closed this passage after the fort was abandoned.

Article by :- Mahindra Homestays

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SAWANTWADI-The Pleasure Visit in Konkan Region

SAWANTWADI-The Pleasure Visit in Konkan Region

Located in Sindhudurg on the Konkan belt of Maharashtra, Sawantwadi is the place where one can witness the true color of Konkan region with amazing nature scenery, overflowing mountain rivers, breathtaking village scene and sure captivating sense of tradition of Maharashtra.  What better you would like to see when you get to experience Maharashtra nature beauty at one place.

Sawantwadi is a place where you will get bestowed hillrocks and is blessed with Arabian Sea. As this place is the entry point for Goa, many people visit this place to experience the beauty of nature.  The main attraction of this place is the Moti Talav and Wooden Toys. Beside the enchanting Moti Talav, there is beautiful landscape that adds feather to this place. As the visitor’s number is increasing, there is a newly renovated garden that makes this place more amazing and attractive.

Another specialty of Sawantwadi is the wooden craft.  People in this place prepare wooden toys, bamboo craft and traditional paintings which reveal the true art of Sawantwadi.  The most exciting thing about this place is the handmade Ganifa Cards, which are prepared by circular piece of paper in which different designs of Lord Vishnu are being is designed.  In each paper there are 120 handmade paintings cards which makes colorful box.  These cards came into existence 350 yrs ago when Bhosle, the royal family of Goa settled here.

Currently, there is craft village project is being undertaken called as “Shilpa Gram”. This craft village will offer local people to display their traditional handcraft work done by them to visitors.

Article sources by :- infomela

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श्री क्षेत्र कुणकेश्वर.... कोकणातील एक पवित्र तिर्थक्षेत्र...

श्री क्षेत्र कुणकेश्वर.... कोकणातील एक पवित्र तिर्थक्षेत्र...

अतीप्राचीन काळापासुन येथील कणकेच्या राईमध्ये वास्तव्य करुन असलेल्या शंभुमहादेवाची ही भुमी... कणकेच्या बनात असलेला ईश्वर म्हणजेच कुणकेश्वर... देवावरुन गावाचे नाव सुद्धा कुणकेश्वर असेच प्रचलीत झाले. सुमारे ११०० व्या शतकापासुन प्रसिद्धीला आलेले हे स्थान म्हणजे कोकणातील धार्मीक व ऐतिहासीक सौंदर्याचा मुकुटमणीच म्हणावा लागेल. कुणकेश्वर मंदिरा इतके प्राचीन भव्य देवालय कोकणात इतरत्र कुठेच नाही. पुणे, मुंबई, कोल्हापुर या शहरांशी देवगडहुन अवघ्या १८ कि.मी. अंतरावर कुणकेश्वर हे गाव आहे.एसटी थांबते तेथून अवघ्या ५-७ मिनिटांच्या अंतरावर असणार्‍या मंदिराचा कळस लक्ष वेधून घेतो.ऐन किनार्‍याशी असणार्‍या उंचवटयावर उभारलेल्या या मंदिरचा सागरतटाकडील भाग भक्कम बांधीव तटाने सुरक्षित राखला आहे. ८-९ मीटर उंचीच्या या तटावर असणार्‍या सपाट जागेवर मंदिर आहे. मंदिराचा परिसर २२-२४ मीटर उंचीच मंदिर आहे. मंदिराचा परिसर तटाने परिवेष्टित तर आहेच, पण खाली जांभ्या दगडांची फरशीही आहे. अशा या कुणकेश्वर मंदीराचा इतिहास सुद्धा तितकाच प्राचीन, रोमांचकारी आणि रहस्यमय असा आहे.

kunkeshwar yatra

या मंदिरासंबधी दोन दंतकथा सांगीतल्या जातात.

१) एका गरीब ब्राम्हणाची गाय दुध कमी देउ लागली. तेव्हा त्याने तिच्यावर लक्ष ठेवले. कुणकेश्वर येथील शंभु महादेवाची पिंडी स्वयंभु असून पूर्वी ती कनक वृक्षांच्या घनदाट अरण्याने वेढलेली होती. ब्राम्हणाची गाय आपल्या मालकाला दूध न देता  एका विवक्षित जागी जाउन ती गाय पान्हा सोडत असल्याचे त्याच्या लक्षात आले. त्याने त्या गाईला बेदम जोराचा फटका मारण्याचा प्रयत्न केला.पण गाय निसटून पळाली व त्या प्रहाराचा पाषाणावर आघात झाला आणि त्यातून भ़ळाभ़ळा रक्त येउ लागले. ते पाहून आश्चर्याने भयचकीत झालेल्या ब्राम्हणाची त्या पाषाणावर श्रद्धा बसली. हे स्वयंभू शिवलिंग असल्याची खात्री झाली. त्यानंतर तो ब्राम्हण त्या पाषाणाला शरण गेला व तेव्हापासून तो नित्यनियमाने या पाषाणाची पूजाअर्चा व दिवाबत्ती करू लागला आजही या शिवलिंगावर या घावाची खुण दाखविली जाते.

२) एक इराणी व्यापारी समुद्रातील वादळात सापडला. आगतिक बनलेला व्यापारी परमेश्वराची करूणा भाकू लागला. तेवढयात त्याला पूर्वेकडे शांतपणे तेवणार्‍या दिव्याचा प्रकाश दिसला. दिलासा देणार्‍या त्या नंदादीपाला तो शरण गेला आणि या ठिकाणी मी खूप पैसा खर्चुन जीर्णोद्धार करीन असं त्यानं मनोमन ठरवलं. किनार्‍यावर सुरक्षित उतरल्यावर तो धावत तिथे गेला. हिंदूंच हे छोटं मंदिर होतं या शिवायलायाचा त्याने जीर्णोद्धार केला. तीन वर्षे आणि द्रव्य खर्चून त्यानं हे काम पुरं केलं देवाच्याच पायाशी जागा मिळावी म्हणून त्यानं शिखरावर चढून खाली उडी मारली व प्राणत्याग केला. त्याचं स्मारक कुणकेश्वराच्या उत्तरेस आहे.

हिच दंतकथा कुणकेश्वरचा इतिहास म्हणून अलिकडच्या काळापर्यत सांगितली जात होती. परंतु जसजशी कुणकेश्वरची प्रसिद्धी वाढत गेली तशी अभ्यासकांची दृष्टी येथे पडली. प्राचीन काळी जेव्हा मुसलमानी सत्ता हिंदुंना मुळासकट उचकटण्याचा प्रयत्न करित होत्या त्या काळी एक मुस्लीम व्यक्तीकडुन हिंदु मंदिर कसे काय उभारण्यात आले. त्यामुळे हि दंतकथा अभ्यासकांना खटकण्यासारखीच होती. त्यामुळे कुणकेश्वरच्या इतिहासाचा अधिक चौकसपणे अभ्यास होऊ लागला.

१९६० च्या सुमारास शिवशाहीर बाबासाहेब पुरंदरे यांनी कुणकेश्वर मंदिरास भेट दिली. त्यावेळी बाबासाहेबांनी मंदिर परिसराची चिकीत्सक दृष्टीने पाहणी केली. आणि थडगे म्हणून दाखवली जाणारी इमारत हि, हिंदु मंदिराची असुन आतील थडगे समजला जाणारा मातीचा ढिगारा बनावट असल्याचे साधार पुराव्यानिशी दाखवून दिले. अशाप्रकारे बाबासाहेब पुरंदरे यांनी कुणकेश्वर मंदिराच्या इतिहासातील सत्य परिस्थिती सर्वांसमोर आणली. त्यानंतर कोंकणातील गावह्राटी पुस्तकाचे लेखक श्याम धुरी तसेच साप्ताहिक अणुरेणूचे माजी संपादक रणजित हिर्लेकर या अभ्यासकांनी ही याविषयी संशोधन केले असुन, "कुणकेश्वर मंदिर हे अरबी व्यापार्‍याने बांधले नसुन हे मंदिर कदंब, चालुक्य, राष्ट्रकूट, यादव यांसारख्या हिंदू साम्राज्य काळातील आहे. आणि थडगे समजले जाणारी वास्तू हि एक बाटवलेले शिवमंदिर आहे." असा निष्कर्श सर्वांनी मांडला आहे. अरब व्यापार्‍याची कथा हि वारंवार आक्रमण करणार्‍या मुसलमानी सरदारांच्या डोळयात धूळ फेकण्यासाठीच केलेली एक व्यूहरचना होती. मंदिराच्या रक्षणासाठीच मुस्लिम व्यापाराने हे मंदिर बांधल्याचे कथानक मुद्दामच पसरविण्यात आले. पण तीच दंतकथा होऊन आपल्या पुढे उभी आहे. पनवेलजवळच्या कणकेश्वर मंदिराच्या बांधकामाविषयी देखील कुणकेश्वर मंदिरासारखीच अरबी व्यापार्‍याची कथा सांगीतली जाते. तसेच राजापुरच्या अंजनेश्वर मंदिराच्या बांधकामाविषयी देखील हिच कथा सांगितली जाते. अनेक ठिकाणी मंदिरांच्या रक्षणासाठी अशी थडगी उभारली गेली आहेत. रामेश्वर मंदिराच्या सभामंडपालगत दिपमाळेच्या रांगेत असेच एके बनावट थडगे आहे. ही सर्व सुलतानी तडाख्यातून मंदिरे वाचविण्यासाठी केलेली एक व्यूहरचना होती.

कथा कुणकेश्वर मंदिराच्या विध्वंसाची व जिर्णोद्धाराची

या मंदिराच्या जिर्णोद्धाराचे काम वेळोवेळी हिंदू राजांच्या काळात झालेले आहे. पण जुन्या कागदपत्रांच्या सहाय्याने निश्चित होणारा मंदिराचा जिर्णोद्धार हा शिवकाळातील आहे.

छत्रपती शिवरायांच्या काळात सुलतानी आक्रमणांचा उपद्रव पोचलेल्या असंख्य मंदिरांचा जिर्णोद्धार झालेला आहे. सुलतानी आक्रमणाने पिचलेल्या भारतात शिवरायांच्या पराक्रमाने पुन्हा एक परिवर्तनाची लाट आली. आणि मग आपल्या परमप्रिय दैवतांची पुनर्स्थापना करण्याची ओढ या मातीतील माणसाला होऊ लागली. कुणकेश्वर मंदिराचा झालेला जिर्णोद्धारही याच काळातील आहे. हा काळ शिवराज्याभिषेकानंतरचा. आजपासून जवळजवळ ३00 वर्षाँपूर्वीचा. शिवाजी महाराज हे प्रत्यक्ष कुणकेश्वर मंदिरातही येऊन गेल्याचे सांगितले जाते. कुणकेश्वर मंदिर हे काहीसे एका बाजुला असल्यामुळे व अतिशय दुर्गम असणार्‍या या भूप्रदेशामुळे सुलतानी आक्रमकांच्या आसुरी तांडवापासून काहीसे सुरक्षित राहीले. तरी शिवाजी महाराजांच्या मृत्युनंतर व औरंगजेब दक्षिणेत उतरल्यानंतर या मंदिराला उपसर्ग पोहोचला होता असे इतिहास सांगतो.

त्याकाळी छत्रपती शिवरायांच्या अष्टप्रधान मंडळापैकी एक असणार्‍या नारो निळकंठ अमात्य यांच्या अधिपत्याखाली हा विजयदुर्गपासूनचा सागरी प्रदेश होता. नारो निळकंठांची कुणकेश्वरावर अपार श्रद्धा होती. औरंगजेबाचा पुत्र शहाआलम हा घाट उतरुन या तळकोकणात आल्यामुळे आणीबाणीची परिस्थिती निर्माण झाली होती. त्यावेळी कुणकेश्वर मंदिर हे एक डोळ्यांत भरणारे मोठे तिर्थक्षेत्र होते. त्यामुळे कुणकेश्वर मंदिराला शहाआलम त्रास देईल अशी भिती नारो निळकंठांना वाटू लागली. त्यावेळी नारो पंडितांनी कुणकेश्वर परिसरातील ग्रामस्थांना विश्वासात घेऊन मंदिराच्या संरक्षणासाठी नक्कीच काहीतरी योजना केली असणार. त्यांनी जी उपाययोजना केली तीच ही अरबी व्यापाय्राची दंतकथा होय.! असे मत श्री शाम धुरी यांनी मांडले आहे.

कुणकेश्वर यात्रेसाठी जाण्याकरीता

जवळील रेल्वे स्थानक - कणकवली. कणकवलीहून स्थानकाहून देवगड त्यानंतर देवगडहून कुणकेश्वरला येण्यासाठी आपल्या शासनाच्या बर्‍याच बसेस आहेत. यात्रे दरम्यान भक्तांसाठी जादा गाडयांची सोय केलेली असते. कणकवलीहुन देवगड हे अंतर ५५ किलोमीटर आहे. तर देवगडहून  कुणकेश्वर हे अंतर १८ किलोमीटर आहे.

मुंबईहून यायचे झाले तर तर महाराष्ट्र परिवहनाच्या गाडया देवगड मार्गे कुणकेश्वरसाठी आहेत. तसेच खाजगी वाहने मोठया प्रमाणावर आहेत.

विमानतळ - पणजी (गोवा)

चला मग जाऊया कुणकेश्वर यात्रेला

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