Explore the Beauty and Culture of Maharashtra State in India

Explore the Beauty and Culture of Maharashtra State in India.

India has long been a top travel destination for tourists from all around the world. India’s western state of Maharashtra, in particular, is an ideal region to explore. Maharashtra is a state made up of vibrant cityscape, peaceful rural areas and numerous historical and cultural monuments. Visitors who come to this region can drive the region’s vast roadways and stop at many of the major sites to see.

Mumbai, which is one of India’s most renowned metropolises, is also the capital city Maharashtra. Visitors who come to this city can easily reach the Mani Bhavan Gandi Museum, the Bombay Museum and other cultural and historical centers by a car. Mumbai also features sacred temples such as Mahalakshmi and Babulnath. The exquisite Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the city’s main railway station and has been designated as a World Heritage Site for its historical significance and grand Gothic architecture. The Kanheri Caves, which are located in Sanjay Gandhi National Park, feature ancient Buddhist stone carvings.

Travelers can drive from Mumbai to the city of Pune via the Famous Mumbai Pune Expressway. After arriving in Pune, travelers will be treated to ancient sites like the Pataleshwar Cave Temple. The Aga Khan Palace, which was constructed at the end of the 19th century, is considered by many to be the city’s most significant landmark.

The Aurangabad District is another region of Maharashtra worth exploring. The beautiful Bibi Ka Maqbara monument has been standing since the 17th century and is similar in architectural style to the Taj Mahal. Visitors driving around the Aurangabad District can also make a stop at the Ajanta Caves to see ancient Buddhist paintings on the cavern walls.

The archeological site of Ellora is another fascinating place to visit while traveling through Maharashtra. A series of caves featuring intricate stone carvings make up this historical attraction. Most of the carvings were completed in the 10th century over a 500-year period. Many of the carvings depict sacred images from the Buddhist and Hindu faiths.

Maharashtra is also a great place to explore wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. The Sagareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a manmade sanctuary featuring sacred temples and many forms of indigenous plant and animal life. Chandoli National Park is particularly known for its exotic animal species and even features a tiger and leopard reserve. The wildlife sanctuary of Nagzira is known for its pristine lakes and lush forestry.

The Arabian Sea beaches located along Maharashtra’s western border are also easy to reach. Breathtaking seaside views and fun outdoor activities await visitors at many of these beaches. The beach at Ganapatipule is famous for its clear seawater and vast stretches of greenery. Many local celebrities often frequent Juhu Beach. The beach at Velneshwar is the perfect place to go sunbathing while enjoying the sight of green coconut palm groves.

Exploring Maharashtra is one of the best ways to gain a full appreciation of this intriguing state in India. The versatility of sites and activities found within Maharashtra can provide something special for every visitor. 

Article source by :- windiaw

For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

Four Reasons To Plan A Beach Vacation Instead Of Going To A Theme Park

Four Reasons To Plan A Beach Vacation Instead Of Going To A Theme Park

By: aayana

You have been to every theme park in the area, but a beach vacation may be a better option this year. If you are tired of the frustrations of long lines and hot days, not to mention the cost that goes into an amusement park, it may be best to turn to a more relaxing theme for this year's vacation. The good news is there are some outstanding areas along the coast and in the Gulf of Mexico worth exploring. Doing so could mean that you spend more time relaxing and less time waiting, too.

 
Everyone Should Have the Experience

The first reason to plan a beach vacation this year is simple. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience the open water at least once. There is just something about being able to look out over the open waves and to know there is a whole other world at the end. The massiveness, the calming beauty of it, and the serenity can make it a must for any family.

It is Inexpensive

In most areas, the beaches are free to use. Though you will need to avoid any private property, it is likely that you will find yourself enjoying the beauty of the sand and water without having to spend a small fortune to do so. This is not an indoor water park, but an opportunity for you to build sandcastles and swim without having to pay to do so. Everyone benefits from an inexpensive trip.

The Area Offers Plenty to Do

You do not have to spend all of your time on the water and in the sand either. Most of the coastal areas offer plenty of fun things to do. You may be able to hike, bird watch, go canoeing, and spend time at the various parks. You can catch a show or take in some retail therapy. You may be able to go on a canopy tour or a zipline adventure. There is a great deal to do in many areas

It Is a Healthy Option

Even if the kids may not like the thought of it, a beach vacation is a healthy option. It is good for their bodies and their minds. Chances are good a few museums are locally available. They can easily enjoy the science of the marine ecosystem. They can even get in a bit of history through old forts.

If you have yet to plan the trip you and your family will take this year, consider a beach vacation. The right location can help you to spend time together and enjoy each other. Instead of eating bad food and spending your time in line for a 60-second ride, check out what the water has to offer.

article sources by :- articlesnatch
For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

Cycling Vacations In India – A Few Things to Know

Cycling Vacations In India – A Few Things to Know

Are you planning cycling vacations in India? Well I suggest you first read below before you book your tickets for cycling vacations in India so that you are prepared for them and have a pleasant experience.

There was a time when India was a nation of Bicycles, and bicycles are one item that India produces more than any other country in the world. So why is it that you rarely find bicycles in big cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai etc? Well the reasons are not very difficult to find. Leave aside cycling vacations in India, most Indians don’t even ride bicycles for day-to-day use.

The roads in India are not designed to accommodate bicycles, unlike cities like Amsterdam where the roads are designed or have been redesigned to keep cyclist in mind. But in India even in cities like Delhi where in 70s and till mid 80s cycles were still popular now hardly anybody rides a bicycle. Even the kids today   use them as recreational tools when their mothers snatch their ipads away, unlike when I was growing up a bicycle was the primary source of exercise, entertainment and commute for me.  I have fond memories of riding cycle during vacations in my childhood.

 
Cycling vacation in India

Most of the cyclists in India you will find on roads will be poor people who can not afford any other vehicle, unlike in western countries where a bicycle is a recreation tool and not a sign of poverty. Most  highways in India are death trap for cyclists, with more cyclists dying in road accidents than anybody else.  The challenge is most of the bicycles in India still follow the designs of first world war and safety features like a light, bright-colored strips to glow in light are  unheard of. The bicyclists never wear any kind of helmet to protect them in case of any mishap. But still in rural India bicycles are very popular not only to ride to market, fields and the village temple but also as a family vehicle, to carry fodder, and to drop kids to school. If you are lucky you may see a bridegroom in rural India on a bicycle to go to the home of  his bride for marriage.

A lot of young boys in Indian villages will ride the large bicycles of their father with legs inserted inside the frame to reach the pedal in a riding style called “Crenchy” like I saw this boy in Weavers village  Pochampally outside of Hyderabad.

I found a lot of people using bicycles in Gandipet and Chilkur when I went there to click pictures of Flamingos. You will also notice that a lot of bicyclist on Indian roads are actually not riding them but are actually walking with the cycle. This is a defense mechanism when they hop down where they feel vulnerable and ride back the cycle when the road is safer.

But slowly there is a movement to revive the bicycle culture in India especially in cities like Hyderabad and Bangalore where a large no of Expats and Indians who have returned after living abroad reside. So in Hyderabad we have clubs like GHAC,  Hyderabad Bicycling club are trying to promote using more of bicycle use. Atlanta Foundation  organizes cycling races with the money going to charity. Most of these groups are formed by highly educated upwardly mobile IT and BPO professionals with the idea of using cycles as much as possible and promote safe cycling with proper use of helmets and other safety gear using better bikes with gears etc.  A lot of these clubs also organize mountain bike races in the cities as a part of promoting cycling as an adventure sport.

So if you are planning a cycling holiday in India I suggest you take help of a specialist bicycling holiday company  and visit places where there is still some culture of bicycle travel with both locals as well as travelers. Some of the places that are good for bicycling holidays are Pondicherry, Temple Town of Hampi, Parts of Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan and Western Ghats. Your tour operator should be able to help you in better planning. But remember you will still be on same roads ruled by trucks and buses and it will be a good idea to not ride alone and stay in a group to avoid any unfortunate incident like the ordeal of this Swiss couple.

So while it is a good idea to have a bicycling holiday in India you need to be ready for the heat, unfriendly roads and go to parts like, Pondicherry,  Hampi and Kerala in South India, where it is not uncommon to see foreigners on cycling vacations in India.

article source by :- desitraveler

For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

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

For more inforation visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/ 

Indian Vacation Destination Guide Places to Go

Indian Vacation Destination Guide Places to Go :- 

India is quite a large country with regions and provinces that are unique from each other and full of multi cultural surprises. If you would like to experience a rich cultural heritage and unique traditions then an Indian vacation destination is pretty much the getaway you are looking for. But do relax a bit for you need to think some things over before you head for India.
 

If you’re a frequent traveler you probably know by now mostly through experience that going on vacation needs some sort of planning. Gong to a country without knowing the specifics and the best set of circumstances is pretty much like allowing the wind to blow all your vacation money, not to mention your time and efforts away. India is indeed a very beautiful country and by simply visiting any part of it you will experience different culture, festivals and various customs and traditions. But with our limited resources we just can go hopping province by province. We have to know and prioritize the best place to visit to experience that “Indian” feel.

Among the more popular trekkers’ destination are the Jaisalmer in Rajasthan and Pushkar deserts. India has one of the most majestic deserts in the world. The harsh environment definitely has its appeal and with desert festivals during the early and last few months of the year, visitors are surely one for a treat. Rajasthan for one has lots more treasures other than its deserts. It is riddled with monuments, forts, scenic lakes and even exotic wildlife sanctuaries.

In fact the place is so popular that it has traditionally been considered as the more preferred tourist destination in all of India. But the title can be contested, however, the beauty of place, the richness of its culture are not. Other destinations include Jaipur city, Samode which famous for the Haveli and Place hotel, and the religious sites of Ajmer and Pushkar. Pushkar is one of the most scared cities of the India, famous for holy lakes as well as ancient temples. In fact it is so sacred that meat, fish, eggs, and alcohol are forbidden within the city limits.

Another quite popular destination is Kashmir. The place has come to be known as the “Paradise on Earth” due to the picturesque and jaw-dropping natural beauty. Among its natural attractions are the snow capped mountain peaks, scenic vistas, rich vegetation and a various adventure spots for the out going and sports enthusiasts. However, mountaineering or trekking is not limited to this area. Places like the Shimla in Himachal Pradesh and the destination for trekkers in Kullu Valley and the Kodaikanal which is located in Tamil Nadu, another popular trekking ground.
But of course, there’s the all popular tour which most often begins in Delhi where tourists are treated to the buzzing capital’s literally thousands of shops that sells almost everything one can imagine. The capital is a treat for both the eyes and palates with a whole array of food, especially the spicy ones, to choose from.

Agra would be the next destination being the location of the world famous Taj Mahal. One might find the area crowded since there are thousands of tourists who visit the temple on a daily basis. The Taj Mahal has become one of India’s notable landmarks and it is often the case that people do not consider their visit to the country complete without getting their pictures taken with the temple in the background.

Having an Indian destination guide is fairly important otherwise you will most likely get overwhelmed by the things to do and places to go and you will end up resting in your hotel room in the middle of the afternoon. For most of us who probably consider their trip to India their first and last, maximizing their time there is a must.


article source by :- exeter public library

For more information visit :- www.travelthemes.in/

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

For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

How To Travel In India

How To Travel In India

By Emma Levine
Beautiful, eclectic, vast India can be intimidating for first-time visitors. Here are 10 tips that will help you make your first trip to India a smashing success.

1: Before You Go: Visas And Inoculations
Check in advance with your doctor or nurse what injections are required. Depending on which region and what time of year you visit, anti-malarial tablets may also be necessary. You’ll need to get a visa before departure, which comes into effect the date of issue, not the date of entry.

2: Luggage And The Best Way To Carry It
Unless you’re going straight to the door of your five-star hotel, it’s far easier to take a backpack, especially for getting around India’s rough roads and sidewalks. It’s also much easier for jumping on and off trains, keeping your hands free. The golden rule is to bring only what you’re able to easily carry yourself.

3: Getting Around India
If you plan to travel within India by plane, try and book those additional flights in advance. It will save you the hassles of trying to book these flights on the fly, especially important if you’re in India during high season (Christmas/New Year, plus major Indian holidays). It can be far more rewarding, if you have time, to travel by train – a major way of experiencing the country.

4: What To Eat
Of course it’s hugely enjoyable to dine on local cuisine. However, delicate stomachs may find India’s cuisine hard to handle. If you’re sampling street food, stick to hot, freshly cooked items. Avoid salads, which may have been washed in local water, and stick to fruit that has to be peeled (bananas, mango etc). It’s also advisable to only eat fish on coastal regions, where you know it’s more likely to be fresh. But majority of Indians don’t eat meat or fish, so here’s a country perfect for vegetarian visitors.

5: What To Drink
Stick to bottled drinking water (ensure it’s sealed when you buy it). Don’t drink tap water from your hotels, although it’s safe to brush your teeth in it. In street stalls and simple cafes, avoid ice in drinks, as this could have been made from untreated water. Fresh lime soda and lassi (a refreshing drink from curd) are both widely available, as are Indian brands of fizzy soda, cola etc. Indian tea is an acquired taste – very sweet and milky! The availability of alcohol varies in each state, but generally India doesn’t have a strong drinking culture. Local bars tend to be men-only hovels. Avoid domestic Indian spirits – stick to beer.

6: What to Wear
If in doubt, err on the side of modesty. Men and women should avoid shorts and tank tops, unless you’re on the beach. Women should avoid skimpy clothes; cover upper arms and stick to loose, long cotton tops and trousers. Remember, the less you draw attention to yourself, the better. Ladies, if you’re likely to be visiting temples or mosques, bring a light scarf to cover your hair when necessary. Remove your shoes when entering a place of worship and when visiting people’s homes.

7: How To Avoid Being Hassled
Foreign women may well be the target of unwanted attention. If you’re traveling without a man, it does help to prevent problems if you say you’re married. Wearing a “wedding” ring can also help. If you’re on the receiving end of uninvited attention from men, don’t be afraid to be assertive and make your annoyance very clear. Shouting can help! After all, you wouldn’t put up with it at home, would you?

8: Haggling
In most markets when buying anything, you’re expected to haggle. The stallholder will probably quote an inflated price; decide if you really want the product and counter with something perhaps a third of the price. Then expect to agree on a compromise. Small items in stores – bottled water, food items, pharmaceuticals – always have the price printed on the label, and is non-negotiable. When you’re using taxis or three-wheeler auto-rickshaws, the meter should be switched on. If not, agree the price in advance – don’t leave it to an awkward argument after your journey.

 9: Getting The Most From Train Travel
Wherever you travel in India, it’s very likely that you’ll be taking at least one train journey. Indian Railways is an institution; it is the main way of moving this nation of more than one billion! There are many different classes of travel. For long journeys, take a sleeper in second or first class, and choose an upper birth if possible. Bring a chain and padlock to keep your bags secure, and keep your money and passport in a money belt under your clothes when sleeping. On most trains, food and drink (bottled water, cartons of fruit juice, tea) are available from vendors moving regularly up and down the carriages. Most railway stations have a separate booking office or counter for foreign tourists.

10: Be Prepared To Wait!
In India, one of its charms can also be the biggest frustration: delays. This is usually about transport; the ticket office is closed for a lengthy break, or a crucial person you need to speak to is not available. Bureaucracy can be endlessly frustrating. In such circumstances, use plenty of good humor and patience, and see it as a part of everyday Indian life. Don’t show anger – it will get you nowhere!


Article source by :- zagat

For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

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

For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

Konkan Calling - Sindhudurg

Konkan Calling - Sindhudurg

Heading out from Wildernest towards Thivim station which is a small railhead in Goa that was teeming with tourists catching a train to Mumbai when we arrived.

A train delay of an hour meant we caught up with some hot phulke, sabzi and chaas at a home eatery closeby.The journey to Kudal is about 50 minutes by train.

We arrived at Kudal at about 6 pm and made our way towards "Mayekar Holiday Home" in Malvan bang on Chivla beach. Malvan is a small town with very narrow roads. Driving was made difficult due to the evening market rush.

Mayekar holiday home is a Home stay right on the beach with windows opening out to the seas!

We spent the evening strolling on the beach and then helping ourselves to a very well cooked homely Malvani dinner.

The room though small was freshly painted and the furniture was new.The family was nice and made us feel at home.
We spent some time talking with the owners planning the next couple of days for Sightseeing.

 

Day 2 started off with a short walk towards the Malvan Jetty. The plan was to go to the Sindhudurg fort - a half an hour boat ride in the sea.
We got our tickets and some 30 odd people assembled and got into the smallish diesel powered boat that ferries people to the fort.
This was an amusing experience. I felt as if though I had traveled back 50 year's in time.The "Swades" experience. Old fashioned boats filled the harbour giving the whole area a rustic feel.
 



It was amazing to say the least. And then seeing the fort looming up ahead in the middle of the sea was an amazing experience.
The fort took nearly 30 years to build stands as a testimony to the foresight at that time to keep foreign powers at bay.

There's not much to explore inside the fort, but the fort itself. There's a watch tower, a Shivaji temple etc.



 A coral reef was discovered just beside this fort a few year's back by Dr Sarang Kulkarni. This discovery changed the lives of the residents here and catapulted Sindhudurg as a tourist destination. A lot of private operators offer guided snorkeling tours of the reefs.
Snorkeling is probably the highlight of out trip!. We got into a boat and put on our snorkeling gear and were helped into the water by a guide who was kind enough to answer all our questions on marine life.
It was an experience of a lifetime to see life underneath the sea, the school of fish swimming and moving together, fishes of different colors and sizes as well as the beautiful multi-colored corals that adorned the sea bed.

After a refreshing snorkeling experience we headed back to the mainland in the swades style boat. Another intriguing aspect to mention here is that tea is unavailable on the island fort.

It was time for lunch and we sought the highly recommended Chintamani lunch home. The restaurant was packed with tourists and after a bit we finally had a table for us and Malvani Thali to grub.
After some rest in the afternoon we walked towards the Rock Garden by the sea to catch the sunset.From there on we walked towards the well known Ganesh temple. The temple is beautiful and is a must see for everyone visiting Malvan. The only problem is that the streets are not well lit and there are very few people on these inner roads.

Day 3 was spend exploring the beaches of Sindhudurg. A Tata Sumo was hired and we made our way towards Deobag. Deobag is an amazing location, triangulated with the sea on one side and the Karli river on the other. The two merge forming an extravaganza of blue and green. What was more fascinating was that this entire patch of beach was empty.

This place is a photographer's paradise. If you like solitude, the blue seas and your camera then you should visit this place!

Tarkarli is another beach close to Deobag and is known for its fascinating white sands and blue sea. And so true are the stories!. Tarkarli is indeed as beautiful as the fables say!.

Casuarina trees flank the beach making it look even more beautiful. The MTDC resort at Tarkarli hidden among the casuarinas is the place to stay! We were unfortunate to not stay in this place due to non availability. Recommend booking this resort months in advance!.

There are options of a boat ride from Deobag to explore the surrounding area. It is recommended if the day is not too hot. A backwater ride is also enjoyable if you have not been to Kerala already!

From there on we drove towards Vengurla port and Sagareshwar. Nothing much of note here except the natural splendor.



Article source by :- Weekend wanderings

For More Information Visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

Ram Navami Celebrations

Ram Navami Celebrations

The Celebrations of Ram Navami start with the worship of Sun God. On the day, people wake up early in the morning, take bath and pay honors to Sun God. Thereafter, they would chant mantras of Lord Rama and offers fruits and flowers to the deity. The devotees of Lord Rama would observe a whole-day fast on the festival, which they would break only in the midnight, by eating a fruit. In many parts of India, satsangs are organized by cultural committees to commemorate the birth of Lord Rama. The congregation of the devotees would sing Bhajans, chant mantras in the praise of the God and listen to the legendary stories.

 

As a part of the Celebrations, people would keep their home clean and decorate it beautifully. In the households where pujas are conducted, the pictures of Lord Rama, his wife Sita and brother Lakshman are hung. The devotees would offer flowers, burn dhoop and incense sticks. A thali used for the performance of the pooja would typically contain prasad and other items necessary for the ritual, including roli (sacred tilak), rice, lota (container filled with water), flowers, a bell, earthen lamp or deep and a conch. Everyone in a family takes part in the puja, which is conducted by the elderly member of the family. While worshipping the deity, songs are sung. When the puja is over, prasad is distributed among all the people gathered for the worship of Lord Rama.

In many parts of India, typically South India, small idols of Lord Rama and Sita are worshipped in the households, which are take to a procession on the streets, in the evening. In many Temples, Kalyanam' (a ceremonial wedding) is performed by the Temple priests. Panakam, a sweet drink prepared by mixing jaggery with ginger and pepper, is a specialty of Ram Navami in southern parts of India. The dish is prepared as a prasad. It is first offered to the deity, and then distributed amongst the devotees. When the idols of the deity are taken to a procession, the devotees often play with Water and colors, to mark the birth of the God.


article sources by :- festivalasia

For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/

Sindhudurg - Malvan & Tarkarli

Sindhudurg - Malvan & Tarkarli

While we started from Ratnagiri to Malvan, we saw three men walking on the road; they were foreigners so we stopped out of curiosity. I was amazed to find that they were walking from Mumbai to Goa. I asked them what made them walk such long distance in a climate; which they are not used to. And one of them replied “We are not walking for Charity; but we are walking for Clarity”. We were amazed to hear that; but it is true. Almost 10 years back; I had walked in the mountains of Himalayas visiting Vaishnodevi-Yamunotri- Gangotri-Kedarnath-Badrinath; with my colleague and friend Nitin Joshi in just 9 days(109 kms). We had walked during the worst period i.e. August. There were heavy rains and we completed our journey facing landslides; often getting drenched in very low temperatures. Our biggest discovery was that; travel in tough terrains and long exhausting walks are a spiritual experience. We wished them good luck.

We took the coastal route and first went to Kashedi. There is a temple of Kanakaditya here. It is very old sun temple and is famous for is interiors. The pillars made of wood so strong that hundreds of years of saline weather could not damaged them. Roof is of interlocked wooden beams, in the ceiling are statues of gods carved in wood. It is amazingly intricate work and don’t miss to visit this temple.

We also went to Purangadh, it’s a nice spot but the sea is rocky and if you wish privacy go there else nothing much to see.Purangad

We reached Malvan; towards late in the evening and I tried to locate my friend of school days,

Rahul Pantwalawalkar. Going against the popular trend; Rahul had learnt Ayurvedic Medicine and settled in Malvan; leaving behind is big home at Dadar- Hindu Colony; one of the most prime and popular localities of Mumbai(people who are from Mumbai can appreciate magnitude of this change). I had no clue as to where he stays and I decided to speak to Chemists as they would most likely know a Doctor. I found first chemist and he told me that his clinic is at the other end of the town; but also told me not to worry and keep asking direction for Dr Pantwalawalkar’s clinic; which everybody would know. I was skeptical, but to my surprise everybody knew it. I amazed by his popularity.
I reached clinic and filled the slip; which is given to every patient and waited in the queue. I entered his room and he asked “yes, what is the problem?” I looked at him and smiled and he stared back at my face for few moments; and screamed “arey, you Kishor!” after so long time. We hugged each other spoke for few minutes and then again I waited again outside for him to complete his work.


We then chatted for till late in the night, he is one of the most popular doctors in the town. Meeting him is a pleasure as he radiates tremendous energy(he even speaks too fast).
I had visited Malvan before and stayed at Tarkarli, one of the most popular beaches of Malvan. However, Rahul told me that I should try Chivala Beach this time. We went to Chivala beach and stayed with Prof. Prasanna Mayekar. By the time we reached it was dark, I could see the waves hitting the beach in front of his home and could hear roar of the sea.

We went out for dinner and came back and slept. The next day morning we got up at 5.30 a.m. and decided to go on the beach for a stroll, as soon as I stepped out; what I saw was one of the most beautiful scenes in front of my eyes.

The beach was not more than 50 mtrs from our room, it was a 2 km long stretch of the sand, in form of an arch; with not more than 10 fishermen. I had stayed at Tarkarli before; but this was something very different. We were staying at 15 minutes walk from heart of Malvan town and still the beach was so secluded and private. Only seasoned travelers know about this beach; the rest go to Tarkarli.

Chivala Beach

If you are a family and wish to avoid crowd, especially if women of the family want privacy while

going in the sea; then this is the most recommended beach. If you are a honeymoon couple; then lso this is the most recommended place. Entire stretch of 2 km is at your disposal with white sand and clear water and absolutely no human beings making it as good as your private beach. Do stay at Mr Mayekar’s or Mr Ram Patil’s place they are right on the beach
We moved to Sindhudurg fort after breakfast. It is an amazing fort in the middle of the sea. Rocky surroundings make it difficult for enemy boats to reach giving added protection to the fort.
This is among the last of the big forts in the chain almost 65 forts (small and big- ranging from North to South) that Chhatrapati Shivaji built along the coast of Maharashtra. The fort sprawling over 45 acres was built in record time of 3 years (1664 to 1667).

There are 42 bastions to the fort along the boundary wall. The wall is built with Mixture of jaggery, lime, udad dal(lentils) and molten lead. It is so strong that after facing strong waves for centuries they are still intact. There are three sweet water wellss namely Dhudhbaon, Dahibaon and Sakharbaon (baon means “well” in Konkani the native lanugage). Besides there are temples of Bhawani, Mahadev(Shiva), Mahapurush and Shivarajeshwar. Shivarajeshwar, is temple of Shivaji, built by his son Rajaram. This is also the only fort where palm and foot print of Shivaji, taken in lime mortar are preserved. These were taken when he came to visit the fort after its completion.
In front of the Mahadev temple is a small well and apparently there is a secret tunnel from inside the well(local legent). This tunnel goes few Kilometers under the sea and comes out on land. It was used as escape route, in times of trouble. But where exactly it leads; is not known as excavation is yet to be done.
This fort again shows foresight of Shivaji; who had predicted that enemy will not only come from land but also from sea and hence building forts is necessary. Given the fact that, later British used the same route speaks of this wisdom.
Our guide told us very interesting story about construction of the fort. While this fort was being constructed, Shivaji had to go Agra to meet Aurangzeb who put him under house arrest. The reins of kingdom were with his mother in his absence. But obvious in such situation; money was falling short and his mother Jijabai gave token currency to workers with a promise that once Shivaji is back, everybody would be paid. Later the money was paid. But the saying came that “ye killa(fort) Kavadiyon ke Mole mein bana hai”

We came back and had lunch. We then moved on to see the surrounding area. We went northwards on coastal road to Aachare and then to Kunakeshwar.

There are some very interesting places on the way; which not many tourists know about. Once you leave Malvan at approx 5 km is Ozar. Don’t miss to spend time at Brahmanand Swami Samadhi here. It’s a small valley with a fresh water pond, a cave where swami stayed and some very old trees. The environment is blessed with absolute tranquility and is prefect for meditation.

We spend some time over there and then moved on to Aachare to see Rameshwar Temple. It’s more than 600 year old temple of Shiva with wooden pillars and ceiling. The pillars are big and carving is delicate. The pillars are painted and hence at first glance you don’t really understand that they appear to be cement or stone ones. We spent some time in the temple; speaking to the priest. He was delighted to know that we are travelers and not tourists. Even, he was fond of travelling and just few months back he had come back from Kashmir. The beach at Aachare is nice and secluded so if you are want to read/write a book or generally ponder on life then this is a recommended place.

We then moved on to Kunakeshwar. The temple here is famous and was undergoing renovation. The town is like any other temple town; with crowded roads, lot of noise and dirt. I personally did not like this place much. It was already dark and we did not spend much time there. We started journey back to Malvan.

The next day we got up and went on a stroll on the beach. We then met people from the town who are running Homestays. Ghar Mithbawakaranche is the oldest operator here and is famous for food. They chatted with us for some time. We then went on to meet Balu Padwal of Visava. Later we met Mr Khanvilakar of Ya-hoo hometel and many others. Their stories are worth reading. They are mentioned here and I urge you to read on; as it not only the Beach and sea that make a place interesting but tourism is about people and knowing their stories; is to know real India.
MTDC started effort of marketing Tarkarli with setting up a resort. At that time there was nothing in that town. Mr Mithbavkar, a locale from the village started as canteen contractor. MTDC resort became famous for two reasons one its location and second its food. Mithbavkar operated the canteen till 2007 but in 2008 the property was privatized and his contract was discontinued; it is also suspected that there was political interference in the deal. Thus, the man who helped develop tourism and is a local lost his job and somebody outsider got it courtesy government body which was supposed to protect them. He is now operating his homestay and the food is still a big hit.
Balu, is absolutely forthcoming and blunt; which is why I liked him. If you go to Malvan make it

a point to meet him. He started his life with selling Jambhul(Jamun) in a crate in front of MTDC resort gate. He started interacting with tourists and came to know that they need somebody as guide. He then started working as guide to them. This made him understand tourist psyche and preferences. From little money he had; he then started a homestay. He has now bought a boat and he plans to start backwater cruise(what a dream for guy who is not trained by anybody).
Mr. Khanvilkar was working working at Mumbai. There was lock-out in his company; he went back to Malvan to start a homestay as means of livelihood. He knew benefit of getting organized and hence formed association of homestay operators. They regularly meet and learn from each other.
Homestays are thus symbols of grit, survival instinct, innovation and commitment. It is better to support their dream of the future; than to throw money at some resort and buy luxury; raw material to which is cheap labour of locals, exploitation by people in power and dirty capital.
We spent evening on Tarkarli beach with plans to start for Vengurla in the morning…..

article sources by :- Travelling in India

For more information visit :- http://www.travelthemes.in/