Yercaud

The resort town of Yercaud is a lake surrounded by a forest. Located at the centre of the town, the beautiful Yercaud Lake shimmers in the midst of forests of teak, sandalwood and silver oak; expansive plantations of coffee, cardamom and black pepper; and orchards of oranges, guava, and jackfruit. Meandering boats stir the lake to life and the aroma of hot chilli bhajjis (giant green chillies fried in gram flour) and steaming masala (spiced) tea cuts through the cool air.

Situated 4,700 feet above sea level in the Servarayan Hills of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a quiet hill station with largely undisturbed natural beauty. There are no malls or entertainment arcades. Shopping involves fresh horticultural produce and most of the activity is centred on nature via trekking, camping, boating and dirt biking.

Yercaud is famous for its coffee plantations and orange groves. However, one stumbles upon a thrilling diversity of flora and fauna during trips around town. The orchidarium run by the Botanical Survey of India nurtures 35,000 sets of orchids, including 249 rare and endangered species. There is also a rose garden with delightful varieties of the flower. At the silk farm, you can see the fascinating process of silkworms being fed on mulberry leaves and their cocoons turned into silk threads.

You get a mesmerising view as night falls and the city of Salem lights up at the foot of the hills. For a moment, it looks like there’s a glittering sheet of stars both above and below.

Monsoon - The season of rainbows and raindrops keeps it date with Kerala

Monsoon in Kerala is one of the most beautiful times. The cool air, wind and the deluge!  Welcome to a time of rejoicing and renewal. Monsoon is such a phenomenon so invigorating and exalting that it has inspired artists for centuries.

May be it has something to do with charged  particles in the air, may be it is because the fragrance of flowers...The arrival of the monsoon itself is quite magnificent. It comes towards you like an orchestra and, not surprisingly, has inspired some of our loveliest music, ragas which evoke distant thunder and falling rain.

 

Watch how the monsoon bursts lead to streams and rivers all around you.  The season is certainly not to be wasted indoors. The very special season of the year, Monsoon brings everything to you fresh. The washed streets and the fresh leaves seem to smile with you. Monsoons is certainly not getting all packed in rain coats, Monsoons are fun time. Getting wet, splashing and swimming or wading through knee deep waters, sailing paper boats are some little deeds you may indulge in.

You may try out an Ayurveda vacation in the monsoons too. The best way to rejuvenate your soul and replenish your body, Ayurvedic is a great option for monsoons. Monsoon is a season for rejuvenation, when the people take special diet and ayurvedic therapies for rejuvenation and longevity. According to Ayurveda, monsoon is an ideal season to take treatments for various diseases.

Travel with us to enjoy the burst and swell of the rains. As the Monsoon approaches, you begin to feel elated, even slightly intoxicated. Welcome to Kerala -Where the rain is born!

 

Contact Manoj on manoj@bumblebeeholidays.com or+918147087770 for assistance.

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Valparai - Nature at it's best !

Valparai is a popular hill station with lush green tea estates, reservoirs and dams under the Parambikulam – Aliyar Project, is located 65 km from Pollachi and 105 km from Coimbatore. It has rich flora and fauna and is known for its salubrious climate. Unlike Ooty and Kodaikanal that are highly congested with tourist population, Valparai is altogether a different world. Tropical evergreen forests on a sprawling 995 sq. km. and 56 major tea plantations that constitute the backbone of Valparai’s economy make this place unique.

Valparai is the rainiest place of the Tamilnadu state during Southwest monsoon season.

Location:

Valparai is about 64 km from Pollachi and 104 km from Coimbatore.

 

Located in the Anamalai Range of the Western Ghats at 3,500 feet above mean sea level, the forests here is the home for some of the rarest species of flora and fauna. Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park, Parambikulam Tiger Reserve and the Vazhachal reserve forests surround Valparai, thus making it a haven to sight wildlife of all kinds. Elephants are common in the periphery town while other animals like Wild Gaurs (Indian Bison), Leopards, endangered Lion Tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, Langur Monkey, Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel, and rare birds like Great Indian Hornbill, Fairy Blue bird and the Malabar song thrush can be found here.

 

Quick Facts:

• Altitude: 3,500 feet
• Weather: 0ºC to 30ºC
• Annual rainfall: 350 – 500 cm
• Languages spoken: Tamil, Malayalam & Basic English

The Scenic drive:

 

Getting to Valparai from Pollachi is a scenic drive as the route is laced with several stunningly beautiful spots. Dams, Waterfalls, Valleys and Temples provide a visual treat for the tourists. It is a paradise for Botanists, Zoologists, Ornithologists, Environmentalists and casual visitors. You can have fun with activities like Trekking, Night Safari, Wildlife/Nature photography or just by relaxing in an estate bungalow.

 

Accommodation

 

Valparai is just a small town with very limited food and accommodation options. Please contact Manoj on +918147087770  or manoj@bumblebeeholidays.com for assistance.

 

 

Hotels

 

There are only a couple of decent hotels that meet the requirements of tourists. Please contact Manoj on +918147087770  or manoj@bumblebeeholidays.com for assistance.

 

Cottages

Cottages stays are becoming common in Valparai. Lot of residential homes are being rented out on a daily basis. Some of them offer excellent view of the tea estates.

Plantation Bungalows

Those who are interested in staying within the estates can consider plantation bungalows. Though they are more expensive than a hotel room or cottage, the experience is unforgettable and must be tried at least once in your lifetime. These British built ancient bungalows are located in the middle of several acre tea plantations and offers luxurious accommodation. As there are very few plantation bungalows in Valparai, early booking is advisable.

 

Food

Non-Vegetarian

Valparai town has got few decent restaurants and several roadside fast food centers offering cheap and yummy non-vegetarian food.

Pure Vegetarian

It will not be a problem for vegetarians who are not worried about having food in a place that also serves non-Veg meals.

However, pure vegetarians may find difficulties because there is only one pure-Veg mess in Valparai town, which is run by an elderly couple. Still if you are not satisfied, there are lots of bakeries in town.

Home Cooked Food

Each and every plantation bungalow has got a caretaker who will also be your cook during your stay. Both Veg and non-Veg meals will be prepared and served on request.

Places to See:

 

Nallamudi Poonjolai Viewpoint is 15 km from Valparai and is located in one of the private Tea estates, Nallamudi estate.  One must walk for about 1 km inside this estate to reach this viewpoint. On your way, you may see fresh elephant dung, Pugmarks & droppings of Leopards and Bears that visit here regularly at nights.

Nallamudi Poonjolai offers an excellent view of Anaimudi peak (the tallest peak in south India located in Rajamalai National Park near Munnar), several waterfalls, tribal settlements and a valley that is over 1000 feet deep.

Sholayar Dam – 25 km

Sholayar Dam is located 25 km from Valparai town, on the way to Chalakudi. It is one of the longest dams and the second deepest dam in Asia with a depth of 160 feet. Parambikulam reservoir receives water from Sholayar. Athirapally Falls is about 60 km from Sholayar.

Sholayar Dam 1

Sholayar Dam 2

Chinnakallar (Lawson) Falls – 13 km

Chinnakallar falls is located 13 km from Valparai and it falls only behind Cherrapunji in recording the most rainfall received in India. One must drive and then walk through deep forest to visit this place. Wild animals including leopards and wild elephants inhabit this place after 5 p.m.

Balaji Temple – 12 km

Balaji Temple is situated at a distance of 12 km from Valparai town and is owned by Peria Karamalai Tea & Produce Co. Ltd. This temple is covered by mist most of the time and experiences much more cooler weather than the rest of Valparai, due to high-altitude. Poojas are performed regularly, similar to that of Tirupati lord Venkateswara temple. It would be a great experience to sit on the temple’s marble floor, feel 360° of chillness and the silence of nature. A children’s park and a garden are also located adjacent to the temple. This is a must visit place in Valparai.

Vehicles are not allowed near the temple’s entrance and visitors must walk uphill for about 500 m through the narrow estate road. This road offers stunning views of tea estates that are frequented by Elephants and Gaurs (Indian Bisons) at nights. The temple is highly protected with barbed wire and uniformed estate men. Use of mobile phones and photographic equipments are strictly prohibited.

 

 

 

 

Siddhi Vinayagar Temple – 3 km

Siddhi Vinayagar Temple is located 3 km from Valparai and is owned by Jayashree Tea Industries. The deity is carved out of a single piece of white marble.

Lower Neerar Dam – 14 km

Number Rock (Vagamalai) – 15 km

Koolangal River – 4 km

Other Places along Pollachi – Valparai Road

• Aliyar Dam
• Monkey Falls
• Loam’s View Point (9th hairpin bend),
• Tiger Valley (27th hairpin bend)
• Poonachi Falls
• Carver Marsh View Point

Other places that require prior permission from the Forest Department

• Valparai Grass Hills
• Manamboli Powerhouse and Watch Tower
• Kadamparai Dam and Powerhouse
• Upper Aliyar Dam
• Meenparai

Details

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Nallamudi Poonjolai Valley View – 15 km

Munroe Island, Ecstatic South India _ Kerala

If you want to feel the natural beauty of South India, Munroe Island of Kerala can obviously become the best spot to enjoy that. Visiting the island for the very first time one can easily fall in love with this place. Named after the British resident Colonel John Munroe, Munroe Island has the most exciting back water surrounding, to offer you a splendid holiday experience amidst the grandeur of nature.Kerala,popularly known as ‘God’s own Country’ is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world.Also the backwaters in Kerala is famous for its natural beauty, greenery,Ayurveda and mouth watering dishes.

History

Munroe Island is the combination of eight tiny islands situated in Kollam District, Kerala. During the year 1800 and onwards when British supremacy in South India was gradually increasing, they decided to settle in Munroe Island, as a part of ruling the South India comfortably.

Natural Surrounding and main attractions

Situated at a distance of 25 km from Kollam by road, Munroe Island is formed by the backwaters of Ashtamudi Lake and Kallada River. And one can easily reach this island through rail, road and inland water transportation system. As we all know South India is famous for providing back water experience and eco tourism, Munroe Island is also no exception. In addition to that this Island can give you the opportunity to watch Coir retting process, Coir Weaving, Fishing, and Prawns Feeding done by the dwellers of the island and also to watch various Migratory Birds, Narrow canals and attractive water ways, Coconut farms on the lake shore, Lagoons, Kandal plants and the beautiful Tiny Islands of PATHUPARA (2 acres i.e. 8,100 m2of land surrounded by Kallada river) and others.

How to Get there

The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport,which is well connected  globally.Munroe Island is 71 km by road from Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) air port.Kollam Railway station is the nearest famous railway station and is connected to all parts of India. Munroe Island  is situated at a distance of 25 km from Kollam by road.So anytime after reaching  Thiruvananthapuram or Kollam you can take a taxi and reach the scenic backwaters of Kollam.

 

 

Lodging facility

Home-stays are the most attractive stay facilities.House boats are also available which will take you for a one day trip including one night in the serene backwaters In the islands of PATHUPARA, house available for staying. Visitors can stay there as many days as they wish. The calm and quiet atmosphere of the entire island is ideal for any kind of tourist and especially for the writers and composers. You can also become a part of it.

More Details

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Andaman & Nicobar - Emerald Islands !

A bird's eye view shows this cluster of 350 small and large island as small, green speaks staggered on the vast blue waters. Situated midway between India and Burma, in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were at one time inhabited by various tribes which strongly resisted any efforts at civilization. some of these tribes are perhaps among the oldest tribal communities in the world, and tourists are prohibited from establishing contact with them. Owing to prolonged isolation they are somewhat hostile and are also under the danger of catching infection from outsiders.

 

 

 

Indian legend traces the name Andaman to a derivation of Hanuman or Hanuman the Monkey God of the epic Ramayana, who is said to have used these islands as stepping stones on his way to Sri Lanka, to save Goddess Sita, consort of Lord Rama.

 

 

 

Modern history perhaps dates to 1789 when Lord Cornwallis, the British Governor -General commissioned a survey of the islands.

 

 

 

Later, after the First War of Independence in 1857 the British established a penal colony here and Andamans and Port Blair, the capital, came to be a dreaded word. For, known as 'Kala Pani' of 'Black Water', the city was the site of the Cellular Jail - a panel colony where political prisoners were banished, perhaps never to be seen again.

 

 

 

During world War II, the Japanese occupied the Islands and held them from 1944-1945. The Andamans today present a totally different picture. Some tribes have opened up, and the British rule is no more. The islands are now fast becoming an attractive holiday destination-for the anthropologist and the beach lover.

 

 

 

The Islands are a living museum of planet earth. Dense rain forests, and canopies of luxuriant green branches host a variety of birds, insects, and all kind of life. There are beautiful tropical flowers and orchids. The jungles shelter about 242 species of birds, 46 species of mammals and 78 species of reptiles comprising the wild cat, iguana, green lizards, deer, wild pig, goats and a wide variety of snakes.

 

 

 

The water are clear and beautiful, and the beaches at Corbyn's Cove, Wandoor, Jolly Boy and Cinque offer an excellent sea for swimming. Numerous other beaches are open to holidayers out to enjoy water sports. Tourists can surf, ski, scuba dive, snorkel, sail, fish or just enjoy the sea, the sun and the sand. For the more adventurous, deep-sea diving unfolds precious treasures of corals, vegetation, sponges and fish life.

 

Climate : Summer (March to June) - Warm Monsoon (July to August) - Warm and Humid Winter(November to February)- Chilly to Very Cold

 

Clothing : Summer - Cottons Winter - Woollens

 

Languages spoken : Indigenous languages, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali & English.

 

Best Time to visit : October to April

 

For travel contact us at : info@bumblebeeholidays.com

 

Website : www.bumblebeeholidays.com

Mysore Dasara

Mysore Dasara , the state festival (Nadahabba) of Karnataka,India is celebrated for 10 days. Dasara or Vijayadashami, the last day of Navaratri is a jubilant festival to mark the conclusion of Mysore Dasara festival. Mysore Dasara 2010 starts on October 8th and ends on October 17th. In 2010, it marks the 400th year of celebrations. Mysore Chamundeshwari Temple is one of the Astadasha Shakti peetham (18 popular Shakti temples). Da...sara celebrations in Mysore were started by the Vijayanagar Kings the 15th Century. The Wodeyar’s of Mysore continued the Dasara festival in 1610 at Srirangapatna.

The procession of elephants (Ambari), exhibitions of handicrafts and artifacts, air show, wrestling competitions, Jambu Savari, Food mela, etc are the most popular events and celebrations of Mysore Dasara. This festival culminates on Vijayadashami at Bannimantapa with Banni tree puja (botanical name of Banni Tree – Prosopis spicigera).

For customised tour solutions visit www.bumblebeeholidays.com

Silent Valley National Park

Location: 40 km from Mannarkkad, Palakkad district, North Kerala.

Attractions: Extremely fragile, a unique preserve of tropical evergreen rain forests lying above the equator and the forest strip which causes the summer rains in Kerala.

 

The Silent Valley National Park with an area of 90 sq km is located in the Northeastern corner of Palakkad district. It rises abruptly to the Nilgiri Plateau in the North and overlooks the plains of Mannarkkad in the South.

The core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is the Silent Valley National Park. Despite its name, the Silent Valley (the clamour of Cicadas is conspicuously absent here) echoes with the sounds of teeming wildlife. The denizens of this sprawling habitat of endangered virgin tropical forests include rare birds, deer and tiger.

Perhaps, nowhere else can one find such a representative collection of peninsular mammals, over a 100 species of butterflies and 400 species of moths and other fauna like the Ceylon Frogmouth, Great Indian Hornbill, the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush and the Lion-tailed Macaque.

The River Kunthi descends from the Nilgiri hills, from an altitude of 2000 m above sea level, and traverses the entire length of the valley and rushes down to the plains through the deep forest. The River Kunthi never turns brown and is always crystal clear, perennial and wild.

The evapo-transpiration from these forests is much higher than from any other surface. This cools the atmosphere, helps easy condensation of water vapour and thus causes the summer rains. Visit Bumblebee Holidays

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Palakkad, about 80 km.

Nearest airport: Coimbatore (in neighbouring Tamilnadu State), about 55 km.

 

For more info on custom tours reach us at info@bumblebeeholidays.com

Entrance of Silent Valley National Park

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Mussorie - Queen of hills

Mussoorie is distinctively known as the queen of hills, because of its out of the world splendor. One of the major tourist destinations in Uttrakhand, Mussoorie not only boasts of the picturesque views of the Himalayas and the Doon valley but it also showcases some of the rarest flora and fauna of the country. Standing magnificently among the foot hills of the Himalayas, this hill adorns the edge of the Garhwal Himalayas. With River Ganga on one end and River Yamuna on the other, Mussoorie stretches up to 12 miles in length.

 

 

 

 

 

Mussoorie is an essential part of Uttrakhand tourism. Apart from its own charismatic beauty, Mussoorie boasts of stupendous visions of the Himalayan ranges covered with snow and the charming views of the Doon valley and Haridwar. The irregular shapes of the hills clad in a cloak of green flora and white mist take you to a fairyland. The peaks of Chakhamba, Shrikantha, Banderpoonch and the Gangotri look beautiful from here and form some of the major tourist attractions in Mussoorie.

 

 

 

 

 

Some of the other tourist sites in Mussoorie include the Camel back road, Gunhill, the town Mall, the Bhadraj Temple, Children’s lodge and the Municipal garden. The place is home to many water falls namely Kempty falls, Bhatta falls, Mossey falls and Jharipani falls.

 

 

 

 

Traveling to Mussoorie is pretty convenient as it is well placed and well connected. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun. The closest railway station is also in Dehradun. There are many trains plying to and fro Haridwar and Rishikesh as well. Mussoorie is connected through proper roadways to all major towns and cities of Uttaranchal, Delhi, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

 

 

 

 

Being a major tourist site, Mussoorie provides world class accommodation options to the tourists. There are a number of hotels in Mussoorie. You have the options of 5 star, 3 star, budget hotels as well as lodges and inns to choose from. Generally, all major tour packages of Mussoorie include accommodation facilities.

 

 

 

 

 

Mussoorie has many stories to tell. Every road, every lane has places and edifices which have their own stories. The Lal tibba, the Mussoorie library, the Landour Bazaar and Gunhill, each of them has their own history. Unlike Shimla, Mussoorie was never considered the summer capital. It has always remained informal with a tradition of romance in the air.  Visit Bumblebee Holidays 

 

 

 

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Overview

The travelling is always taxing on your body, though you forget everything once you reach your destination. The picture changes drastically once you reach the top as the sudden rushing sound of the cascading waterfall makes you feel that the water has begun to fall only now. Though the fact is that the waters have maintained this suddenness for a long time and they are still persevering. The Athirapally waterfalls are 80 feet high which start at the high ranges calmly and come crashing down through the gorges.

 

There is a rocky road that moves around the mountain providing you with a magnificent view of the Athirapally waterfalls. Visiting the Athirapally waterfalls in September is a good idea as the waterfalls are in full force just after the monsoons.

 

The Landscape

As you move nearer through the beautifully landscaped road to Athirapally, you can enjoy the views of Arecanut Palms on one side and the Chalakudy river on the other side. First the river seems winding and then it crashes down suddenly, white with challenge. Only after a short distance, the river is back to its normal self again. Trekking is a wonderful way to explore the nearby areas, especially if you do it along the banks of the Chalakudy river.

The waterfall is located at a height in the Sholayar forest ranges and is very near to the Valparai which is a popular hill station.

 

The Surroundings

There are some vendors here who sell jute hats and plastic flowers, they definitely make the place more tourist friendly. The presence of the waterfall is unmistakable everywhere in Athirapally as it is present either in the form of a painting or a topic of conversation.

 

Nearby Attractions

 

Valparai

It is a hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. The elephant density of the place is among the highest in India.

 

Vazhachal Waterfalls

It is a picturesque waterfall as well as a popular picnic spot located on the periphery of the Sholayar forest range in Kerala. This waterfall is also a part of the Chalakkudy river.

 

Anakkayam

The place is about 20 km away from the Chalakudy and is known for a lake with calm and soothing waters. So far Anakkayam has remained untouched by human encroachment therefore has a pristine beauty that never fails to captivate the tourists.

 

How to Reach?

After you reach the Cochin International Airport or the Cochin Railway Station, you'll have to drive for 55 km to reach the Athirapally waterfalls. From Cochin you'll have to drive on NH 47 and then turn right from the Chalakudy Junction, which is the nearest railhead. The city of Thrissur is at the distance of about 63 km from the Athirapally waterfalls. You are allowed to visit the waterfall only between 8 am and 6 pm.

 

Excited ? Write to us at info@bumblebeeholidays.com

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RAMADAN

Idul-Fitr, of late known by the misnomer 'Ramadan' is one of the two festivals of Islam. Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar year.

During this month the Muslims observe fast, giving up all kinds of food and drink during day time, and spend the major part of the night in devotion and prayer. Purification of the body and soul is the main aim of this observance. When the crescent appears on the western horizon heralding the end of the month of fasting, it marks the beginning of the Idul-Fitr festival. Because this festival is connected with the month of Ramadan, it came to be known as 'Ramadan'. The Idul-Fitr festival starts with the commencement of the first day of the month of 'Shawwal'.

The first item of the celebration is distribution of food materials to the poor and the deserving. Any person who holds food in excess of the day's need must necessarily make his contribution in accordance with the scales prescribed by Islam. Muslims all over the world celebrate this festival with great éclat and in gratitude to God.

In the morning men, women and children cleanse their bodies, put on the best attire and proceed to the mosque or the Id-Gah. The assembled Muslims gathering then offers the congregational prayer led by the Imam. After the prayers the Imam delivers the sermon pointing out the extreme importance of the occasion. Returning home after the ceremonial functions, they visit friends and relatives. Some make it a point to visit the graves of close relatives, on this day. In certain parts of Kerala, for instance Chavakkad, Muslim women, dressed in their best clothes and wearing jewelery, celebrate this occasion by paying visits to neighbors and engaging in entertainments. The women org anise themselves into groups and spend the time in singing and dancing.

Recently in certain parts of Kerala new practices is connection with the celebration of this festival have been introduced. One of the novel features of the Id celebration is to invite members of the sister communities to participate in such function.

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations

Ganesh Chaturthi is a spectacular festival, honoring the birth of Lord Ganesha. It is celebrated all over India, but the maximum grandeur is witnessed at Maharashtra. This festival witnesses various cultural events, which bring the public together and enhance the sense of belongingness and togetherness. The celebration ends with the immersion of the Lord Ganesha's idol into the water. Huge processions of people carry the idol to a river, lake or ocean, accompanied by the chant of Ganapati Bappa Morya. Ganesh Chaturthi is the significant festival of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Celebrations in Maharashtra

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in almost each and every household of Maharashtra, with great faith and belief, for around ten days. The celebrations take place at both individual and community level. Huge pandals are set up and the idol of Ganesha is worshipped by the entire community together, with pomp and show. The celebrations begin with the installation of a Lord Ganesha idol in home, which is worshipped daily by the family members as well as their friends, relatives and even neighbors, who come to have darshan of the Lord. Various cultural events are also organized during these ten days. The celebration ends on the tenth day, when all the people go to the river or sea, to immerse the idol.

Celebrations in Karnataka

In Karnataka, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with prayers offered to Gauri, the mother of Lord Ganesh. The married women pray to Goddess Gauri, to get blessings ofeir long lasting married life. It is celebrated in different temples of Lord Ganesh, where prayers are offered to the Lord and Gauri. In Karnataka, Ganesh Chaturthi is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and is counted amongst the popularly celebrated festivals.

Celebrations in Gujarat

In Ahmedabad, the capital city of Gujarat, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great pomp and show. Offerings are made to Lord Ganesh at numerous temples. Elaborate arrangements are made for lighting and decoration and Ganeshji is fervently worshipped for about 7-10 days. On the day of the Chaturthi, i.e. the last of the ten days dedicated to God, idols are immersed at river Sabarmati and Kankaria Lake. Firecrackers are let off and huge images of Ganeshji are carried in grand procession for 'Ganesh Visarjan' (immersion), accompanied by the sound of devotional songs and drums.

Celebrations in Rajasthan

In Rajasthan, on Ganesh Chaturthi, an image of Ganesh is bathed in red kumkum and a garland of red flowers is put on the idol, placed by many households right outside their entrance. A small thaal, with haldi and kumkum, is also placed at the entrance, so that the visiting people take a pinch of each and put it on their foreheads and throat. Ladoos are usually kept in the house, to be first offered to Ganeshji and then distributed as prasad to the devotees.

Kerala Tourism

Kerala Tourism

Kerala or Keralam (Malayalam: കേരളം?; Kēraḷam) is a state in south-western India. It was created on 1 November 1956, with the passing of the States Reorganization Act bringing together the areas where Malayalam is the dominant language. The state has an area of 38,863 ...km2 and is bordered by Karnataka to the north, Tamil Nadu to the south and the east and the Arabian sea towards the west. Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala. Kochi and Kozhikode are other major cities. A 3rd-century-BC rock i

nscription by emperor Asoka the Great attests to a Keralaputra.[3] Around 1 BC the region was ruled by the Chera Dynasty, which traded with the Greeks, Romans and Arabs. The Tamil Chera dynasty, Ays and the Pandyan Empire were the traditional rulers of Kerala whose patriarchal dynasties ruled until the 14th century.[4][5] The Chera Kingdom were Patriarchal in descendency. The Cheras collapsed after repeated attacks from the neighboring Chola and Rashtrakuta kingdoms. Feudal Namboothiri Brahmin and Nair city-states subsequently gained control of the region.[6] Kolla Varsham or Malayalam Era, which is assumed to have been established by King Udaya Marthanda Varma in 825 AD, serves as the official calendar of Kerala.[7] Early contact with Europeans gave way to struggles between colonial and native interests. After independence, the state of Kerala was created in 1956 from the former state of Travancore-Cochin, the Malabar district of Madras State, and the Kasaragod taluk of Dakshina Kannada.[8] Kerala is a popular tourist destination famous for its backwaters, Ayurvedic treatments [9] and tropical greenery. Kerala has a higher Human Development Index than all other states in India.[10][11] The state has a literacy rate of 91 percent,[2] the highest in India. A survey conducted in 2005 by Transparency International ranked Kerala as the least corrupt state in the country.[12] Kerala has witnessed significant migration of its people, especially to the Persian Gulf countries, starting with the Kerala Gulf boom, and is uniquely dependent on remittances from its large Malayali expatriate community .Bumblebee Holidays

Athirapally Waterfalls

The Athirappilly Falls are situated on the Chalakudy River, which originates in the upper reaches of the Western Ghats. Many endangered and endemic species of flora and founa are found in the forests of the Athirapilly-Vazhachal area. This area is the only place in the Western Ghats where four endangered Hornbill species are seen. The Western Ghats is one of the most important biodiversity hot spot in the world

 

A tranquil and much needed escape from the troubles and stress of life. Let the soothing sounds take you to some of natures most relaxing places - the beautiful waterfalls of Athirampally and Vazhachal The charm of the Athirampally and Vazhachal nature cannot be described by words, Starting calmly from the high ranges, and crashing through gorges overhung with trees, this waterfall is one of the best places in India to re-capture a real sense of the classical idea of the 'Picturesque' - not just calm and sweet, but something wild and natural.

 

Perched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala's famed rain forests, the waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. wild and beautiful, unspoilt by the passing of time.

Theyyam

Kerala has a vast repertoire of folk performing arts, folk songs and folk drama that showcase man’s overpowering rapport with nature and his constant desire for communication with the unknown.

Theyyam ,one of the most outstanding folk arts of Kerala has its origin in the northern parts of the state.The Oldest ritual art form,there are about 45 different Theyyams including the Agni Theyyam where the dancers walk on fire

Ambalapuzha Palpayasam

Relish a Heavenly dessert....Get to taste the delicious Ambalapuzha pal payasam(milk and rice pudding) famed all over India for its out of the world taste. Especially made for Lord Krishna, the reigning deity of Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, the secret of its unique flavour is in the slow cooking that stretches to almost seven hours .It is said that if this daily offering is late even a few minutes, the deity gets hungry that his mundu (cloth tied around the waist) loosens and falls to the ground.

Mayilattam

Mayilattam is an artistic and religious form of dance performed in the Temples of Kerala in reverence to Lord Subrahmanya.

Mayilattam performer wears costumes like Lord Subrahmanya travelling on his Peacock and performs specific dances. The performer dances not on his bare foot but on a tall piece of wood attached at the end of his feet. This art requires extensive training and practice

Breathtaking Munnar - A haven of peace and tranquility !

Location : Idukki, central Kerala. 

Altitude : 1600 - 2695 m above sea level. 

 

Munnar,a charming hill station covered with unending expanses of tea plantations, was the summer resort of most European settlers in Kerala for centuries. 

 

Anamudi, the highest mountain peak in south India towering at an altitude of 2695 m above sea level, is part of this hill station. Munnar is ribboned by winding lanes that snake through its tea plantations. 

 

Among the exotic flora found in the rich tropical forests and grasslands here is the Neelakkurinji (Strobilanthus) . This unique plant that blooms only once in twelve years paints the entire Munnar hillside blue. 

 

An assortment of wildlife such as the endangered mountain goat - Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, Sambar, 

Gaur and the Lion tailed Macaque are found in the tropical forests around Munnar. 

 

Munnar literally means three rivers and has three mountain streams - Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala - meeting at the heart of the town. 

 

There are a number of leisure and adventure activities awaiting tourists at Munnar. 

 

Tea garden Visits: Permission to visit any of the 26 factories of Tata tea Ltd. can be had from the Regional office, at Munnar. 

 

Trekking: Tourists are allowed to go on upto Anamudi. The permitting authority is the Wildlife Warden, Idukki Division, Painavu Tel: +91 - 4865 - 30487. 

 

Cycling: The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) Idukki, provides cycling facilities at Munnar. 

 

Getting there: Munnar is at a driving distance of nearly 142 km from Kottayam town. 

 

Nearest railway station : Kottayam about 142 km. 

 

Nearest airports : Cochin International Airport about 130 km away; Madurai in neighbouring Tamilnadu State, about 142 km away. 

Rain in Kerala

Kerala is blessed with plentiful rain, 54% to 85% of which is contributed by the monsoons. Monsoons bring to Kerala two rainy seasons-the southwest monsoon or the Edavappathi, bringing rains during June-September, and the north east monsoon or the Thulavarsham during October to December. 

 

Kerala is directly exposed to the southwest monsoon but also receives rain from the reverse (northeast) monsoon. Rainfall averages about 118 inches (3,000 millimetres) annually statewide, with some slopes receiving more than 200 inches. 

 

The north east monsoon season begins from the middle of October and lasts upto the end of February, though the rain associated with it ceases by December. The total annual rainfall in the state varies from 380 cms over the extreme northern parts to about 180 cms to the south. 

 

The amount of rainfall decreases towards the south almost in proportion with the decrease in altitude of the Western Ghats. July receives the maximum rainfall with all meterological centres recording about 25 rainy days. 

Coorg, The Scotland of India

252 kms from Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level lies Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or Kodagu (originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest on steep hill'. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.

Coorg is on the Western Ghats. Set amidst verdant valleys, imposing mountains and teak wood forests, this is one of the most beautiful hill stations you can visit. It lies on Karnataka's southwestern end, covering an area of 4,102 sq km.The river Cauvery originates here at Talacauvery and is worshipped by the locals.

Coorg is an ideal place for outdoor activities, food and shopping!

Trekking: Coorg has many verdant trekking routes in the midst of forests and hills, and it's best to go in the months from October to February. Some of the known trails are in the hills of Brahmagiri, where you could trek your way to the Irrupa Falls. You could also consider trekking to Pushpagiri, the second higest peak of Kodagu and Tadiandamol (the highest peak).

Golf: Avid golffers can tee off at the 9-hole course of Virajpet.

Angling: Valanoor is the backwater of the river Cauvery. It draws fishing lovers from all over India. You can try and catch the famous mahaseer and the best season is from October to May.

White Water Rafting: There are few good camps around Coorg that offer rafting down the Cauvery river. For some fast paced action, visit the Upper Barapole River to the south of Coorg in Brahmagiri. The best time for rafting is from mid-June to mid-September.

Food: Coorgi cuisine is famous and unique, especially for non-vegetarians as it is based on game meats, pork and other delicious ingredients. Popular dishes are pandhi (pork), koli (chicken) and yarchi (lamb) spiced with pepper, kokum, bamboo shoot, red chilly, bembla curry, kadumbuttu, noolputu, voti and excellent coffee.

Shopping: Some of the popular items to buy are coffee, honey, spices, cardamom, pepper, pineapple papads and oranges ( season). Coorgi silk saree are also very famous and they have a different style of wearing them. 

Fairs & Festivals: Schedule your visit to coincie with one of the colorful festivals of the region. The festivals of the Kodava community are largely around agriculture military activities. 

The 'Festival of Arms - Keilpoldu' is held in the months of June to September. During this festival the weapons are polished and worshipped before resuse.

Cauvery Shankaramana is based around the river Cauver is held in October. 

The harvest festival 'Puthar' is celebrated in November or December. The festival is accompanied by folks songs and dances, performed by the different villagers at their temples. 

 

Essentials

Getting There

Closest Airport: Bangalore (260 km), Mangalore (135 km)

Closest Railway Station: Mysore (146 km)

Road: The Mysore - Mangalore highway (NH48) passes through Kodagu. The district headquarters Madikeri (Mercara), is 260 km from Bangalore and 120 km from Mysore. The distance from Mangalore is 136 km and from Cannanore and Tellicherry, it is about 115 km. There are regular buses plying from these places to Madikeri.

 

Co-ordinates: 12.25 N, 75.44 E

 

Best Time To Visit: April to November