<div>I had been planning to visit Kasauli for a long. So one September night I decided to check out this quiet hill station in Himachal Pradesh’s Solan district. I took an early morning train to Kalka the next day. From here I boarded a toy train to a small station called Dharampur, which is at an elevation of around 1500 meters from sea level. One can feel the effect of cool mountain air here. From here I got into a bus for Kasauli. The bus, which was, bit smaller than the ones one sees in the plain was full of students from some local college - going back to their villages.<br></div><div><br></div><div>The ride was part bumpy, part smooth and part scary when on sharp hair-bend turns the driver continued at the same speed with ‘Bhangra Pop’ blaring from the creaky bus ‘stereo’.I knew Kasauli was nearing when the bus began groaning while negotiating steep winding roads. Then suddenly it stopped at a small bus stop. I got down and began my search for a reasonably priced-yet-good hotel. It was unlike other hill stations where one could spot hotels everywhere. This military town has escaped the ‘touristification’, thanks to the army. Traffic is regularised, with no vehicles allowed into the small market, which still has a cobbled path. The two main roads the little hill station has been called the Lower Mall and the Upper Mall. It’s just the name, no rows of shops here. Just half a dozen or so makeshift shops run by Tibetans selling jackets, woolens, T-shirts and other usual stuff one finds at such markets everywhere.</div><div><br></div><div>There were few picnickers sipping tea and coffee, as monkeys walked by or jumped from branch to branch on trees around, at a biggish grocery store-cum-restaurant, which had a lot of space in front of it for the visitors to sit.</div><div><br></div><div>After trying a couple of hotels I knew names of I finally settled for a guesthouse situated at the end of the road near old Kasauli overlooking the valley below. The owner proudly told me that when the sky is clear I could see Chandigarh from the terrace!</div><div><br></div><div>Around 5 PM Kasauli was enveloped by the monsoon mist. It was pretty beautiful sight watching mist trapped in pine trees. I rested for sometime before I got out again and just walked on the roads checking them out where did they lead. I resisted going full hog because it was getting dark and I was not sure where I would end up.</div><div><br></div><div>At night I did some journaling, watched some masala flicks on cable TV and finally fell asleep around midnight.</div><div><br></div><div>I got up around 6.30 am and went out to see how Kasauli looks in the morning. The sky was clear so I could get some views, which I could not in the evening. There was a chill in the air but it was soft and sweet.</div><div><br></div><div>After taking a hot bath, I decided to check out the Upper Mall, which, as my hotel manager claimed, provides the best views. It is on this road that all the important buildings are situated. This road has the highest elevation in Kasauli, gives you the best views on both sides. My ultimate destination was ‘Monkey Point’, which is a temple on another mountain. I was advised to take this road as far as Gilbert’s Trail (a nature walk) and then take a left turn from near a Litter Box. When the hotel manager told me about this box, I thought he was talking about some Letter Box because he said it was of old-style and one certainly did not think of Litter Box being there. When I saw many of them I realized he meant Litter Box. And, what Litter Boxes! A beautiful small hut type box, which did not at all, looked like it contained garbage. It is on the Upper Mall road that grand old man of letters Khuswant Singh has his summer hideaway. No wonder every summer he runs away from the scorching heat of Delhi to indulge in some serious writing.</div><div><br></div><div>After I reached the signboard of Gilbert’s Trail, I took left turn and the short path connected me to the Lower Mall road. From here turn right takes one to the gate of Air Force Station. One has to collect pass go up to the Monkey Point as it is under the Air Force control. If you have a camera and mobile phones, you will have to leave them behind before you enter the Air Force Station. A 20-minute walk will take you to the Monkey Point. A small temple dedicated to Hanumanji (Monkey God) is situated there. Also, you can view snow-capped mountains from here if the sky is clear.</div><div><br></div><div>If you are going by car, then you will have to take the Lower Mall road. But the best way is to walk taking the Upper Mall road and then joining the Lower Mall road. While coming back, walk on the Lower Mall road to see the other side. The rest of the day I spent relaxing in my room and contemplated about past, present, and future. In the evening I walked down to Mashobra (Different from the one near Shimla) where some mela and dangal (Fair and Wrestling) was taking place.</div><div><br></div><div>It was finally time to get back to the real world. I reached Dharampur railway station to catch the afternoon toy train coming from Shimla.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>How to Reach: </b>You can drive to Kasauli via Chandigarh and Kalka. Other option is to train. Kalka is well connected to Delhi and other cities.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Where to Stay:</b> Kasauli has a limited choice of hotels. It attracts a lot of tourists on Weekends, so it is advisable to book in advance.</div>

<div>Perhaps the best way to start a journey is without any expectations. That way, even if you find nothing at the end, you can say, “It was just what I expected.” There are no monuments, ancient temples or great waterways that can be explored. Kasauli is no doubt a walker’s town given its peaceful vistas and amazing shortcuts. Do carry along with water and some high energy snacks like chocolates on your rigorous walks.<br></div><div><br></div><div>In the old days when Kasauli was still the Kusowlie, the Britishers used to ride the high ridges of the region by tonga or by pony. Even before the mountains were carved up for constructing the roads, the officers used to trek the woody hills to get to the hub of the cantonment. It might take you a couple of days to get your hills feet, but once you get to reach the peak then there’s nothing better than to follow the footsteps of those who have the courage to stride, where no roads existed…the craggy, pugdundees lined with Kasauli’s glorious chestnut trees.</div><div><br></div><div>These walks are even more enthralling when the ancient chestnut trees are in full bloom during the months of April to June. The fragrance of pine flora pervades the air. Occasionally, wild animals like jackals, Hare and Red Hen can be seen across the trail. Also on a clear day one can enjoy the vistas of the snow-clad Dhauladhar Ranges and the Churi Chandni Peak. Kasauli is one such destination that offers solitude, picturesque environs and the opportunities for treks. It may well be described as an absolute paradise where the soul has limitless opportunities to gain that beyond description; something it keeps on longing after.</div>

<div>The land of the world-famous Sun Temple and the magnificent Chandrabhaga beach lures discerning tourists with another attraction. No points for guessing we are talking of the Konark Dance &amp; Music festival an annual feature at the Konark temple.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div>The festival, a brainchild of Guru Gangadhar Pradhan provides an ideal treat for the art connoisseurs as well as a platform to the well known as well as emerging artists to showcase their talents.</div><div><br></div><div>For three days, dancers, Gurus, vocalists, musicians, students, critics along general art lovers converge here to see, listen and interact with each other. People wait with eager anticipation for the evenings to unfold when the festival’s open-air stage would create a divine atmosphere.</div><div>The stage becomes a perfect setting for mesmerizing performances with stars twinkling, magnificent sculptures on the temple wall and huge trees all around. This year the festival promises to be the right mix of music and dance recitals. In the dance, section effort is made to incorporate classical, semi-classical and folk dance styles. So with Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi, you can also look forward to Manipuri, Chhau, Gotipua, and Rapa. You can look forward to feasting on some great dance exponents from around the globe. Kathak exponent Guru Gitanjali Lal, Manipuri dancer Baisali Basu Sarkar. Odissi dancer Jyoti Rout of USA, Mayurbhanj Chhau artiste Trilochan Mohanta is all expected to perform. The dance troupes include Kathak Kendra New Delhi, Chhau troupe from Baripada, Konark Natya Mandap, Sridevi Nrityalaya from Chennai, etc</div><div><br></div><div>In the musical section, the luminaries include flute maestro Hariprasad Chaurasia, Odissi vocalist Dhiraj Mohapatra, Sarod exponent Abhjit Ghose.</div><div>Konark Natya Mandap the organizers of the festival made a humble beginning in the year 1986, under Guru Gangadhar Pradhan, himself an acclaimed Odissi Dance Guru and Mardal player of international fame with the idea to promote the rich traditional Orissan cultural value and a vibrant Konark. The festival is organized in collaboration with Orissa Tourism Development Corporation and East Zonal Cultural Centre, Kolkata.</div><div><br></div><div>They're also good numbers of the budget, as well as luxury Hotels in Puri located near the temple, provides all the comforts and luxuries at best price tags. The travelers can also avail of Puri Tour Packages which include a stay at one of the finest hotels in puri, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

<div>A picture is worth a thousand words!!! And it is worth ten million words if it’s a wildlife photograph. Well, where else can you spot tigress protective of her kids, woodpecker at home, elephants in a jolly bath and all those extinct species, other than Corbett National Park? Imbued with widespread flora and fauna, the animals of the park hold a good scope for your camera. The role of photography in capturing rarest of the rare moments in the wild is incomparable; most of these memories can’t be recreated. While photography is universally essential, wildlife photography is tricky as well as scientific. Every effort on wildlife photography front needs sufficient care, as even a minor error may turn dearer.</div><div><br></div><div>The medium speed films are advantageous due to the quality of enlargement, one may use them with wide aperture lenses (up to 200mm), quite sufficient for most, purposes, but one should be aware of extremely shallow depth of field at wide apertures, even when the subject is at some distance, it is a handicap e.g. while photographing heard of Chital or Gaur, a short focal lens will inevitably result in foregrounds animals seeming to be twice at large than that behind, on correcting the fault with long focal lens, some animal will be out of focus due to shallow depth of field. Thus fast films that allow stopping down; the role of photography in capturing rarest of the rare moments in wild is incomparable, most of these memories are non-recreate able. While photography is universally essential wildlife photography is tricky as well as scientific. Every effort on wildlife photography front needs sufficient care, as even a minor error may turn dearer.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Some useful tips for wildlife photography are:-</b></div><div><br></div><div>A. ‘Shoot on a sight’ is the crux of wildlife photography as ‘one can’t recreate the moment which has passed through the eyes of the SLR’s lenses once.’</div><div><br></div><div>B.‘Patience’ is the name of game’, as it is far away from the studio situation, rarely one can find his object in the appropriate picture conditions, hence one has no control on his object, at any moment of time.</div><div><br></div><div>C. The local climate in the wild is unpredictable, as one may not find appropriate light or may encounter unmanageable shade. Any; the sophisticated camera may face hardships.</div><div><br></div><div>D. Maximization of exposures is essential, as any economy in this matter may turn dearer and cost heavily, as even a perfect click may not rescue one, exposure variations rarely come proximate to near perfection.</div><div><br></div><div>E. Reassure yourself, forget about, any risk to life, “pick up the cameras! Shoot on sight! The moment lives, the memory lives!; and the animal lives too”.</div><div><br></div><div>F. While moving in the boat, or on a motor vehicle or even on foot use of a tripod is out of the question, but often monopod, chest pod or some triangulated support can be used.</div><div><br></div><div>G. Even a minor shake may cause damages, hence one should be careful in handholding of long lenses without the least camera shake and consider high shutter speed, fats film, and lenses of modest focal lengths.</div><div><br></div><div>H. When photographing over a broadsheet of; water (Periyar) or in a low vegetation broad plain (Corbett Plains), exposure should be kept to a minimum.</div><div><br></div><div>I. In the wild one cannot choose the background but a little shift in camera may create an ideal background, but the cardinal principle is ‘time is precious’ but do not miss the opportunity to shoot the wildlife.</div><div><br></div><div>J. As the animal gets alarmed, even by the mere presence, prudence lies in shooting first and thinking afterward.</div><div><br></div><div>K. ‘Camera Shake’ is a common phenomenon as even a perfect holding of camera may not help, vibration of motor in Van/Jeep/Motor Boat or while on elephant ride (even when it get stopped by its mahout) diminishes chances of sharp picture, hence it is recommended that one should take as many pictures as one can be lavish in using films as at least one out of 4 frames will ensure good picture.</div><div><br></div><div>L.Early development of exposed film is recommended as humidity is quite damaging to both exposed and unexposed films, and one should not forget to keep films in air tins with some desiccated silica gel.</div><div><br></div><div>M.The medium speed films are advantageous due to quality of enlargement, one may use them with wide aperture lenses (up to 200mm), quite sufficient for most, purposes, but one should be aware of extremely shallow depth of field at wide apertures, even when the subject is at some distance, it is a handicap e.g. while photographing heard of Chital or Gaur, a short focal lens will inevitably result in foregrounds animals seeming to be twice at large than that behind, on correcting the fault with long focal lens, some animal will be out of focus due to shallow depth of field. Thus, fast films that allow stopping down; and stilling use a lens of the adequate focal length is the logical answer.</div><div><br></div><div>N. High shutter speed (1/1000) is best for flight pictures of birds and fast running animals, while shutter speed 1/250 will usually be safe with high-speed films to be used.</div><div><br></div><div>O. While shooting from a vehicle it is advisable to stop and switch off the engine, just to reassure shake-free pictures.</div><div><br></div><div>P. ‘Jungle trips’ are quite dust prone, even the cameras are not spared, and hence routine cleaning is recommended.</div><div><br></div><div>Q. To avoid frustration, one may carry a backup set of equipment to increase flexibility and ensure the availability of a functional camera under odd circumstances (failure of the regular one).</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>R. Those who can afford may use High-quality Lenses and video cameras with portable tripods for ideal results, ‘panning’ should be done in the direction of the movement of wildlife.</div><div><br></div><div>Thus wildlife photography is an absolute art in which one can learn best in field situations and continuous efforts ensure success. Still using a lens of the adequate focal length is the logical answer.</div>

<div><span style="font-weight: 700;">1- Lonavala</span><br></div><div><div>Lonavala a favorite attraction for the Mumbaikars attains its zenith during the rainy season when the other hill stations in Maharashtra are abandoned. Lonavala is at its best during the monsoon season as the whole countryside turns green, lakes and ponds brimming with water, myriad waterfalls gushing down ravines, mists enveloping the valley. it`s a heavenly out there.</div><div><br></div><div><span style="font-weight: 700;">2-Shillong</span></div><div>Shillong which receives heavy downpour during the monsoons is full of life. Though the rains here last longer than the other parts of India, but it is the time when Shillong is at is cleanest best. Cascading waterfalls, cheerful women, low lying clouds, soothing winds, and lush green forests greet you. Cherrapunji, once the wettest place on Earth is some 37 km ahead of Shillong is also worth a visit.</div><div><br></div></div><div><b>3-Munnar</b>&nbsp;</div><div>Munnar is around 600 km from Chennai and is the perfect destination to visit during the monsoons. When it rains Munnar`s beauty increases manifold and it gets cold even in the months of June, July. In spite of the rain, surprisingly the roads are not all that bad. There is an added charm in enjoying the mist and fog all around and visiting the soggy sightseeing points like Mattupetty and Kundale.</div><div><br></div><div><div><span style="font-weight: 700;">4-Matheran</span></div><div>A haven of naturalness, greenery and 100% pure air, entire Matheran is sliced out with striking scenes of nature’s paradisiacal beauty. Matheran spreads bountifully on 7.35 sq km of high altitude, 800 m above the sea level. The cleanest of al, Matheran owes much to its cardinal location, in close proximity to Mumbai and Pune. Overall, Matheran wears a distinguished title of India’s non-polluted hill home. The thick canopies of evergreen forests keep the hill station naturally cool. Long, cool walks under the shades of trees and scenic trails assure toxin-free air, rejuvenated mind, and a high spirit in Matheran. Although small in size, Matheran has 38 vantage points for sightseeing. Right from pony rides to walking the trails to escaping the points and so on, Matheran benevolently bestows all its secrets to its seekers. Maharashtra’s ecologically sensitive zone, Matheran is all about reconnoitering some rarefied chunks of natural visuals. Here are some that would sweep you off your feet</div></div><div><br></div><div><b>5-Tamhini</b></div><div>Tamhini is not at all a bad idea to visit during monsoon especially for the residents of Mumbai and Pune. Tamhini ghats, a picturesque place ensconced in the Western Ghats is just around 70 km from Pune. Huge crystal clear waterfalls, a variety of terrains, lush greenery, lakes, dense Jungles all combine to give a heavenly feeling. The road to Tamhini is also equally breathtaking surrounded by beautiful Sahyadri ranges.</div><div><br></div><div><b>6- Shoja</b></div><div>Just 69 kilometers from Kullu and 5 km from the Jalori Pass lies the breathtakingly beautiful yet undiscovered Shoja in Himachal Pradesh. It`s a great place to chase away the monsoon blues. Unending slopes of emerald forests, thickly wooded mountainside, snow-clad Himalayan ranges in the distant horizon- nature is at its best in this small hamlet located in the Seraj valley. Enjoy the walks here in the forests and meadows, just after a fresh drizzle.</div><div><br></div><div><b>7- Goa</b></div><div>One must land up in Goa in monsoons to see the wondrous workings of nature. With the Arabian Sea coastline on its west and the scenic Western Ghats on its east entire, Goa becomes resplendent with divine beauty. Though the Sea gets turbulent with unabated rain the lashing of strong winds and high waves is a rare experience. A great attraction is the Dudhsagar Falls on the Goa-Karnataka border. A train journey( Vasco Da Gama- Londa) is also worth it.</div><div><br></div><div><b>8-Jog Falls</b></div><div>A destination that is the star of the monsoons is the Jog Falls in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. 400 km from Bangalore it is India`s highest waterfall. The falls which are at their majestic best between July and October plunges into the valley from a height of 1000 feet. The whole vicinity of the falls is a spectacular sight with deep valleys, rolling hills and rainbows brimming in the horizon every now and then.</div><div><br></div><div><b>9-Coorg</b></div><div>If you are an adventure freak then Coorg in the rains is tailor-made for you. The monsoons here stretch for a considerably longer period. It gets its full quota of rainfall from southwest monsoon and Northeast monsoon. The weather is cold and the sight of the hills and valleys drenched and draped in mist, lush green vegetation, swollen streams, gushing rivers and cascading waterfalls are too much of a temptation.</div><div><br></div><div><div><span style="font-weight: 700;">10-Alleppey</span></div><div>Alleppey aka Alappuzha experiences heavy monsoon showers and if you just love rains then it`s a perfectly cool idea to visit Alleppey during monsoons. During the monsoon, the famed backwaters of Alleppey reverberate with the sound of the popular snake boats. It`s an invigorating experience to smell the rain-drenched moist earth and watch the rains lashing the backwaters from the cozy comforts of a Kettuvellam.</div></div>

<div>The travelers can see the coffee and tea plantations while traversing by the Mettupalayam-Ooty route. The halts at Ruuneyemede, Adderly, Lovedale, and Ketty railheads range will lend the travelers with an opportunity to delve their senses in the famous food provided at these halts. The railhead halt of Adderly is somewhat nestled at the dense lush green curve where the travelers can also take the beautiful bird view pictures of the whole city. The toy train stops at these stations for 5 to 10 minutes or maybe for 15-20 minutes if the signals are not clear.</div><div>The travelers can buy the special homemade chocolates which can be purchased from the confectionery shop opened from morning to evening on the Mettupalayam-Ooty rail route. The travelers are assured to enjoy the sightseeings which falls while on the way to Ooty.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><div><b>Quick facts:&nbsp;</b></div><div>Elevation: 7,248 feet| Total Tunnels: 16 Tunnels | Curves: 208 curves | Route :46Kms&nbsp; | Uphill journey time: 5.00 hours | Downhill journey time: 3.6 hours</div><div><br></div><div>Asia’s steepest track with 8.33% gradients |&nbsp; Total bridges on the route: 250 bridges</div></div><div><br></div><div>The Ooty’s Nilgiri Mountain Railway comprises of clusters of railheads made by the Britishers in the year 1908, in Tamil Nadu, South India. Later on, in the same years, Madras Railway Company took over this rail division. The Salem Rail Division of South Indian Railway is now the main authority since 14th April 1951, responsible for the maintenance of the Nilgiri Mountain Railway. In July 2005, this unique rail route was given the world heritage status which was the extension to the World Heritage Site of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The site of Nilgiris is now a day globally acknowledged as the “Mountain Railways of India”.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The steamed locomotives still run on the Coonoor to Udhaghamandalam hilly rail route. Although some of the steamed locos have been replaced by the diesel once but still there is a huge demand for the steamed locos from the guild of travelers who visit Ooty to take a joy ride on this toy train.&nbsp; The famous “Chaiyya Chaiyya song” from the movie Dil Se was shot on the roof of the Nigiri Mountain Railway.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The NMR (Nilgiri Mountain Railway) is the sole rail route with a 1,000 mm track gauge. This railway line is conceded as the rarest of all meter gauge routes which uses ‘Abt and Pinion Racks System’ to climb the steep mountains. On this high elevated railway route some trains are usually operated by the special ‘X class steam locomotives’ manufactured by the Swiss Locomotives and the Machine Works of Winterthur in Switzerland. These steam locomotives are made with such a brisk technology that it can haul 90 tonnes of weight with a speed of 10Kms and 15kms. These rugged steam engines can easily operate on either of the rack section of Mettupalayam and Udagamandalam(Ooty) rail route. But at the same time, the diesel locomotives can operate on the entire section of the rail route and are more sophisticated than the steam engines. The diesel engines have a grand fuel tank&nbsp; to carry 1000 litres of petrol in a day. The furnace oil section in these diesel locomotives helps in increasing the acceleration up to 33Kms. On the Conoor-Udagamandalam line, the steam engines get replaced by diesel engines which can easily work without the use of pinions and racks. the majority of the locomotives are repaired at the Coonoor shed(Golden Work Shops).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The steamed locomotives have been creating disruptions in the service, so some of the rail locomotives have been planned to be replaced by modernized diesel engines. But on the request of NMR, the government is considering to rebuilt few of the steam engines that will especially run on the complete dedicated steamed locomotive section of Coonoor-Udagamandalam.&nbsp; The changes which have been in the pipeline will only be persistent to the rail coaches and not the overall Nilgiri Mountain Rail system.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The rail counter at Ooty-Mettupalayam reckoning the world heritage status still issues the “Edmondson style manual tickets’ which were generally used in the colonial period. During the peak season, travelers may face great difficulties in getting a ticket, so it is advised to book the Ooty to Mettupalayam tickets through an online booking offered by South Indian Railways.</div>

<div>Pandharpur is located in Maharashtra and many devotees of Lord Vitthal visit this sanctum every day and on some special occasions. Legend has that <b>Lord Vithal</b> once visited Pundalik, an ardent devotee of Vitthal. However, Pundalik was busy serving his parents. As Pundalik was busy, he threw a brick that was handy in that direction of his divine visitor. He asked him to stand on the brick. Later Pundalik forgot all about his visitor and remained absorbed in his own work. Veet in Marathi means brick and that is how the word Vitthal came into existence. Vitthal would not leave without his permission and thus has been standing on the brick ever since. The river Bhima gets the name Chandrabagha as the Moon God, Chandra, once bathed in its waters to get rid of his sins. This river is also called so because of its crescent shape here. <b>The Vitthal Temple</b>, said to be two million years old, has a scripture that dates back to 1195. Devotees rub their back in the belief that they will be exempted from 84 lakhs births. The roof and the stone pillars of the Vitthal temple have exquisite carvings. The main entrance is known as the Mahadwar. The Shrine of <b>Saint Namdeo</b>, Lord Vitthal’s ardent devotee has his shrine on the first step of the entrance. This is called as Namdeo Payari(step). To pay tribute to Namdeo’s saintly devotion, it is a custom not to touch it with the one’s feet, but to worship it. The newly constructed Darshan Mandap, opposite the main temple entrance, can accommodate 80,000 devotees during the Vari (procession). Inside the temple, there is another huge hall known as the Solkhambi Mandap. It is an imposing 16 pillared stone structure, constructed in 1802. All the pillars have exquisite carvings, while the inner one is known as Garuda Khamb, and has been working in Silver.</div><div><br></div><div>As per tradition, embrace this pillar before praying to the lord. This temple is said to be about 2,000 years old and is better kept. The minute devotees enter the temple, they are pursued by Pujaris to part with money and perform pujas, a test of one’s nerves. But the black sandstone idol of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini are truly enchanting. During the Vari, the temple remains open for 24 hours, for the god is believed to remain awake for his devotees. In fact, after the Vari is over, the temple is washed with water and the idols are given the diet of spices and sugar and a new set of clothes since they are said to be tired after a hectic day! During Navaratri and Dussehra, the deities are adorned with new clothes. Both <b>Vitthal and Rukmini</b> have an exquisite array of jewelry that includes gold, pearls, and the Navratnas. There is a warm water spring outside the temple and people wash their feet in it before entering it. Outside the temple, there is a small stone boat. It is approximately 3ft by 2ft, too heavy to lift with bare hands. But when put it in water it actually floats. One legend says that Sant Tukaram sang some abhangs, which made it float.</div><div><br></div><div>The timings of the temple are 4:00 AM to 7:00 PM and it remains open for 24 hours during Vari. Take a ferry across the river to Gopalpur, where Lord Krishna used to graze cattle. It is a small centuries-old stone temple. Also on the other bank is the ISCKON temple, a quiet place to pray. An old stone temple to Mhasoba also stands on the opposite of the Chandrabhaga. These temples are about half a kilometer from one another, and the ferry stops at each.</div><div><br></div><div>There are also good numbers of the budget as well as luxury Hotels in Pandharpur which offers excellent accommodation to travelers. Comfort and luxury are assured to make the entire tour simply the most cherished experience. Besides this, the restaurants at Hotel Aishwarya and Hotel shamiana are some of the best-known accommodations amongst the chain of Pandharpur hotels. During some spare time, the travelers can think of visiting other tourist destinations lying a few kilometers from Pandharpur. Pandharpur is definitely the place pulsating with great spiritual energy. The pilgrims who want to get their wishes fulfilled and relieve themselves from all sins must visit the <b>Lord Vitthal Temple</b>. Besides this, the travelers who wish to visit Pandharpur can also avail <i>Pandharpur Tour Packages </i>through an online booking provided by Kiomoi.</div>

<div>Travel has always captivated homo sapiens while religion has had sustained humanity. Nothing gets better than this when these two combine commercially. So it is not surprising to learn that the World Tourism Organization (WTO) has as always captivated homo sapiens while religion has had sustained humanity. Nothing gets better than this when these two combine commercially. So it is not surprising to learn that the World Tourism Organization (WTO) has declared that the faith-based travel industry or religion tourism is supposed to be one of the fastest-growing travel segments. According to industry pundits, the religion tourism industry worldwide is valued at something like $ 18 billion dollars.<br></div><div><br></div><div>In India, it is a fact that more than 70 % of people, who travel, do so out of devotion towards religion. So no doubt that Vaishno Devi located in the recess of majestic Trikuta hills just 50 km from Jammu is a real moneyspinner.</div><div><br></div><div>If reports are to be believed then the pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi generates an annual income of approximately Rs 500 crore, enough to sustain the local economy. The Yatra provides an opportunity to earn to around 27000 people. Out of this 500 crores, after commercial establishments, the hospitality sector and the transport sector accounts for the majority of this whopping money.</div><div><br></div><div>To stem over the acute crises many acclaimed names in the travel and hospitality sectors are coming slowly with investments at Katra. A 5-star property is already in place. Famous names in the fast-food sectors are also not shying away from pilgrim centers and opening their outlets there. Devotees are also big consumers. You can see two outlets of Café Coffee Day in Katra. They are strategically located on the way to the Bhawan.</div><div>The need of the hour is a drastic improvement in the infrastructure as well as more of basic facilities to effectively cater to the increasing number of pilgrims.</div><div><br></div><div>They're also good numbers of budget, as well as luxury Hotels in Katra located near the Vaishno Devi Temple, which provides all the comforts and luxuries at best price tags. The travelers can also avail Katra Tour Packages which include a stay at one of the finest hotels in Katra, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

<div>The Bhawani temple is the same place where the great warrior Shivaji was given a sword by the goddess Bhawani. Situated in Tuljapur, Maharashtra, a few steps below the hill known as Bala Ghat, in the Central Osmanabad is the Tulja Bhawani Temple. The goddess here is also known as Kulaswamini, the patron deity of Maharashtra. With Shivaji’s many many conquests attributed to her, she has defined the state both geographically and spiritually. It is said that the goddess herself gave the Bhawani Talwar, divine Sword to the great warrior Shivaji. He set forth upon many battles, after having sought the blessings of Ma Bhawani, his favorite deity. From a far distance, the travelers can view the pinnacle of the temple hood shimmering with the golden paint.<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Architecture and Antiquity</b></div><div>To the left of the entrance 40ft by 16 ft stone tank, is the Kallol Tirth. Bathing in it before sunrise is said to rid the devotee from all the diseases. At the Gomukh Tirth, which is a few steps ahead from the Kallol Tirth, water flows from the stone cow’s head, set at a height of 6ft. Equated to the river ganges, people in huge numbers visit this water pool. On the other side is the Vishnu Tirth. This temple is located on the North Eastern side of the Bhawani temple. It has stone steps and three entrances. It is said that Lord Vishnu blesses the devotee, so that he may get the blessings of the goddess Bhawani. According to the priests taking care of the temple, it is inevitable to do the darshan of Lord Vishnu. The pilgrims who go directly to the goddess temple; are said to left with the incomplete divine tour.</div><div><br></div><div>As the part of the every day ablutions,chickens and goats are offered to the deity Bhawani. A practice that pilgrims may be witness to. Two enticing artifacts generally called as ‘Deepmalas’ had been built in the glory of the wars fought by the royal king Shivaji. It was built by Shivaji as the memorabilia of his triumph against Afzal Khan, which stand on the either side of the homa kund.</div><div><br></div><div>Inside the temple, a stone pillared sabha mandap features images of gods and goddesses. The exquisite idol is adorned with a fine array of jewellery on festive days. The goddess is said to be possessed with eight to nine petya(boxes) of ornaments, where one box equals a kilogram of gold!!One of the necklaces, named tikli, bears the name of Chatrapati Shivaji on each of its gold pieces. A beautiful marble statue of a lion, a bed upon which the goddess rests, her delicately carved silver Simhasan (throne), and a Shivaling are also to be seen in the temple.</div><div><br></div><div>Behind the Bhawani temple is a round stone known as Chintamani . It is believed to help the devotee to take the right decision. To its right is the temple of Matangi, the goddess who slayed the demon Matanga. Uniquely, the shrine is cared for by mahars, members of a Dalit community.</div><div><br></div><div>Shrines of Khandoba, Yamaee Devi and Narsimha are also situated in the temple premises. The Chabina, a special palanquins is painted with the images of animals and other creatures. On this chariot, the idols of deities are carried on the festive occasions and Tuesday, Friday, Sunday and Poornima(full moon day). The procession which starts around 9.30 Pm and goes around the main temple, is witnessed by thousands of devotees. Sindoor and turmeric powder are thrown in the air as the millions of pilgrims chant the name of the goddess.</div>

<div>Tirumala Tirupati Venkateswara Temple celebrates a festival called the <i><b>Kalyanotsavam </b></i>(marriage of the Lord). It is celebrated every day at the Kalyanmandapam except during the Brahmotsavam and on certain other festive occasions.</div><div><br></div><div>Kalyanam" means Wedding in Sanskrit. Performing or watching a divine wedding is considered to be very auspicious by the Hindus. It is believed to cleanse the family of all sins. This can be performed only by wedded couples accompanied by their family not exceeding 5 at an admittance fee of Rs.2500/-. It starts around 10 AM and continues till 3.30 PM. After completing all the participating families have a free view of the deity. The couples are then gifted with silk upper clothes and about 20 pounds of "Prasadams" or a meal that is cooked only inside the temple`s boundaries and consecrated to the Lord earlier.</div><div><br></div><div>Lord Balaji is the bridegroom while his two consorts Sridevi and Bhoodevi are the brides in this celestial wedding. The rituals followed are exactly the same as the one carried out during Hindu marriages. The idols of Lord Malayappaswami (Balaji), Sridevi and Bhoodevi are placed in a manner that Lord faces his brides. A screen to separate the bridegroom and brides is then placed in between After the observance of rituals the screen is then removed so that the deities now face to face. This auspicious ceremony is held amid the chant of Vedic mantras by the priests. This also includes pronouncing the family lineage of the brides as well as the bridegroom. It`s a divine feeling out there.</div><div><br></div><div>There also good numbers of budget, as well as luxury Hotels in Tirupati located near the Venkateswara temple, which provides all the comforts and luxuries at best price tags. The travelers can also avail <i><b>Tirupati Tour Packages</b></i> which include a stay at one of the finest <i><b>Hotels &amp; Homestays in Tirupati</b></i>, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

<div>Thumbod a tiny village lying just outside the state capital of Trivandrum and otherwise is like any other <i>Kerala village </i>with swaying palms and lush green vegetation has shown the world the door to a more natural lifestyle. Ayurvastra the name given to a whole new concept of natural clothing has the fabric yarns infused with plant extracts and herbs. Developed under the aegis of <i>The Handloom Weavers Development Society</i> a nonprofit organization, Ayurvastra claims to rid people of many diseases by regular use of these clothes.<br></div><div><br></div><div>Ayurvastra goes through a dyeing process that is 100 % natural and free of any toxicity of chemical dyes. The process is in tune with the age-old Ayurvedic principles.</div><div>The process is something like this. The raw yarn is first thoroughly cleaned. Then the raw yarn is coated with a natural gum. After coating the yarn is immersed in the medicinal dyes. The medicinal dyes are prepared using pomegranate, turmeric, and indigo, among a host of other herbs.</div><div><br></div><div>The claims of the manufacturers were corroborated by clinical trials undertaken by the health ministry. According to these trials conducted at the Trivandrum’s Government Ayurveda College, the fabrics indeed worked. Patients with problems of eczema, psoriasis, allergies rheumatism were given bedding, rugs, and towels made from Ayurvastra. They used these items for a month and there was a marked improvement in their health. Along with the clothing ceilings, walls, floors were lined with Ayurveda coir mats. All these showed positive results in the health of the diseased.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the manufacturers of Ayurvastra, for maximum benefits, these clothing should be ideally worn during sleeping or meditating in a sense when the body is at rest. As this is the time when the body heals itself naturally.</div><div><br></div><div>Not only people with skin disorders, stressed-out executives or workers in the IT sector are also benefiting with the clothing infused with traditional Indian medicines. Along with the more traditional Kurtas, Tunics and Saris to cater to the youth Jeans are also dyed using natural colors.</div><div><br></div><div>The success of the Ayurvastra means not only the incomparable health benefits along with that it also offers the traditional weavers a good source of sustenance. This clothing also offers a good opportunity to catch the western markets where Ayurveda is a fad among health-conscious people.</div><div><br></div>

<div>Tawang is nestled in the land of moonpa tribe, <i><b>Arunachal Pradesh</b></i>, Eastern India. Tawang is located above 13000 feet above sea level. The journey through Tawang takes the travelers through the chain of snowy hills. The most prominent of all the Mountain Peaks are the <i>Gorichen Peak</i>, <i><b>Sela Pass</b></i>, and <i>Ghesila Range.</i><br></div><div><br></div><div>Following the age-old route connecting Tibet to the <b>Brahmaputra </b>plains, the Journey to Tawang will get exciting, the moment travelers will move to Northward from Tezpur to Assam, short of your destination. A little after Sari Duar, a traditional center into the erstwhile Ahom kingdom, the road enters Elephant <i>Nameri Wildlife Reserve</i>. If you are driving after dusk, the travelers will face the prospect of herds of elephant blocking the passage. Once out of the forest, the road follows the Bhairali River, whose waters constantly threaten its existence, washing off sections and, tragically, a few tourists every year.</div><div><br></div><div>Marking the border of <i>Assam</i> and Arunachal is Bhalukpong, 60kms from <i>Tezpur,</i> a tiny commercial center on the river’s edge that gets overrun by anglers every winter. The most interesting part of the ride is the section beyond Bomdila, 100kms after Bhalupong. At this point, the air gets thin and breathless. The real climb starts from the Sela Pass, 109kms from Bomdila which is at 13,828 ft, is the highest memorable pass in the North East. After crossing the Shangrila and Baisaki army camps, the air takes on a real chill. A top the glass, there is a temple and three small lakes. The two lower ones are interconnected, while the other one is connected above the slight pass. Back on the road, after cutting through a pine forest, you will reach Jaswant Garh, 21kms ahead is the war museum and memorial of the Indian army. A bend beyond is the vast Tawang Valley and one also easily gets a glimpse of the tiny yellow roof of the Tawang Monastery, 57km away. A little after Lau is a crossroad, one fork leading to Bum La at the Chinese border, a restricted area, the other of Tawang where a giant war memorial greets visitors on the outskirts.</div><div><br></div><div>Perched on the vast of the Himalayan side is Tawang. The Tawanchu river River flows in a gorge to the South, while to the east tower a few peaks. And dominating the skyline, like a mighty medieval fortress, is the massive Tawang monastery. The travelers can also make a visit to Urgeling, Ryabgelling, Khinme Monastery, and Singh Nunnery. The nearest airport to Tawang is Tezpur and the nearest railhead is Rangapara (340kms/ 10hrs). Taxi costs Rs 4000-5,000. The 537Kms away drive from Guwahati turns to Charduar NH 37 A. There are many Home Stays in Tawang amongst travelers who can choose to stay at Hotel Alpine, Hotel Buddha, Hotel Nefa and Hotel Shangrila.</div><div><br></div>

<div><i><b>“Rock on at the scintillating concert where fans bow to the god of the guitar”</b></i></div><div>If you visit Shillong once, you will keep coming back again and again, goes an old saying. The same sentiment echoes for the annual Bob Dylan fest in Shillong which began on May 24, 1972, to celebrate Dylan’s music, a tradition that continues every year on his birthday. As a young performer in the heydays of Kolkata’s Park Street, the now-iconic Lou Majaw was introduced to Dylan’s songs. This introduction started a lifelong love for Dylan’s tunes, hence the long-running duration. A selective and most devoted group of people, from Mumbai, Delhi, Goa, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Guwahati and other parts of the northeast region and of course Shillong, attend the Dylan fest.</div><div>Taking the form of storytelling from folk music and the blues, Dylan changed the way popular music would be written. Besides his seemingly effortless genius with lyrics, he has been and continues to be a musical stylist constantly evolving a sound that is his own. The same culture of ethos continues to evoke in the celebration at Meghalaya’s capital.</div><div><br></div><div>Die-hard Dylan fans (mostly graying), to some that don’t really know the music nevertheless partake to be enveloped by the energy and become one with the spirited soulfulness that is Dylan’s music. After all, this is rock n roll at its rawest delivered by the ace of Spades – Lou Majaw on vocals and guitar, accompanied by fellow Dylanites Lew Hilt on bass, Nondon Bagchi on drums. The band gets together once in a year just to play on Dylan’s birthday celebration in Shillong and Kolkata. Very often, the show starts with Majaw playing a couple of Solo tracks – Tambourine Man or Buckets of rain – and the band joins in shortly. This is the listening part of the show as the audience’s eyes are locked and riveted on Majaw as he sings the gospel… according to Bob.</div><div>The Dylan fest is not about fancy pyrotechnics or incessant extravaganza but about the essence of the legendary prophetic singer’s timeless music. Just the way Dylan himself would want it.</div><div><br></div><div>The travelers can also avail <i><b>Shillong Tour Packages </b></i>which include a stay at one of the finest <i><b>Home Stay,</b></i> <i><b>Hotel in Shillong</b></i>, a platter of meals and cab service to commute within the precincts of the region.</div>

<div>The 77-year old Toy Train in Matheran is a sheer enchantment to take a ride on! The oldfangled Toy Train in Matheran is Matheran`s best bet that posits the visitors under the shady greens of the serene and unpolluted hill station of Maharashtra. It is from the window of the toy train that one can lap up bonnie of Matheran.<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Matheran-Neral Toy Train</b> is one of the four historic toy trains functioning in India since the age of Raj rule. This Matheran Toy Train runs from the Neral to Matheran wrapping up the journey of 20 km uphill. The Toy Train`s acclivity begins at a little further to Harder Hills followed by Jamnapatti station - where the scene appears to be of the horizon with road and rail almost come together. A 90-minutes to train journey is through the clump of visual delight, greenery and fresh air 2,636 ft above the ground. Winding its way through the zig-zag mountain creases the toy train at Matheran lets many charms and enchantment of the hill station. As the trains take up curls and curves amidst the valley, the scenery changes from grassy sides to shady to tree-blanketed hills. And, before you occupy your senses in the fast-changing reel of sceneries, the coming on and off the food vendors selling their range of snacks, the children who hop board the train - while it is still moving- tells you how slow-paced the train is. Interestingly, when the train passes through the horse-shoe embankment, located near Mount Barry, the picture grips the eyes because of its beatification leashed here. This route runs for another one mile before it merges into “one kiss tunnel” on the way. Thereafter, the train crosses the Panorama Point and the Simpson Tank to reach straight to the Matheran Bazaar.</div><div><br></div><div>Matheran also presents the delight of having a ride on four identical toy trains that ply on the same route. These are toy trains that are cozy, small trains with the capacity to adjust 100 people. However, a relatively comfortable journey can be booked in advance in the first-class apartments.<br></div><div><br></div><div>The Matheran Toy Train leaves Neral in the mornings at 7.30 a.m, 8.50 a.m. and 10.15 a.m. There`s also an afternoon departure at 5 pm. From Neral the train departs to Matheran at 7 am., 9.45 am, 1.40 pm., 2.45 pm. and 4.25 pm.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kiomoi quick tips:</b> The train timing is a subject to change and must be cross-checked with the railway sites/authorities. It is advisable to book the train in advance as the train fills up fast. The station code for Neral is NRL, and Matheran MAE. Keep in mind that there`s also a place near Mumbai called Nerul, so don`t get the two confused!</div><div><br></div><div>Toy Train Route - Neral - Hardar Hill - Jammapatti Station - Bhekra Station - Mount Barry- Panorama Point - Simpson Point - Matheran Bazaar.</div>

<div>You might smack wet your lips when hearing the word ‘Chikki’. Let alone the chimera of hills, dams and nature bounties, Chikki compels you to recall sugar-coated groundnuts that do wonder to your taste buds. A trip to Lonavala is never complete without stuffing bags with few kilos of Chikki — the signature dish of Lonavala. Chomping a bite of Chikki just bought from some seller is not all about the confection. Chikki, the roasted groundnut confection, is available in 30 makes and combo of different recipes across the length and breadth of Lonavala.</div><div><br></div><div>As a new entrant to Lonavala shopping for Chikki needs a good knowledge of the right places to buy from, a sound acquaintance of its varieties, brands, and quality. Giving in to the taste and tact of Chikki sellers is easy than buying the right quality from the right place. A trend among visitors is to get guided by billboards and banner hanging overhead, but these are not a big help rather bombardment of advertisements for the product.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Chikki ingredients and varieties</b></div><div>Before you barge in some shop to lay hands on the emblematic concoction of Lonavala make sure you know all about the dish. Chikki is prepared with jaggery, sugar syrup, groundnuts and cashews (optional). However, this is a basic preparatory method and over the years there developed several varieties cooked with many more ingredients and in several tastes. Unlike jams and jellies tasting Chikki before buying is not so common here, so one will have to depend upon the word of mouth or trusted old shops known to be the masters in the trade. Or, alternatively, make a choice out of preferences suchlike chana, Kesar, Pista, Badam, coconut, rajgira, kurmura, til (linseed), dry fruits and combination of all these. Ginger, honey, mint and peanut crushes are some scrummy innovations that add to the existing choice. Scouting Lonavala further and you are bound you come across fruity avatar of Chikki available in the all-new taste of strawberry, mango, and chocolate. An even newer version for health freaks is the sugar-free Chikkies which are low in calorie count and prepared to serve the non-sugar customers.</div><div><br></div><div>Lonavala has a whole industry that specializes in Chikki but there are specific places where you can get to taste the real Chikki in its purest form. A range of 30-40 brands makes the choice difficult but few trusted quality and tastes that can be bulk-shopped are Maganlal, National and A-1. Well, these do not set rule-of-thumb in the buying business and there are many other makers that promise you even better flavor. Some of the brands that have a history of freshness and taste can be rightly purchased from National, Maganlal, Rupam, Navratna, Mahavir, Raval, Super, Vaishali, Mangal, Panchratna, Coopers, National Chikki Mart.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Chikki that taste</b>...... crisp and not soft is said to better quality. Chikki buffs ask you to mandatorily perform a color check for the chikki; a light brown suggests moderate use of jaggery and a darker tinge is a compromise with taste. Similarly, poor or inexpensive quality misses out dry fruit coatings or layered cake that adds to the taste of concoctions. Beware of the old stuff that smells stale and impure. The minimum price bids at Rs 80 per kg to Rs 200. Bargaining is not that big an option but taste is, so discounts are available just on bulk purchases!</div>

<div><i>"I am the eagle, I live in the high country, in rocky cathedrals that reach to the sky; I am the hawk and there`s blood on my feathers, but time is still turning they soon will be dry; All those who see me, and all who believe in me, share in the freedom I feel when I fly.".</i>..........-- John Denver (American Singer and Song Writer)</div><div><br></div><div>Vembanad Bird Sanctuary is located at a distance of 16 km west of Kottayam in Kumarakom. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is spread across 14 acres on the eastern banks of Vembanad Lake, known for its varied avian population. Also known as the ornithologist`s paradise, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is one of the most favorite hubs of migratory birds. The region was once the site for the rubber plantation and is a haunt for a variety of domestic and migratory birds. Some of the birds flock here from the Himalayas, and even some birds come from the snow-kissed hills of Siberia. During the rainy season, some of India`s most spectacular avians gather in their optimum haunts to court their mates and nest in huge colonies in the trees that line the paths of the sanctuary.</div><div><br></div><div>October to February is the time for traveling birds, such as the garganey teal, osprey, marsh harrier and stepped eagle, while May to July is the breeding season for local species, such as the Indian shag, pond herons, egrets, and darters. Early morning is the best viewing time. The best option to visit the sanctuary is by foot by a one and half km long walking track. Most of the species of the birds are spotted on the track. One can also opt to take a boat ride, which brings you, closer to waders like waterfowl and ducks and some fliers like parrots, larks, and flycatchers.</div><div><br></div><div>The sanctuary turns into a transit point during the months of November to February for the migratory birds. The main attractions are local birds like the waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron, and the water duck, as well as the migratory Siberian cranes. Parrots, teal, larks, flycatchers, wood beetle, and other birds are seen here during their respective migratory seasons. The sanctuary contentedly hosts more than a few hundred varieties of local birds. Apart from the local birds every year, over 60 species of migratory birds flock here in large numbers. A large variety of fish, mussels, and crabs is also found in the Sanctuary. One can also see a variety of species of butterflies and moths quiver by. There is also a variety of species of mudskippers, crabs, and turtles found on the shoreline. One can also find fish and even crocodiles deeper in the water.</div><div><br></div><div>Along with the birds, the animals which are found in the sanctuary include Bears, Elephants, civet cats, lion-tailed macaque, Deer, monkeys, Tigers, Neelgai Tahr, Wild Pigs, Leopards, Deer, squirrels including the Malabar giant squirrel. A wide variety of snakes like Python, Cobra, Cipher, Rat Snake, and Iguana are also seen in the park. One should plan a visit to Kumarakom, to enjoy the incalculable show of avian acrobats.</div>

<div>Kerala is bestowed with some ancient traditional art forms that are still today performed with the same zeal and enthusiasm. We discuss here two art forms.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Kathakali</b></div><div>The art form of Kathakali is the oldest form in the world, which crystallized at around the same time as Shakespeare was scribbling the plays, though elements of it stem from 2nd-century temple rituals. The Kathakali performance is the dramatized presentation of a play, usually based on the Hindu epics the Ramayana, the Mahabharata, and the Puranas. All the great themes are covered – righteousness and evil, frailty and courage, poverty and prosperity, war and peace. Drummers and singers accompany the actors, who narrate the story through their precise movements, particularly mudras (hand gestures) and facial expressions. Traditionally, performances took place in temple grounds and went from 8 pm until dawn, now shorter performances in other open-air locales, as well as indoor halls are also popular.</div><div><br></div><div>Preparation for the performance is lengthy and disciplined. Paint, fantastic costumes, highly decorated headpieces, and meditation transform the actors both physically and mentally into the gods, heroes, and demons they are about to play. You can see cut down performances in tourist hot spots all over the state and there are kathakali schools that encourage the visitors. Many temples festivals across the state feature all-night Kathakali Shows.</div><div><br></div><div>The performances in Kochi are accompanied by instrumental as well as vocal aids. The expressions are suggested by the delicate hand movements and are complemented by the movements of the face, particularly, the eyes. The dance form is believed to have originated from the dance drama called Ramanattam. At Kochi, the Kathakali dance has a significant part in the socio-cultural sector of the entire state of Kerala. Important Kathakali centers in Cochin are:&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>India Foundation | Showtime : Daily 06:45 PM</div><div><br></div><div>Cochin Cultural Center | Showtime : Daily 07:00 PM</div><div><br></div><div>Kerala Kathakali Center Fort Cochin&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kalariyappayat</b></div><div>Kalariyappayat is an ancient tradition of martial training and discipline. Still taught throughout Kerala, Some believe it is the forerunner of all martial arts. Its roots can be traced back to the 12th century when skirmishes among the many feudal principalities in the region were common. Masters of Kalariyappayat, called Gurukkal, teach their craft inside a special arena called a Kalari. The Kalari is a part gymnasium, part school, and part temple. Its construction follows traditional principles: its rectangular design is always aligned east – west and Hindu deities are represented in each corner.</div><div>Kalariyappayat movements - the foundation of choreography that uses the actor’s bodies and gestures as the primary tools of expression – can be traced in Kerala’s performing arts, such as Kathakali and Kootiattam (traditional Sanskrit drama), and in ritual arts such as Theyyam</div>

<div>The open county makes wildlife viewing at Kaziranga fairly easy. A day`s outing is often sufficient for visitors to see most of the major species here. Elephants take them into the park in the early morning hours. The three most famous and the endangered species at the park are the Great Indian One – Horned Rhinoceros, Hoolock Gibbons, and the Wild Buffaloes.&nbsp;<br></div><div><br></div><div><b>Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros:&nbsp;</b></div><div>The rhino is usually found in Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and in Assam, India. They are confined to the tall grasslands and forests in the foothills of the Himalayas. The Indian Rhinoceros can run at speeds of up to 25 mph (40 km/h) for short periods of time and are also excellent swimmers. They have an excellent sense of hearing and smell, but relatively poor eyesight.</div><div>However, no more than 2,000 remain in the wild with Kaziranga National Park in Assam, India (1,200) and Chitwan National Park (CNP), Nepal (600). Despite joint efforts made by Bhutan and India, the survival of a small population of rhinos living along the Indo-Bhutan border in Manas still remains doubtful.</div><div>The Indian Rhinos are brownish-gray in color and are hairless. They have knobby skin that appears to be armor-plated. Indian rhinos are the largest amongst the Asian rhinos. The male Indian rhinos weigh approximately 2,200 kg (nearly 1,000 pounds) and have a height ranging between 170 to 186 cm (67 to 73 inches) and are 368 to 380 cm (145 to 150 inches) long. Females are smaller in size and weigh only 1,600 kg (726 pounds) and standing 148 to 173 cm (58 to 68 inches) tall. Female Indian rhinos are 310 to 340 cm (122 to 134 inches) long.</div><div>The Indian and Nepalese governments have taken several steps towards Indian Rhinoceros conservation with the help of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Hoolock Gibbons:&nbsp;</b></div><div>The hoolock gibbons are also known as the hoolocks, one of the most important attractions of northeast India’s wildlife. The hoolock gibbons are two primate species belonging to the family of the gibbons. Hoolocks are the second largest in size of the gibbons, after the Siamang. Normally their size ranges between 60 to 90 cm and weighs about 6 to 9 kg. Both male and female gibbons are almost the same size, but they differ considerably in colors. Males are black colored with notable white brows, while females have a grey-brown fur, which is darker at the chest and neck. They have white rings around the eyes and around the mouth which give there face a mask-like appearance.</div><div>The range of the hoolocks is the most northwestern of all the gibbons, extending from Assam in North-East India to Myanmar. Small populations (in each case few hundred animals) live also in eastern Bangladesh and in southwest China. The Hoolocks live together in monogamous pairs, which stake out a territory. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, insects, and leaves.</div><div>Young hoolocks are born after a seven-month gestation, with a milky white fur. Their life expectancy in the wild is about 25 years.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div><b>Wild Buffaloes&nbsp;</b></div><div>Wild Buffalo is one of the endangered species and a favorite kill for tigers is thought to survive in India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, and Thailand. In India, the wild buffaloes are found in Assam and Chhattisgarh. Occasional sightings of the animal - called the Asiatic Water Buffaloes - have also been reported. In India, it is mostly found in Kaziranga National Park. As per the last count in 430 sq km area of Kaziranga, the number of wild buffaloes was around 1400. Wild buffaloes are also important to the grassland ecosystem as they help in plant rejuvenation. The crossbreeding with domestic buffalo as well as shrinkage and destruction of the habitat were considered major threats to the wild buffalo’s survival in the range. The animal is protected by the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the animal as endangered in its red list of threatened species.</div>

<div>Kanyakumari has a rich and ancient history. It also bears Christian, Jain and Muslim influence. It is believed that when St Thomas (one of the 12 apostles of Jesus) came to the Indian subcontinent in 52 AD a church was established in the Kanyakumari area.<br></div><div>It is proved that great Greek philosophers like Eratosthenes, Ptolemy and Pliny had been to Kanyakumari. It also finds mention in the Periplus written somewhere around 800 AD by Arrian a Greek man of letters. Similarly, Jainism and Islam have also left their imprints on this place and have considerably contributed to the architectural wealth and literary heritage of the region.</div><div>The area of Kanyakumari had seen the rule of Cholas, Cheras, Pandyas, Vijayanagara Kings, the Nayaks, Venad Kings to Dutch and then British interference.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Rise of Venad Chieftains</b></div><div>Gradually the Chola Empire became weak with the rise of Hoysalas and western Chalukyas. The Venad Chieftains descendants of Chera's seized the opportunity and gradually established a firm grip on the areas now under modern Tamil Nadu. By 1115 AD the Venad Kings under Veera Kerala Varma and his successors achieved complete succession.</div><div><br></div><div>In 1609 AD Viswanatha Nayak of Madurai captured Kanyakumari. Afterward, there was no real threat to Venad Kings. Kanyakumari thus became an integral part of the Venad Empire with the capital at Padmanabhapuram. King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma(1729-1758) of the Venad dynasty formed Travancore ( Modern Kerala) by extending his domain further north up to Aluva. Kanyakumari thus came to be known as Southern Travancore. In 1741, King Marthanda Varma another great king from the same dynasty overcame the Dutch East India Company forces at the fiercely fought Â?Battle of Colachel.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Kanyakumari under British Supremacy</b></div><div>After Marthanda Varma, the subsequent rulers were very weak and as the British forces were gradually tightening their noose overall Indian Princely states Kanyakumari was also no exception. The British established complete control over Venad Kings and continued till IndiaÂ?s independence in the year 1947. The Kings of Travancore state ruled over Kanyakumari under the overall sovereignty of the British.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Modern Kanyakumari</b></div><div>Travancore became part of the independent Indian Union in 1947 thus the royal reign came to an end. From 1947 to 1956, His Highness Sree Chithira Thirunal, Maharaja of Travancore continued as Rajpramukh of the Travancore-Cochin Union.</div><div>In the year 1949, Kanyakumari became a part of the reconstituted Travancore-Cochin Union. The Tamil majority of Kanyakumari was not happy with this. Eventually in 1956 bowing to a mass agitation under the leadership of Thiru M.A. Nesamani Government of India amalgamated Kanyakumari District with Tamil Nadu(then Madras State).&nbsp;</div>

<div>When you drink a cup of tea, ponder for a moment on the precision Skills required to produce the apparently simple dried tea leaf. It was the British who introduced tea production into north-eastern India in the 9th Century, using tea seed imported from China. In 1841 Dr Campbell raised his first tea brushes at his home in Darjeeling. Soon the government set up tea nurseries, whose bushes were planted in India’s first commercial tea gardens in 1852. By the 1870s, there were 113 tea gardens, and tea had joined other cash crops such as cotton, sugar, jute and coffee, which the British were producing in India for international trading. While Darjeeling planters continued to grow Chinese tea, considered by tea connoisseurs to be the champagne of teas, British adventurers clearing plots of thickly forested land to lay out gardens in Assam discovered a more robust local bush. Land was parceled out on almost uncharted maps of Kolkata, and many of men with dreams died before their boats reached Guwahati.<br></div><div><br></div><div>Those who survived faced a tough and isolated life, whose highlight was weekly gathering at a distant planters’ club. It changed little until the 20th century when the telephone and television arrived. Still known as tea planter, the gardens’ managers work a day that begins before sunrise and ends late. They must oversee their workforce, often composed of whole village transplanted from Bihar in Central India. They build temples and schools for them, and provide child care and medical care. To the workers, the manager is ma-bapu , the person to whom they bring disputes; who sits in the judgments, punishes, and even presides over marriages. Meanwhile, the manager also oversees the job of producing the tea, from trimming the bushes to deciding when to pluck the precious shoots, from keeping rouge elephants from trampling through the gardens to keeping standards high enough to satisfy the frequent visits of company tea taster.</div><div><br></div><div>During the season, women pluck the laves in the morning, delivering their basket to the on-site factory; they do a second picking in the afternoon. At the factory the fresh leaves immediately undergo a succession of carefully monitored processes: They are withered, rolled to bruise them and bring the juices to the surface, and then left to ferment to develop the flavor. They are then dried and sifted into evermore precise grades.</div><div><br></div><div>The bigger the leaf, the better the flavor ? so the whole and unbroken leaves of Darjeeling’s Goldeb Flowery Orange Pekoe is the top grade, and Dyst, literally the tea dust is tea Dust is the cheapest. The tea is sent into auctions in great wooden chests, then onto the benders. Almost every tea is needs to be blended to produce the right balance of color, flavor, strength and perfume, and each country has its own preferred blend. Since Independence, ownership of tea gardens has moved into Indian hands, although there is still a strong British interest.</div><div><br></div><div>There also good numbers of budget as well as luxury Hotels in Darjeeling located near the tea gardens provides all the comforts and luxuries at best price tags. The travelers can also avail Darjeeling Tour Packages which include a stay at one of the finest hotels in Darjeeling, platter of meals and a cab service to commute with in the precincts of the region.</div>

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