Planning a trip to Explore Kerala??

Kerala is so #Special  for Travel

Kerala is the most sought after destinations for #tourists from across the globe. You can see lakhs of tourists thronging around Kerala to have the wonderful #experience of visiting the lush green  tea plantations, relaxing at the beautiful hill stations and enjoying the cherished moments in a house boat cruise, the list goes endless. The scenic beauty of the Mother #Nature can be witnessed in its purest form in Kerala justifying the word renowned statement “Kerala is God’s own country” !

Kerala – the Best Place for #Tourism?

Kerala offers whatever a tourist looks for. During my recent #trip to Kerala, I was really taken aback by the beauty of the different scenic locations. Though I had lot of information about #Kerala from my friends who had visited earlier, it was an unmatched experience for me, an unique experience for life time. Kerala is the only place in #India  where you get to see all varieties of landscapes, that too not far away from each other. 
I enjoyed walking through the unending expanse of the tea plantations at #Munnar, the most renowned hill station in Kerala, topping the list of “Must See” destinations for global travelers. Walking through the plantations and the tea tasting sessions made my day. While returning,  I got the information from one of the local residents about the #Lockhart Tea Factory which is very near to Munnar, we decided not to miss that. We soon realized that our decision was correct. The Lockhart Tea Factory, established by the British People still functions in the #traditional way of manufacturing the original orthodox tea. We enjoyed going around the #factory with the help of a guide and purchased varieties of tea to take back. 

Our trip to Periyar is yet another interesting one where we were able to witness the #elephants being given bath and food. The #boat riding in Periyar is an extraordinary experience in such a wonderful ambience. 

Our visit to the Alleppey #backwaters tops the list. Acclaimed as “Venice of the East”, Alleppey welcomes you with the wide ranges of houseboats suitable for day cruise and for a night stay as well. Cruising on the #houseboat, watching the lifestyles of people in the villages along the banks is an experience something different. The dishes of the original Kerala #cuisine cooked onboard were just divine and we literally felt awesome !

The evenings we spent in Kerala were filled with entertainment sessions which were so unassumingly wonderful. The #Kalaripayatru demonstrations was a really thrilling experience and we heard that it is an ancient defensive mechanism existing since many centuries. Also, the most interesting art form of Kerala, #Kathakali and we never expected such a mind blowing performance. We made sure that we attended the kathakali sessions almost everyday evening till we left for our home town.

The list of places we visited further are in #Cochin, #Trivandrum, #Kovalam,#Guruvayur, #Vaikom etc… which I will share with you in my next post.

#Family_trip !

Kerala is a tourist #destination suitable to go on a tour with family or #friends. You have hotels preferable in all ranges like budget , standard and luxury and very genuine homestay #accommodations. You have eat outs wherever you go. That too, when you go to the beach resorts, you can get the freshly cooked dishes which are the tastiest one we ever had. There are many weekend getaways dotted across the state to make your weekend beautiful unlike the other week days.
Right Time to #Visit_Kerala!!

Though Kerala can be #visited during any time of the year, to enjoy the beauty of the state in its entirety, plan your visit to Kerala between September and March. Also, plan to visit Kerala between #June and #August, if you are keen in rejuvenating your body and mind the Ayurvedic therapeutic centers dotted across the state.

Why #Kerala is must Visit #Destination for #World Wide #Travellers?

The nature treasured with its original beauty, unpolluted #atmosphere, lush green landscapes, beautiful hill stations, #wildlife sanctuaries, #backwater cruises … 

What else a global traveler will look for spending his precious vacation, find everything under one roof in the God’s Own Country, Kerala.

To Plan  your Trip 

Visit : https://www.south-india-tours.in/tour-packages/kerala-tour-packages.html

 The unsolved mystery behind the Trillion dollar Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Kerala

The Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple located at the southernmost district of Kerala, #Thiruvananthapuram, has been headlining the world news in the recent years. It hold in its vaults, more than a trillion dollar worth of treasure, claiming the title of the “Richest temple in the World”. There are six vaults altogether inside the temple named A, B, C, D,E and F. 

The chamber A was opened in 2001 by certain famous #archaeologists and to their surprise they found more than a tonne of gold, ancient coins, diamonds and lot more. Later in 2011 a seven member team were sent by the Supreme Court to open and investigate about the rest of the #chamber vaults. The vaults were opened under the supervision of the Travancore Trust Head Trustee, and lot more of gold and diamonds were uncovered. However an intriguing secret they found is that the Chamber B is connected to another secret chamber and as per the legend it is guarded by the “Naga Bandham” or serpents. It is believed the door can only be opened by chanting the “Garuda Mantras” by a Sadhu and not by any other means is it possible. Let it be the latest technological machineries or any human efforts to open this particular door, it is said to create havoc in and around the temple. Some believe it would even cause the end of the world. 

The origin of the Sree Padmanabha Swamy #Temple is not found in any #historical sources and it still puzzles the modern archaeologists and historians. It is run by the Royal family of Travancore. People from far and near visit the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple, fascinated by the news of its #mysterious vault and also to pay a visit to the “World’s Richest Temple”.
The Royal Family of Travancore and a group of devotees opposed against the opening of the secret vault, however it could be ruled out by the Supreme Court. The decision could lead to the uncovering of probably the greatest treasure in world history.

Is it true whether the temple is guarded by a supernatural or divine force?

Is it true the mysterious vault inside Vault B cannot be opened by any human efforts?

Is it true it would be the end of the World if this secret vault is opened?

All the answers lie beyond the door of the secret vault.

For Travel guidance

Visit :https://www.south-india-tours.in/tour-packages/kerala-tour-packages.html

Monsoon Places In South India

Monsoon Places In South India

It so happens travellers always seek advice on what it is like to travel to India during Monsoon. Most of the time when you think of Monsoon, heavy rainfall, storm and floods pop up in your mind. However, travelling to India is always an enlightening experience and nothing must restrict you from doing it. You come across new people, new culture, cuisine, and of course a completely different topography, unlike your country. Moreover, if you love rain, and do not mind getting wet at times, a trip to India during the Monsoon season is a one of a kind travel experience.

June to September is the major Monsoon season in India. This is the time when the young and the old enjoy the rain alike and celebrate the moment. Why don’t you join the party as well?

Here we are, with a list of  places in South India to visit during the monsoon to make it easy for you to plan a tour to India during Monsoon.

1.Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Rite then! Let us start with the boss, Cherrapunji. The wettest place in India and the second of its kind on Planet Earth, Cherrapunji is for those hard-core rain lovers. Yes! This evergreen paradise located in North East India receives rainfall throughout the year. For the same reason, the area is densely green and makes a perfect setting for some adventurous trekking trips. Do enjoy the occasional chilly Monsoon drizzle.

2.Chikmagalur, Karnataka

The not so popular yet spectacular hill station in South India, Chikmagalur is a hidden heaven for the mountain lovers. The Monsoon showers make it even more beautiful. To spice it up, do remind yourself to grab a cup of hot smoking Coffee at this so-called Coffee land of India. The Mullayanagiri peak, Baba Budangiri peak, Kalhatti Falls and Kemmangundi are the major attractions you must check out at Chikmagalur.

3.Munnar, Kerala

Munnar has been rightly called the honeymooner’s paradise. Words fall short to describe the beauty and charm of this splendid hill station. Probably the torchbearer of Kerala Tourism, Munnar is an all year round destination attracting tourists from all parts of the globe. Her beauty multiplies manifold during the monsoon. It is not just Munnar, the whole state of Kerala wears a completely greenish outfit during the Monsoon.

 Therefore if you are planning for Munnar, better make full use of your time and explore more of Kerala. The Athirapally Falls, Wayanad, Alleppey, Kovalam are some of the Monsoon recommendations for you.

 4.Goa

Probably the most sought after holiday destination in India, Goa excites and engages every one of its visitors all year round. Monsoon is not an exception. Unlike travellers think, Goa is not closed during Monsoon. You have the Candolim Beach, Baga Beach and the Calangute Beach to hit it. All 3 of these sea sides are ever welcoming and lively even when it rains.

If sandy beaches, rain and cocktails are your things, think no further. Head to Goa.

5.Athirapally Waterfalls, Kerala

Ah! There you go. Who doesn’t love waterfalls? Waterfalls get lively during the Monsoon and this giant falls at Athirapally is at its best when it rains. The largest waterfalls in Kerala, Athirapally entertains its visitors with a stunning water show. The blissful sight of the near 100 feet high shimmering Athirapally falls gushing down to the bottom is no less than mesmerizing. If you happen to visit India during Monsoon, do not risk missing it out.

For More Visit : https://www.south-india-tours.in/tour-packages.html

Gangaikondacholapuram : City of the Chola who conquered the Ganga

Gangaikondacholapuram - Famous Temple in South India

The tongue-twisting name means ‘the town of the Chola who took the Ganges’.

Developed as the centrepiece of a city, it was built by the Chola king Rajendra I to celebrate his conquests. The magnificent Brihadishwara Temple (a replica of the Tanjore temple) stands in the tiny village of GANGAIKONDACHOLAPURAM in Ariyalur District, 35 km north of Kumbakonam. This temple was built in 11th century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Under Rajendra I, the Chola empire did indeed stretch as far as the great river of the north, an unprecedented achievement for a southern dynasty.

Rajendra Chola-I (1012-1044 A.D) son of the Great Rajaraja-I, established this temple after his great victorious march to river Ganges on Northern India. He assumed the title of Rajendra during his coronation and continued to rule along with his father Rajaraja-I for a while. He was awarded the supreme title of the Cholas known as Parakesari.

His empire included the whole of southern India to the river Tungabhadra in the north. For administrative and strategic purposes he built another capital and named it Gangaikondacholapuram. The Gangaikondacholapuram temple he constructed consists of 3 stories and was surrounded by a huge fort-like wall, the outer wall largely destroyed during the English rule (1896) to reuse the building material (granite rocks) for constructing the Lower Anicut the dam built across river Kollidam. He built around 10 temples at various places.


He assumed the title of Gangaikonda Cholan and named his new capital as Gangaikondacholapuram and he also constructed a huge Lake known as Chola Gangam that spreads 22 km mainly used for drinking and irrigation. A statue of Rajendra-I is found in Kolaram temple at Kolar of Karnataka state in India.

For Tour plan:
Visit : https://www.south-india-tours.in/south-india/cities/gangai-konda-cholapuram.html

1000 year old - Big Temple in South India

Why you should visit the 1000 year old - Ancient Big Temple in Tamilnadu?

Tamilnadu in India is well known for its ancient temples which are no less than architectural gems, to say the least. It is home to more than 33000 temples. YES! You heard me right, 33000 temples which earned this state its label the “Land of Temples”. Out of these many temples, more than half of them are 800 to 2000 year old. Tamilnadu also boasts of housing most of the biggest temples in India. Among those, the Brihadiswara Temple or popularly known as the Tanjore Big Temple in Tamilnadu stands out with its ginormous structure and spectacular architecture. It is one of the ancient temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one among the Three God heads in Hinduism. A fine exemplar of the ancient Dravidian architecture, this piece of art was built by the great Raja Raja Chola I in the year 1010 AD. He was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.

History remembers the Cholas for their outstanding contribution to the ancient Indian architecture scene which puts even the modern architects to shame. The Brihadeeswarar temple is their masterpiece. It is declared as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO under the “Great Living Chola Temples” along with the other Cholan marvels such as the Airavateswarar Temple and the Gangaikonda Cholapuram Temple in Tamilnadu.

This 216 feet high structure is made of whopping 130,000 tons of granite. Considering the fact that there are no mountains or any rock formations for nearly 60 km around Tanjore city, it still puzzles the historians and the architects, the means by which these many tons of granite was brought to the site. How come these rocks ended up here? Some say a group of 3000 elephants were used to carry these granites from far off lands.

Another surprising fact about this intricate architecture is the technique used in building it. The whole structure is made by the interlocking method, which means one rock kept over the other. There is literally nothing between the stones, no cement or any kind of adhesives. Fascinating, isn’t it? There is more coming. You know the very foundation of this gigantic structure is made without digging a single grain of sand and yet is so strong that it kept the whole temple straight with 0 inclination for more than 1000 years.

The most striking feature of the temple is its beautiful carved out Vimana. The top of the Vimana, which is called the Kumbam weighs around 81000 Kgs. How could somebody place this heavy stone at the top? Well, as per the historians and the localites, a 6 km long ramp was made adjacent to the temple and with the help of horses this stone was carried to the top of the temple Vimana. Amazing! No words.

Apart from its massive structure and detailed well worked out sculptures, the Cholans have also made a large number Tamil inscriptions on the temple. These inscriptions detail the reader on the temple’s construction, the daily rituals to be carried out, the various offerings to be made to the deity and even the whole story of how the king Raja Raja Chola I planned and executed the construction of this splendid structure in granite.

No doubt, the Brihadeshwara temple is one of the most beautiful and biggest temples in the world. Make a visit to the Big Temple in Tamilnadu and see for yourself. Admire the brilliance of our ancestors while you explore and enjoy this architectural wonder on Earth.

More interesting facts about the Tanjore Temple

The Shiva Lingam of the Big Temple in Tamilnadu is the world’s largest of its kind. There is a 13 feet tall Nandi [Lord Shiva’s Bull] Statue located outside the main temple structure, which is carved out of a single stone. This is yet another brilliance of the Brihadeeswarar Temple. Adding more to its structural beauty, you would come across a lot of finely detailed paintings of Lord Shiva and other gods, Asuras [demons] and animals which inspired the world famous Thanjavur Paintings. Painted using natural dyes, these impressive work of art still remain intact even after 1000 years.

Also, on the main temple structure, we could spot 2 figures which definitely does not look Indian. As per the historians, those are of two European men, one English and the other of a French which indicates the overseas connection of the Cholas during the period.

How to reach Tanjore big temple?

By road: Tanjore or Thanjavur is 60 km from the city of Trichy or Tiruchirappalli and 350 km from the capital city Chennai. There are frequent buses connecting Trichy to Tanjore and Chennai to Tanjore. Else, hire a taxi and head to Tanjore city. From the city, it is 1 km to the Tanjore temple.

By Rail: Tanjore is connected to all major cities in India by rail. You can easily catch a train to Chennai and then to Tanjore.

By Air: There is no airport at Thanjavur, however, the Trichy airport is just 65 kms from Thanjavur. Fly to Chennai and board a connecting flight to Trichy. From there hire a cab to reach the Brihadeshwara temple at Thanjavur.

For planning for a Tour..

Then Visit: 

https://www.south-india-tours.in/south-india/cities/thanjavur-tamilnadu.html

Pondicherry (or Puducherry) - South India

Pondicherry 

Pondicherry being the Former capital of French territories was established by Francois Martin in 1674. Enriched with cultural wealth where you can easily witness the dominance of French practices still existing, this place remains a place close to the heart for tourist seeking calmness, cleanliness and heritage.

Apart from the pristine beauty of the city, the other factor which attracts flocks of tourist is the availability of cheap beers and best cuisine giving you the freedom to enjoy.Located in the Old Law building is the Pondicherry Museum consisting of the mesmerizing collections of the art crafts during the French Colonial period displaying Bronze and stone sculptures of the Pallava and Chola periods.

Inside the same complex would be the Romain Rolland Library having the rich collections of more than 300,000 volumes of books in both the languages of French and English. The next tourist attraction would be Church of Sacred Heart of Jesus, which cloaks the Neo – Gothic brown and white Church of 1700’s, consisting the large stained glass panels where the incidents from the life of Jesus Christ is portrayed.

The most awaited destination for any tourist would be the Aurobindo Ashram, one of the best – known landmark of the town. Founded by Sri Aurobindo in 1926 is considered to be a place of calmness and peaceful retreat where one can attain joy and wisdom.

Auroville considered to be the City of Dawn, was planned by Mother Mirra as the futuristic International city, where one can live in peace. Spherical marble with a crystal inside it and the Meditation centre is the main attraction. Evening walk around the French colonies and through the beach side is worthwhile and overall a place for serenity and calmness.

Best Time to Visit Pondicherry : The best time to visit Pondicherry is winter months, from November till March.

Know more.... 

Visit : https://www.south-india-tours.in/south-india/cities/pondicherry.html

Pondicherry Beach 

Pondicherry beaches are peaceful and gorgeous in their beauty where the French culture still exists. The beaches are surrounded with palm trees that reflect the sound of the waves of water in the breeze. The breathtaking vision of the sunset and dawn and the silky sand under a morning sunshine brings in liveliness and radiance to the beaches. The beaches are so clean that it is much suitable for the swimming and sunbathing or to sit leisurely and relax. The Karaikal Beach has a breathtaking view of the confluence Arasalar River and the sea and should not be missed. The boating club on this beach supplies tourists with rowing boats, pedaller boats and motorboats. Palm trees and fishing hamlets on the Mahe beach gives the beach a gracious look.

To Know More  ...

Visit :https://www.south-india-tours.in/south-india/Beaches/pondicherry-beach.html

Navagraha Temples in Tamilnadu South India

Navagraha Temples

Navagraha Sthalas, the most auspicious and holy location where one can offer prayers to the nine planets, and considered to be the most important religious destination in Tamil Nadu state in South India.

All these nine temples are located in a close circuit, in and around the famous temple town of Kumbakonam. Each of these temples are unique with special features in beliefs, rituals and traditions.

The temple structures are all attractive and architecturally marvelous. The locations are all picturesque and attractive. Apart from pilgrims, many tourists loving to enjoy the nature and its gifts prefer to visit Navagraha Sthalas The name of the place itself means the location (Sthalas) of Nine Planets (Navagraha).

A pilgrimage tour to these nine temples has assured benefits in eliminating the wicked effects of the planets on the person’s life, to strengthen the planetary influences for prosperity, to weaken the bad effects and bad influences of the planets on the well being of the person and also to understand the astronomical powers and importance of the planets in the day to day life of the human populaces.

The temples dedicated to nine planets are Vaitheeswaran Koil Angaraka dedicated to Mars, Thiruvengadu dedicated to Mercury (Budhan), Keezhaperumpallam dedicated to Kethu stands for descending node of Chandra- Moon), Thirunallar dedicated to Saturn (Sani), Kanjanoor dedicated to Venus (Sukran), Suriyanar Koil dedicated to Sun (Surya), Thirunageswaram dedicated to Raagu (stands for the ascending node of Chandra - Moon), Thingaloor dedicated to Moon (Chandra) and Alangudi dedicated to Jupiter (Guru).

To Visit all this Temples.. Visit 

https://www.south-india-tours.in/tour-packages/navagraha-tour.html

Top Tourist Places to Visit In South India

South India is the places where you can see the Ancient Culture  and Different Lifestyle of the peoples.There you have a lot more tourist attractions to see. Very oldest,historic temples hill stations.oldest monuments Here you have a sample video..

To  Know More.. Visit  https://www.south-india-tours.in/

Kerala listed as “The destination to watch out in 2017” by the British Travel Body [ABTA]

The God’s own country Kerala has been listed among the “12 destinations to travel in 2017”. It is the only Indian destination which claimed the spot in the list announced by the Association of British Travel Body [ABTA], the most prominent Travel and Tour operators association in Britain. No wonder, the evergreen land of Kerala has been entertaining travellers all around the world for years. It is still most sought after destination in India. Winged visitors from all parts of the world come to Kerala for a lifetime experience, let it be cruising in a houseboat on the glistening backwaters of Alleppey, strolling through the lush green tea plantations of Munnar, witnessing the life of the local residents, a wildlife jeep safari through the thick jungle of Periyar, or sunbathing at the crescent beaches of Kovalam, Kerala is a wonderland. 

Is Kerala for the foodies? Of course, Yes! Being named the “God’s own country, it for sure is a food heaven by all means. The Kerala cuisine is famous for its liberal use of spices [Well! it is the land of spices indeed] and coconut in all their dishes. The wide varieties of food and the distinct flavour offer tourists a new world of finger licking good cuisine. Kerala is not backing off in the sector of Wellness Tourism as well. Home to the Vedic knowledge of Ayurveda, people also visit Kerala to enjoy an Ayurvedic massage to relax and rejuvenate. Kerala welcomes nearly 200,000 visitors from Britain every year, accounting for 20% of the overall tourist arrivals in the state.

Head off to Kerala for an exciting holiday.



Visit south-india-tours.in for more information for travel plans to Kerala.

Top Tourist Attractions in South India

Top Tourist Attractions in South India

1.Munnar

Munnar is a place of peace, beauty and harmony. Incredibly beautiful hill town in the Idukki district is situated at a height of 6000 ft in and is the most preferred summer destination in the state of Kerala. Munnar was an ideal place even during the British period in those colonial days.Munnar is also the apt place for bird watchers as rare species of birds are found easily in the early morning hours. A perfect destination for adventure lovers, honeymooners, wildlife and nature lovers.

2.Ooty

Nestled in the green hills is Ooty, the pictorial Queen of Hill Stations, one of the favorite summer retreats of people in South India, which is at an altitude of 2240 m. Orchards of pine, conifers and Eucalyptus trees and wattle lining the landscape denotes this hill station as a unique one and the most attracted one id the tunnel shaped lavender flowers in the sloping mountains.One can watch the nature in best form however they differ in distance, topography and stature. Majestic hills are the fractions of regal Nilgiri range and a congregation for the Easter and Western Ghats.

3.Alleppey

One of the most popular beach spots which attract the tourists for the pleasant water, awesome houseboats and the palm grooves surrounding area. The pillar is 140 years old and extends into the sea

Alappuzha Beach : - Located 14 Km from Alleppey, this temple is built in the Kerala style of architecture. The palpayasam (milk dessert) offered to the Gods of this temple are famous around the world.

4.Coorg

Coorg situated on the Western Ghats of Karnataka in South India is trendy happening as it is close to Karnataka. With its natural splendor and beautiful environment nestled among the lusting greeneries offers luxurious vacation period to its guests and often praised as the 'Scotland of India' and also later known as 'Kashmir of the South' due to the majestic hill station located at an altitude in the range of 3500 ft above sea level.

Coorg is considered as a mind blowing summer retreat for escaping from the hot summer many tourists arrive in Coorg to enjoy the monsoon. For the sport lovers Coorg offers plenty of admiring facilities to the golf lovers with three golf courses. Coorg offers many exciting outdoor activities like angling, trekking and golfing for the travelers.

5.Pondicherry

Pondicherry being the Former capital of French territories was established by Francois Martin in 1674. Enriched with cultural wealth where you can easily witness the dominance of French practices still existing, this place remains a place close to the heart for tourist seeking calmness, cleanliness and heritage. 

Apart from the pristine beauty of the city, the other factor which attracts flocks of tourist is the availability of cheap beers and best cuisine giving you the freedom to enjoy.Located in the Old Law building is the Pondicherry Museum consisting of the mesmerizing collections of the art crafts during the French Colonial period displaying Bronze and stone sculptures of the Pallava and Chola periods.

6.Kanyakumari

The tip of peninsular where Arabian sea,Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal meets is where the land of India ends.Welcome to the land of Kanyakumari the unexplored treasures of the state.Plan an amazing trip to Kanyakumari to enjoy the land filled with leisure and entertainment. It never fails to amaze you with Kanyakumari temple the most visited pilgrimage at the seashore, beauty of sunrise and sunset, Thiruvalluvar statue, Vivekananda memorial, distinct beaches and most unexplored places to excite you like Vattakottai, twin beach, Kanyakumari pier and Thirparappu falls which is said the water from falls contains herbal value.

7.Hampi

Hampi is a significant religious centre of the Vijayanagara Empire due to the presence of the historic Virupaksha Temple along with many other monuments of the old city. Hampi was the capital of the three generations of Hindu rulers.The massive rock sprinkled mountains and the river that divides the city of Hampi compose strange scenery of this ancient city. The place has many religious, architectural and natural places which make Hampi ideal tourist destination.Krishnadevaraya and Achyuta Raya were the most illustrious rulers. UNESCO has listed the Vittal Temple and other ruins of the town of Hampi as a World Heritage Site. Hampi was pillaged by the Deccan Muslim rulers in 1565 for over a period of 6 months before it was abandoned.

8.Tirupathi

The most popular destination for destination for Hindu pilgrims in India, is Tirupati Temple the site of Shri Venkateshwara Temple situated in Tirumala hills 700m above the town. The temple dates to the 9th century,although it has often been expanded and renovated from the 15th century onwards.

 The seven “sacred hills” of Tirumala are believed to symbolize the seven – headed serpent God Adisesha on whose coils Vishnu sleeps.The aura that surrounds Lord Venkateswara as the bestowers of boons has made this temple the most visited and the richest in India.

9.Kodaikanal

The word Kodaikanal means gift of the forest in local language. Kodaikanal is the most stunning and famous hill station in Tamil Nadu located in the famous Palani Hills in Western Ghats and popularly known as the Princess of hill stations.The thick forest with many varieties of trees, the huge massive rocks in the wilderness and the cascading waterfalls makes it a real gift for the tourists visiting this place. Kodaikanal is situated about 7,200 feet from the sea level the various entertainments available to the tourist is that they can indulge in various activities like cycling, boating, horse riding and trekking.

10.Madurai

Considered to be South India’s great temple town, Madurai situated on the river banks of Vaigai river is known for its rich repository of Tamil culture and Heritage.Stunning Meenakshi Amman temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Handsome God) and his wife Meenakshi (The fish eyed Goddess) built by the Pandyas remains the most attracted sightseeing by all the tourist. The impressive 12 Gopuras the temple tank surrounded by colonnade and the architecture and design attracts most of the Western tourist.Evening ceremony is one of the special event that takes place in temple each day and thousands of people throng to attend this occasion. Thirumalai Nayak Palace built in 1636 and was partially restored in the 19th century by Lord Napier. This place has influences of the Islamic culture and has a rectangular courtyard called the Swarga Vilasam (Heavenly Pavilion)..

11.Rameshwaram

About - Rameshwaram City Guide is the most crucial part of any Hindu religious tour or any other temple tours in India. It is called "Vanarasi" of South India and is part of Char Dham Yatra. Rameswaram is believed to be the place from where, according to Hindu mythology, Rama created the bridge across the sea, to reach Lanka with the help of his Vanar Sena.It is the same place where Rama killed the demon king Ravana who abducted Lord Rama's consort Sita and hence it is a very sacred place for the devotees of Rama.The famous pilgrimage site is always crowded by the Hindu devotees who visit Rameshwaram City Guide in large numbers to offer their prayers to Lord Rama. This place also has one of the Jyotirlingas and that is why it is a sacred place for Shaivites as well. It is packed with a number of temples and Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple is a must visit Rameshwaram Tour place among all of them.

12.kochi

Cochin remains the trading centre for spices and sea foods, has narrows islands and saltwater lagoons of the Arabian Sea. Mattancherry Palace constructed by the Portuguese in the mid 1550’s was later renovated by the Dutch people.Displays the Palanquins and textiles and Kerala’s’ temple art , all painted in red, yellow, black and white warm shades depicting the religious and mythological themes of the episodes of Ramayana.Jewish Synagogue located at the heart of the Jew Town, is one of India’s oldest synagogue. Today as an evidence only dozen of families remain from the Jew Family where the others have moved to Israel. The synagogue treasures the beautiful silver and gold torah scrolls, crafted grass pulpits, oil lamps and crystal chandeliers.

13.Goa

Goa is India’s smallest state and can be divided into the two districts of North and South Goa. Northern Goa is much more developed as a tourist destination with its roots going back to the early 1960’s. It has the widest range of accommodation available and has a greater number of small cheap hotels. Tourists come here enjoy the nightlife and to go shopping at the sprawling Anjuna markets.Calangute is Northern Goa’s most popular beach and was the centre of the hippie scene in the 1960’s and 1970’s. During the day it is busy with sunbathers, hawkers, masseurs, and hair braiders and you will find a good range of accommodation available here.

14.Wayanad

Wayanad is a district in Kerala which is the most popular tourist destination in Kerala. It occupies the border between the neighbouring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Wayanad covers an area of about 2132 km ². The temperature ranges between 19 to 32 degree Celsius. Humidity is very high in this region.Wayanad receives the highest annual rainfall in the country. Kalpetta, which is the headquarters of Wayanad is a well-known hill station. This beautiful charming mountainous plateau attracts tourists from all over the world. Wayanad is a land of historical and cultural importance.The Edakkal cave which is the famous tourist spot in Wayanad is known for its cave cravings. These cave cravings are the sign and proof of human existence in Edakkal caves during the Neolithic age. The misty mountains, green valleys, beautiful lakes, and the fresh water springs are the gifts of nature to this charming land.

15.Mahabalipuram

Mahabalipuram, being one of the UNESCO World heritage site was developed during the Pallava king Narasimhavarman I, who was also called by his people as “the great wrestler”. A traveler can spot the rock cut caves, monolithic shrines, structural temples and huge bas-reliefs which depicts the masterpiece of the Pallava art.

Visit the shore temple built by Mamalla dedicated to Lord Vishnu while the other two shrines of Lord Shiva was added by Mamalla’s successor Narasimhavarman II.

This temple has survived the ravages of time and erosion. Later visit the five Rathas which depicts the Dravidian culture and style and the epic Mahabharata. The carvings are found outside the temple and the huge ratha among the five is the Dharmaraja Yudistar rath.

16.Tanjore

Brihadeeswara temple, a 1000 year old temple, which is now a UNESCO world heritage site was dedicated to Shiva, was built by Raja raja Chola I. Carved out of a single block of granite stand the huge Nandi weighing 25 tonnes placed near the sanctum Next destination would be the Royal Palace, which has a lot of historical significance built by Nayaka rulers used as their royal residence and later was remodeled by Marathas.The special significance is that the palace resembles the shape of a flying eagle.

Outside the palace complex is the seven-storeyed observation tower and the durbar hall built in 1684 is a feast to the people who has interest towards the culture. It has lots of paintings and decorated pillars in the walls and the ceilings. Associated to this place are the Raja raja museum and art gallery and Saraswathi Mahal library which have unique collection of antiques, vessels used by the rulers, bronze and copper collection of coins and weapons.

17.Gokarna Karnataka

Every tourist knows South India is a land of many seas, rivers, oceans and beaches and the entire South India region can be visited round the year. In a religious country like India, most of the sea beaches or rivers traditionally have temples since ages, mosques and churches since centuries and there are lots of mythological stories related to all these sites.There are many beaches located in South India and each beach has its own speciality that attracts scores of global tourists. Of all the beaches, Paradise Gokarna Beach is somehow little bit different, not because of its story of creation, but mainly for its peculiar large geographical shape that resembles to the ear of a cow.

18.Hyderabad

One of the prime attractions of the tech city Hyderabad is the Charminar. Over the years, Charminar - Hyderabad has earned huge popularity and has become a major landmark of the city. The very name of Hyderabad associates Charminar with it. It stands as structure that tells us about the glory and the rich cultural heritage of the Hyderabad city. You can not imagine Hyderabad without Charminar- it has become an integral part of the city.Charminar in Hyderabad was constructed by the eminent architect named Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in the year of 1591. This magnificent edifice of granite, lime, mortar or pulverised marble was built as soon as he shifted his capital to this city.

19.bangalore

Bangalore is a vibrant cosmopolitan and fifth largest city in India, with the growing population of young IT professionals and formally awarded as the “Garden City”.Visit the Vidhana Soudha, built of granite and porphyry the Secretariat and the State Legislature of Karnataka constructed in 1956. The most notable one is the Rajasthani Jharokhas and the Indo – Saracenic pillars and the wood works inside the place is noteworthy.Next will be the Bangalore Palace built in 1880 modeled on Windsor Castle, with towers and turreted Parapets. Remains one of the famous spot for shooting Indian films. Tipu Sultan Palace stands as a good example for finely embellished balconies, arches and pillars and a replica of Daria Daulat Bagh in Srirangapatna which was once served as the summer retreat of Tipu Sultan.

20.Bandipur National Park

BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is the abbreviation for Biligiriranga Hills. Biligiri is the name of white rock face that constitutes the major part of the hills. BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful places in Karnataka.This sanctuary is located at the height of 5091 feet and is spread over an area of 540 Sq Km. Under Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 it is a protected reserve and in 2010 it was declared a Tiger Reserve BR Hills Wildlife Sanctuary has majorly scrubs, deciduous forests, riparian and evergreen vegetation, shola forest, grasslands and dense forest vegetation. Apart from this there are around 800 species of plants in this sanctuary.