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India Tourist Attractions

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India is a dream holiday destination that rewards every traveler with an endless number of tourist attractions.

India's travel and tourist industry has today positioned itself in the top ten amongst the 134 most preferred tourist destinations in the world. One of the reasons for this is that the country is packed with unrivaled tourist attractions.

The northern part of India boast of some of the major tourist attractions of India. Probably the best known is the marvelous Taj Mahal in Agra, which is one of the most beautiful masterpieces of architecture in the world, built by the fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1649 in memory of his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal. The north Indian tourist attractions also include the Red Fort in Dehli; the Palace of the Winds, or Hawa Mahal, and the City Palace in Jaipur; the City Palace and Lake Palace in Udaipur; the Lotus Temple;Jama Masjid; Golden Temple; Jaisalmer Fort; many picturesque hill stations and forts, and the Himalayan mountain range.

The Tourist attractions in South India include Kerala Backwaters, Ooty, Rock Fort Temple, Golconda Fort, Char Minar, and many exotic hill stations in Kerala. South India is famous for its temples, among these are Meenakshi Temple, Somnathpur Temple and Tirupati Temple. Chennai (Madras) is a main city in southern India.

Like the northern and southern parts of India, the eastern and western parts of the country are also home to some tourist attractions. Mumbay, Jamnagar, Maharashtra, Ahmedabad, Gujrat, Vadodara are the major cities of the western part of India. Goa is the smallest state of India and it features many famous beaches like Banga Beach and Anjuna Beach. Eastern India is the most rural part of the country. It's largest city is Kolkata (Calcutta) also regarded as the cultural capital of India and home to numerous colonial buildings. The temple cities of Puri and Bhubaneswar are both located in the Orisa state.

India Attractions

Taj Mahal

Varanasi

Udaipur
Gwalior
Rajasthan

Goa

Tamil Nadu
Kerala
Karnataka

Kashmir Valley

Solan Hill Station

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Located on the way of Kalka and Shimla, Solan has emerged to be a lovely place for excursion from any part of the state of Himachal Pradesh. The stunning landscape of Solan bordered by Chandigarh, Shimla, and Kalka is famous among tourists as the "Mushroom City of India". Acres of mushroom plantations at an elevation of 1,342 meters are a delight to the eyes. Its proximity with Shimla is another reason why many plan their tour to Solan.

Solan is an ideal tourism destination during all seasons. The district of Solan in Himachal is also home to a number of rivers such as the Yamuna, Ghagar, and Satluj. Prime attraction in Solan apart from the mushroom plantations includes the Shoolini Devi Temple. Several pilgrims from Chamba and Shimla travel to Solan to offer prayers at this temple. Tour to Solan would also include visiting other nearby places like Chail, Churdhar Peak, Dagshai, and Kandaghat. Apart from sightseeing, the abundance of hills in the region facilitates trekking to Shimla and rock climbing.

How to reach Solan

The capital city of Shimla is a 50 km drive to Solan. By air, Shimla and Chandigarh are the nearest airports. Shimla airport is 19 km from Solan and Chandigarh 44km. By train, Kalka Railway Station is a 44 km drive. Government buses ply from Chandigarh, Shimla, and Delhi. There are also other private Volvos available for day journey

Kasauli : 25 kms from Solan, Kasauli is a beautiful tourist spot. In summer one sees endless greenery of deodar and pine trees and in winter, snow covered earth. The Mall Road and Monkey Point are well known here. One can find a number of good hotels to stay here.

Sanavar : 21 kms from Solan, this attractive tourist spot is famous for its 150-year old public school and a church.

Parks and Mini Zoo : Close to the town of Solan are the Children's park, Jawahar park and Mohan Park. In the Children's park is a mini zoo, where one can find deer, wild cats and some rare birds.

Yashwant Nagar : This picnic spot is 20 kms from Solan. The river Giri flows along its sides.

Karol Caves : 5 km from the town, this cave is located at an altitude of 7000 ft . Karol Mountain is clearly visible from Solan. This is known as Himalaya's most ancient and longest cave. It reaches Pinjor Gardens.

Dagshahi : This is famous for its jail. A number of freedom fighters, German and Irish revolutionaries have spent time here. 15km from Solan are two English schools.

Badog : It is most famous for its pine trees and the longest tunnel on the Shimla-Kalka railway line. It is 5 kms from Solan.

Fort of the Gurkha : Situated on the 7000 ft high Dhar Mountain, this 300-year old fort was built by the attacking Gurkhas of Nepal. The view from here of Shimla, Kasauli, Chail, and Karol is breathtaking.

Nauni : Parmar University which teaches floriculture, is situated here. It is 12 km from Solan. Flower and plants are inexpensive. This University is one of its kind in Asia.

Young Drum Monastery : This Monastery teaches "Ban", the oldest religion of Tibet. People from all over the world visit this spot which is 15km from Solan on the Bagthan Road. Time and again, dances, are organized here.

Blessed by the Weather God
Solan is a bracing hill station throughout the year but hotter as compared to Shimla. At the time of summer in Solan, cotton clothes are recommended as the temperature rises to 35 Celsius and light woolen to heavy woolens are required in winters as the temperature dips to -2 Celsius.

Kangra Hill station

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General Information - Kangra

Altitude615m
Best TimeMid-May To Mid-October.
LocationHimachal Pradesh.

Fast facts - One of the well known hill stations in India, Kangra is located in the eastern part of the state of Himachal Pradesh.

Did you know - Kangra in Himachal Pradesh is spread over an area of 55,673 square Kms. It is surrounded by hills on all sides.

Must do - Visit the popular tourist spots like Mannuni Lake, Gopalpur Zoo, Nurpur Fort, Chamunda Devi temple.

One of the well known hill stations in India, Kangra is located in the eastern part of the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its scenic beauty and idyllic surroundings. Every year, thousands of tourists come to Kangra to spend some time in the midst of beautiful natural surroundings.

Kangra in Himachal Pradesh is spread over an area of 55,673 square Kms. It is surrounded by hills on all sides. The River Beas flows through the town. The town is located at an altitude of 2404 feet and has a sprawling vegetation of Sal, pine, eucalyptus and rhododendron trees. The town was also known as Nagarkot in the ancient times.

The ideal time for traveling to Kangra is between the months of March and October when the weather is pleasant. Being a hill station, the town experiences mild climate all over the year. The summer months are pleasant and mild while the winter months are cold.

Prime Attractions of Kangra

Behna Mahadev
This is one of the largest gable-roofed Hindu temples in the Satluj valley. The mandapa and corridor around the sanctuary are open to all sides. Angled struts support the overhanging stone-tiled roof, which is steeply gabled in two tiers.

Brajeshwari Temple
It is said to have been founded by the divinity of that name at a famous 'Ashwamedh' or horse sacrifice, which was held on the spot. The famous Mehmood of Ghazni is said to have invaded the district and destroyed the temple, building a mosque on its ruins.

Brijraj Behari Temple
On the spread of 'Vaishnavism' in Himalayas Vogel says, " Though 'Saivism' prevails everywhere and all the principal temples and 'tirthas' are dedicated to 'Mahadeva' or 'Devi', under various names, there seems to be a great deal of Vishnu or Krishna worship in Rajas.

International Himalayan Festival
As winter arrives, anglers shift to the Pong Dam. With the blessings of Nobel Laureate, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Internation Himalayan Festival is he;ld in Kangra district.

Kangra Art Gallery
This treasure trove of Kangra valley arts, crafts and rich past, displays artifacts that date back to 5th century. It includes a gallery of Kangra's famous miniature painting and a representative collection of sculptures, pottery and anthropological items.

Karaeri Lake
Surrounded by thick woods and the visually stunning backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains, Kareiri Lake is a beacon for trekkers in the area.

Masrur Temple
At an altitude of 8,00m and 15-kms to the south of Kangra, is the town of Masrur. Here are 15 Shikhra Temples, cut out of solid rock and built in the 10th century. Built in the Indo-Aryan monolith style, these temples have got a great resemblance with the Ajanta-Ellora temples.

Sujanpur Fort
Close to the district border of Kangra, is the fort of Sujanpur. Popularly known along with its twin title 'Tira', this was built by Raja Abhaya Chand of Kangra in 1758.

The Judges Court
The Judge's Court is set in some eight acres of land and has a fairly eclectic character about it. The floor plan follows the layout of a colonial bungalow and the embellishments are part local and part Saracenic.

Gaddis
The Gaddis are shepherds who move their flocks of sheep from lower pastures in winter to higher ones after snow melt. To them the Dhauladhars are not just a mountain range but like their mother.

Kangra
Kangra is accepted as one of Himachal's most picturesque areas, thousands of streams flow through its enchanting valleys.

Kangra Fort
The remains of the fort of the rulers of Kangra are located on a strategic height, overlooking the 'Ban Ganga' and 'Manjhi' rivers. Among its ruins, besides the temple of goddess Ambika Devi, there are two Jain temples too.

Kangra Tea
As the sun rises over palampur, the dew drops that have settled over the night on the dark leaves of the tea bushes act as scores of little prisms that disperse the first light - and announce to the world that they nurture yet another fine crop of Kangra tea.

Pong Lake Sanctuary
Pong Dam reservoir is 65-km from Panthankot and 115-km from Dharamsala on the Beas River. The Pong Dam Lake is significant for a wildlife sanctuary with wild life species like Nilgai, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Buar, Clawless Otter, and Leapord. The reservoir is developed on a large scale for promoting water sports for tourists.

Shiva Temple
The Shiva temple at Katgarh is lesser known as compared to other temples in Kangra. It is located at the periphery of Kangra district. It has many legends woven in to Folklore. The temple enshrined a human-size 'linga', which is vertically spilt in to two parts.

Siddhanatha Temple
The Siddhanatha temple at Baijanath is similar in its arrangement both in its interior and exterior to that of Mahadeva temple commonly known as Siddanatha temple.

Excursions from Kangra

Jwalamukhi Temple (30Km.)
Jwalamukhi is 34-km from Kangra. Recognised as one of the 51 Shaktipiths of India, the picturesque temple, built against a wooded spur, in the Indo-Sikh style, has a dome that was gilded by Mughal Emperor Akbar.
Nadaun (43Km.)
This town became famous when the Kangra rulers shifted their Capital here after they lost Kangra Fort to the army of Jahangir. However, it lost its glory when Raja Sansar Chand re-captured Kangra Fort and became the strong ruler of Kangra valley again. It is situated on the Shimla-Dharamshala road on the bank of Beas River, 20-kms from Hamirpur town and 43-km from Kangra. It is peaceful town with a good Rest House, an Old Palace and Shiva temple. The Palace building at Amtar still houses some of the paintings of that time. Jawalajee (also spelt as Jawalaji) temple is also not very far and can be visited from here.

How To Get There - Kangra

By Air
Kangra airport is 7-km away and has got straight flights from Delhi.
By Rail
Nearest broad-gauge railhead at Pathankot is 86-km away and one is situated at Mukarian is 30-km. Kangra Valley express is a narrow gauge train, starting from Pathankot and continues to Bajinath.
By Road
Kangra is well connected by road with Dharamsala, which is 18-km away.

Dalhousie Hill Station

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Altitude : 2,040 metres.

Headquarter : Chamba (altitude 1006 metres )

Location : In district Chamba.

Located in the outer slopes of hill Dhauladhar range is another important hill resort in the district Chamba . A number of picturesque walks run through the oak, pine and deodar forests around the town and offer excellent views of the Chenab, the Ravi and the Beas valleys. It is thicky wooded with stately pines and oaks and has lovely picnic spot all around. Dalhousie is the gateway to Chamba. Originally conceived as a sanitorium by its founder Lord Dalhousie, it is today one of the most quiet hill stations. Extending over an area of 13 sq. km., Dalhousie comprises five distinct hills, Balun, Kathlog, Petreyn, Tehra and Bakrota with heights ranging between 1,525 and 2,378 metres. It is known for its Church buildings and other landmarks erected by the British. The town has old Churches like St. John's Church ( made in 1903 A.D. ), and St. Patrick's Church ( 1909 A.D. )

Prime Attractions of Dalhousie

Bakrota Hills : ( 2,085 metres ) 4.8 km ) The fascinating and bewitching Bakrota Hills offer to the tourists the brisk walk round the hills besides a grand view of snow-clad peaks. It is one of the finest and soul refreshing places in Dalhousie. The matchless beauty of Bakrote Hills haunt you in a different way and leaves you speechless. Thick 'Deodar' forests seem like a beautiful green carpet covering the surrounding hills. Soul refreshing pure mountain air refreshes you at every turn and you just begin to mix your inner heart with the beauty of nature. Dalhousie experiences heavy snowfall during winter and then majestic Bakrota Hills start the white magic of snow and enjoy.

One of the best thing about walking through Bakrota Hills is the unpredictable come and go of the sunshine through 'Deodar' trees. Every turn comes up with a new scene showing the hide and seek of the sunshine. A journey to Dalhousie is incomplete if you do not take a walk through this magical paradise. It is surely one of the must visiting places in the world.

St. Andrew's Church : St. Andrew's Church commonly known as the Church of Scotland was built in the year 1903 at Baloon by Protestant Christians. The Church is approximately one and half kms. from Dalhousie's bus stand. The Church building is in good condition, recently a brick boundary wall has been erected around it to save the building from mischief mongers.

St. Patrick's Church : This Church is situated in Baloon, Dalhousie Cantt., on Military Hospital road approximately 2 kms. from main bus stand. St. Patrick's Church is the largest church in Dalhousie having a seating capacity of 300 persons in its main hall. The Church was built in the year 1909 and the dressed-stone building is still in good condition. This Church was built exclusively from contribution made by officers and ranks of the British Army. At present the Church is managed and maintained by the Catholic Diocese of Jalandhar.

St. Francis' Church : This Catholic Church is a very prominent monument on the Subhash Chowk. This Church was built in the year 1894 from the contributions made by Army and Civil Officers and Civilians. This Church is managed and maintained by the Cathoilic Diocese of Jalandhar. St. Francis' Church on Prtrain hill is believed to have been built on the lines of a certain church in England. Beautiful glass work and intricate stone work can be seen in the Church. Service is conducted every Sunday.

St. John's Church : This Church stands on the Gandhi Chowk approximately 2 kms. from the main bus stand of Dalhousie. This Church was the first to be built after the town of Dalhousie was founded. The church building stands in a good condition but its surroundings demand much better care. Service is conducted on every Sunday.

Bakrota Hills : ( 2,085 metres ) 4.8 km ) The fascinating and bewitching Bakrota Hills offer to the tourists the brisk walk round the hills besides a grand view of snow-clad peaks.

Dainkund or Dayankund: ( 2,745 metres ) 10 km. ) This is a towering and beautiful peak which offers panoramic views, specially on a clear day, of the three main rivers - Beas, Ravi and Chenab.

Kalatop : ( 2,440 metres ) 8.5 km. ) The spot commands a beautiful and grand panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and eye travels wide over hill and dale, field and forest, smooth and ruggedness, till in the direction of Jammu and Kashmir, it meets a horizon of snow peaks.

Khajjiar : ( 2000 metres ) 27 km. ) A little out of Dalhousie is a beautiful, charming retreat that makes an ideal day excursion or even an overnight visit. Far from any major town, this tranquil spot has a small lake in the centre, on which is a floating island. The local people hold the lake for in legend, it is associated with Khajjinag, the deity that is enshrined in the temple here. The temple here has a golden dome.

Panchphulla : Sardar Ajit Singh, a great freedom fighter, breathed his last on the day India gained independence, 15th August, 1947. His 'Samadhi' is located at Dalhousie's Panjphulla, a picturesque spot with a natural tank and water flowing under small bridges from which the place takes its name. Sardar Ajit Singh was the uncle of martyr Bhagat Singh. At Panjphulla, there is a 'Samarak' in the memory of Sardar Ajit Singh. On the way to Panchpula is Satdhara springs gurgling with refreshing water, believed to contain some medicinal properties. Panchpula stream is the main source of water supply to Dalhousie and Bahloon. The stream springs from the north side of DayanKund and runs down a picturesque ravine to the waterworks of Panchpula.

Subhash Baoli : ( 1.6 km. ) A lovely spot for picnic, commanding a good view of snow covered hills. This has been named after the indomitable man of Indian politics, before the independence days, Shri Subhash Chandra Bose. It is said that he used to drink water from this place during his stay in Dalhousie.

Jandri Ghat : ( 2 km. ) place of the rulers of erstwhile Chamba State, is located and surrounded by tall pine trees, is a place worth visiting.

The Round : ( 4.8 km. ) the Bakrota Hills offer a brisk walk on 'The Round' besides a grand view of the surrounding countryside.

Ajit Singh Memorial : Sardar Ajit Singh, a great freedom fighter, breathed his last on the day India gained independence, 15th August, 1947. His 'Samadhi' is located at Dalhousie's Panjphulla, a picturesque spot with a natural tank and water flowing under small bridges from which the place takes its name. Sardar Ajit Singh was the uncle of martyr Bhagat Singh. At Panjphulla, there is a 'Samarak' in the memory of Sardar Ajit Singh. On the way to Panchpula is Satdhara springs gurgling with refreshing water, believed to contain some medicinal properties. Panchpula stream is the main source of water supply to Dalhousie and Bahloon. The stream springs from the north side of DayanKund and runs down a picturesque ravine to the waterworks of Panchpula.

Tourism in Dalhousie :

Dalhousie with its breath taking mountain chains and thick forests of deodar trees attracts a lot of tourists from near and far. Tourism in Dalhousie is soul refreshing because Dalhousie is the quietest hill station in India. Dalhousie falls in district Chamba and offers tourists the moments of unforgettable fun. Tourism in Dalhousie is in its full swing in the winter. Dalhousie experiences a very heavy snowfall. In winter a lot of people visit Dalhousie for everlasting fun. Tourism in Dalhousie is also in its full swing in summer when the beauty of majestic Bakrota Hills and other areas of Dalhousie cast a magical spell on the visitors. Tourism in Dalhousie offers a very calm and quiet holiday time and gives you a chance to enjoy the beaty of nature in a relaxed manner. Tourism in Dalhousie is also for those who love to go for camping in the wilderness of Himalayas.

How To Get There - Dalhousie

By Air
The nearest airport is at Gaggal (Kangra), 140-km from Dalhousie.
By Rail
The nearest railhead is Pathankot, which is well connected to Amritsar, Jammu, Delhi and Jalandhar.
By Road
Onward journey from Pathankot to Chamba and Dalhausie is by road. Punjab and Himachal Roadways run services, as do private operators.

Dharamshala Hill Station

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Dharamshala is one of the popular hill station located in the Kangra district, Himachal known for its wonderful surroundings which have amidst pine trees, tea gardens with the snow covered mountains. It's home to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama.

Dharamshala is one of the popular hill station located in the Kangra district, Himachal known for its wonderful surroundings which have amidst pine trees, tea gardens with the snow covered mountains. It's home to His Holiness, the Dalai Lama.

Dharamshala Attractions

Dall Lake

11 km. The lake lies amidst hills and stately fir trees.

Kunal Pathri

This is around 3 km. A level walk from Kotwali Bazar leads up to the rock temple of the local goddess.

Dehra Gopipur

56 km Dehra Gopipur is situated on the banks of the Beas which provides good fishing.

Dharamkot

11 km. Situated on a hill, this picnic spot affords a panoramic view of the Kangra district and Dhauladhar.

Bhagsunath

11 km. It has an old temple, a spring, slate quarries and a small yet beautiful waterfall. A popular picnic spot.

Nurpur

95 km. from Dharamshala and 24 km. from Pathankot, Nurpur has an old fort and temple to Baij Raj. Nurpuri shawls are a good buy.

Machhrial & Tatwani

25 km. There are hot springs at Tatwani. On the way there is a waterfall at Machhrial, twice as big as that at Bhagsunath.

Kareri

1,983 metres, Kareri is 22 km from Kotwali Bazar. 13 km from the Kareri Rest House is Kareri lake, surrounded by green meadows, oak and pine trees.

Lord Elgin`s Memorial

8 km. The Church of St. John in the wilderness has a monument to Lord Elgin, Viceroy of India, who died at Dharamshala and was buried here in 1863.

Sujanpur Tira

80 km. A historic town famous for Kangra paintings of the time of Raja Sansar Chand. There is an old palace open to visitors. The Holi festival at Sujanpur is celebrated decoratively.

Triund

2,827 metres and 17 km. Triund lies at the foot of the perpetually snowclad Dhauladhar. The snow line starts at IIaq, 5 km from Triund. It affords a breath-taking view of the snow above and the valley below.
Sports Activities

Getting There

By Air

Dharamshala can be approached by air from Delhi. The nearest airport is 13 km. away at Goggla

By Road

Direct and regular bus services operate from Delhi via Chandigarh, Kiratpur and Bilaspur. Taxis are also available.

By Rail

Up to Pathankot by broad gauge line (85 km) by road and then up to Kangra by narrow gauge line. The nearest railway station is Kangra Mandir (22 km

Parwanoo Hill Station

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Once a sleepy little hamlet, the beautiful hill station of Parwanoo is today a major center of activities of tourism in Himachal Pradesh. A bustling town with several industrial activities growing up today, Parwanoo is today one of the most important influences in Himachal Pradesh. Snow clad for the major part of the year, a tour to Parwanoo is an escape into nature where almost every aspect of the natural surroundings of the region has a story to narrate. Adding an even special touch to the surroundings of this beautiful are the various orchards and fruit farms of Parwanoo which are the leading influences in the process of industrialization of Parwanoo.

While on a trip to Parwanoo make sure you visit some of the most important tourist destinations of Parwanoo, which includes:

How To Reach

Renuka (132-km)
Dagshai (28-km)
Subathu (16-km)
Pinjore (10-km)
Kasauli (37-km)

By Air :- The nearest airport to Parwanoo is at Chandigarh, located around 22 kms away from Parwanoo.

By Rail :- The nearest railway station to Parwanoo is at Kalka, located around 4 kms away from Parwanoo. The station is well-connected to Parwanoo as well as the other railway stations of India.

By Road :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Parwanoo by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Mashobra Hill Station

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One of the two presidential retreats of India, the tiny hill town of Mashobra is one of the most high profile though, lesser known hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by dense coniferous forests, the sleepy hamlet of Mashobra is a definite must visit while planning a tour itinerary to Himachal Pradesh. Snow covered slopes of the Western Himalayas act as a natural boundary to a land which remains charmingly covered by mist almost all around the year. Winding roads take you past streams of the clearest water imaginable in to a land which offers you all the ingredients to make your holiday in Mashobra the dream vacation you had always wished for!

A tour to Mashobra is one of the best ways of experiencing the beauty and culture of Himachal Pradesh. There are several temples in the town, many of which are considered to be some of the most revered temples of Himachal Pradesh.

How To Reach

By Air :- The nearest airport to Mashobra is at Shimla, located around 10 kms away from Mashobra.

By Rail :- The nearest railway station to Mashobra is at Shimla, located around 10 kms away from Mashobra. The station is well-connected to Mashobra as well as the other railway stations of India.

By Road :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Mashobra by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Kufri Hill Station

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Winding roads lead past a lake filled with the clearest blue water possible if this description makes you yearn for a vacation, get ready and pack your bags for Kufri, one of the most popular tourist destinations of Himachal Pradesh. A skier's paradise, the beautiful hill station of Kufri is definitely one of the most popular tourist destinations of Himachal Pradesh.

Once, a part of the Kingdom of Nepal, the beautiful district of Kufri was brought into prominence by the British, who "discovered" this sleepy hamlet in 1819. Its importance in the tourism of Himachal Pradesh was further accentuated thanks to its prominence to Shimla, which was already established as a major tourist attraction of Himachal Pradesh, in addition to being the capital of Himachal Pradesh.

How To Reach

By Air :- The nearest airport to Kufri is at Shimla, located around 19 kms away from Kufri.

By Rail :- The nearest railway station to Kufri is at Shimla, located around 19 kms away from Kufri. The station is well-connected to Kufri as well as the other railway stations of India.

By Road :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Kufri by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Khajjiar Hill Station

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Located around 24 kms away from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is a saucer shaped plateau, which is surrounded by lush, green forests of conifers like Pine and Fir. Breathtakingly beautiful and spell binding with its simplicity, a trip to Khajjiar is a definite must include if you are planning a tour itinerary to Himachal Pradesh.

A hiker's paradise, Khajjiar is also known as "Mini Switxerland", a title, the truth of which is evident the moment you step into this charming land. The very air of Khajjiar is magical, filling you with a sense of purity and freshness as it sweeps through your hair. One of the many claims to fame of Khajjiar is the fact that the district was officially baptized by the Swiss Ambassador on July 7, 1992 an event, which is marked by the transportation of a stone from the region, which was added to a stone sculpture, which can be seen in Berne, the capital of Switzerland.

If you are planning a holiday in Khajjiar make sure you pay a visit to the Khajjinag Temple which is home to life sized images of the five Pandavas, epic heroes of the Mahabharata.

How To Reach

By Air :- The nearest airport to Khajjiar is at Jammu, located around 200 kms away from Khajjiar.

By Rail :- The nearest railway station to Khajjiar is at Pathankot or ChakkiBank, located at a distance of 80 Kms. Both these stations are well-connected to Khajjiar as well as the other railway stations of India.

By Road :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Khajjiar by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Kasauli Hill Station

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One of the most picturesque hill stations of Himachal Pradesh as well as one of the best preserved relics of the British Raj, a tour to Kasauli is a definite must include if you are planning a tour itinerary to Himachal Pradesh. Once a cantonment of the British army in India, this pristinely beautiful hill station of Himachal Pradesh reminds one of a world steeped in medievalism. Cobbled roads lead to quaint cottages which add a touch of elegance to this naturally beautiful land. A perfect destination for newly weds, planning their honeymoon in Kasauli, the land is also a perfect destinations for large families planning a holiday in Kasauli.

Picturesque at almost each and every turn of the road, Kasauli is a surrounded by a thousand blossoms almost throughout the year, filling the air all around with a fragrance that makes the tourists to the land refreshed the moment they step into this mediaeval paradise.

How To Reach

By Air :- The nearest airport to Kasauli is at Shimla, located around 77 kms away from Kasauli.

By Rail :- The nearest railway station to Kasauli is at Shimla, located around 77 kms away from Kasauli. The station is well-connected to Kasauli as well as the other railway stations of India.

By Road :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Kasauli by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Chamba Hill Station

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Hidden by the tall confers which greet you the moment you step into this delightful hill station of Himachal Pradesh, a trip to Chamba is truly one of the most pleasant ways to savor best of the tourism in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled between the snowy slopes of the Great Himalaya, the Dhauladhar and the Pangi-Pir Panjal ranges, the pristine beauty of Chamba is made even more special by the rich history and heritage of the land, which seems to provide the tourists to Chamba with the perfect getaway from the daily humdrum of our lives in today's world.

Perhaps the pivotal point in the tourism in Chamba is the famous Manimahesh range, revered throughout this picturesque hamlet as the abode of "Mahesh" or Lord Shiva, one of the principle forces of the Hindu Trinity.

Once the capital of the Chamba kings, the village is also home to the temple of Lakhna Devi, arguably the oldest surviving wooden temple in the world and a definite must visit while on a holiday in Chamba.

How To Reach

By Air :- The nearest airport to Chamba is at Gaggal, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

By Rail :- The nearest railway station to Chamba is at Pathankot or ChakkiBank. Both these stations are well-connected to Chamba as well as the other railway stations of India. Easy means of transportation are available from both these railway junctions to Chamba.

By Road :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Chamba by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Chail Hill Station

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Rich in a heritage, which stems from a history dating back to times immemorial, Chail is one of the lesser known tourist destinations of Himachal Pradesh. Set up by Bhupinder Singh, the Maharaja of Patiala, after his expulsion from Shimla, the tiny picturesque hamlet of Chail is an oasis of peace and serenity, which is a welcome change from the hustle bustle of Shimla, located around 45 kms away from Chail.

An air of regality envelopes almost every nook and corner of this beautiful hill station of Himachal Pradesh. This is coupled with a sense of medievalism that promises to make your holiday in Chail, one of your most pleasant vacations ever!

How To Reach

By Air :- The nearest airport to Chail is at Chandigarh, located around 120 kms away from the hill town of Chail. The nearest international airport to Chail is at New Delhi, the capital city of India, located around 382 kms away from Chail.

By Rail :- The nearest railway station to Chail is at Pathankot or ChakkiBank. Both these stations are well-connected to Chail as well as the other railway stations of India. Easy means of transportation are available from both these railway junctions to Chail. The easiest way of traveling to Chail from these cities is through Kandaghat which offers the services of a toy train, which connects these two cities.

By Road :- Well connected to major cities of India such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Delhi and Manali by a network of well- maintained roads, reaching Chail by road is one of the easiest ways of reaching the town.

Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh

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Nestled within the high edged Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is an interesting hill station for summer and winter vacation. From some great hiking experience at Kufri to the beauty of snowfall in Manali, the adventure of hill stations in Himachal Pradesh is noteworthy. The amazing view of the snow capped mountain ranges and the sunset beyond the peaks is a sight that you have wished to see throughout your life. Adventure sports in the various hill stations of Himachal have set it apart from other mountainous regions of the country. Adventure tourism in Himachal Pradesh draws a significant number of couples on honeymoon and other trekking groups.

Popular hill stations of Himachal Pradesh

While the towns and cities of Himachal have lots to offer with accommodation, food, and adventure, the hill stations are popular too. The hiking trails, frozen lakes, and Yak ride appeal to adventure tourists coming the state.

Kufri- Hiking, skiing, and trekking would be reasons enough for you to visit the place during winter vacation. The peak season in Kufri is between November to March. This is the time when you have the snow and the sun as well. A journey of around 19 km from Shimla would take you to Kufri, a small hill station. Pony and Yak ride, stay a resort, and go on a trip to the nature parks.

Dalhousie- With the Dhauladhar range on the backdrop, Dalhousie is an interesting hill station as you have not much to do other than enjoying the beauty of the place. Situated on the eastern part of River Ravi, rafting is an important activity during the summer time. There are colonial buildings and low-roof homes of the British era. The prime attraction of the place is the Jandhri Ghat, a palace surrounded by tall pine trees.

Kullu Valley- The altitude unfolding in the lap of the Himalayas, Kullu is the ultimate attraction of entire Himachal Pradesh. Offering the tourists a lovely ambience at the banks of River Beas, the stunning beauty of the valley will leave you enthralled. Adventure sports like paragliding are an important activity here and the town of Kullu has green meadows and tall trees. During snow months, tourists come in for the fun at the valley slopes and you have excellent resorts for accommodation. Few prominent attractions of Kullu are Great Himalayan National Park, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Brighu Lake, and the celebration of Dusshera festival.

Dharamshala- This is the hill station of the Dhauladhar range around 17 km from Kangra valley. The oak and conifer trees give it the look of a tropical forest in the evening. Offering a pleasant climate to the visitors, it is also the headquarters of Kangra Valley. Dharamshala is the place where presently The Dalai Lama resides. You can tour the Kangra Art Museum, War Memorial, and the Kunal Pathri Temple from this mighty hill station in Himachal Pradesh.

Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh

Chail
Chamba
Kasauli
Khajjiar
Kufri
Mashobra
Parwanoo
Dharamshala
Dalhousie
Kangra
Solan

Wilson Hill Station

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Wilson Hills is a hill station in the Valsad district in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is near Dharampur Tahsil and is also the nearest hill station to Surat. Located on the Western Ghats range at an elevation of around 870 m (2,700 feet) above sea level it is about 120 km from Surat and 60 km from Valsad.

Wilson Hills stands in a densely forested region close to the Pangarbari Wildlife Sanctuary. It is one of the few hill stations in the world from which it is possible to glimpse the sea.

Due to its elevation, Wilson Hills enjoys a cooler and less humid climate than the surrounding area, which makes it popular during the summer months.

Wilson Hills was named in memory of Lord Wilson, the Governor of Mumbai from 1923 to 1928, by Vijay Devji, the last King of Dharampur. Lord Wilson and King Vijay Devji had planned to develop the area into a hill station, but the project failed to take place. A monument to their memory remains on the peak.

In 2003, Ashish Birendra Sharma, a businessman of Vapi, formed a company named Hotel Wilson Highland Pvt Ltd with the intention of finally developing a hill resort.

Location

Wilson Hills is located about 130 km from Surat, 80 km from Navsari, and 60 km from Valsad. It is connected by a tar road to the town of Dharampur, which is 29 km (18 miles) away at the base of the hills.

Travel Information

The nearest airport is in Surat, located around 140 km from Wilson Hills. The nearest railhead is Valsad on the Surat-Mumbai main line.

Saputara Hill Station

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Saputara, literally the ‘abode of serpents’, is Saputara best known hill resort ,at the height of 875 metres, saputara offers a pleasant climate and panoramic view of lush green Dang forest. The hill station is small enough to be entirely covered by foot. perched on a plateau in the Dangs forest area in the Sahyadri range of mountains, offering breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset. The town has an image of a serpent on the banks of the river Sarpganga which is worshipped by adivasis or tribals.

Vansda National Park:
Vansda National Park: Originally, a private forest of maharaja of Vansada, the park now covers on area of 24 sq kms. Despite its small size the park harbours tiger, leopard, pangolin, rusty-spotted cat, python, giant squirrel, fourhorned antelope etc. Prior permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden, of Gandhinagar or DFO, Ahwa is required before visiting the park.

SaputaraPurna Sanctuary:
Purna Sanctuary: Covering an area of 160 sq kms, Purna Sanctuary is a part of a dense moist deciduous forest in the Western Ghat of Gujarat. Situated at Mahal, 60 kms, north of Dangs, the sanctuary is crossed by Purna and Gira rivers. There are bamboo lined pathways for trekkers. Prior permission is necessary for visiting.

Boating:
The Saputara Lake surrounded by greenery makes it pleasurable to sail in the lake in a row or paddle boat.

Sunrise Point:
It is a point which offers the best view of Saputara and adjoining Malegoan could be reached after a walk of 1.5 km in the direction of Waghai. The naming restricts the tourist traffic to this best place as tourists believe that the point should only be visited at sun rise, however, one may visit it at any time of the day to catch a panoramic view. The Tata Consultancy Services has suggested renaming this point as Valley View Point to enhance tourist traffic.

The Ropeway:
A ten minutes ride across the valley to the sunset point organised by Hotel Vaity.

Shopping

You may pick up some trinkets like pen stands and key chains in bamboo et al from the Gandharvapur Artist Village as souvenirs and gift items from Saputara.
Excursion

Mahal Bardipura ForestFrom Saputara you may move ahead to the wildlife sanctuary in the Mahal Bardipura forest. At a distance of 60 km from Saputara the Mahal Bardipura forest is bestowed with rivers and bamboo glades thus offering excellent walking and trekking options.

Then there are the Gira waterfalls that make excellent excursion option from Saputara. Just 52 km away from Saputara the Gira Waterfalls should not be missed especially during the months of June to November.
Weather

The hill resort of Saputara promises to refresh the tourists throughout the year with its cool weather. Saputara does not experience any extreme temperature variations and is an ideal getaway for the sun-scorched souls of the plains. The monsoon rains add to the magic of Saputara. Thus you may plan your trip to the Saputara hills any time of the year the best time is from middle of March to middle of November

Location

Saputara is situated in the Dang forest area of the Sahyadri Range at an altitude of 873 m above sea level.
Travel Info

Saputara is 420 kms from Ahmedabad, 589 kms from Bhavnoagar, 603 kms from Rajkot , 172 kms from Surat, 80 kms from Nasik, 185 kms from Mumbai.

Air:
Mumbai is the nearest airport, 185 km away.

Rail:
Nasik is also most convenient railhead.

Road:
There is bus facility from Nasik and Surat.

Accommodation

Accommodation is easily available at Saputara. There are few hotels in Saputara besides the cottages and the log huts that offer a comfortable stay at Saputara. For food along with the hotels there are several restaurants and wayside stalls to cater to needs of the tourists to Saputara. Even the Gujarat Tourism Corporation runs a well-equipped station at Saputara.

Itanagar Hill Station

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Itanagar has been the capital of Arunachal Pradesh since 20th April 1974. Itanagar is situated at the foothills. The township is situated at 350 metres above mean sea level. It comes administratively under Papumpare district. The Nishis or Nishings is the major tribe in Itanagar area.

However, Itanagar can be called as "Mini India", as people from all over the country, lives here in harmony. As a capital town, Itanagar is well connected with the rest of the country by road and air communications. Because of its convenient location near the road and rail arteries alongside the Brahmaputra River, Itanagar was chosen Arunachal's capital in the first place. Itanagar has been identified with Mayapur, the capital of the 11th century AD JItri Dynasty.

Prime Attractions of Itanagar

Buddhist Temple
Consecrated by the Dalai Lama, the Buddhist temple, a beautiful yellow roofed shrine reflects the extensive Tibetan influence and provides good views of Itanagar and the surrounding countryside.

Ita Fort
Itanagar, the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh is derived from his historical fort called Ita Fort situated at the heart of the capital complex in Papum Pare district. It is a historical fort of an irregular shape, built mainly with bricks.

Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum
Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum provides a kaleidoscope of Arunachal Pradesh and one can see woodcarvings, musical instruments, textiles, handicrafts and archeological finds, while a workshop in the Handicrafts Centre specializes in traditional cane manufacture. It has a library section also. Timing: Tuesday To Saturday - 9.30 am to 5.30 pm.

Excursions from Itanagar

Ganga Lake/ Gyakar Sinyi(6Km.)
The capital houses the Rajbhawan, the official residence of the Governor has also many worth visiting places in and around Itanagar. These include legendary Ganga Lake (Gyakar Sinyi). It is a beautiful picnic spot, 6-kms away from Itanagar, a green forest lake surrounded by primeval vegetation, orchids masses on tall trees, tree ferns provides a small taste of the magnificent forests of the state.

Significance - Itanagar

Capital City Of Arunachal Pradesh.

How To Get There - Itanagar

By Air
The nearest airport to Itanagar, at Lilabari in Assam, 67-km away, and served by connecting buses, is served by fights to and from Guwahati (2 hr 20min) and to, but not from Dibrugarh (45 min). There is also a trice weekly Pawan Hans helicopter service between Itanagar and Guwahati.
By Rail
Fast passenger trains from Guwahati run as far as Harmuti, 33-km away in Assam.
By Road
Overnight buses connect Itanagar with Guwahati (11 hr), and Arunachal State Transport run an extensive service throughout the state. Buses leave for Tinsukia in the evening, arriving early the following morning, and from there connections can be made to Namdapha and Parashuramkunda.

Places To Stay - Itanagar

The best bet for accommodation in the state is Itanagar, varying from luxurious ones to reasonable budget hotels.

General Information - Itanagar

Location
400-km Northwest of Guwahati, Arunachal Pradesh.
Main Attraction
Buddhist Temple, Ita Fort, Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, Gyakar Sinyi.
Best Time
Round The Year.

Haflong Hill Station

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Region : Assam state, from northern side of Silchar about eighty four kilometers.

Major Attractive Feature : Jatinga

Relevance : Northern cacher hill's district council

Perfect Visiting Time : Month of August and November

Haflong is an amazing hill station spot of Assam state. This hill station has been situated on the altitude location of the six hundred eighty meters over the sea level. Haflong hill station is plays the role of headquarter of the district northern cacher hills this is one of the Assam state's twenty three. It is about eighty five kilometers far from the northern Sichaar and from the city of Guwahati, the distance is about three hundred forty five kilometers. This land actually looks like a creation of the Nature god; it is still having its real look in this modernize world. The whole area of the Haflong has been slept under the dark greenery; you will get to see different types of fruits and flowers on this green land, which quickly captures your attention. The look of the entire Haflong is magnificent and it decorates itself through orchids, painted blue hills and colored green Rivers. You will definitely get amazed when you will see the huge numbers of variety of flowers; you will hardly get to see at any other place. The entire hill station is very much popular because of more than two lakh different types of flowers. Haflong gives to opportunity to try the para gliding, gliding and trekking, that’s why not only the tourist and nature lover visit Haflong but adventurous people also give preference to visit this place of Assam. People of different religions like Hmars, Karbis, Mizos, Dimasas, Khelmas and Nagas give a diversified beauty and look to this hill station.

The weather condition of Haflong hill station is very relaxing and calm in the entire year. The maximum temperature of this place different from the 24'celcius - 30'celcius and the minimum temperature comes in between the 10'celcius and 14'celcius. The rainy season at this place begins during the May and it continues till September, the rainfall has not divided in the entire place. The general weather of Haflong is pleasant and cool. The temperature goes down till the December end and in January start again this beautiful hill station gets its real beauty back.

Nearby Attractive Spots :

Jatinga :

This near by location is popular because of he migratory birds. This is situated about twenty kilometers on the Halfong's southern side. The distance is not so far that's why you can visit this place to see the different types of migratory birds. The entire Jainga has been wrapped by the blue color Vandas orchids. This place is famous as a puzzling place, because large numbers of migratory birds died at this place in every place, it happens only during the months of August - November. From Jatinga's Hempeopet peak, you will be able to see the eye pleasant sunrise.

Haflong Lake :

The lake of the Haflong is a real thrill. This has been situated at Haflong hill station's heart. This lake is one of the biggest water bodies created by the nature in the Assam. Here you can do many more fun activities such as boating. Close to this, there is a one more popular spot for tourists like you; it is very near about nine kilometers from the Haflong Lake.

Maibong :

This hill station location of the Assam was a Dimasa Kachari Kindom's capital in the early times, while the 16th century's mid and 19th century's mid. Maibong hill station is little but far from the Haflong hill station, the distance is about forty five kilometers. It had been destroyed, but still today it is present at this place. This hill station possess Ramchandi temple which has been dedicated to Kachari kings, in the twelfth century. Mahur River passes from this hill station, it attracts the large numbers tourists.

Visit :

You can reach at Haflong hill station through rail or road transport modes. Get down at railway station of Lower Haflong, from the town it is about three kilometers far.

There are private buses, which run on the main road. From the market area of Haflong it is about hundred meters far on the above side.

Stay :

Within the Haflong you will get facilities of accommodation very easily. As per your budget you can choose the accommodation facility.

Close Cities :

Silchar - Eighty four kilometers

Lamding - One hundred forty one kilometers

Maibong - Forty seven kilometers

Diphu - One hundred seventy eight kilometers

Nowgang - One hundred ten kilometers

Umrongso - One hundred twelve kilometers.

Ziro Hill Station

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Place:Lower Subansiri District, Arunachal Pradesh

Significance:It houses Apatani tribal people

Temperature:Summer 6.3°C and 28.1°C ; Winter, from 1.0°C and 18.4°C

Altitude:1688 mabove sea level.

Best Time to Visit:September through April

Ziro is a mesmerizing town surrounded by beautiful pine-clad low hills on all sides. Elevated to an altitude of 5754 feet above the sea level, this town is located in Arunachal Pradesh. The area is fondly known as Apatani Plateau and popular for fish and paddy culture. Nature exists in its best form here. Serene rivers namely Apatani, Subansiri, Miri, Dafla, and Nishi add to the picture perfectness of the area.

The Apatani Tribals

This town is inhabited by the Apatani tribals whose primary occupation is hunting and zoom cultivation. They are skilled in making a local wine called 'Apang'. Apart from natural beauty, Ziro has several places of tourist interest. The sights of the pine and bamboo groves, beautiful villages and Tarin fish farm are simply impressive. Here you will also get an opportunity to see the indigenous method of rice cultivation. There is also a Government Handicrafts center in the town where you can see and buy the beautiful handicrafts of Arunachal Pradesh.

Best Time to Visit

The climate remains pleasant in Ziro during the months from April to November. This is the best time of the year to plan holidays to Ziro.

Places of Interest

Tale Sanctuary
One of the attractions near Ziro town is the Tale Sanctuary which is situated only 38 kilometers from the town. Covering an area of 337 square kilometers, the sanctuary is rich in flora and fauna. Several species of orchids beautify the landscape of the sanctuary. Among animals the main attractions are Mithun, Clouded Leopards and Bears.

Town
Ziro is divided into two parts like Itanagar, Old Ziro and the town. There is a road after you cross 1,750 meter high Old Ziro that advances 200 meters downwards towards the Ziro town. You can shop for hats made out of bamboo or cane and some other exclusive articles.

Daporizo
Daporizo is a small place located in the upper Subansiri district, 193 kilometers off Ziro. This lush green valley is surrounded by mountains. These mountains are not very high in height. The Craft Centre in Daporizo is the major tourist attraction of the place. The bridge constructed from bamboo and cane in an extraordinary form is yet another attraction for the tourists visiting Daporizo. Caves and picturesque villages nearby are worth seeing. Adventure lovers will be thrilled by the angling and trekking opportunities offered by Subansiri River.

Reaching There
Tezpur and Ulabari are the nearest airports. North Lakhimpur is the nearest railhead. One can get direct buses and taxis from Itanagar and North Lakhimpur.

Tawang Hill Station

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Tawang is located at an altitude of 3500 m above the sea level in Arunachal Pradesh. It covers the area of 2085 sq km and is surrounded by Tibet in the north, Bhutan in the southwest, Kameng in the east and is separated from the west by Sela ranges.

Tawang was at part of the Kingdom of Tibet during the medieval times. It was ruled by the local tribal rulers from time to time. It was declared as the off-limits area in 1873 AD. The area around Tawang was the reason of disagreement between India and China after the Independence of India in 1947. Tawang was invaded by the Chinese army in 1962 but they later withdrew.

Tawang is called by several names like the Beautiful Land of Monpas, the Hidden Paradise and land of Dawn-lit Mountains. The name Tawang probably has some bearing with the local surroundings. The local people believe that Merak Lama gave the name Tawang to this hill resort in the 17th century AD.

Tours to Tawang

Tawang - To See

Tawang has landscapes, history, religion and architecture to offer to its tourists. Tawang has countless monasteries and nunneries; up teem lakes, several waterfalls and hot water springs. The place is perfect for religious as well as adventure tourism amidst unexplored scenic beauty. Tawang Ganden Namgyal Lhaste, popularly known as the Tawang or Gompa Monastery, is a 400 years old Mahayana Sect Buddhist Monastery. It was built during the 17th century AD by Mera Lama, a contemporary of the 5th Lama. It is situated at a height of 3500 m near the Buddhist border. It is a place worth paying a visit because of the collection of huge scriptures, books, gold lettered Buddhist scriptures, images and tapestries. The Parkhang Hall of the monastery has the library with the rare hand-written and block-painted thankas or manuscripts of revered books like Tangun, Kangyur and Sungbhum. The 108 gold-embossed manuscripts of the 'Teaching of Lord Buddha' and 225 volumes of the explanations of Buddha's teachings covered with specially designed moth - proof silk adorned with paintings are the other rare works of Buddhist literature. The18 ft high gilded statue of the Buddha in the monastery complex is also worth watching. The festival of Torgya is held in the 11th Monpa month called the Dawa Chukchipah in the Tawang Monastery. A Craft Center here produces fine woolen carpets in various colorful designs.

Tours to Tawang Urqelling Monastery is the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama who is the only Indian to have risen to such a high position in Gelupka Sect of Buddhism so far. These monasteries along with several other monasteries and nunneries are visited by several tourist from all over the world all the year round. Tawang is popular haunt for several adventure sports. The rivers Tawang-Chu and Namjang-Chu are ideal for river-rafting activities. There is also an option for rock-climbing, paragliding, skating and other winter sport activities.

Tawang - Getting There

By Air: The nearest airport to Tawang is at Tezpur, Assam. There are daily flights of Indian Airlines, jet Airways and Sahara Airlines up to Guwahati.
By Rail: The nearest railhead to Tawang is at Rangapara, Assam.
By Road: The nearest bus station is at Bomdila. It is well connected with other towns by buses.

Tawang - Accommodation

There are several hotels and tourists lodge around Tawang, which are according to the budgets of the tourists.

Bomdila Hill Station - Arunachal Pradesh

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Bomdila is a beautiful small town situated at a height of about 8000 ft. above the sea level from where one can see the brilliant landscape and snow-clad mountains of the Himalayan Range. The Buddhist monastery of Bomdila is the repository of culture and is among primary attractions of the area.

Bomdila is the headquarters of West Kameng district located at the height of 8500 ft above the sea level.It has a lot of attractions for the tourists with its cool climate, Apple orchards, artistic people, snow-capped Himalayan peaks and Buddhist Gompas. The Buddhist monastery of Bomdila is the repository of culture.. This place has a tourist lodge, a craft centre displaying local crafts and a shopping centre where the visitors gets first feel of the local version of Himalayan Buddhist life.

The Craft Centre at Bomdila turns out a range of superbly designed dragon carpets that are on sale. Also produced at the centre are traditional thangka wall hangings, paintings and masks. Most of these are intricately crafted with minute details and varied themes. So come back home with a little bit of Bomdila in your suitcase - and a lot of Bomdila in your heart.

Best time to visit : Bomdila is best visited between October to March.

How to reach :

By air : Nearest airport is Tezpur and Guwahati, (160 km).

By rail : Nearest railway station Rangapara and Bhalukpong, 100 km from Bomdila.

By road : From Tezpur and Guwahati, there are public and private buses to Bomdila (160 km) and Rangapara and Bhalukpong, 100 km from Bomdila.

Madikeri Hill Station

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Madikeri or Mercara is the largest town and Capital of Coorg or Kodagu District. This town lies in Western Ghats and population of 32,286. Madikeri is one of the Popular Tourist attracting Hill Station in India. Thousands of Tourists coming here to enjoy the Holidays. This town stand in 1,452 meters above sea level. Many Resorts and guest houses situated in town and near to town. Kodava takk, Arebhase, Kannada, Byari, tulu are the main languages of Madikeri. Kodavas and Arebhase Gowdas are the main ethnic groups in Madikeri. Main Festivals of Madikeri is Dasara, Kaveri Sankramana, Kailpoldua and Puttari. Madikeri is the hill station attracting thousands of tourists including foreign tourist because of natural beauty of this town. Mountain ranges are attracting tourists in this town. Madikeri also called as Misty Madikeri. Golf Ground is another attraction, its beautiful to see with greenery landscapes every day golf players coming here and playing golf (Recently Publics and Tourists not allowed inside golf Ground). Abbey Falls also just 6 km from Madikeri.

Gadige in Madikeri

Madikeri is ruled by many dynasties, they are Kadambas, Gangas, Cholas, Vijayanagara dynasty, Haleri Kings, Palayas. From 1934 Coorg or Kodagu became the part of British India and Finally in 1947 India gained independence.

Climate of Madikeri

Monsoon temperature decreases in June and weather becomes pleasant. May to September is rainy season and town covered in mist. December to February temperature drops into 8°C and is the coldest season in Madikeri.

Places to visit in Madikeri

Madikeri Fort: This Fort is built by Mudduraja and rebuilt by Tippu Sultan by stone. There are Two life size Elephants. Gothic Style Church inside the fort which has been converted to Musuem. The Madikeri Fort is home to Deputy Commisioner office and other departments working in this fort.

Gadige: Gadige means Raja’s Tomb

Raja seat: The Garden with small mantapa with four pillars and arches. This is the Old Garden where the king enjoyed the garden with the sunset. Actually this Garden situated in top of the mountain of Madikeri town, You can see the great green valleys and mountain ranges. You can see Mangalore to Madikeri road between the mountains with running vehicles.

Omkareshwara Temple: This Temple built in 1820 by Lingarajendra. This Temple belongs to God Shiva. There is large Tank with thousands of fishes in the front of the Omkareshwara Temple. This is one of the best attractions in Madikeri Town.

How to reach Madikeri

Madikeri has Government and Private Bus Stations. Some of the State Highways are connecting and crossing through Madikeri. Madikeri is 120 km from Mysore, 136 km from Mangalore, 252 km from Bangalore. 115 km from Hassan and 114 km from Cannanore of Kerala state.

Madikeri Does not have a Railway station and Airport. Nearest railway stations are Mysore, Hassan, Cannanore. Nearest Airport is Mysore, Mangalore, Calicut of Kerala.

Where to Stay

Resorts, Hotels, Guest Houses, Home stays are in many numbers with great facility and services. Some of the Major Hotels and Resorts are Club Mahindra, Coorg International, Heritage Resort.

Kermana Gundi Hill station

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Kermana Gundi is one of the exceptionally beautiful Hill stations, and one of the best Trekking spots amidst lush Green Forests. Kermana Gundi is also called K.R. Hills. This idyllic hill station is situated in the Tarikere Taluk of Chikmaglur district. This place is 257 kms. From Bangalore. Located on the Baba- Budan range, this hamlet is an ideal escape from the dins of urban cities.

Biligiri Hill Station

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Journey to Biligiri Hills is a must for any person who wants to release his drudgery and stimulate his spirit by basking in the joy of natural glory. Located almost 120km from Mysore and 247kms from Bangalore, the picturesque Biligiri Hills are situated between the rivers Cauvery and Kapila. Biligiri signifies `white capped`, though the hills are hued in shimmering blue colours. Rising to a height of almost 5,091 ft above mean sea level, the hill extends from north to south for approximately sixteen kms. To the west, the lower hills are sheltered with wet deciduous forestry where elephants roam in abundance. The cheeping of the birds and the buzzing of the bees wake up the wildlife from their daily doze. A portion of Biligiri Hills is regarded sacred by Sholaga people. Sholaga people are the natives of Biligiri Hills. About five thousand Sholaga people reside in this area and practice hunting and shifting cultivation .In 1974 the region was declared as the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Wildlife Sanctuary. It encompasses a total area of approximately five hundred and forty kms above sea level. A simultaneous ban was imposed on shifting agriculture and hunting. In order that they were not completely estranged from their occupations, a small portion of land was allocated to them. Finally, they could carry on agricultural activities.

Climatic condition in Biligiri Hills is quite pleasant and clear, which attracts tourists from all over the country. If any one wants to seek enjoyment to its fullest, the time from November to March is ideal. Annual rainfall in the hill station is fifty cm.

Places of interests of Biligiri Hills:

The Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Wildlife Sanctuary The Biligirirangaswamy Temple
The Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Wildlife Sanctuary derives its name from the Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple, located atop a hill, of primitive origin. Venkatesha, better known as Ranganatha is the principal deity.

Kanchikote is another place that deserves mentioning. These are remnants of an ancient fort constructed by `Gangaraja of Shivanasamudra`. In the areas close by, one finds ample scope of excursion. Mysore, the City of Palaces, is an ideal locale where tourists from Biligiri Hills can visit every now and then. Amba vilas, Jaganmohana palace, Lokaranjan Mahal and Crawford hill are some of the magnificent palaces which should not be missed.

Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills -

Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills in the district of Mysore is another place that is popularly visited by the Biligiri Hills` tourers. Lying in the lushly tracts of Western Ghats, it is a real tourist paradise. It is also a famous hill resort. People enjoy trekking here. The Gopalaswamy Temple lies at the hilltop and is a special attraction among tourists. This place of worship is dedicated to Lord Hoysala.

How to reach Biligiri Hills

By air -
Availing airways for Biligiri Hills is ideal for a person who is in a hurry. Closest airport is in Bangalore, almost 254 km away. One has to reach there via Mysore.

By Railway
By Railway People also get facilities of railway in order to reach Biligiri Hills. Mysore, lying almost ninety km away, is the nearest railway station. One can board trains to go to various places of the Karnataka state.

By Road -
Biligiri Hills also is connected to other places of India via roadways. Bangalore stretches up to a distance of nearly 254 km. Mysore is only ninety km from Biligiri Hills.

Accommodation in Biligiri Hills

For making the stay in Biligiri Hills really exhilarating, tourists are being provided with high-class accommodation. Tents and huts also have been built here, a fantastic strategy to pull in the crowd. There is also a huge bungalow, which facilitates accommodation of approximately fifteen tourists at a time. Interestingly the bungalow was a part of the property of the Maharaja of Mysore. BR Hills K Gudi is an example of a wildlife resort situated here

Kudremukh Hill Station

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The Horse-Face Hill Station 95 kms south-west of Chikmaglur town is the Kudremukh (Horse Face) range, so named because of the unique shape of the Kudremukh Peak.

Overlooking the Arabian Sea, the broad hills are chained to one another with deep valleys and steep precipices. As yet 'undiscovered' by tourists, Kudremukh is a secluded hill station, which retains much of its pristine, natural beauty.

And a holiday here can be truly delightful. Lush green forests interspersed with rivers, grassy slopes, captivating cascades and rare orchids providing an idyllic background for trekking.

Kudremukh is trekker's territory with the richness of its flora and fauna waiting to be discovered. Situated 1,894.3 m above sea level, Kudremukh is rich in iron ore deposits.

The Kudremukh Iron Ore Company conducts mining operations and transportation of the ore as slurry, through a pipeline to the port at Panambur near Mangalore.

This has given new life to the region and converted this isolated tract into a humming modern township without taking away its natural beauty.

Prime Attractions of Kudremukh

Jamalabad Fort
Jamalabad is famous for its fort built by Tipu Sultan, the Tiger of Mysore in 1794. The fort was renamed after his mother Jamalbee.

How To Get There - Kudremukh

By Rail
Nearest rail head is Mangalore.
By Road
Kudremukh is connected by road to Chikmaglur, Mangalore and Sringeri.

Places To Stay - Kudremukh

Horticulture Department Guest Houses.
Forest Guest House.
PWD Guest Houses, Chikmagalur.
Naveen Lodge.
Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur.
Planters Court, Moodigere Road.
Quality Inn, Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur.
Woodlands, Indira Gandhi Road, Chikmagalur.

Climate - Kudremukh

Cool and salubrious around the year.
General Information - Kudremukh
STD Code: 08269 .
Location:95 Kms South-West Of Chikmagalur, Karnataka.
Altitude:1,894.3 M Above Sea Level.
Languages:Kannada, Hindi, English.

Chikmagalur Hill Station

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If you are wanderlust and love to walk along the rocky cliffs, drinking in the pristine beauty of the surroundings, enjoying the whiff of cool breeze and reveling in the beauty of the resplendent valley below then Chikmagalur should show up in your next vacation agenda. A small quaint town situated in the southwestern parts of Karnataka amidst the Baba Budan Hills, Chikmagalur Hill Station karnataka is full of scenic surprises. Located at a height of 1900 meters, Chikmagalur fascinates one with its looming mountains, captivating cascades, silver streams and verdant valleys.

Chikmagalur hill station is a trekkers delight. The rugged mountain trails, the snow-white coffee blossoms and the silent mountain streams are enough for any trekker to aim for higher feats. Many rivers originate from the Chickmagalur hills. Rivers such as, Bhadra, Tunga, Hemavathi, Netravathi and Vedavathi flow in all seasons.

This serene hill station has beautiful monuments; the Kondadarama Temple exhibits a beautiful blend of Hoysala and Dravidian styles of architecture, the Jamia Mosque and the St. Joseph's Cathedral are fascinating too. An ancient fort is also situated amidst the mountains.

Nandi Hills

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The 1,478 m high Nandi Hills, Karnataka are the source of many rivers. And the forests surrounding the hills, abound with wild animals. Around the Nandi Hills are several smaller hills which can be visited on foot. Nandi Hills enjoys a moderate climate throughout the year

The Nandi Hills or the hills of the Nandi have been named after the bull of Lord Shiva. The pleasant hill resort of Nandi Hills is also known as Nandigiri or Nandidurga amongst the locals. The Nandi Hills have attracted people since long. Nandi hills were the summer haven of Tipu Sultan as well as the British. The palace of Tipu Sultan and the Bungalows of the British stand in testimony of the same.

Places To See

Tipu's Drop
Tipu's Drop A 600 m high cliff face where according to legend, condemned prisoners were pushed to their death.On misty days when the wind wails in the trees, you can almost hear the blood-curdling screams of the prisoners as they met their gruesome end. But look down on a clear day and the view is inspiring.

Yoga Nandishvara Temple
This beautiful Chola temple has an inscription of Sambhaji, Shivaji's son. The Dwarapalakas, the splendid metallic figures are not-to-be-missed.

Amrita Samovar
The sparkling water of the Lake of Nectar is a major tourist attraction at the Nandi Hills.

Bhoga Nandishwara Temple
Bhoga Nandishwara Temple At the base of the Nandi Hills in the Nandi Village is the Bhoga Nandishwara Temple that follows the Dravidian style of architecture. Atop the Nandi Hills are the temples in honor of Sri Ugra Narasimha and Sri Yoga Narasimha.

Excursions

Muddenahalli
Muddenahalli is in close proximity to the Nandi Hills . Muddenahalli is renowned as the birthplace of Visveswaraya. While at Muddenahalli do visit the Museum that was actually the home of Visveswaraya- the great architect who built the modern Karnataka.

Further excursions can be made to the Hills with nature's bounty like Biligirirangana Hills, Agumbe Hill and the Madikeri Hills.

Weather

You may plan your visit to the Nandi Hills any time of the year. The Nandi Hills experience pleasant and moderate temperate all the year through. The Nandi Hills is the perfect hill resort as the summer temperature varies between 29 and 23 degrees. During the winters the temperature at the Nandi Hills hovers between 21 and 11 degrees

Location

The Nandi Hills are situated at an altitude of 1478m above sea level and 65 Km from Bangalore. The Pennar, Palar and Arkavati Rivers start off from the Nandi Hills

Travel Information

By Air
The airport at Bangalore is the nearest to Nandi Hills at a distance of 65 km.

By Rail
The railway station nearest to the Nandi Hills is that of Chikkaballapur just 9 km away. Though it is the railhead at Bangalore though 65 km away from the Nandi Hills is connected with all the major places in India through rail. There are frequent trains that connect Chikkaballapur with Bangalore.

By Road

The excellent road network links the Nandi Hills with the important places like Bangalore and Chikkaballapur. Nandi Hills is situated on the Bangalore - Hyderabad National Highway.

Accommodation

Accommodation is easily available at the Nandi Hills. You may take your pick from hotel, cottage, tourist bungalow, Forest lodge, Guest House et al at the Nandi Hills. Otherwise you may stay at any of the several star categorized hotels or Budget accommodations in Bangalore, just 65 km from Nandi Hills.

Kodachadri Hill Station

2011-06-10T05:28:00.000-07:00

Hill Stations in Karnataka are great retreats for those looking for solitude. Undisturbed by commercialization, Hill Stations in Karnataka are undisputedly the favorite destination for tourists. If you love the mountains and wish to spend your vacations in the unspoilt mountain terrains then you should be embarking for the scenic Kodachadri in Karnataka. About 1843 metres above sea level Kodachadri Hill is in the Western Ghats. Home to many endangered species of both the animal and plant kingdom, it is every trekker's dream to trek along the mountain tracks.

The nearest base to Kodachadri hills is Kollur at a distance of 20 kilometers. Kodachadri hills form a picturesque backdrop to the famous Mookambika temple in Kollur. Kodachadri peak can be
reached by a five-hour trek. On the western side of the hill it drops down straight for about 1220 meters to the vast and dense forests of Udupi The Kodachadri hills form the largest forest in Karnataka part of which forms the Mookambika National Park. Kollur is the ideal base to explore the hills and trekkers generally join the Mookambika Nature Camp which is 4 kms south to Kollur.

If you are planning a trip to the Kodachadri hill station in Karnataka you would be enjoying trekking the scenic mountain slopes, bird watching and visiting the magnificent falls.

The best time to visit the hill station of Kodachadri at Karnataka is in the period within October to May.

Kodachadri is at a distance of about 400 kilometers away from Bangalore. It is very near to Shimoga which is situated 120 kilometers away. From Bangalore you may take the National Highway No. 4 upto Nelamangala and then change track to to National Highway No.48 till Hassan State Highways will take you to Shimoga via Chickmagalur, Tarikere and Bhadravati. More to the west from Shimoga is Kodachadri, almost three hours away.

Shimoga is the closest railway station while Mangalore happens to be the nearest airport.

Kodachadri is one of the most important hill stations of Karnataka.

Hill Stations in Karnataka

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Karnataka hill stations are one of the major attractions of Karnataka. From the breathtaking views of Chikmagalur to the quite retreats of Madikeri, from the stunning Coorg to the woody Biligiri, Karnataka hill stations have something for everyone. Some of these hill stations are also sites of historical and religious significance. But it is the tranquil and scenic beauty of the Karnataka hill stations that attract the visitors from all over the world.

Karnataka hill stations are largely located in the various ranges of the Western Ghat mountains. Each hill station is different from the other and provide great opportunities for the visitors to lose themselves in the serene lap of nature. There are forests and valleys, picturesque settings and tranquil mountain walks. Some of Karnataka's hill stations are very old and date back to the ancient times of Indian history. Some of them were favorite summer retreats for the Muslim and the British rulers, whereas some of them have been developed in the recent times. Together, they provide the perfect mountain experience to the visitors.

Most hill stations in Karnataka are located in and around the Baba-Budan range like Kermana Gundi. Chikmagalur is a popular hill town on the south of the magnificent Baba-Budan ranges. Kudremukh and Gangamoola are extremely popular hill stations in the Chikmagalur district. Hill stations close to the towns of Bangalore and Mysore include the Nandi Hills and the Bilirirangana Hills. The Coorg district in Karnataka is also famous for its hill stations. Madikeri is one of the most popular hill stations of Karnataka located in this region.

Nandi Hills:
The summer resort of Karnataka is only 60 kilometers from the capital city Bangalore. It was once one of the summer retreats of Tipu Sultan and favorite among the British too during British rule. Today, it is popular weekend destination among Bangaloreans. The Nandi hills are situated at the height of 1,143 meters and originating point of many rivers.

Kermana Gundi:
The peaceful and calm hills of Kermanagundi are perfect destination to spend some quality time with your beloved. The hill resort is located in the Tarikere Taluk of Chikmaglur district at the height of 1,434 meters above from the sea level.

Madikeri:
This small hill town is located at the height of 1,525 meters above from the sea level. The stunning hills give breathtaking views of surroundings. The wide field of coffee plantation also attract with their green lush plants.

Biligiri Hills:
The beautiful hill station is situated only 120 kilometers form the Mysore and 247 kilometers from the Bangalore. The hills of Biligiri Hills are located between the Tungabhadra and the Cauvery rivers.

Kudremukh:
The hill station is situated only 95 kilometers from the Chikmaglur town of the state, named after the unique shape of the Kudremukh Peak.

The hill is covered by dense green forests, grassy slopes, mighty rivers, exuberant cascades and rare orchids.

The hills of Kudremukh are situated at the height of 1894 meters above from the sea level and provide wonderful trekking tracks for adventure lovers.

Chikmagalur:
The beautiful town is situated in a lush green valley of the Babu-Bundan range. The wonderful hill town has many interesting attractions and some of them are Kondadarama Temple, The Jamia Mosque and new St. Joseph’s Cathedral.

Kodachadri Hill Station | Nandi Hill Station | Chikmagalur | Kudremukh Hill Station | Biligiri Hill Station | Kermana Gundi Hill Station | Madikeri Hill Station

Kodaikanal Hill Station

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Location 120 Km from Madurai, 520 Km fro Chennai
Famous As Kodai
Best Time To Visit April to June, September to October
Loved Attractions Star Shaped lake

Visions of Paradise

Kodaikanal Hills Kodaikanal is a charming little hill Station situated at an altitude of 6,854 feet above sea level. In a state that is more famous for 'The Queen of Hill Stations', Kodaikanal attracts as many tourists and has a fair share of its own die hard admirers. So much were people smitten by its beauty and sedateness that today it is referred to as 'The Princess of Hill Stations'.

The name Kodaikanal means 'The Gift of Forest'. And once you visit Kodaikanal and its nearby areas, you will know why this hill station has this name. It is surrounded by deep and dark forest which it seems are guarding its beautiful landscape. Kodaikanal is brimming with some of nature's wonders like Coaker's walk, Fairy falls, Bear shola falls and many more.

What To See In Kodaikanal

Star Shaped Lake
Known as the Kodaikanal lake, this is a man made lake which is probably the most liked attraction in the hill station. Situated right in the center of Kodaikanal, the lake was converted from a marshy land by former Collector Sir Vere Levinge. This star shaped lake covers an area of nearly 60 acres and provides facilities for boating. You can also take a horse ride by the sides of Kodaikanal Lake which is surrounded by different types of trees.

Solar Observatory
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory One of the only three solar observatories in the world, the observatory in Kodaikanal is almost 75 years old. Located at a distance of 3 km from the lake and at an altitude of 2343 m., the observatory is at the highest point of this hill station. You can buy tickets for a show that is played in this observatory that will give you a glimpse of our solar system.

Fairy Falls
Fairy falls have become an inseparable part of people of Kodaikanal as an interesting spot for picnics. It has also become famous among tourists for its crystal clear waters. A swim at the foot at the falls will leave surely leave you refreshed and re-energized.

Coaker's Walk
Situated around 1 Km from the lake, the coaker's walk proves to be an exceptional place to get some of the most fascinating views of the surrounding areas. Named after the Lt. Coaker, it is situated on the southern end of Kodaikanal.

Kurinji Andavar Temple
Kurinji Andavar Temple Dedicated to Lord Murugan, Kurinji Andavar Temple is situated at a calm and secluded place, some 3 km away from the star shaped lake. The beautiful temple gives you beautiful views of Northern Plains and Palani Hills.

Accommodation in Kodaikanal
Kodaikanal has luxury resorts as well as low budget lodges for tourists. There is a TTDC operated resort located on the Fern Hill. Other good Options for staying in Kodaikanal are Carlton Hotel, Hotel Clifton and Hotel Garden manor.

How To Reach Kodaikanal

By Air
Madurai is the nearest airport that is situated just around 120 Km from Kodaikanal. There are flights operating to and from all major cities of India. You can take a taxi from Madurai or a state transport bus for a 2 to 3 hrs drive from Madurai to Kodaikanal.

By Rail
Kodai Road Railway station is the nearest rail head at a distance of 80 km away from Kodaikanal.

By Road
Kodaikanal is well connected to all major cities of Tamil Nadu. The Capital city Chennai is around 520 Km, Ooty is 264 km from here. Transport buses from nearby cities and towns ply to Kodaikanal with appreciable frequency. Luxury coaches are also an option. Inside the city, you will find cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws for short distance commute. For longer distances, state run and private buses are present in good number. Taxis are also a good option for touring inside the city.

Yercaud Hill Station

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Location: 33 Km From Salem, Tamil Nadu
Famous For: Plantations And Orange Groves
Best Time: February - June and September-November
Languages Spoken: Tamil, Hindi and English
STD Code: 04281

Yercaud Hill Station Tamil NaduThough Yercaud is not as popular and famous as other hill stations of Tamil Nadu yet it is no less in natural beauty and charm. Yercaud is located on the Shevaroy hills of the Eastern Ghats. Yercaud abounds in extraordinary scenic beauty and a salubrious climate. As you drive across the hills, you come across the coffee plantations and orange groves, which make the environment more fragrant. If you want to spend your vacations in a peaceful and serene environment, away from the bustling crowds of much popular hill stations, then Yercaud is surely the place for you.

It is interesting to note that Yercaud got its name from the Yeri and Kaadu (Tamil words) meaning lake and forest respectively. Like many other hill stations in India, the British discovered Yercaud in the early 19th century. The British officers also introduced the coffee plantations here in Yercaud.

Prime Attractions at Yercaud

Yercaud Lake
The Yercaud Lake, a picturesque pool surrounded by gardens and trees, is one of the main attractions of Yercaud. You can enjoy boating at the Yercaud Lake. If you like to paddle the boat yourself then the paddling boats are a good option otherwise you also have the option of the boatman rowing it for you as you relax in the calm waters of the Lake.

Lady's Seat
Lady's seat is name given to a cluster of rocks on the south west side of Yercaud. There is a steep drop of about 200 feet below from this point. One gets a panoramic view of distant Salem and the winding road up.

Killiyur Falls
The Killiyur waterfall is located at a distance of about 3 km from the Yercaud Lake. The ideal time to visit the waterfall is immediately after the monsoons. You can see the surplus water from the Yercaud Lake and other points of the Shevaroy Hills fall deep into the Killiyur Valley below, making a 300 feet waterfall.

The Grange
The Grange is one of the oldest buildings in Yercaud, built in 1820's by the then District Collector of Salem, M D Cockburn.

Bear's Cave
The Bear's cave is situated near the Norton Bungalow on the way to Servarayan temple. It is an important tourist spot as it is considered one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya.

The Servarayan Temple
The Servarayan temple is situated atop the Servarayan hill. The temple is a narrow and dark cave having the God Servarayan and the Goddess Kaveri inside, which the Shevaroy Hills and the Cauvery River. The local tribes celebrate their annual festival in the Servarayan temple during the month of May.

Climate of Yercaud
Yercaud has a moderate climate. Winters in Yercaud are fairly mild, which start in the month of September and ends in December. During winter, the nearby hills are covered by mist and look so beautiful. At Yercaud, the coffee bushes blossom in April and present a spectacular view to the visitors.

How to Reach Yercaud

By Air
The nearest airport from Yercaud is Trichy, 163 Km away. Other airports are Coimbatore or Bangalore. Coimbatore is 190 Km away from Yercaud. All of them are connected to Chennai/Madras, which has an international airport.

By Rail
The nearest Railway station is Salem Junction, 36 Km away from Yercaud. All southbound trains passing via Salem stop at Salem. Salem is very well linked to Cochin, Trivandrum, Erode and Mangalore by rail network.

By Road
Yercaud is about 30 Km away and an hour's drive from Salem. You can take a bus or taxi from Salem. Regular bus services both private and government run ply from Chennai and other important cities and towns.

Velliangiri Hill Station

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Location: 40 Km from Coimbatore
Famous for: Siva Temple
Altitude: 6000 ft.

Velliangiri Hills CoimbatoreVelliangiri Hills count amongst the lesser-known hill stations of Tamilnadu. Of all the mountain shrines in Kongunadu, the Siva temple of Velliangiri in the western boundary is considered to be the most famous. Known as Rajathagiri, Velliangiri, Dakshin Kailash or Bhoolok Kailash, this sacred spot, according to legend, is where Siva performed his cosmic dance on the request of his consort Umadevi. The five faces of Lord Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, Maheshwara and Sadasiva, are seen as Panchagiri and as Panchalingas pertaining to the panchabhutas, in Velliangiri. The hill ranges have abundant natural resources, which include rare herbs. Lord Panchalingesa and his Consort Manonmani Amman alias Parvathi, bestow their grace on the devotees who throng here annually between February and May.

Festivals
A unique feature of Dakshina Kailash is the annadhanam organised by the Arya Vaisya jewellers for the past two centuries, for four days during Mahasivaratri. It is now carried out with all earnestness and enthusiasm, by the jeweller community and the Lala group.

Getting There
At present special buses ply between Coimbatore and Poondi only on festive occasions. Coimbatore is on the international circuit with flights connecting it to Sharjah. On the domestic front it is connected to Kozhikode, Chennai, Kochi, Bangalore, Mumbai and Delhi. The place is also well connected by both rail and rail.

Staying
Tourists can unpack at the economical standard hotels available in Coimbatore.

Ooty Hill Station

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Area: 36 sq. km
Population: About 80,000
Altitude: 2286 m
Annual Rainfall: 991 mm
Temperature: Max - 24.3°C, Min - 4.8°C
Clothing: Summer-Light Woolen; Winter-Heavy Woolen
Language: Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi and English
STD Code: 0423
Best Time: Between November & March

Ooty Hill Station TamilnaduOoty is nestled in the strikingly green abode of misty blue hills of the Nilgiris. As a queen of hill stations in South India, perched at an altitude of 2240 m, Ooty or Udhagamandalam is the headquarters of the Nilgiri's district where the two ghats converge.

With nature's splurge, Ooty is rich with coffee and tea plantations, trees like conifers, eucalyptus, pine and wattle. Summer temperature is rarely higher than 25°c with a minimum of 10°c and winter is distinctly cooler with a high of 21°C and a low 5°C.

This heavenly abode remained hidden till the British discovered it in the early 1800s. The British influence is still extant in the region with hand rolled cigars, chocolate and cheese that one can enjoy here. However, before the British there were Todas, an aboriginal tribe who inhabited the region since ancient times. The British constructed the first railway line in the area and made it the summer capital of the Chennai Presidency.

As a favorite summers retreat, Ooty is the place to be at all seasons. Merely being there refreshes you. Ooty tourism offers a gamut of scenic sites and adventure-laden trips both in the township and nearby areas. You can visit a host of sites within Ooty such as Botanical garden, which has some rich flora of the region, St. Stephen's church that reflects the city's long association with the British. You can also explore Government Museum to witness tribal artifacts of the region and other historical relics. Or simply sit back and reflect by the side of Ooty Lake.

If you are a shopaholic, then Ooty is not going to suppress you innate desire to shop around. Eucalyptus oil, Honey, Cinchona products, coffee and Tea are some of the good buys. Most of the shops are open from 9 am to 12 noon and from 3 pm to 8pm. Todas Showroom sells silver and tribal shawls. Municipal Market and Coop. Super Market and Upper and Lower Bazaar Roads are the main shopping areas of Ooty. Poompuhar and Kairali Emporia can also be visited.

Kotagiri Hill Station

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Location of Kotagiri: 16 km away from Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Best Time: All through the Year
Languages Spoken: Major population speaks Badaga; Tamil & English secondary language
Kotagiri STD Code: 04236
Clothing: Light woolen in summer and heavy woolen in winter

Kotagiri Hill Station TamilnaduKotagiri is one of the three popular hill stations, located in the Nilgiri Hills. It is just an hour's drive from Udhagamandalam, popularly known as Ooty. Kotagiri is a small hill resort located amid the lush tea estates. Kotagiri used to be the summer resort of the British. If you want to spend your vacations from the hustle and bustle of the crowded city life, Kotagiri is the perfect place for you. The climate of Kotagiri is a temperate one and attracts a large number of tourists every year.

Tourist Attractions at Kotagiri

Kodanad View Point
The Kodanad viewpoint is located 18 Km away from Kotagiri on the easternmost ridges of the Nilgiri Hills. On both sides of the road you can have a great view of the distant plains, tea estates, dams and the River Moyar.

Elk Falls
The Elk fall is another popular attraction at Kodagiri. Besides the waterfall, it is also known for the European house that was built here during the colonial period. Though the house is in ruins but that still makes a great sight. You can also have a close look into the lives of the tribal people by exploring the Badaga settlement, on the road to the falls.

Rangaswamy Pillar and Rock
The Rangaswamy peak lies 20 km from Kotagiri. This peak is sacred for Irulas (a tribe) that adds mysticism to the natural beauty. Just nearby is the Rangaswamy rock, a challenge for the rock-climbers. The Rangaswamy Rock rises abruptly on all sides to about 400 meters, which makes it impossible to climb.

Longwood Shola
The Longwood shola is the source of pure water for the people of Kotagiri area. Shola forests are a type of stunted evergreen vegetation that is found in the Southern states of India. The Longwood Shola forms an essential part of the delicate eco-system of the area. The micro climatic conditions make Kotagiri one of the ideal climatic locations. You can trek along on the picturesque trekking path, which goes through this calm shola forest.

How to Reach Kotagiri

By Air
The nearest airport is Coimbatore (105 km). It is connected to Chennai, Bangalore and Cochin.

By Road
Kotagiri is well connected to other major places in Tamil Nadu by road. Regular bus services connect the hill resort to Ooty, Mettupalayam and Coonoor.

By Rail
The nearest railhead is Coonoor (21 km).

Coonoor Hill Station

2011-03-23T05:28:00.002-07:00

Location: Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu
Best Time: October to March
Languages Spoken: Tamil and English
STD Code: 0423
Clothing: Light woolen in summer and heavy woolen in winter

Coonoor Hill Station TamilnaduCoonoor, a beautiful and serene hill station of Tamil Nadu, lies in the Nilgiri Hills. Coonoor derives its name from the Coon hill tribe of the region. Tea bushes, Grassy meadows, profusion of Sunflowers, Marigolds and Rhododendrons characterize Coonoor. Coonoor is basically a small tea estate town where the weather remains pleasant all through the year. Based on its relief, the town is divided into upper and lower Coonoor. Coonoor is one of the three popular hill stations in the Nilgiri Hills, the other two being Ooty and Kotagiri.

Perched at an altitude of 1800 ft, Coonoor is second largest hill station in the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty being the largest one. It is extremely famous for the production of Nilgiri tea. Coonoor extends travelers with the panoramic view of the lush green Nilgiri hills, replete with deep ravines, beautiful valleys and imposing waterfalls. And if these were not enough, the hill station also extends travelers a number of sightseeing places, including Sim's Park, The Pasteur Institute, Dolphin's Nose Viewpoint, Lamb's Rock, Droog, Law's Falls and Ooty.

Coonoor forwards tourists a number of fun activities, which they can indulge in on their tour. Two such activities are nature walking and trekking. Travelers can take a walk through the tea gardens or go for a number of hiking trails around Coonoor. Apart from this, tourists can also enjoy the exhilarating and unique ride on the toy train that connects Coonoor with Mettupalayam and Ooty. The trip provides some breathtaking views of the Nilgiri hills in all its natural glory. Overall, Coonoor is an ideal place to spend a memorable and refreshing vacation in Tamil Nadu.

Hill Stations in Tamil Nadu

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The southeastern state of India, Tamil Nadu, represents the Tamil culture and tradition of diversified India. The geographical, cultural and environmental diversities of the land made it a perfect tourist destination of India.

The southern part of the state is covered by coastal plains border, while northern and the western parts abound in hilly regions.

The hill stations of the state, with their rejuvenating atmosphere and pleasant climate, offer all that you expect from a hill station.

The Nilgiri hills of the state are home of some most beautiful hill stations like Ooty, Coonoor and Kotagiri.

Coonoor:
It’s a beautiful and serene hill station of the state, lies in the hills of Nilgiri. The name Coonoor is derived from the coon hill tribe of the region. It is basically a small tea estate town.

The town mainly characterized by tea bushes, grassy meadows, marigolds, profusion of sunflower and Rhododendrons. The two is divided into upper Coonoor and lower Coonoor. The major Coonoor attractions are Sim’s Park, The Pasteur Institute and Pomological Station.

Kotagiri:

It is one of the three popular hill stations of Nilgiri Hills. The small hill resort located amid the lush tea estate.

The small estate used by the British as a summer resort on post independence era of India. The pleasant climate of Kotagiri attracts a great number of tourists every year.

Ooty:

Ooty is one of the most popular hill stations of India and nested in the green hills of Nilgiri. It is consider as queen of hills in south India.

The hill town was established by British in the early 1800 and used as summer resort. The British also constructed the first railway line in the area and used the town as summer capital of the Chennai Presidency. Ooty is famous for its tea and coffee estates.

Velliangiri Hills:

it is the lesser known hill station of Tamil Nadu, but famous within Tamil people for mountain shrines in Kongunadu, the Shiva temple (also known as rajathagiri, Dakshin Kailash and Bhoolok Kailash).

Yercaud Hills:

the very less popular hill station of Tamil Nadu is best because of its untouched natural beauty and charm. Yercaud is nested on the Shevaroy hills of the Eastern Ghats. The hill station houses coffee plantations and orange groves. The hill region was also discovered by British in the early 19th century. Yercaud Lake, Lady's Seat, Killiyur Falls, The Grange, Bear's Cave, and The Servarayan Temple are major attractions of Yercaud Hills.

Kodaikanal

Kodaikanal nestles 7500 feet above the sea level and Kodaikanal to date is still an evergreen favourite for family vacations, honeymooners and corporates. The Carlton is the only 5-star hill resort spread over 3 ½ acres in this unspoilt paradise. The Hotel has been planned and constructed to aesthetically blend with the surroundings and within the property premises there are beautiful landscape gardens, with an eye catching selection of flowers, plants and shrubs. With its regal aura of exclusiveness, The Carlton is aptly called the Capital of Kodaikanal.

Horsley Hills

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Location: Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh
Altitude: 1,265 meters
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Horsely Hills Andhra Pradesh Horsley Hills is a mesmerizing place where lofty peaks appear to be conversing with the blue skies. Perched at an elevation of 1,265 meters, this hill station would certainly tempt you with its beguiling beauty. Sited in Chittoor district, Horsley is the one of the three hill-stations in Andhra Pradesh. Its name has been derived from W.D. Horsley, who was the collector of Cuddapah district and an admirer of the hamlet's beauty.

Inhabited by Chenchu tribes, Horsley Hills has been a kind haven for the heat-scorched souls from years. It is the only coolest place in the southern and western parts of Andhra Pradesh. Travel to Horsley Hills, where divine fragrance of flowers flanking the roads will enthrall you to the core of your heart. Hills enveloped in green forests with exotic variety of flora, make a great resort for the people engaged in chaotic city life.

The forest area boasts of flora like Eucalyptus, Jacaranda, Allamanda, Gulmohar, Reeta, Shikakai, Amla, Beedi leaves, Bay leaves, Sandalwood, Red sanders, Blue Gum, Mahogany and Bamboo. Horsley Hills also presents a panoramic vista of Madanapalle, the only town in the proximity. The scenic beauty of the place captures the interest of anyone to stay here and unwind in the nature's lap.

Nearby in the valley, Rishi Valley School is a popular attraction which is one amongst the best schools of India. Mallamma Temple is a religious place amidst the verdant greenery, adding spiritual aura to this beautiful place. You can trek the region around and if lucky enough, you may come across animals like Bears, Wild Dogs, Jungle Fowl, Sambars and Panthers can come across your sight. The splendor of Horsely Hills also led to it being known as 'Andhra Ooty'.

Araku Valley Hill Station

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Location: Visakhapatnam district
Altitude: 1,300 meters
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Aruku Valley Andhra PradeshAraku Valley is a soothing hill station in the expanse of Andhra Pradesh. Enveloped in pastoral beauty, this beautiful valley has an elevation of 1,300 meters. Imagine a deep valley, where lush greenery is accompanied by shimmering waters of gorges and then you see an isolated hut and wish, if you could go there. Aruku Valley is essentially such a place, where the scenery exactly goes with your mind's eye.

On your drive towards this peaceful hill station, you will be greeted by many tunnels, bridges, orchards and waterfalls. Aruku Valley is actually a faction of five unfathomable valleys. It is certainly a great place to relax and unwind yourself. Over and above, you can go for trekking in the serene hills. Ranging from salubrious weather to beautiful landscape, Araku Valley has each and every asset to acclaim it as a Shangri-La.

The immense and incomparable beauty of the valley comes alive in its waterfalls, gardens and forests. It is also known for its tribal settlements and you can check out the Aruku Tribal Museum, to have a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the tribal people. Some attractions not to be missed on your trip to Aruku Valley are Damuku View Point, Padmapuram Botanical Gardens, Tida Tunnel, Government Silk Farm and Mulberry Gardens.

The valley boasts of unmatched natural beauty and magnificent splendor. From various viewpoints, you can behold the heavenly vista of the profound valley. The wonderful landscape seems to be straight out of a fairytale. The surroundings are picturesque and the atmosphere serene. A visit to the valley is the perfect way to escape from the mundane tensions of the everyday life. Just a look of Aruku Valley is enough to remain etched in your memory forever and ever.

Anantagiri Hills

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Location: Elysian Tirumala Hills in Ananthagiri, Visakhapatnam district
Altitude: 1,168 meters
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Anantagiri Hills VisakhapatnamWhen the tangled nerves need some break, a hill station is the only term that comes spontaneously to the mind. Anantagiri Hills is one such hill station, which soothes you to the core. Amidst the refreshing natural splendor, this hill station is certainly a paradise for all, mainly because of its serene atmosphere. Located at Ananthagiri that comes under Visakhapatnam district, Anantagiri Hills is one amongst the only three hill stations of Andhra Pradesh.

It's a place where lush green hills appear bantering with the clouds and ravines pacifying the thirst of foliage. Known as a summer resort place, Anantagiri Hills serves as the best destination to beat the heat of scorching sun. The loveliest fact about this place is that its beauty is untouched by the commercial city life. Dotted with trees and gorges, the hill-station is a wonderful place to relax and unwind yourself.

Moreover, the drive from the city of Vizag to Anantagiri presents some cherishable scenes, ranging from mango groves to dense forests. The panoramic vista of this amazing hill station of India would make you feel out of this world. Coffee plantations make another picturesque sight from the vantage point. Infact, Ananthagiri is considered to be a salubrious hill station, since it has got pollution-free environment unlike the crowded cities.

Its sublime climate attracts ample of tourists throughout the year and in consideration of tourism, there are quite a few accommodations available at the hill. Regarding the flora, Anantagiri forests embrace vast variety of medicinal plants and herbs. Cascading gorges, beautiful landscape and lush greenery would replenish your energies and revive you to the soul. Once there, it is for sure that you would fall in love with the beauty of the Ananthagiri Hills.

Hill Stations in Andhra Pradesh

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Hill Stations furnish the idea of tranquil and unruffled place, far away from the city chaos. Perhaps everyone dreams of such haven, where everything appears drenched in pastoral beauty. Untouched by the commotion of metropolitan lifestyle, the hill stations of India also offer peace and solitude to those who want to relax. Andhra Pradesh is known for variety of reasons and one out of them is its hill stations.

Enveloped with lush greenery, these hill stations are known for their salubrious atmosphere and pleasant weather. Moreover, they provide a wonderful respite to the people from the hot and sultry weather of the state. Green woods, incredible landscape and cascading gorges are the inseparable part of these hill resorts. Scroll down to know more about each and every important hill station of Andhra Pradesh.

Anantagiri Hills
When the tangled nerves need some break, a hill station is the only term that comes spontaneously to the mind. Anantagiri Hills is one such hill station, which soothes you to the core. Amidst the refreshing natural splendor, this hill station is certainly a paradise for all, mainly because of its serene atmosphere.

Araku Valley
Araku Valley is a soothing hill station in the expanse of Andhra Pradesh. Enveloped in pastoral beauty, this beautiful valley has an elevation of 1,300 meters. Imagine a deep valley, where lush greenery is accompanied by shimmering waters of gorges and then you see an isolated hut and wish, if you could go there.

Horsley Hills
Horsley Hills is a mesmerizing place where lofty peaks appear to be conversing with the blue skies. Perched at an elevation of 1,265 meters, this hill station would certainly tempt you with its beguiling beauty. Sited in Chittoor district, Horsley is the one of the three hill-stations in Andhra Pradesh.

Anantagiri Hills | Horsley Hills | Araku Valley

Wayanad Hill Station

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Area 2132 km2
Altitude 700 to 2100 Mts above sea level
STD Code 04936
Best time to visit September to May

Located in the north eastern section of the state of Kerala, the beautiful district of Wayanad is one of the most popular hill stations of India. Surrounded by lush green, sloping plains of spice plantation, a trip to Wayanad is a must include if you are planning a tour to Kerala.

Wayanad is located on the summit of the Deccan Plateau on its southern side with the Western Ghats running through it. Blessed by nature with lush, tropical forests, undulating slopes through which a number of smooth flowing rivers run across and a climate that promises to charm, the serene hill station of Wayanad remains even today uncorrupted by modernity and thus, is generally regarded to be one of the most popular tourist destinations of Kerala. A definite must-visit while on a holiday in Kerala.

How to Reach Wayanad

By Air

The airport nearest to the Wayanad is at Kozhikode airport at Karippur which is well connected to the hill station by a number of transportation options.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to the pristine hill station of Wayanad is located at Kozhikode, which is situated at a distance of around 67 kms away from Wayanad

By Road

A number of excellently maintained roads connect Wayanad with its neighboring cities. These include the Kozhikode- Mysore National Highway No. 212, which passes through the middle of the district. However it is best to avoid these roads at night as they run through a region which is famous for its elephants!

Vythiri Hill Station

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Imagine walking around soft undulating hills, surrounded by lush green plantations in a weather that is wet, cool and a perfect complement to the pristine ambience all around. Welcome to the Wayanad district of Kerala, a must visit while on a tour to "God's Own Country"! If you are planning a holiday in Kerala, make sure you include a trip to Vythiri, a beautiful hill resort tucked away amidst the green slopes of the Western Ghats in Wayanad.

Vythiri is located at a distance of around:

* From Bangalore: 282 Kms
* Kozhikode (Calicut): 60 Kms
* Kalpetta: 15 kms
* Karapura - 100 kms
* Madikeri - 200 kms
* Ooty: 140 kms
* Mysore: 140 kms
* Bandipur - 110 kms
* Mudumalai - 110 kms

Accommodation Facilities at Vythiri

Combining the purity of a rustic ambience with all the modern comforts of today, the accommodation facilities at the Vythiri Resort are excellent and comprise of a number of accommodation options that are guaranteed to fit both your budgets as well as your tastes. The accommodation options include 6 double bedded rooms, 18 well-equipped cottages as well as 4 deluxe double bedded rooms, all of which are provided with almost all the necessary room facilities as well as some of the most spectacular views of the Wayanad region.

Dining Facilities at Vythiri

Providing its guests with the perfect taste of the cuisine of Kerala, the dining facilities at the Thinna or the in house restaurant of the Vythiri Resort in Wayanad are guaranteed to please the choosiest connoisseur.

Banquet and Conference Facilities at Vythiri

The banquet and conference facilities at the Vythiri Resort in Wayanad are excellent with the hotel possessing 2 banquet halls and providing the guests at the resort with the perfect ambience that guarantees to make their banquets and conferences the talk of the town for days to come.

Additional Facilitates at Vythiri

The additional facilities provided to the guests of the Vythiri Resort include the following facilities:

* Serena Spa
* Conference hall
* Doctor on call
* Ayurveda centre
* Safe Deposit Lockers
* Health Club
* Travel Assistance
* Swimming pool
* Games Room
* TV salon
* Kids Play Area
* Natural Pool
* Coffee Shop
* Multi Cuisine Restaurant

Topstation in Kerala

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The idyllic hill station of Topstation is located at a distance of about 32 km from Munnar, on the Munnar-Kodaikanal Road in Kerala. This fascinating hill resort, as its unusual name suggests, is one of the top hill stations in Kerala. Lying at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level, Topstation marks the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal Road.

A land of undulating hills and valleys, cool breezes, fresh and balmy air and hospitable people, Topstation is a land where tranquility is a breath of life. Unveil the magic of Topstation and enjoy an exotic holiday at this lush hill station.

Topstation is home to extensive tea plantations that flourish in the cool and soothing clime. The rare Neelakurinji (Strobilanthus) - the flower that blooms only once in 12 years, grows in this region, and features as one of the key attractions of the hill resort.

When the Neelakurinji flower blooms, the valleys and meadows of Topstation are all painted in various hues of blue, presenting viewers with an incredibly beautiful sight.

You must visit Topstation to bask in the scenic mist-clad beauty, sprawling tea gardens, luxuriant forests and vivid cultural traditions. Top station also also delights visitors with spectacular views of the Tamil Nadu - Kerala border and the neighboring forests.

General Information about Topstation

Location - 32 Kms from Munnar
Altitude - 1700 m above Sea Level
Significance - Highest Point on Munnar-Kodaikanal Road

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport to Topstation is at Kochi, about 130 km away. This airport can be easily accessed by road from Munnar town (32 km).

By Rail

The nearest railhead is also at Kochi. Kochi is well connected by trains with major towns and cities in India.

By Road

Topstation is well connected by road to Munnar which is in turn accessible from most of the towns in Kerala and South India.

Silent Valley Hill Station Kerala

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Area 89.52 km2
Altitude 658 m to 2328 m
STD Code 0486
Best time to visit September to May

One of the prettiest hill stations in India, the Silent Valley is a must visit while planning a trip to Kerala. The Silent Valley is also one of the most important national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of India, with its natural beauty being the perfect background for the comfort of a number of rare species of flora and fauna. Much of the natural charm of the Silent Valley is still well preserved today, with the scenic landscape of the Valley also being home to a number of aboriginal tribes mainly led by the Kurumbar Tribes, who make the tour to the Silent Valley even more special by their rustic charm.

The scenic slopes of the Silent Valley are home to a number of rare species of birds, animals and plants which include:

* Ceylon Frogmouth
* Great Indian Hornbill
* Nilgiri Laughing Thrush Or The Rufous-Breasted Laughingthrush
* Long-Legged Buzzard
* Red Winged Crested Cuckoo
* Malabar Pied Hornbill
* Nilgiri Laughing Thrush
* Pale Harrier
* Nilgiri Pipit
* Nilgiri Wood-Pigeon
* Nilgiri Flycatcher
* Nilgiri Laughing Thrush
* Black Bulbul

How to Reach Silent Valley

By Air

The airport nearest to the Silent Valley is at Coimbatore which is located around 55 km away from the hill station.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to the quaint hill station of Silent Valley is at Palakkad which is around 55 kms away from the Valley and is well- connected to the hilly slopes of Silent Valley

By Road

Silent Valley is well- connected to almost all its neighboring districts by smooth roads and an efficient system of local transport. One of the most convenient forms of transportation used in the region is the auto which travels along the following routes:

* Coimbatore - Anakkatty - Mukkali - 90 km
* Coimbatore - Palakkad - Mannarkkad - Mukkali - 120 km
* Kozhikode - Palakkad - Mannarkkad - Mukkali - 120 km

Peerumedu Hill Stations Kerala

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Altitude 915 m above sea level
Temperature 15 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celcius
Best time to visit Throughout the year

Also known as "God's own Country", the pristine beauty of the state of Kerala has today made the state one of the most popular tourist destinations of India. Promoting tourism in Kerala are the various tourist destinations in Kerala, which attract several tourists to the land with the lure of their rich natural beauty and vibrant culture. One of these exotic locations in Kerala is Peerumedu or Peermade as it is also known.

Named after a Sufi saint Peer Mohammed, Peerumedu is blessed with a history that forms one of its most important attractions. Located around 85 km to the east of Kottayam, the weather of Peerumedu is invitingly cool and moist, a perfect excuse for that weekend getaway to Peerumedu. The green slopes of the region are also the perfect place for newly weds to be if they are keen on a honeymoon in Peerumedu. Surrounded by rich plantations of tea, coffee, cardamom, rubber and eucalyptus, the entirety of Peerumedu is enveloped with a fragrance that is heady and delightfully intoxicating!

How to Reach Peerumedu

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Peerumedu is at Kottayam, located around 85 kms away from this un-spoilt hill station of Kerala.

By Road

A number of well - maintained roads connect Peerumedu to the other major cities of Kerala as well as a number of neighboring cities which actually fall in Tamil Nadu.

Pakshipathalam Hill Station

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Altitude 1740m above sea level
Temperature 15 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celcius
Best time to visit September to May

A trekker's paradise and one of the most uncorrupted hill stations of India, the pristine beauty of the quaint hill station of Pakshipathalam promises to sweep you off you your feet while on a visit to Pakshipathalam. Located around 7 kms to the north eastern portion of Thirunelli, Pakshipathalam can only be reached by trekking. A haven for several rare and exotic species of birds and animals, the lush, green deciduous forests of Pakshipathalam were once the meditating area for countless rishis or saints of ancient India.

Today a wildlife lover's paradise, a trip to Pakshipathalam is a must include in your tour itinerary of Kerala, drawing countless tourists to its lands with the lure of rich natural beauty. One of the major centers of eco tourism in Kerala, Pakshipathalam is also located close to Kuruvadweep, an island which is renowned for its perfect ecological balance. Known for possessing the best soil for the growth of rare species of orchids and a number of other examples of flora, a trip to Kuruvadweep is a definite must include while on a holiday in Pakshipathalam.

How to Reach Pakshipathalam

By Air

Kozhikode is the nearest airport to the hill station of Pakshipathalam with its airport called the Karipur International Airport being located around 55 km from Pakshipathalam.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Pakshipathalam is at Kozhikode from which the only way of accessing this quaint and historic hill station is by trekking.

By Road

The only way of reaching the slopes of Pakshipathalam is by trekking.

Nelliyampathy Hill Station

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Area 82 sq. kms
Altitude 467 m to 1572 m above sea level
Temperature 15 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celcius
Best time to visit September to May

Imagine walking through softly undulating, lush green hills, while the wet and moisture laden winds sweep through your hair, welcoming you to one of the most beautiful hill stations of India with a gentle, loving caress... welcome to Nelliyampathy, one of the most exotic tourist destinations of Kerala.

Known for its rich plantations of spices and coffee as well as its rich evergreen forests, Nelliyampathy is a heady mix that is sure to please all the tourists to this beautiful land. As waterfalls cascade through the majestic slopes of the Sahya Ranges and mesmerize you while you travel amidst the rustling leaves scattered throughout this beautiful land, be ready to be swept off your feet by the magical charm of Nelliyampathy, perhaps the loveliest of the un-spoilt hill stations of Kerala.

How to Reach Nelliyampathy

By Air

Coimbatore is the nearest airport to the hill station of Nelliyampathy and is located around 55 km from Palakkad, which is in turn around 75 kms away from Nelliyampathy.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to the quaint hill station of Nelliyampathy is at Palakkad, which is just around 55 kms away from the main city of Nelliyampathy. Palakkad is one of the most important junctions of the Southern Railways.

By Road

Nelliyampathy is well- connected to almost all its neighboring districts by smooth roads and an efficient system of local transport. The region is also well- linked to several districts of Tamil Nadu by well- maintained motor-able roads. A number of bus services also provide service to the region, connecting Nelliyampathy with a number of other cities like Trichur, Guruvayoor, Cochin, Calicut, Kottayam and Trivandrum. Palakkad, located around 75 kms away from Nelliyampathy takes around two and a half hours to reach this quaint hill station.

Malampuzha Hill Station Kerala

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Area 827 sq. kms

Temperature 0oC - 25oC

Summer: 15.2oC - 25oC

Winter: 0oC - 10oC

Best time to visit September to May

Being the base on which the longest river of Kerala, the Bharathappuzha flows over the green undulating slopes of the Western Ghats, the beautiful hill station of Malampuzha is a must visit while on a tour to Kerala. Sleepy and straight out of a picture book, a visit to Malampuzha promises to be the dream vacation you have always desired.

Home to several tourist attractions, it is hardly surprising that the quaint hill station of Malampuzha is today one of the most popular tourist destinations of Kerala. If you are planning a holiday in Malampuzha, make sure you visit the following tourist attractions of Malampuzha:

* The Malampuzha Gardens
* Snake Park
* Children's Park
* Reservoir
* Garden House
* Japanese Garden
* Hanging Bridge
* Sculpture Of Yakshi
* Ropeway
* Road Train
* Telescopic Tower
* Rock Garden
* Fantasy Park

How to Reach Malampuzha

By Air

Coimbatore is the nearest airport to the hill station of Malampuzha and is located around 55 km from Palakkad, which in turn is just about 40 km from Mannarkkad. If you are traveling to Malampuzha from Cochin the distance that you have to traverse is around 160 kms while Trivandrum is located at a distance of around 382 kms away from Malampuzha.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to the quaint hill station of Malampuzha is at Palakkad, which is just around 5 kms away from the main city of Malampuzha. Palakkad is one of the most important junctions of the Southern Railways.

By Road

Malampuzha is well- connected to almost all its neighboring districts by smooth roads and an efficient system of local transport. The region is also well- linked to several districts of Tamil Nadu by well- maintained motor-able roads. A number of bus services also provide service to the region, connecting Malampuzha with a number of other cities like Trichur, Guruvayoor, Cochin, Calicut, Kottayam and Trivandrum.

Attappady Hill Station

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Area 827 sq. kms

Temperature 0oC - 25oC

Summer: 15.2oC - 25oC

Winter: 0oC - 10oC

Best time to visit September to May

Located on the north eastern section of the Palakkad district on the northern portion of the state of Kerala, also known as "God's Own Country", is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Kerala, the beautiful hill station of Attappady. Surrounded by lush green, undulating hills, the beautiful region of Attappady is a definite must visit if you are planning a trip to Kerala.

Located amidst the picturesque slopes of the Western Ghats, the pristine beauty of Attappady is further accentuated by the many rivulets of the Bhavani River, which murmur softly as they flow along the several twists and turns of the mountainous terrain of the one of the most uncorrupted hill stations of India.

If you are planning a holiday in Attappady, you can also enjoy the famous hospitality of the region in the various hotels and tourist lodges of Attappady.

How to Reach Attappady

By Air

Coimbatore is the nearest airport to the hill station of Attappady and is located around 55 km from Palakkad, which in turn is just about 40 km from Mannarkkad.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to the quaint hill station of Attappady is at Palakkad, from where you can reach the green slopes of Attappady by a number of options of transportations. Attapaddy is around 40 kms away from Palakkad.

By Road

Attappady is well- connected to almost all its neighboring districts by smooth roads and an efficient system of local transport.

Devikulam Hill Station

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The hill station of Devikulam derives its name from the Devikulam Lake in the vicinity. Devikulam means lake (kulam) of the Goddess (Devi). Legend has it that Goddess Sita, consort of Lord Rama (an incarnation of the Hindu God Vishnu) would bathe in the sparkling waters of this tranquil lake during their stay in the nearby forests. Hence the name. Devikulam Tours offer you he perfect opportunity to spend your vacation nestled close in the lap of Mother Nature.

Devikulam is located at an altitude of about 1000 meters from sea level and at a distance of 13km south west of Munnar, down the Munnar-Kumily Highway, SH 19. A small dreamy hill station in the Idukki district of Kerala, Devikulam can be reached by a sharp ascent along the mountainous path, 149 km (4 1/2 hours) from Kochi and 132 km (4 hours) from Kottayam. Devikulam is pleasant and cool through the summer months and chill by winter making it the ideal destination to escape the sweltering summers and the cozy retreat of winters.

Devikulam is testimony to Nature's luxuriant appeal and lucullan grace. Richly endowed with breathtaking scenic views, this quintessential locale reveals the many facets of nature's beauty. From melodious songbirds to ferocious wildlife; from glistening springs and lakes to tall gum and fruit trees; fragrant spices to stimulating tea, it seems Devikulam was bestowed with the best.

The Devikulam Lake, also known as the Sita Devi Lake, is a spot of unsurpassable scenic beauty. The sparkling crystal clear waters, the tall trees and flowering shrubs on the banks and the twittering songbirds make it an ideal picnic spot. Besides being sacred due to the legend involving Goddess Sita, the lake is famed to have immense therapeutic properties as well. This is because of the mineral water fountains and natural springs from which curative minerals gush forth with the water.

A visit to the sprawling tea and spice plantations in the region can be uplifting. The neatly trimmed rows of tea shrubs and the pepper, clove and cardamom rented air is not only a pleasure to the sight, but is also rejuvenating to the spirit.

You may wish to take a few excursions around Devikulam to the most fascinating of places. 50 km away is the famous Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary which houses some beautiful and some ferocious beasts such as elephants, sambars, leopards and gaurs and the highly endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrel and the Star Tortoise. A view of the graceful Thoovanam Falls on the river Chinnar makes a visit to the sanctuary worthwhile. Pallivasal Waterfalls and Mattupetty Lake are two other getaways, at a short distance from Devikulam and known for their sheer natural bounty.

Besides the pristine beauty of the region, the attraction that brings in many tourists to Devikulam is trout fishing. Besides the Nilgiris, anglers are afforded this pleasure only in Gravel Banks and Devikulam Lake of the Munnar hills. However it is important o note that you may require a permit before you wield the fishing rod. Also, live bait is not permitted in the Devikulam Lake. You may use artificial flies, spinners and lures. As you wrap up, you will need to record the day's catch with the local authorities.

Devikulam is a trekkers' paradise. The lush green landscape, the mountain trails and the verdant woods are simply irresistible to the adventurer. The clean, crisp mountain air, the red-blue gum trees, and the abundance of flora and fauna keep the trekker's interest alive and make such strenuous physical activity a pleasure indulgence.

Idukki Hill Station

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Idukki, the beautiful hill station of Kerala derives its name from a Malayalam word 'idukku', which means narrow gorge. Idukki is known as the land of massive mountains, variegated valleys and splendid streams. Located in the southern portion of Kerala, Idukki offers diverse tourist attractions like hill ranges, mountain treks, spice plantations, virgin beauty of nature and wild life sanctuaries.

The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime attraction of the hill town of Idukki. It is spread over an area of 70 sq km in the vicinity of the Arched Dam. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is rich in green forest cover and vibrant flora and fauna. Tourist may easily spot animals like the elephant, bison, sambhar, deer etc. you may also find a wide variety of snakes and birds like the jungle foul, laughing thrush etc.

Very near to the hill station of Idukki, is another hill station called Peermade. Peermade was summer resort of the former Tranvancore rulers. Peermade is worthy of visit for its green grasslands, wonderful waterfalls and pleasant plantations of tea, coffee and rubber.

Thekkady is at a distance of almost 65 km from Idukki. The place is visited for unspoilt beauty of the nature and vast wildlife population. Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can find the artificial lakes, hills and plantations along with the fauna and avifauna. Trekking, elephant rides and boating can be indulged in while at Thekkady.

From Idukki, you may also visit the hill station of Munnar, which is at a distance of 70 km. The place has the beauty enhanced by the tea plantations, nice town planning, winding lanes and perfect climatic conditions.

Vagamon Hill Station

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Kerala also known as 'God's own country' is the home to some of the most beautiful hill stations in the world. Waynad, Munnar, Vythiri, Idduki and Ponmudi are just some of the beautiful hill stations in Kerala. Located at a high altitude , Vagamon Hill,is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala is engulfed by three hills.

It is from here one can see the green grass covering the hills and the smooth lawns like silk carpets with the fresh mountain air - make Vagamon Hill the most sort after tourist destination. Beautiful flowers, bluish brown hills, cotton mist, meadows, breathtaking view all of it can be enjoyed in the enchanting land of Vagamon Hill.

Reaching Vagamon Hills-Kerala, is quite an interesting journey. Vagamon Hill are closely connected through all major road, air and railways. One can also drive up to this hill station and enjoy the scenic view en-route. As you enjoy the view you realize how generous mother nature has been to Vagamon Hill. The scenic beauty will not let you realize the time taken for the journey and before you know Vagamon Hill in Kerala comes into view.

Once the guests reach this hill station in Kerala, finding an accommodation in Vagamon Hills is not that difficult. From star rated hotels, to budget hotels, they are all well equipped with modern facilities for the traveller. The Ananya Hill Resort is one such place. A homely ambiance, attractive décor, excellent service, Ananya Hill Resorts is one of the finest resorts in Vagamon Hill. The traveler is treated royally with a touch of the local flavour.

There is lots for a tourist to indulge himself in when in Vagamon Hill. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking on the mountains, para gliding and rock climbing. Have fun on the boat ride on the lakes or one can sit on the banks or hours and watch the sun go down. If lucky the tourists may spot wild animals like the elephants, wild buffalos and deer.

Vagamon Hill offers a good vacation time for the leisure traveler and the adventure spirited. It is the beautiful valleys, the waterfalls and green slopes with flowers all around that can leave the traveller enthralled, an experience he will carry home with him.

Ponmudi Hill Station

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The beautiful and peaceful hill station of Ponmudi is situated at a distance of 61 km from Thiruvananthapuram and at an altitude of 1000 m above the sea level. Come to Ponmudi to fall in love with the bountiful nature, serene surroundings and several tourist attractions. The hill station is a welcome break from the rush of the city where you can relax in the laps of nature without any hurries and worries.

If you have a passion for trekking and long leisurely walks, explore the hill station of Ponmudi. There is a lot to see and behold like hills, valleys tea-estates and cottages. Ponmudi is an ideal and a beautiful picnic spot, as it is at a convenient distance from Thiruvananthapuram and well endowed with natural springs. The Golden Valley is a small yet scenic viewpoint.

While at Ponmudi, you can enjoy the Aaranmula Boat Race. It is organized each year in the village of Aaranmula in the month of August and September and is part of the Aaranmula Temple Festival.

Varkala is also a getaway from Ponmudi, which is an important Hindu center of pilgrimage as well a famous beach. The beach is adorned with high cliffs and mineral-water springs all around the coastline. The prime attractions of the Varkala are the 2,000-year-old Janardanaswamy Temple and the Nature Center.

Palakkad Hill Station

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Palakkad also known as Palghat lies on the foothills of the Western Ghats. On the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Palakkad is 80 km towards northeast of Trichur and 50 km towards southwest of Coimbatore. Palakkad district is called "the Granary of Kerala". Palakkad attracts a lots of tourists every year because richness of the natural beauty of the dense forests, fertile valleys, huge mountains, long rivers, several streams and diverse flora and fauna.

There are several tourist attractions at Palakkad to keep tourists busy during their stay at the hill station. The Palakkad Fort, situated in the heart of Palakkad town, is built of granite and one of the best-preserved forts in Kerala. Hyder Ali of Mysore in built the fort in 1766 AD. The British took over the fort and modified and renovated it in 1790 AD. The fort is now the property of the Archaeological Survey of India.

At a distance of 10 km from the town of Palakkad is Thiruvalathoor. The ancient temple is visited for fine wood craftsmanship and stone sculptures. Dhoni is 15 km from the town. It is a reserve forest area with small yet splendid waterfall and a must visit for nature lovers. The trek to the forest reserve takes 3 hours from the hill base of Dhoni. Situated 15 km from the town is Kottayi. It is a small village famous for being the native place of the master of Carnatic music, Late Chembai Vasidyanatha Bhagavathar.

Malampuzha Garden is at a convenient distance of 10 km from Palakkad on the lower hills of the Western Ghats. It is the most frequented picnic spot complete in beauty with a dam, manicured gardens, fountains, pools and pathways. Frequent bus services ply between Palakkad and Malampuzha Garden. The Rose Garden has more than a hundred varieties of roses making a very vibrant scenario. There is an aerial ropeway across the garden. The dams and gardens are illuminated on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays. The reservoir features the facilities like boating and fishing. You can complete tour picnic outing with the ride in the pedal boats, rowboats, water scooters and motorboats or by taking a plunge into the well-kept swimming pool. A fresh water aquarium, a snake park and a children's park are the added feature of the Malampuzha Garden.

Munnar Hill Station

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Munnar, located at an altitude of 1,600 m, is one of the most beautiful hill stations of Kerala. Munnar has the highest peak in south India, Anamundi, which rises to a height of 2695 m. Munnar was the most favored summer destination of European settlers for centuries. Munnar actually means the 'Three Rivers' and derives its name from the three-mountain stream, Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. The confluence of these rivers is at the heart of the town and they fulfill all the water requirements of the town.

Munnar is an ideal destination for a peaceful vacation. It offers a variety to the visitors in terms of sight seeing as there are lots of tourist attractions including the lakes, dams, wild life sanctuaries and tea and spice plantations.

Devikulam, 7 km from Munnar, is another hill station known for its green meadows, exotic flora and fauna and the pristine mountains. The Sita Devi Lake is good option for picnic. The water of the lake has minerals, which contains curative properties. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.

Pallivasal, 8 km from Munnar, is the venue of the first Hydro Electric Project in Kerala. The place is also famous for its immense scenic beauty.

Chithirapuram, 10 km from Munnar, reflects the colonial charm with the presence of the cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts. One can see the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project and the tea plantations.

Attukal, 9 km from Munnar, must be visited for its charming sceneries, waterfalls and rolling hills. Attukal is located between Munnar and Pallivasal and is also for long treks.

Nyayamakad, 10 km from Munnar, is placed between Munnar and Rajamala. The place is famous for several splendid waterfalls. The waters come down a hill from a height of almost 1600 m. The enchanting surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.

Mattupetty, situated at a height of 1700 m, is at a distance of 13 km from Munnar. It is famous for its highly specialized dairy farm of the Indo-Swiss Live Stock Project. More than 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here. The Mattupetty lake and dam are at a short distance from the farm is a popular picnic spot. The visitors should visit the Kundala Tea Plantations and the Kundala Lake while on a visit to Mattupetty.

While at Munnar, something that is not to be missed is the Eravikulam National Park. The park, at a distance of 15 km from Munnar, was originally established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex). The park covers an area of 97 sq km and is divided into 3 regions - the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. The tourists are allowed to visit only till the tourism area which is in the Rajamala region.

Kerala Hill Stations

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Kerala is more popular the world over for its beautiful beaches, bewitching backwaters, silky sand, sensuous sea and wilderness of the wildlife. But there is more to Kerala than this. Far off in the heights of the Western Ghats, Kerala has number of hill stations less ventured and explored. The hill stations of Kerala are the most perfect choice if you want to getaway from the city noises, deadlines, stress, tension and crowd. Decorated with meandering roads, ravishing rivulets, splendid springs and wondrous waterfalls, these hill stations are really different from other popular hill stations of India.

The hill stations of Kerala are dense in vegetation and provide natural habitat to exotic wildlife. These beautiful hill stations of Kerala are also the source of the famous spices of Kerala. Spices such as pepper, cardamom, cinnamon and the cashew nut are grown in the plantations on the hill stations in Kerala. The Dutch and English colonial rulers of Kerala introduced cash crops plantations such as rubber and tea in the 18th and 19th centuries, which has continued till today.

Attappady Hill Station
Devikulam Hill Station
Idukki Hill Station
Malampuzha Hill Station
Munnar Hill Station
Nelliyampathy Hill Station
Pakshipathalam Hill Station
Palakkad Hill Station
Peerumedu Hill Station
Ponmudi Hill Station
Silent Valley Hill Station
Topstation Hill Station
Vagamon Hill Station
Vythiri Hill Station
Wayanad Hill Station

Bird Sanctuaries in India

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Sanctuaries in India, India Bird Sanctuary"> Tweeting and chirping are a bird watcher's favorite sounds, and in Indian Bird Sanctuaries these sounds reverberate copiously. Owing to its varied topography, climate and long coastline, India provides a home to several species of birds. The nation attracts scores of migratory birds as well.

Out of the 8650 species of birds' known in the world, India boasts of being a home to as many as 1200 species. Popular bird species in Indian bird sanctuaries include Racquet Tailed Drogas, Sun Birds, Kingfishers, Drogas, Tree Pies Jungle Owlets, Minvets, Mynas, Pipits, Larks, Siberia Crane, and more.

Located in the midst of verdant greens, Indian bird sanctuaries support thick forests and a variety of vegetation. Generally these bird sanctuaries surround natural or made-made water bodies such as rivers and lakes.

Among the most distinguished bird sanctuaries in India are - Keoladeo Ghana National Park at Bharatpur in Rajasthan, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in North Goa, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary in Kerala, Chilka Lake Bird Sanctuary in Orissa, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary in Gujarat.

Keoladeo Ghana National Park at Bharatpur in Rajasthan
Siberian Cranes, Ruddy Shelducks, Gulls, Northern Shovelers, Northern Pintails, Coots, Garganey, Tufted Ducks and Common Pochard.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in North Goa
migratory birds such as Black Faced Cormorants and Storks.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka
Painted Storks, Asian Openbill Storks, Common Spoonbills, Woolly-Necked Storks, Black-Headed Ibis, White Ibis, Lesser Whistling Ducks, Indian Shags, Stork-Billed Kingfishers, Egrets, Cormorants, Oriental Darter, Herons, Great Stone Plovers, River Terns and Streak-throated Swallows.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary in Kerala
Darters, Egrets, Herons, Siberian Storks, Cranes, Teals, Cuckoos, Water Ducks, Waterfowls, Owl, Parrots, Wood Beetles and Flycatchers.

Chilka Lake Bird Sanctuary in Orissa
White bellied Sea Eagles, Greylag Geese, Purple Moorhens, Jacanas, Herons, Flamingos and more.

Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary in Gujarat
Waterfowls, Rosy Pelicans, Flamingoes, White Storks, Brahminy Ducks, Herons and more.

Sundarbans National Park

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Sundarbans National Park in India is one of the world's largest deltas and the mangrove forest formed by the confluence of three rivers- the Ganga, the Brahmaputra and the Meghna- covering an area of 2,585 sq km wildlife sanctuary, which extends into Bangladesh too. The Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary, the world's largest estuarine sanctuary is really worth a visit. With a series of densely forested islands and saline water channels, Sundarbans is home to 270 Royal Bengal Tigers along with the spotted deers, wild pigs, monkeys, herons, kingfishers and white-bellied eagles.

The Sundarbans is formed by an alluvial archipelago of 54 islands, made by the waters of Ganges, Brahmaputra and the Bay of Bengal. The Sundarban National Park got its name from the Sundari trees found here in abundance. Sundarbans' also shares its boundaries with the Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary.

The most unique feature of the Sundarbans is the tigers in the park apt at swimming and are strictly amphibious! The Park is also famous for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtles. The other wild animals found in the Sundarbans National Park are estuarine terrapins, Olive Ridley turtles, estuarine crocodiles, Ganges dolphins, water monitors and a wide variety of birds, fish and crustaceans. One of the major tourist attractions is the Sajnekhali Visitors' Centre, which has a crocodile enclosure, a shark pond, a turtle hatchery, and a Mangrove Interpretation Centre.

Flora in Sundarbans National Park

Sunderbans National Park, IndiaIn April and May, the flaming red leaves of the Genwa bejewel the emerald islands. The other dominant floral species in the Sundarbans are crab like red flowers of the Kankara and the yellow blooms of Khalsi. As you go deeper into the Sundarbans forests, you discover the mystique beauty. The large floral population in Sundarbans consists of trees like Genwa, Dhundal, Passur, Garjan and Kankara. Apart from these trees, the tall and wide Goran trees cover almost the entire region.
Wildlife in Sundarbans National Park

The Sundarbans forest houses Royal Bengal Tigers in plenty. At the Sundarbans you are elated to watch Chital Deer and Rhesus Monkey. The aqua fauna in the park include variety of fishes, red Fiddler Crabs and Hermit Crabs.

There are crocodiles, which can be often seen along the mud banks. Sundarbans national park is also noted for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle. There's is a incredible variety of reptiles also found in Sundarbans, which includes King Cobra, Rock Python and Water Monitor. The endangered river Terrapin, Batagur Baska is found on the Mechua Beach, while the Barkind Deer is found only in Holiday Island in Sundarbans.

Special Attractions In Sundarbans

Sunderbans National Park, IndiaThe Sajnakhali Sanctuary : The Sajnakhali sanctuary, a part of the Sundarbans Park is famous for its rich avian population. The wide variety of birds at Sajnekhati sancatuary captivates your eyes for sure. The most distinguishing feature of the sanctuary are the seven colourful species of Kingfisher, White bellied Sea Eagle, Plovers, Lap-Wings, Curfews, Whimbrels, Sandpipers and occasional Pelican.

Netidhopani : At Netidhopani, the ruins of a 400-year-old temple tell a tale of its own adding mystery to the surroundings.

Bhagabatpur : Bhagabatpur is renowned for having a hatchery of the largest estuarine crocodiles in the world.

Kanak : Kanak is the nesting place for the Olive Ridley Turtles.

Holiday Island: The last habitat of the Barking Deer in India is the Holiday island thronged by the tourists every year.

Piyali: Piyali is the main gateway of Sundarbans, near Kolkata and Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, Netidhopani through waterways. A small river Piyali criss crosses the green paddy fields and joins river Matla. It has become a perfect holiday and picnic destination.

Kaikhali : While your trip to Sundarbans, visit Kaikhali Island with a colourful atmosphere.
When to Visit Sunderbans National Park

The best time to visit
the Sundarbans National Park is during the months of September and May. The possibility of observing the mighty Royal Bengal Tiger enhances in the winter season when one can watch the King of Jungle sun-bathing on the banks of the river. For this reason the ideal time to visit the sanctuary is December and January.

How to Reach Sunderbans National Park

By Air : Kolkata is the nearest airport is at a distance of 112-kms from the Sundarbans National Park.

By Rail : The nearest railhead is Canning, 48-kms away from the Sunderbans National Park. From Port Canning, regular buses ply to Sonakhali, Raidighi, Najat and Namkhana.

By Road : The excellent road network connects Namkhana to Kolkata, Sonakhali (100-kms), Raidighi (76-kms), Canning (64-kms), and Najat (92-kms), all lying nearby the Sunderbans.

Cruises : The tourists can hire a cruise in the riverine waterways from different places covering different stretches like Namkhana - Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project- Sagar Island -Jambudweep; from Sajnekhali - Sudhanyakhali-Buridabri- Netidhopan-Holiday Island; from Sonakhali - Gosaba; from Raidighi - Kalas. The watchtowers at Netidhopan, Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali and Haldi- provide you an excellent view of the wildlife.

The special feature of these boat cruises are: the organization of business conferences and seminars on the deck in the morning followed by a palatable Bengali lunch consisting of Bengali delicacies like fish and prawns. You can also have a vigorous dance session in the boat relishing the melodious music also.

General Information

Entry Permits : The foreign tourists willing to observe the tigers and implement the Tiger Projects and visit the Sajnekhali, have to obtain the special permits for entry into the Sundarbans National Park. The tourists should contact the Secretary, West Bengal Forest Department, Writer's Blidge, Kolkata - 700001, on request. To obtain the entry permit for other areas of the Sundarban; the tourists must visit the Field Director, Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, PO Canning, District 24 Parganas, West Bengal. A boat cruise through Sunderbans outside the sanctuary requires no entry permit.

Nagarhole National Park

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The Nagarhaole National Park in Karnataka shares its boundaries with the famous Bandipur National Park in Karanataka, which together form a part of the Mudumalai Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu and the Wayanad Reserve in Kerala. About 643 kms in area, Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the tiger along with the other wild life species and around 250 bird species. Located aside the river Kabini, the dam and the reservoir of this mighty Kabini river acts as a natural barrier separating the two wildlife sanctuaries - Bandipur and Nagarhole - in Karnataka.

The Nagarhole national park lies at a distance of 96 kms from Mysore. This protected territory is the habitat of several endangered species. Nagarhole derives its name from the root word `Naga' from Kannada language, which means `snake' and `Hole' that means `streams'. Thus the term as a whole point towards the numerous streams that leaps through the rich tropical forests of Nagarhole like a snake.

Also bordering the state of Kerala, the Nagarhole National Park was designated as a game sanctuary in 1955. In 1974, it was extended to its present size combining the Mysore forests within the Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary. The deep valleys and the mesmerising landscapes in the sanctuary make it a picture perfect destination in every manner. Apart from the largest Kabini river that drains the Nagarhole national park, the other three important rivers include Lakshmana, Teentha and Nagarhole. Several perennial and seasonal streams also merge into the four rivers.

Flora in the Nagarhole National Park

Due to the high rainfall in the region, the National Park consists of numerous open grassy swamps known as the 'hadlus' in the local language, which remain green perennially. The dry as well as the moist deciduous forests cover the whole area mainly consisting of the floral species like teak and eucalyptus. Wildlife at Nagarhole National Park

The animals that are commonly seen in the national park are: tiger, leopard, panther, sloth bear, gaur, elephant, sambhar, chital and other mammals like muntjac, the tiny mouse deer, giant squirrel, slender loris, langurs, wild boar, pangolin and macaques. The Park has about 250 bird species like Malabar trogan, the Indian Pitta, green imperial pigeon the Malabar pied hornbill and the great black woodpecker. The jungle cat, leopard cat and rusty spotted cat are also the other wildlife species within the national park.

When to Visit Nagarhole National Park

Though the park is open all through the year, the best time to visit the national park is from October to April. The monsoon season is from June to September; followed by winters till January; and then summer from February to May.

How To Reach Nagarhole National Park

By Road: Nagarhole National Park is well connected by road with the major towns like Madikeri (93 km), Mysore (96 km) and Bangalore (236 km). The tourists can board a flight or catch a train from these towns and cities.

By Air: The nearest airports are Mysore and Bangalore. From these two airports, the tourists can board a flight to their desired destination. The Bangalore airport is well connected with all the major cities in India.
General Information

The tourists have to move in the jeeps or vans run by the forest department within the Nagarhole National Park, as the local transport is not available in the park. The visitors have to compulsorily take the veteran guides along with them while their park tour. The observation towers offer a panoramic view of the greenery in the park and also a close view of the wildlife in the park. The best time to use the watchtowers is during the early hours (6-9 AM) and late afternoon (4-7 PM). The nearest and short excursions to be enjoyed by the tourists in the park are: Bandipur National Park (100 km), Madikeri (93 km) and Mysore (96 km).

The tourists can obtain the reservation and the information from the following offices:

* Range Forest Officer, Nagarhole National Park, Kutta, Tel.21 (Kutta)
* Assistant Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Sub-division, Vani Vilas Road, Mysore- 570 002 (Tel. 211559)
* Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Division, Aranya Bhavan, Ashokpuram, Mysore - 570 008
* Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), 2nd Floor, Aranya Bhavan, 18th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore - 560 003. Tel.: 3341993/3345192

Kutch Wildlife Sanctuaries

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The Rann of Kutch is located in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is the habitat of the endangered Asiatic wild ass. You can also see the endangered Houbara bustard.

And in the otherwise inhospitable Rann live those rare and beautiful beasts: the onagers. And when they head for the rare hillocks in the salt desert, the bets as they are called, everyone knows that floods will come to the Rann within 24 hours. .

You can visit the Rann of Kutch while travelling to the Gir National Park from Ahmedabad.

This tour can be clubbed with your visit to Sikkim, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Gorumara and Bhutan.

General Information

Best time to visit :
November to March

Where to stay:
Accommodation is available in the forest lodges in Madarihat, just outside the sanctuary.

Accommodation :
Fatima Manzil and Rann Riders

How to Getting There
Rail, air and road :- Ahmedabad (3 hours)

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuaries

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Jaldapara Sanctuary is of 26 sq. km where one-horned rhinoceros, elephant, sambhar, barking deer, spotted deer etc. can be spotted.

The drive to Jaldapara takes you over the coronation bridge through the dense forests to the Bengal Plains and through the tea gardens to Madrihat. The birds to be found here are the Crested Eagle, Pallas's Fishing Eagle and shikra, besides Jungle fowl, peafowl, patridges, Bengal Florican and lesser Pied Hornbill. Python, monitor lizards, krates, cobras, geckos and about 8 species of fresh water turtles have also found sanctuary here.

Genaral Information

How to reach:
It is 3 hours from Siliguri. The nearest airport is Bagdogra, 140 kms from the sanctuary

Where to stay:
Accommodation is available in the forest lodges in Madarihat, just outside the sanctuary.

This tour can be clubbed with your visit to Sikkim, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Gorumara and Bhutan.

Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuaries

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The Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the border of Goa. It abounds in flora and fauna. The topography is generally undulating with steep slopes with picturesque deep river valleys and rich hilly forest terrain.

The breath taking valleys, regal looking meandering rivers and the splendid scenic beauty of the syntheri rock make it an awe inspiring experience.

The forest in Dandeli is typical moist deciduous and semi evergreen types, with pockets of every green.

The main wildlife species include elephant, tiger, leopard, gaur, flying squirrel, mouse deer, etc., and a variety of birds.

This place is ideal getaway for people staying in Goa.

Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary

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The large area of National Chambal park is shared by the three states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. This sanctuary is famous for the rare gangetic dolphin.

The sanctuary houses many other inhabitants like mugger, gharial, chinkara, samber, nilgai wolf and wild boar. One can find the nearest airport, situated at Agra, which is 90 km away from the sanctuary and nearest railhead is also at Agra.

It is one of the best places to see the Indian Skimmer. The best time to visit the sanctuary is November to February. This is a good day trip option when you are travelling from Bharatpur to Khajuraho or Corbett National Park via Agra.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

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Bharatpur bird sanctuary is heralded as one of the finest bird reserves in the world. Owing to its global, ecological, faunal and floral importance, UNESCO has deemed it a 'World Heritage Site'. Some 425 species of birds have been recorded in and around Bharatpur. Well laid out tracks in a relatively small sanctuary enable you to see over 130 species in a single day's birding.

Situated at the confluence of the Gambhir and Banganga rivers, the Bharatpur bird sanctuary was originally a 29 sq. km natural depression prone to seasonal flooding by rainwater, which attracted wildfowl. The Jat rulers of Bharatpur recognized the area's potential, diverted water from a nearby irrigation canal and added some bunds (dykes) to develop it as a duck shooting reserve. Later, when hunting was stopped, it was deemed a Bird Sanctuary and eventually a National Park. Though renamed in 1981 as Keoladeo Ghana (after the ancient Shiva temple in the heart of the park and Ghana, meaning dense), the park is popularly known by its old name Bharatpur. A list of the Maharaja's hunting exploits can be seen inside the park.

Bharatpur is an unraveled breeding site for the Painted Stork, Purple Heron, White Ibis, Eurasian Spoonbill and the Sarus Crane, India's largest bird and the biggest flying bird in the world. The last known wintering ground in India for the central population of the Siberian Crane, Bharatpur is also the favored winter destination of the Bar-headed Geese and an excellent place to view various owl species such as Dusky Eagle Owl, Brown Hawk Owl and Collared Scops Owl. Open throughout the year, the park is at its full glory when the migrant birds visit between October and February. A visit to Bharatpur can be coupled with excursions to Bund Baretha and Ajan Bund for the Indian Skimmer.

Fauna:

Bharatpur's residents include Eurasian Wigeon, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Great Crested Grebe, Common Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit, Spotted Redshank, Temminck's Stint, Kentish Plover, Northern Lapwing, Sarus Crane, Black-necked Stork and Pheasant-tailed Jacana.

Terrestrial birds include Blue Cheeked Bee-eater, Wryneck, Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker, Oriental Skylark, Marshall's Iora, Striated Babbler, Cetti's Bush Warbler, Clamorous Reed Warbler, Rain Quail, Chestnut Bellied Sandgrouse, Bluethroat and nightjars like Savanna and Indian Nightjar. Greater Spotted Eagle, Short-toed Eagle, Marsh and Montagu's Harrier are some raptors that thrive on ample prey base.

Bharatpur is also a safe haven for several endangered avifauna such as the White-bellied Heron, Greater Flamingo, Spotbilled Pelican, Greater Adjutant, Red-necked Grebe, Pied Avocet, Curlew Sandpiper, Ruddy Kingfisher, Spotted Crake and Indian Skimmer.

The Indian Rock Python, Soft-shell Turtles, Monitor Lizards, Fishing Cat, Otter and Porcupine are its other attractions. Other mammals here are Spotted Deer, Sambar, Nilgai, Blackbuck, Striped Hyena and Jungle Cats. In an unusual occurrence, a tigress had strayed into the park and had made it her home for four years, till it eventually died of natural causes in 2005.

Flora:

In a semi-arid biotype the park is the only area with much vegetation, hence the name Ghana, meaning dense. It is this fascinating tapestry of wetlands, woodlands, woodland swamps and dry grasslands that has blessed the park with a rich biologically diverse birdlife. The principal vegetation type in Bharatpur sanctuary is tropical dry deciduous forest intermixed with dry grassland. Kadam (mitragyna parvifolia), jamun (syzygium cuminii) and babool (acacia nilotica) dominate the northeastern area of the park. Apart from the artificially managed marshes, much of the area is covered by medium sized trees and shrubs. The aquatic vegetation is rich in species and a valuable source of food for waterfowl.

Fact sheet:

State : Rajasthan
Area : 29 sq. km
Altitude : 174 m above mean sea level
Vegetation : Semi arid and marshes
Water resources : Canals, sluices and dykes
Winter : November to mid-February
Summer : April to June
Monsoon : July to September
Rainfall : 662 mm
Temperature : Min 5°C - Max 47 0°C

Hemis National Park

2011-03-21T23:52:00.001-07:00

Hemis High Altitude National Park (3350 sq km) is situated in the northernmost district of Ladakh and lies on the west bank of the Indus. Constituted in 1981 as the best potential area for the protection of Snow Leopards in India, Hemis is the country's first national park to be established north of the main Himalayan Range. The high altitude park derives its name from the Hemis Gompa, a famous Buddhist monastery situated 40 km south east of Leh.

You drive to Zingchen from where you start your exploration on foot. Rumbak Valley, considered one of the finest habitats for the Snow Leopard, is about a 2 hr walk. The rocky terrain of this high altitude desert comprises of rugged valleys, often littered with stones and surrounded by peaks exceeding 5000m. The climate is one of extremes, with considerable daily and seasonal fluctuations. Snowfall can occur at any time of the year. During winter the Zanskar river and its tributaries remain frozen, with much of its catchment within Hemis.

73 bird species and 16 mammalian species have been recorded inside the park, which includes several Tibetan fauna. Another highlight of Hemis are its fascinating inhabitants, who are mostly Buddhists. Numbering roughly 1600, they still live within the park's boundaries, growing barley and seasonal vegetables and tending to over 4000 heads of livestock.

Fauna:

Though most famous for its Snow Leopard and Ibex population, other mammals found in Hemis include the wolf, Wild Dog, Bharal (Blue Sheep), Pallas's Cat, Tibetan argali, Himalayan marmots, Kiang (Tibetan Wild Ass), Lynx, Wooly Hare and Pika (Mouse Hare).

The avian species one may see include Tibetan and Himalayan Snowcock, Chukar partridge, Accentor Robin, Spotted Forktail, Brown and White-throated Dipper, Red-mantled, Great Nose and Streaked Rose-finch, Red-flanked Bluetail and raptors such as Golden Eagle, Lammergeier and Himalayan Griffon.

Flora:

The vegetation of Hemis is predominantly alpine and steppe with patchy forests and shrub species at the bottom of the valleys. The moist upper mountain slopes support limited areas of alpine vegetation. The remaining mountain slopes and open hillsides support primarily steppe vegetation. The valleys are typically representative of high altitude desert characterized by sparse grasslands and herbaceous vegetation on mountain slopes.

Fact sheet:

State : Ladakh in Jammu & Kashmir
Area : 3350 sq km
Altitude : 3500 to 6933 m above mean sea level
Vegetation : Alpine and steppe with mixed tree and shrubs at the bottom valleys
Water resources : Zanskar river, Markha, Rumbak and Sundha nalas.
Winter : October to April
Monsoon : Seasonal
Rainfall : 160.5 mm per year at Leh
Temperature : -20 to 30°C

Panna National Park

2011-03-21T23:51:00.000-07:00

Panna National Park is located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the best in the region. The river Ken passes through the park, adding to its scenic beauty.

You can see tigers, sloth bear, march crocodile, cinkara, sambhar and chital. Bird life in this park is extremely rich and varied.

You can view widllife in jeeps, boats or on foot. It is close to Khajuraho and forms an ideal halt for people going to Bandhavgarh and Kanha national parks.

General Information

Best time to visit :
November to April

Nearest Town :
November to April

How to get there :
Air :- Khajuraho ;
Rail :- Jhansi (175 km

Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary

2011-03-21T23:43:00.000-07:00

Sariska is located in the sharp cliffs of hills and narrow valleys of the Aravallis some 200 km from Delhi. The forests are dry and deciduous. Within the sanctuary there are the ruins of medieval buildings. There is a 17th century castle on a sharp hilltop at Kankwari, which provides a panoramic view of flying Egyptian vultures and eagles.

The sanctuary covers an area of 800 sq. km. It is a tiger reserve and you can see ungulates in large numbers and the birdlife is very good and varied.

General Information

Best time to visit :
October to June

Fauna :
Tiger, nilgai, wild-boar, fox, gaur, sambar, chital, hyena, four horned antelope, jungle cat

Accommodation :
Sariska Palace and Tiger Den

How to Getting There
Rail :- Alwar (37 km)
Road :- 200 km from Delhi and 107 km from Jaipur

B R Hills Wildlife Sanctuaries

2011-03-21T23:41:00.001-07:00

Also known as the Biligirirangana range of hills, this sanctuary is situated between the Cauvery and Tungabhadra rivers in Karnataka.

At a height of 5,091 feet above sea level, the range stretches from north to south for about 16 kms.

This place is ideal for people who are ardent wildlife and bird enthusiasts. You can combine a trip to B R Hills with your visits to Nagarhole, Bandipur and Mudumalai.

General Information

Best time to visit :
Throughout the year

Nearest Town :
Chamrajnagar (40 km)

How to Getting There
Road and Air :-- 160 km from Bangalore
Rail :-80 km from Mysore

Periyar National Park

2011-03-21T23:40:00.000-07:00

Nestled in the Cardamom Hill range to the south of the Western Ghats, Periyar is one of the most talked about wildlife sanctuaries in South India. This hilly tiger reserve embraces the Periyar river, which was dammed in 1895 by British Engineer Colonel J Pennyquick to supply water to Madurai and the adjoining forests were protected by the Maharaja of Travancore. The excess water flooded the area, forming a massive 26 sq km artificial lake. Dead tree stumps jutting out of the lake offer an excellent perch to Periyar's rich birdlife.

The Periyar Lake, located at the heart of the Periyar sanctuary, is the nucleus of the Tiger Reserve. Boat travel on the reservoir is the only means of transport and provides one of the most delightful methods of viewing elephants and the avi-fauna for which the park is known. Periyar is also home to many endangered animal species such as the Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Indian Spotted Chevrotain (the smallest of our deer), Malayan Giant Squirrel, Flying Squirrel, Slender Loris, unique flying snakes and lizards and the Dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog).

Lately, the Periyar park authorities have also initiated several community-based eco-tourism activities that include guided day treks, bamboo rafting and nature walks along the ranges and the Periyar Tiger Trail, with night camping inside the park. These walks are very rewarding for birdwatchers and are a good way to see the 160 species of butterflies identified at Periyar, of which 19 are endemics of the Western Ghats. A good time to visit is between October and April, especially the latter two months, when water levels are low and animals tend to spend more time near the lake. The grass too is short during this time, resulting in greater visibility.

Fauna:

Periyar harbours predators like the Tiger, Leopard, Jungle Cat and scavengers like the Striped Hyena. Otters, birds, fish and snakes inhabit the aquatic lake-shore belt, while Bonnet Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Gaur, Tahr, Mouse Deer, Sambar and Barking Deer can be found in the adjoining forests. The water edge is also dominated by groups of Wild Boar wallowing in the mud and herds of Asiatic Elephant.

Over 320 species of birds have been recorded in Periyar which include rare ones like White-rumped Munia, Blyth's Pipit, Blue-eared Kingfisher, Pompadour Green Pigeon, Greater Painted Snipe, Black and Orange Flycatcher, Long-billed Leaf Warbler, winter visitors like the Cinnamon Bittern and the Sri Lanka Frogmouth, a nocturnal bird usually found in the moist forests of Periyar. Birds of prey like the White-bellied Sea Eagle are a common sight around the lake.

Flora:

The typical habitat of Periyar is rolling and steep hills covered by tropical evergreen and semi evergreen forest on upper region and moist deciduous forest and marshy grasslands in the central part.

Fact sheet:

State: Kerala
Area: 777 sq. km (Combining Core and buffer forest)
Altitude: 100 to 2016 m above mean sea level
Vegetation: Moist deciduous
Water resources: Periyar and Mullayar rivers and Periyar Lake
Winter: December to January
Summer: April to May
Monsoon: End May to September
Rainfall: 2500 mm
Temperature: Min 15°C - Max 31°C

Corbett National Park

2011-03-21T23:38:00.001-07:00

Corbett National Park established in 1936 and renamed in 1957 after the legendary hunter-turned-naturalist Jim Corbett, Corbett has the glory of being India's first National Park. Corbett is situated in the central foothills of the Himalayas, between the Himalayan and Sivalik ranges, which accounts for its rich bio-diversity. On account of its high density of tigers, elephants and a spectacular array of birds, Corbett is aptly described as the land of 'Roar, Trumpet and Song'. It also happens to be the northernmost extend of the Asian Elephant.

Corbett's lifeline is the Ramganga river, which meanders through dense forests before it drains into a large reservoir surrounded by grasslands that stretch for miles. This zone, known as Dhikala, lies at the very heart of the park and offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing. The ridge to the north marks the boundary of the park at Kanda, the highest point in the reserve, with panoramic views of Corbett. The quaint, century old Malani Forest Bungalow, located on the southern ridge, is closest to the core area of the jungle in the Bijrani zone.

A virtual haven for birdwatchers, Corbett and its adjoining areas host as many as 650 species of resident and migratory birds. On its steep slopes you'll find elusive goat antelopes like Goral and the Serow, while the Ramganga river is home to the endemic Gharial (fish eating crocodile), Muggers (Marsh Crocodiles) and otters. Staying in old colonial rest houses scattered across the Corbett national park, coupled with wildlife sightings from elephant back and open 4X4s, make Corbett an unforgettable experience.

Fauna:

Herbivores found in Corbett include the Hog Deer, Muntjac, Spotted Deer and Sambar. Other important mammals are Indian Pangolin, Leopard Cat, Sloth Bear and the Himalayan Black Bear. The Ramganga river is also home to various species of Turtles, the endemic Golden Mahseer and Goonch, a giant catfish that can grow to a length of over 6 ft and can run up to 250 lbs.

Corbett's rich bird life includes species like Red Billed Leiothrix, Great Hornbill, Goldcrest, Mustached Warbler, Bright-headed Cisticola, Green-backed Tit, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, Slaty-backed Forktail, White-tailed Rubythroat, Ultramarine Flycatcher and the Dark-sided Thrush. An astonishing count of over 50 birds of prey include the Mountain Hawk Eagle, Collared Falconet, Pied Harrier, Merlin and Pallas' Fish Eagle to name a few. Dhikala is a good place to look out for vultures like the Long-billed, White-backed, Cinerous and the Red-headed Vulture. Lammergeiers can occasionally be found soaring above the park. The Tawny Fish Owl, Mountain Hawk Owl, Brown Fish Owl and Grass Owl are some of the 20 species of owls found here.

Flora:

Corbett offers both Himalayan and peninsular flora and fauna and the forest is dominated by tropical broad-leafed Sal, interspersed with massive savanna grassland in the river valleys.

Fact sheet:

State : Uttaranchal
Area : 1380 sq. km (Combining Core and buffer forest)
Altitude : 400 to 1210 m above mean sea level
Vegetation : Moist deciduous, Tropical dry deciduous, Subtropical Conifers
Water resources : Ramganga, Mandal, Plain, Sona Nadi, lakes and small rain fed streams
Winter : November to February
Summer : March to June
Monsoon : June to October
Rainfall : 1400 - 2800 mm
Temperature : Min 0°C - Max 42°C

Ranthambhore National Park

2011-03-21T23:34:00.000-07:00

Ranthambhore National Park, set against the backdrop of the historic 1000-year-old Ranthambhore Fort, lies in the area where the ancient ranges of the Vindhyas' flat-topped hills merge with the sharp ridges of the Aravallis. The forests around the historic fort were once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Jaipur. It was this desire to preserve wild game for sport that gave the area some protection and by 1972 Ranthambhore was one of the nine core zones under Project Tiger.

Ranthambhore uniqueness lies in its man-made lakes and ancient reservoirs, which have merged into the natural system as vital sources of water. Tigers often chase their prey into the lakes in broad daylight and have been often known to take on crocodiles. It is such intrepidness, which some ascribe to their martial Rajput environment, that makes Ranthambhore a good place to photograph tigers. The scenic Padam Talao, Malik Talao and Raj Bagh, with the spectacular fort in the background, are images that get permanently etched onto your mind.

The tracks follow the general lay of the land taking you through the largest expanse of dry deciduous forest in the world. At Ranthambhore, park safari affords a glimpse of the ruins of mosques, tombs, watchtowers and palaces scattered within the park. Ranthambhore also has a large population of panthers, the second largest predators of the forest. Marsh Crocodiles abound in the lakes and the Gangetic Dolphin and Gharial can sometimes be spotted in the Chambal River, which forms a natural boundary for the park towards the east.

Fauna:

One of the finest places to observe tigers in the wild, Ranthambhore also has a host of other predators such as the Caracal, Leopard, Sloth Bear and Jungle Cat. The prey species include Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara and the Wild Boar. The protected Blackbuck can be seen in fields close to the reserve. Scavengers like Striped Hyena, Jackal, Mongoose and the Common Fox are also seen here. The Common Langur surely lives up to its name.

Of the 330 species of birds reported at Ranthambhore, the prominent ones are Variable Wheatear, Tickell's Blue Flycatcher, Rufus-tailed Shrike, Sirkeer Malkhoa, Painted Spurfowl, Blue-breasted Quail and Rain Quail. Raptors include Lesser Spotted Eagle, Bonelli's Eagle, Changeable Hawk Eagle and owls such as the Brown Fish Owl and Collared Scops Owl. In the areas adjoining the park, one can spot the Greater Flamingo, Demoiselle Crane, Kentish Plover, Yellow Wattled Lapwing, Brown-headed Gull, Ruff and the Indian Courser.

Flora:

The vegetation is typically dry deciduous forest and moderate to scanty undergrowth in flat valleys. Ranthambhore has a rich faunal assemblage and the sparse vegetation allows opportunities for good game viewing.

Fact sheet:

State: Rajasthan
Area: 1334 sq. km (Combining Core and buffer forest)
Altitude: 215 to 505 m above mean sea level
Vegetation: Dry deciduous forest
Water resources: Chambal river, Lakes and Reservoirs
Winter: November to February
Summer: March to June
Monsoon: July to September
Rainfall: 800 mm
Temperature: Min 2°C - Max 45°C

Mudumalai National Park

2011-03-21T23:30:00.000-07:00

Nestled on the northeastern slopes of the Nilgiris, Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary has the distinction of being the first wildlife sanctuary to be created in South India in 1940. This gently undulating hilly terrain of the Western Ghats lies on Tamil Nadu's interstate boundaries with Karnataka and Kerala. Strategically located near Bandipur National Park, Waynad Sanctuary and the Sigur and Singara reserve forests, it also comes under the proposed Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Moyar River, the most importance source of water in the sanctuary, separates Mudumalai from adjoining Bandipur, with similar flora and fauna. Since most other streams dry up in early June, you have a good chance of sighting wildlife in the dry season around the Moyar. You can see giant squirrels with ease. Known for its endemic bird species like Malabar Trogon, Malabar Grey Hornbill and Malabar Great Black Woodpecker, Mudumalai is a birdwatcher's delight. The park forms part of an important corridor for migratory elephants who move in large herds through Nagarahole, Bandipur and Mudumalai to the forest regions of Kerala. You can interact closely with the mahouts and their tame giants at the Elephant Training Camp at Theppakadu, which has the distinction of the highest number of elephant births in captivity.

Fauna:

Primary among Mudumalai's predators are Tiger and Dhole, the Asiatic Wild Dog, who hunt in packs. The leopard is usually seen in the Kargudi area. Other mammals include Striped Hyena, Jackal and the omnivorous Sloth Bear. Asian Elephant, Gaur, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Indian Muntjac, Mouse Deer and Wild Boar can also be seen moving through the forest. Primates like Bonnet Macaque and Langur and rodents like the Giant Squirrel and Flying Squirrel dominate the trees. Among the reptiles, the Monitor Lizard is the most regularly observed species. The adjacent Annamalai Sanctuary has two exclusive species not found in Mudumalai - the Nilgiri Langur and Lion-tailed Macaque. Bird life is rich. In the cool, dense forests, you'll find regional endemics like Malabar Trogon, Malabar Grey Hornbill and the White-bellied Woodpecker, with its striking red crest. Other birds found here are Yellow-billed Babbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Pacific Swallow, Orphean Warbler, Temminck's Stint, White-rumped Needletail and Grass Owl. The Scops Owl is more heard than seen, while the predatory birds include Crested Hawk Eagle and Crested Serpent Eagle.

Flora:

The forest can be broadly classified into three main types: Tropical Moist Deciduous, Tropical Dry Deciduous and Southern Tropical Thorn forest or scrub jungle.

Fact sheet:

State : Tamil Nadu
Area : 321 sq. km (Combining Core and buffer forest)
Altitude : 350 to 1266 m above mean sea level
Vegetation : Tropical Moist Deciduous and Tropical Dry Deciduous
Water resources : Moyar, Biden Halla that flows into it and Benne Hole, draining the western part of the sanctuary
Winter : December to January
Summer : April to June
Monsoon : June to September
Rainfall : 1420 mm
Temperature : Min 15°C - Max 30°C

Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary

2011-03-21T23:28:00.000-07:00

Located on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River in the far North East of India, Assam, Kaziranga National Park covers an area of approximately 430-sq-kms with its swamps and tall thickets of elephant grass making it the ideal habitat for the Indian One-Horned Rhino. Due to limitless poaching of this prehistoric survivor, the Kaziranga National Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1940.

Attractions of Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary

Beside ofcourse the great one horned Indian Rhino, the other major wild attractions include a large population of Indian Elephants, Indian Bison, Swamp Deer or Barasingha, Hog Deer, Sloth Bears, Tigers, Leopard Cats, Jungle Cats, Otters, Hog Badgers, Capped Langurs, Hoolock Gibbons, Wild Boar, Jackal, Wild Buffalo, Pythons, Monitor Lizards, etc.

Kaziranga National Park is a birding paradise; the grasslands are a raptor country that can be seen on safari makes a remarkable experience. These include the Oriental Honey Buzzard, Black-Shouldered Kite, Black Kite, Brahminy Kite, Pallas's Fishing Eagle, White Tailed Eagle, Grey-Headed Fishing Eagle, Himalayan Griffon, etc. Huge numbers of migratory birds descend on the parks lakes and marshy areas during winters, including Greylag Geese, Bar-Headed Geese, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwall, Falcated Duck, Red-Crested Pochard and Northern Shoveller.

Other Attractions In Kaziranga

Elephant Safari : The vast open country makes Kaziranga National Park very accessible and wildlife viewing fairly pleasurable. Here one can leave in the early hours of the dawn for an elephant-back-ride. Authorized and trained Mahouts who guide visitors through the park train the Elephants. One could see wild Elephant herds roaming around or Indian Rhinos browse past visitors unconcernedly. Since Kaziranga wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible, its provides a chance to see animals in the wild at such close quarters, thus making a trip to this National Park a very rewarding experience.

Sightseeing in Kaziranga : Tourists can stroll through the lush coffee and rubber plantations of the nearby Karbi Anglong. Or visit the Karbi villages, meet the Karbi people and observe their way of living. Yiu can also venture through the tea gardens that Assam is so famous for and watch how one gets one's daily cup of tea. Film shows on wildlife can be arranged at the various tourist lodges in Kaziranga, on request.
Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary

Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga's visiting season is from mid-November to early April months. During the monsoons, the Brahmaputra River bursts its banks, flooding the low-lying grasslands and causing animals to migrate from one area to another within the Kaziranga National Park.

How to Get there

Air : The nearest airport is situated at Guwahati, which is 217-km away from the park. The other airport is located at Jorhat, 97-km from Kaziranga.

Rail : The nearest railhead is Furkating, situated 75-km away from Kaziranga National Park.

Road : The main gate for Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary, at Kohora on the NH-37, consists of a handful of cafes and a small local market. ASTC and private buses stop here on their way to and from Guwahati, Tezpur and Upper Assam. Some private buses also retain a seat quota for Kaziranga passengers.

General Info / Tips

Reservation Authority :Joint Director of Tourism, Kaziranga, P.O Kaziranga National Park, District Jorhat, Assam - 785612

Note :Visiting Kaziranga independently can be expensive due to the two-tier price system, with different entry costs for Indian nationals and foreigners. There are separate charges for elephant safari and jeep rides from the lodges to the park entrance, as well as a system of variable camera fees.

Kanha National Park

2011-03-21T23:26:00.001-07:00

The Kanha National Park is located in the Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh that covers nearly 2,000 sq. km. of undulating country. Elevations range from 450 to 900 metres. The Surpan River meanders through Kanha's central maidans-grasslands.

These grasslands are interspersed with forests of sal, teeming with varieties of deer the barasingha, chital (spotted deer), chousingha, nilgai, the gaur (Indian bison) and wild pig, is 'tiger country'.

Kanha is the home to 'hard ground' barasingha (cervus duvauceli branderi) the only surviving population of this Central Indian sub-species. The animals at Kanha are best observed from elephant back & jeeps. Deer are seen along the maidans and gaur at Bamhnidadar or in the Bishanpura-Sondhar-Ghorella area of the Mukki range. This area is also ideal for spotting the dhole or wild dog. Langurs, wild boar, water fowl and birds are also commonly seen.
deer in kanha national park
General Information

Best time to visit :
October to June

Nearest town :
Mandla (65 km)

How to get there :
Rail :- Jabalpur (220 km), Nagpur (270 km);

Gir National Park

2011-03-21T23:25:00.000-07:00

Located in the south-west fringes of the Saurashtra Peninsula, The Gir National Park is a haven to about 300 Asiatic Lions which is their last surviving population.This area flanked with three unique and unusual reserves, the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary; the Rann of Kutch and the Flamingo Islands which is home to the flamingo, make it a very interesting tourist spot.

The 1412.13 sq km park has a rugged terrain and the steep rocky hillsides are covered with mixed deciduous forests. Apart from the lion other prominent fauna of the area includes leopards, wild ass, numerous chital, nilgai, chinkara, four horned antelope, wild boar, numerous birds like paradise flycatcher, Bonneli's eagle, crested serpent eagle, woodpeckers flamingo etc.

General Information

Best time to visit :
November - mid June

Nearest town :
Junagadh (42 km)

How to get there :
Rail :- Train to Sasan Gir (1 km); Air :-airport - Keshod (150 km)

For Futher Information Log On To www.girnationalpark.com

Eravikulam National Park

2011-03-21T23:23:00.000-07:00

In the forested high ranges of the south Indian state of Kerala is a valley watered by three rivers. The mountains that hunch out of the valley are covered in manicured slopes of tea.

This is the Eravikulam National Park, known for the Nilgiri Tahr, a goat in dire need of the dedicated protection given by the State Forest Department and the company which owns the tea estates in Munnar.

This is a good stop-over for wildlifers entering Kerala from Ooty and going toward the Periyar National Park.

General Information

Access:
Munnar is reached from the airport, railhead and seaport of Cochin.

Accommodation:
Club Mahindra Resort. The Munnar Club also has some rooms.

Nearest Airport :
Cochin - 130 km.

Desert National Park

2011-03-21T23:22:00.000-07:00

The Desert National Park is situated in the west Indian state of Rajasthan near Jaisalmer. This is one of the largest national parks, covering an area of 3100 sq. km. The desert sanctuary being a fragile ecosystem has its own flora and fauna.

Birdlife in this sandy habitat is vivid & spectacular. The great Indian bustard is another magnificent bird found in relatively fair numbers. It migrates locally in different seasons. The region is a haven for migratory and resident birds of the desert. One can see many eagles, harriers, falcons, buzzards, kestrel and vultures. Short- toed eagles, tawny eagles, spotted eagles, lagger falcons and kestrels are the commonest of these. Sandgrouse are spotted near small ponds or lakes. Sea shells and massive fossilized tree trunks in this park record the geological history of the desert.

This is a good option for people covering the Bikaner-Jodhpur-Jaisalmer sector.

General Information

Best time of visit:
Eagle in Desert National ParkNovember to March

Accommodation:
Mama Guest House at Khuri, Narain Nivas Palace in Jaisalmer

Nearest Town :
Jaisalmer (40 km)

How to get there :
Rail :-Jaislamer;
Air :-Jodhpur and Jaisalmer;
Road :-Jodhpur (8 hours);

Corbett National Park

2011-03-21T23:20:00.000-07:00

Nestling in the foothils of the Himalayas, the tiger reserve extends over an area of 1200 sq. km. The Ramganga River flows through the park and little forest streams tumble through the ravines. While dense stands of sal cloak the higher ridges, mixed deciduous forests are found throughout the park.

"Project Tiger" was launched here in 1973. In addition to tigers, leopards and elephants, four species of deer - hog deer, sambar, chital and barking deer - are found here. Besides these, Corbett is a haven for 50 mammals, 580 kinds of birds and 25 reptile species. Basking along the banks of the Ramganga are the fish-eating gharial and the mugger or marsh crocodile. The river is rich in the golden mahaseer - although angling is not permitted inside the National Park.

General Information

Best time of visit:
Bengal TigerNovember - June

Accommodation:
Dhikala Rest House and Tiger Camp

Nearest Town :
Ramnagar

How to get there :
Rail :-Delhi to Ramnagar;
Air :-Delhi (7 hours drive);

Bandhavgarh National Park

2011-03-21T23:19:00.000-07:00

Bandhavgarh used to be the hunting reserve of the royal family of Rewa, though its history goes back two millennia. In caves you can still see paintings by the ancients. It is a retreat where history and nature meet.

Covering about 450 sq km, about half the park comprises sal forests, while mixed forests are found in the higher reaches of the hills. Stretches of bamboo and grasslands extend to the north. The main viewing area is still in the core of the Park with its 32 picturesque, wooded hills. An ancient fort up on a precipice, 800 metres high, dominates the Park.

This is where the famous white tigers of Rewa were discovered. Also to be seen here are nilgai, chousingha, chital, chinkara, wild boar, foxes, jackals, the jungle cat, ratel, hyena, porcupine, the rhesus macaque and the black-faced langur. About 150 species of birds are also found here and include the migratory birds that arrive in winter like the steppe eagle and various water-birds.

General Information

Best time of visit:
November-June (Park closes in July for the monsoons)

Nearest Town :
Umaria (30 km)

How to get there :
Rail-Umaria (30 km); Air-Khajuraho (210 km),

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary , Goa

2011-03-01T01:06:00.000-08:00

Location Canacona taluka in South Goa district
Best Time to Visit October to March
Main Attractions 25 m high treetop watchtower, Nature Interpretation Center, luxuriant vegetation

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary GoaLocated on the Goa - Karnataka border, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is the second biggest wildlife reserve in Goa. The Cotigao Sanctuary, a designated reserve since 1969, sprawls over an area of 86 sq. km. The Talpona river meanders through the thick vegetation and serves as the perennial water source for the sanctuary.

The Forest Department has set up a Nature Interpretation Center in the sanctuary to impart knowledge to tourists regarding wildlife. Avid nature buffs can climb up a 25-meter high treetop watchtower for a view of the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Flora at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary stands out for its wealth of verdant forests and luxuriant green canopy. The vegetation in the sanctuary is mostly moist-deciduous type, with sporadic patches of semi-evergreen and evergreen forests.

Fauna at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

If you are in search of a sanctuary teeming with a plethora of wildlife species, Cotigao will disappoint you. The sparse animal population consists of Gazelles, Sloth Bears, Porcupines, Panthers, Hyenas, Wild Boars and Indian Bisons. The common winged visitors include rufous woodpeckers, white-eyed eagles and the Malabar crested eagle.

How to Reach Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Air
The nearest airport is Dabolim (80km).

Rail
The nearest railhead is at Canacona (12 km).

Road
Poinguinim, 2 km away, is the nearest town. Poinguinim is 10 km away from Chaudi, the main town of Cancacona on NH17.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary,Goa

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Location: Sanguem district, South Goa
Highlights: Dudhsagar Falls, Devil's Canyon, exotic wild animals
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach: One can hire a private vehicle or a bus from the Sanguem district in South Goa. It is located on the eastern border of Goa and can be reached from Panaji (53 kilometers) and Margao (54 kilometers).

The Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife sanctuary is the largest wildlife sanctuary out of the four sanctuaries located in Goa. Spread over an area of 240 square kilometers, the Bhagvan Mahaveer sanctuary is located amongst the thick forest cover on the slopes of the Western Ghats. The lush green forest cover is home to a variety of animals and birds. The Bhagwan Mahavir sanctuary also has interesting geographical formations like the Devil's Canyon and the Dudhsagar Waterfalls. The Devil's Canyon also makes an ideal watch tower from where one can view the wildlife here. The core of this wildlife sanctuary consists of the Mollem national park. It is recommended that you stay here for a couple of days to view the wildlife in a sanctuary as big as this one. Accommodation facilities are provided by the Directorate of Tourism.

Flora

The location of the sanctuary on the slopes of the Western Ghats has enabled a luxuriant growth of vegetation and varied flora over here. The vegetation consists of a mix of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen and moist deciduous forests. One can find plant species like Lagerstroemia, Xylia and Dalbergia in Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife sanctuary. The thick vegetation forms a canopy over the sanctuary due to which sunlight is hardly able to reach the floor of the forest. Thus, the growth of grass is sparse but one can find bushes and shrubs here.

Fauna

The wildlife in this sanctuary is varied and one can find big, small, herbivores and carnivores co-existing in natural environment. The species of animals here include the Indian Bison known as Gaur, Sambhar Deer, Leopards, Spotted Deer, Slender Toris, Jungle Cats, Malayan Giant Squirrels, Pythons and Cobras. This sanctuary is particularly noted for leopards and its numerous reptile species. One can find many species of poisonous and non-poisonous snakes here. Among the birds one can find species like Black Woodpecker, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Paradise Fly Catcher, Drongo, Wag tails, Barbets, Great Indian Horn Bill, Kingfishers, Shrikes, Emerald Dove, Grey Jungle Fowl, etc.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

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Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is situated 52 km from Panaji in the foothills of the Western Ghats in Goa. Eight square km in size, Bondla is "rather small" even by official accounts. It includes a Mini Zoo, Deer Safari Park, Formal Gardens, Botanic Gardens and a few Ecotourism Cottages.

Get in

By road: Bondla is off National Highway 4A that connects Belgaum with Panjim. Branch off at Mollem.

Route: Mollem-Satpal Sancorda-Shivddem-Bondla. (20 kms). Branch off at Tiska Route: Tiska - Usgaon - Ganhem - Bondla (14 kms).

Route: Margao-Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla (36 kms) Panjim-Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla (52 kms).

By Rail: Collem (on the Mormugao-Hubli line). Route: Collem-Mollem-Sancorda-Shivddem-Bondla: 28 kms.

Carambolim (Karmali Railway Station, on Konkan Railway) Route: Carambolim-Old Goa-Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla: 40 kms.

By plane: Dabolim-Ponda-Usgao-Ganjem-Bondla (70 kms)

Get around

The Forest Department has announced that it is contemplating to run a bus service from TISKA to BONDLA everyday, except Thursday. Dep. Tiska 11.00 hrs and 19.30 hrs Dep. Bondla 07.30 hrs and 17.45 hrs. Many currently travel via their own transport. Hired taxi is a "little bit costly" as the Forest Department cautions.

There are botanical gardens, a zoo and a deer park. The gardens are very pleasant, while there has been some criticism of the state in which the animals are maintained. There are elephant rides offered in the afternoons, around 4PM.

Late evenings and nights out there can be interesting. It has moist deciduous forests, small patches of evergreens, and Goa's state tree Terminalia Crenulata (Matti) and Rosewood are common here.

To see Goa's state animal, the gaur, you need to go here too. You could run into panther, jungle cat, leopard cat, toddy cat, deer, wild boars, porcupines, ant eaters, or squirrels are some of the other animals here. Over a hundred species of birds are believed to be here, and Goa's growing romance with British birdwatchers is building awareness in this area.

* Zoological Park - A tiny zoo in moated enclosures with natural surroundings. A few elephant, panther, lion, gaur, sambar, deers, sloth bear, porcupine, wild boar, crocodiles, and reptiles.

* Deer Safari Park - Visitors can move among deers in vehicles inside the Deer Safari Park housing sambar and spotted deers.

* Formal Gardens - Lawns, exotic trees, varieties of roses, and colourful flowering plants in the middle of the forest.

* Botanical Gardens - Collection of plants.

* Nature Education Centre - Exhibits to see, feel and interpret. An attached library, with video movies screened on request.

* Birdwatch - Bondla is home to over a hundred bird species. For details on bird-watching areas contact the Park Range Office.

* See wild animals You need to scan from watch towers, to spy gaur, sambar, and wild boar at water-holes. You need luck too.

* Nature trails - For the more energetic.

* Archaeological exhibit - Deity Gajalaxmi with several motifs in bold relief, from the sixth to eighth century venerated by ancient settlers are located here.

Please note that the zoo, deer safari, and garden are closed on Thursdays.

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa

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Location: Chorao Island on the Mandovi River, Goa
Highlights: 400 species of birds, local and migratory
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach: From Panaji, one can take a cab, auto or bus till the Ribandar ferry dock and take a ferry across the Mandovi River to the island.

Dr. Salim Ali Bird sanctuary is one of the most famous bird sanctuaries in India. It has been named after the famous ornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali. This bird sanctuary is one of the smallest bird sanctuaries in Goa and is spread over an area of just 1.8 square kilometers. Even though it is small, it has a variety of species of birds and plants. Numerous tourists visit this sanctuary to observe the delightful winged creatures. Dr. Salim Ali bird sanctuary houses not just local but exotic migratory birds as well. In order to visit this sanctuary, one must seek the permission of Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department of Panaji.

Flora

The sanctuary is rich in flora growth and one can see a thick covering of mangrove vegetation here. The flora cover is very fertile over here the mangrove ecology is considered to be the best for birds, fish and insects to multiply. They provide thick shelter for the birds and are their natural abodes.

Fauna

Here one can find local as well as migratory birds. The best time to see the migratory birds is right after the monsoons around the month of October to March. The weather is quite pleasant then and the birds come here in plenty. One can find kingfishers, pintails, coots, egrets, etc. among the birds. If you are observant you may also spot crocodiles, jackals and foxes.

Wildlife in Goa

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Goa, a land of surprises does not disappoints anyone. Blessed by mother nature, its rich flora and fauna is a major tourist attraction. A break from the beaches and parties in the sanctuaries amidst the flora and fauna is a pleasant change. The beautiful jungles are well preserved by the environment concerned people and government. A trip along the western ghats will lay bare in front of you the secrets that Goa preserves within its thick green carpet.

Twenty percent of Goa is covered by wildlife protected areas, digging a little deep into the jungles or by estuaries will only reveal more . Not to forget the birds, Goa is a favourite of the a wide species of birds and many avid bird watchers throng the river sides and jungles to catch glimpses.

So So it's not just the 'wild' parties but a rich wildlife that waits you in Goa. Whenever you feel like coming close to nature, just visit one of the wildlife sanctuaries. But if you are seriously interested in wildlife and it is not just a change you are seeking from the beaches, then patience is the key word for you. Take an accommodation in or around a sanctuary in nature's bounty and feel the communion with the nature.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Distance :52km from Panaji, 38km from Margao

Salim Ali Bird SanctuaryAway from the coast, the Goan landscape breaks into the dramatic and green foothills of the Western Ghats. These foothills shelter the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary; the smallest wildlife reserve in Goa, which occupies an area of 80sq. km. The sanctuary has the sambar, gaur (Indian bison) and wild boar, amongst others animals. Elephants have been spotted here at times. Perhaps they come in from across Karnataka to enjoy the sea breeze and check out Goa. The sanctuary houses a botanical garden, a rose garden, a small deer-park and a zoo, which was initially established to shelter orphaned animals.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

At the confluence of the Mandovi and Mapusa Rivers lies the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, spread across an area of 2sq. km. in the Charoa Island. The wildlife sanctuary supports rich mangrove forests, which are home to a host of birds, a sizeable population of flying foxes, jackals, crocodiles, turtles and some other life forms endemic to coastal wildlife.

The Mandovi-Zuari Wildlife Sanctuary

has a stretch of rich mangrove swamps, considered to be amongst the most important in the country. Spread over a vast area, this wildlife sanctuary is home to about 20 different species of mangroves that include the rare Kandelia candel species. The swamps support a large variety of fish, birds, jackals, snakes, and crocodiles, to name a few.

Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuaries

Distance : 60km from Panaji

Getting to the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is a little tedious; but if you are in the mood to be in the middle of woods and discover the quieter side of Goa, the journey is well worth the trouble. Catigao is Goa’s second largest wildlife reserve. The 105sq. km. of forested land provides shelter to a number of birds and animals. If you go with the intention of seeing some of India’s legendary fauna here, then you could be in for a disappointment, as spotting the more famous wild animals is not extremely common. But the expansive forestland is a welcome change.

Bhagvan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary: The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Goan town of Mollem

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Goa

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Along the north from Panaji on the road to Belgaum, is a sanctuary that covers 240-sq-kms. Thick forest clad the slopes of the Western Ghats that is rich in wildlife and a paradise for bird watchers. Police Outpost at the gateway of the sanctuary in calm and quiet surroundings is like a painting on a canvas in Malem.

There are important geographical and historical features in this sanctuary. Jeeps on private arrangements go to the interior of the forest. Mahabir is particularly known for its Leopards, Elephants, Deers & Gaur Or Indian Bison.

It is more convienient to view wild animals from the Devil's Canion View Point. Bird lovers may also find their best time over here. The famous temple of Tambdisurla of the Kadambas is situated 13-km from here. In Mangalore To Margao journey on Konkan Railway one can enjoy Malem with Dudhsagar through the windows.

How To Get There

By Road
From Kadamba Bus stand across the Patto / Qurrent creek 7-8 minutes walk at the entrance of the city on the bank of Mandvi River, from where regular buses ply to the sanctuary.

Places To Stay

Molem has comfortable cottages and dormitories built by the Directorate of Tourism for accommodation

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary , Kerala

2011-02-28T02:05:00.000-08:00

The Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is a reservoir of tranquil greenery ensconced in a valley between the Annamalai ranges of Tamil Nadu and the Nelliampathy ranges of Kerala. The areas hilly and rocky, drained by several rivers, including the Parambikulam, the Sholayar and the Thekkedy.

Thickly forested with stands of bamboo, sandalwood, rosewood and teak, the sanctuary has some marshy land and scattered patches of grassland.

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary,Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary Tamil Nadu,Parambikulam Sanctuary Tour Parambikulam was once home to some of south India's finest stands of teak. Little remains of the original teak forests, other than the famous Kannimari teak tree, the largest in Asia as most of these have now been replaced by teak plantations. The tree is about 5 km from Thunakadavu, and is one of Parambikulam's prime attractions.

There are two watchtowers one at Anappadi, 8km from Thunakadavu, and other at Zungam, 5km from Thunakadavu.

Parambikulam has one of the largest population of gaur (bison). It is also a home to elephants, sloth bears, wild boars, sambhars, chital tigers, panthers and crocodiles. There are also bonnet macaques, spectacled cobras, kraits, vipers, turtles, darters, little cormorants and black eagles.

Parambikulam is open throughout the year, but is best avoided during the monsoon. Between June and August, the monsoon rains lash, making hillsides unstable and causing slush, mosquitoes, drippy roofs and other nuisances. Boat cruises can be arranged in the Parambikulam Reservoir. The rest house of the state forest department at Thoonakkadavu, Thellikkal and Elathode offer comfortable lodging facilities. A tree - house in the reserved forest area in Thoonakkadavu has to be booked in advance.

Fauna

The sanctuary has a rich diversity of animal life including: Mammals 39 species, Amphibians 16 sp., Birds 268 sp., Reptiles 61 sp., Fish 47 sp., Insects 1049 sp. and Butterflies 124 sp.

* Mammals- Important mammals include: Lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Tahr, elephants, Bengal tigers, panthers, Wild boar, Sambar, Bonnet Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Sloth Bears, Nilgiri Marten Small Travancore Flying Squirrel and Gaur.

* Reptiles- Reptiles of very high importance in Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary include: King cobra, Kerala sheildtail, Travancore kukri snake, Travancore wolf snake, Cochin cane turtle, Travancore tortoise, Indian day gecko and Western Ghats flying lizard. Others Important Reptiles are Indian rock python, Malabar pit viper, Travancore tortoise, South Indian forest ground gecko, South Indian rock lizard, Mountain skink, Mugger Crocodile, Varanus, Pond terapin, Chameleon and the snakes Spectacled Cobra, Krait, Green keelback, Olivaceous keelback, Western Rat snake and Vine snake. See Checklist Of Reptile Species

* Fish- 47 species of fish are recorded in the Sanctuary of which seven species are listed as endangered and 17 are endemic to Western Ghats. Some fishes include: Aral, bral, vattudi, tilapia, noori, mooshu, poochutti, kollotty, exyprius and taral. See full listing of Fish.

* Birds- 268 bird species have been recorded in the sanctuary. 134 species are listed as rare and 18 species are endemic to Western Ghats. Lesser adjutant stork, Grey-headed Fish-eagle Peninsular bay owl, Broad-billed roller and Great pied hornbill. Other birds include: Darter, Little Cormorant, Black eagle, Black-capped kingfisher, Great Indian hornbill, and Black woodpecker.

* Butterflies- There are 124 species of butterflies recorded in the sanctuary of which 34 are rare and endemic.

* Amphibians- 23 amphibian species living in the sanctuary include: Ridged toad Bufo parietalis, Common Asiatic toad Bufo melanostictus, Large wrinkled frog Nyctibatrachus major, Small wrinkled frog Nyctibatrachus minor, Rana tigerina, Verrucose Frog Rana keralensis, Rana cyanophlyctis, Boulenger's Indian Frog Rana leptodactyla, Rana limnocharis, Beddome's Leaping Frog Rana beddomii, South Indian Frog Rana semipalmata, Bicoloureol frog Rana curtipes, Bronzed frog Rana temporalis, Reddish burrowing frog Tomopterna rufescens, Parambikulam Wart Frog Parambikulam frog Tomopterna parambikulamana, White-nosed bush frog Philautus leucorhinus, White-spotted bush frog Philautus chalazodes, Kerala warty frog Limnonectes keralensis, Indian skipper frog Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis, Cricket Frog Limnonectes limnocharis, Beddome’s leaping frog Indirana beddomii, Short webbed leaping frog Indirana brachytarsus and the Common frog Micrixalus fuscus. it is near kerala

Flora

The sanctuary has a variety of trees mainly teak, neem, sandalwood and rosewood. Even the oldest ever teak tree the KANNIMARA TEAK exists here. It is about 450 years old and has an unbelievable girth of 6.8 metres and a height of 49.5 metres. It won the Mahavriksha Puraskar given by the Indian Government.

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

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Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is one of the most prominent bird sanctuaries of Kerala. This well renowned bird sanctuary is situated in Ernakulum District. Established in the year 1983, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is considered as one of the most attractive bird sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary was set up by the ornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali and hence, is also known as the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. Dr. Ali described Thattekkad as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India, comparable only with the eastern Himalayas, during the 1930s. The one and only sanctuary of its kind in Kerala, this bird sanctuary provides with a feast to the eyes and music to the ears. Several kinds of birds usually found in South India are seen here. The architect of this sanctuary, Dr. Salim Ali is reported to have identified 167 birds. Spread over an extent of 25.16 sq kms, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary attracts nature lovers from far and wide.

As is common on the Western Ghats, the terrain is undulating and its elevation ranges between 35 metres and 523 metres. The tallest point is the Njayapilli peak (523 metres high). Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is located at 76 degree 40 minutes and 76 degree 45 minutes north latitude and 10 degree 7 minutes and 11 degree east longitude. It has an annual rainfall of about 2500 mm. The globally acclaimed Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary has a total area of 25 square kilometres and is located between the tributaries of the Periyar River. Flora of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary includes tropical evergreen forests, tropical semi-evergreen forests and tropical deciduous forests. Further, patches of grasslands can also be found. Tropical evergreen forests harbour Vellapine, Karanjili, Palley, Kunthirikam, Bhadraksham, Kanala, Kurangatti, etc. Tropical semi evergreen forests harbour Angili, Kambacom etc. Trees of commercial value like Teak, Rose wood, Venteak, Venga, Maruthi are also found here.

Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is home to a large number of almost 500 species of exotic birds and hence, is counted amongst the most famous landmarks in Kerala. The sanctuary also houses thick tropical deciduous and evergreen cover trees for providing a safe haven to all the winged creatures. Among all the bird species found in the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, some of the most notable ones include the Bee eaters, Falcon Grey, Jungle Fowl, Black Winged Kite, Shrike, Crimson-Throated Barbet, Ceylon Frogmoth, Sunbird, Night Heron, Blue Winged Parakeet, White-Breasted Water Hen, Rose-Billed Roller, Great Hornbill, etc. For this great collection, the sanctuary has earned reputation as a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Apart from the several species of birds, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary is also home to a number of animals and reptiles. There are at least 28 species of animals can be found in this sanctuary and the number of reptiles is also large. The most commonly found animals in this sanctuary include the Leopard, Sloth Bear and Porcupine and the animals like Elephants can also be found occasionally. The Indian Cobra and Pythons are the most common ones among all the reptiles found in this bird sanctuary. The Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary also offers the visitors a chance to know about a variety of plants. The vegetation in this sanctuary includes the common plants like Indian Teak tree, Mahogany and Rosewood and the trees make a wonderful lush green cover to blanket the sanctuary.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala

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Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is composed of the dense forests and the Peppara dam built on the Karamana River and was declared as a sanctuary in 1983 to increase the drinking water supply to Thiruvananthapuram and the adjoining suburbs. Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is merged partially with the Palode reserve (24sq.kms) and the Kottoor reserve (29sq.kms); all the three together forming the whole of the area covered by the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. The wildlife sanctuary covers an area of 53 sq.kms with the reservoir spread in an area of 5.82 sq.kms.Located about 50kms. North East of capital city Thiruvananthapuram in Nedumangad taluk of Thiruvananthapuram district, the topography of the wildlife sanctuary is quite hilly.

Peppara wildlife sanctuary is a 'gene pool' sanctuary, with a rich variety of flora and fauna over a rugged terrain with running rivulets, rolling hillocks and green meadows. A boat ride on the site is a fulfilling experience.The sub tropical and tropical evergreen forests are populated with a variety of wildlife. This sanctuary with its rich fauna and birds is emerging as a big attraction to wildlife enthusiasts.

The major wildlife species found in the wildlife sanctuary are: tiger, panther, wild dog, lion tailed macaque, elephant, gaur, sambhar, barking deer, mouse deer, wild boar, Nilgiri langur, Malabar squirrel etc. The bird species especially the water birds like darter, little cormorant, pied king fisher and egrets are most commonly seen in the sanctuary. Several species of snakes including the king cobra and python are dominantly present in this sanctuary. The Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is also famous for its wide variety of moth and butterflies. Apart from the wildlife, there are 13 tribal settlements in the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to Reach :

Air : The nearest airport is Thiruvananthapuram (32 Kms) from where frequent and regular buses are available for Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also board a flight to your desired destination after returning from the wildlife sanctuary.

Rail : The nearest railhead from the sanctuary is Thiruvananthapuram, which is well connected with Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi and even Kashmir. The buses are available for the sanctuary from Trivandrum. From Trivandrum you can also board a train to depart to your desired destination.

Road : Peppara wildlife sanctuary is easily and conveniently accessible from Vithurai on Thiruvananthapuram - Ponmudi road.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala

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The famous wildlife attractions in Idukki national park is colassal. From the main road, a smaller estate road leads you 5 km to the Rajamallay Checkpost, gateway to the Eravikulam National Park. After getting an entry ticket, one can walk along the road, keeping an eye open for the famous Tahr. The whole route is bedecked with wild flowers and green creepers, that provide a grand vista to the beholder. At one time, the tahr would be baited in the reserve with salt, but fortunately, they have now became so ubiquitous that their fearlessness has become a cause of concern for the forest department. The mere sight of terrestial orchids by the road and a couple of green imperial pigeon and emarald doves playing with them, is enough to transform a weary soul into an alcove of imagination. You might have to murmer "Paadasparsham kshsmaswa may" (forgive me for stepping on you) which is even better than to be attacked by blood-thirsty leeches that infest the dark and deep patches of the forest. Don't forget to visit the Interpretation Centre, which houses a small collection of wildlife exhibits, hundreds of photos and books of wild animals and plants. Take up Eravikulam National Park safari to see the most popular wildlife attractions of Kerala.

The Nilgiri Retreat

While on wildlife tours to Kerla, enjoy the popular Idukki wildlife sanctuary in Kerala India. Unfortunately, there are no dwelling facilities amid the greens at the Eravikulam-Rajamallay sanctuary. However visitors can find options to suit every budget at Munnar. One of the finest staying options is provided by Kerala Tourism at the Tea Country, located a kilometre from the city centre. It offers excellent four-star facilities including a health club and an ayurvedic massage centre. One can fly up to Kochi (155 km) and can get a taxi from the airport to reach Munnar. One can even drive Chinnar to Munnar (uphill) and enjoy the picturesque landscapes carpeted around. A motorable road is there up to Rajamallay, the park headquarter from where one needs to travel on foot for around 18 kms to reach the park gate. Rajamallay is at a distance of around 17 kms from Munnar town connected to many places in Kerala and Tamil Nadu by regular bus services. Otherwise, tourists can also ride a bus, which depart on every 15 mins from Thodupuzha's KSRTC bus stand. Do remember that picnicking is discouraged inside the reserve due to fear of pollution and consequent threat to wildlife. Littering, particularly of plastic articles, is strictly forbidden.

Wild Population of Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary has a large variety of flora and fauna. Among the mammals, Elephants, Bison, Sambhar, Deer, Wild Dogs, Jungle Cats, Tiger, Wild Boar etc reptiles such as Cobra, Viper, Krait and a large number of non- poisonous snakes can be seen.

Jungle Fowl, Myna, Laughing Thrush, Black Bulbul, Peafowl, Woodpecker, Kingfisher etc also inhabit the place in large numbers.

How to Get There

Air : Kochi is the nearest airport.

Best time to visit

The period from October to June is suitable for visiting the area

How to get there

Air : The nearest Airport is at Kozhikode, 113 kms.

Rail : Thalassery is the nearest Railway Station, 35 kms

Silent Valley National Park Kerala

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Silent Valley National Park Core zone: 236.74 square kilometres (91 sq mi)) is located in the Nilgiri Hills, Palakkad District in Kerala, South India. The area in this national park was historically explored in 1847 by the botanist Robert Wight,and is associated with Hindu legend.

The park is one of the last undisturbed tracts of South Western Ghats montane rain forests and tropical moist evergreen forest in India. Contiguous with the proposed Karimpuzha National Park (225 km²) to the north and Mukurthi National Park (78.46 km²) to the north-east, it is the core of the Nilgiri International Biosphere Reserve (1,455.4 km²), and is part of The Western Ghats World Heritage Site, Nilgiri Sub-Cluster (6,000+ km²) under consideration by UNESCO.

Plans for a hydroelectric project that threatened the parks high diversity of wildlife stimulated an environmentalist Social Movement in the 1970s called Save Silent Valley which resulted in cancellation of the project and creation of the park in 1980. The visitors' centre for the park is at Sairandhri.

History

The area is locally known as "Sairandhrivanam" literally, in Malayalam: Sairandhri's Forest. In local Hindu legend, Sairandhri is Draupadi, the polyandrous wife of the five Pandavas, who disguised herself as Sairandhri, queen Sudeshna's assistant, while they were in exile. The Pandavas, deprived of their kingdom, set out on a 13-year exile. They wandered south, into what is now Kerala, until one day they came upon a magical valley where rolling grasslands met wooded ravines, a deep green river bubbled its course through impenetrable forest, where at dawn and twilight the tiger and elephant would drink together at the water's edge, where all was harmonious and man unknown. Beside that river, in a cave on a hill slope, the Pandavas halted.

Geography

Silent Valley is rectangular, 7 km (east-west) X 12 km (north-south). Located between 11°03' to 11°13' N latitude and 76°21' to 76°35' E longitude it is separated from the eastern and northern high altitude plateaus of the (Nilgiris Mountains) by high continuous ridges including Sispara Peak (2,206 m) at the north end of the park. The park gradually slopes southward down to the Palakkad plains and to the west it is bounded by irregular ridges. The altitude of the park ranges from 658 m to 2328 m at Anginda Peak, but most of the park lies within the altitude range of 880 m to 1200 m. Soils are blackish and slightly acidic in evergreen forests where there is good accumulation of organic matter. The underlying rock in the area is granite with schists and gneiss, which give rise to the loamy laterite soils on slopes.

Rivers

The Kuntipuzha River drains the entire 15 km length of the park from north to south into the Bharathapuzha River. Kuntipuzha River divides the park into a narrow eastern sector of width 2 kilometers and a wide western sector of 5 kilometers. The river is characterized by its crystal clear and perennial nature. The main tributaries of the river, kunthancholapuzha, Karingathodu, Madrimaranthodu, Valiaparathodu and Kummaathanthodu originate on the upper slopes of the eastern side of the valley. The river is uniformly shallow, with no flood plains or meanders. Its bed falls from 1,861 m to 900 m over a distance of 12 km, the last 8 km being particularly level with a fall of only 60 m. Kuntipuzha is one of the less torrential rivers of the Western Ghats, with a pesticide-free catchment area.

Climate

Silent Valley gets copious amounts of rainfall during the monsoons, but the actual amount varies within the region due the varied topography. In general the rainfall is higher at higher altitude and decreases from the west to east due to the rain shadow effect. Eighty per cent of the rainfall occurs during the south-west monsoon between June and September. It also receives significant amount of rainfall during the north-east monsoon between October and November.

The park being completely enclosed within a ring of hills, has its own micro-climate and probably receives some convectional rainfall, in addition to rain from two monsoons. In the remaining months, condensation on vegetation of mist shrouding the valley is estimated to yield 15 per cent of the total water generated in the rainforest.

In 2006, the Walakkad area of the park received the highest ever annual rainfall of 9,569.6 mm. In 2000, the figure was 7,788 mm; in 2001, 8,351.9 mm; in 2004, 8465.3 mm; and in 2005, 9,347.8 mm. The annual rainfall received in the valley (at Sairandhri?) was 7,788.8 mm in 2000; 8,361.9 mm in 2001. In 2002, 4,262.5 mm; in 2003, 3,499.65 mm; in 2004, 6,521.27 mm, in 2005, 6,919.38 mm; in 2006, 6,845.05 mm; in 2007, 6,009.35 mm; and in 2008 it was 4386.5 mm. The figure till October 2009 was 5,477.4 mm. Average annual rainfall in the park between 2000 and 2008 was thus 6,066 mm.

The mean annual temperature is 20.2 °C. The hottest months are April and May when the mean temperature is 23 °C and the coolest months are January and February when the mean temperature is 18o C. Because of the high rainfall, the relative humidity is consistently high (above 95%) between June and December.Attappadi tribal chief at Kuntipuzha River

Tribes

There is no record the valley has ever been settled, but the Mudugar and Irula tribal people are indigenous to the area and do live in the adjacent valley of Attappady Reserved Forest. Also, the Kurumbar people occupy the highest range outside the park bordering on the Nilgiris.

Many of the Mudugar and Irula now work as day laborers and porters. Some work for the Forest Department in the park as forest guards and visitor guides. 16 out of 21 tribal colonies in the Attappady range are notorious for ganja cultivation. Many Mudugar are in abject poverty and easily recruited by the so called ganja mafia, There is a plan to employ 50 additional men from these 21 tribal settlements as forest guards for Rs.500/man/month

Fauna and flora

Valley areas of the park are in a Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests Ecoregion. Hilly areas above 1,000 m are in a South Western Ghats montane rain forests region. Above 1,500 m, the evergreen forests begin to give way to stunted forests, called sholas, interspersed with open grassland. Both are very important to naturalists, biologists and other researchers because the rich biodiversity here has never been disturbed by human settlements. Several threatened species are endemic here. New plant and animal species are often discovered here.[21]
A Nilgiri Wood-pigeon
[edit] Fauna
[edit] Birds

Birdlife International 16 bird species in Silent Valley as threatened or restricted: Nilgiri Wood-pigeon, Malabar Parakeet, , ], Grey-headed Bulbul, Broad-tailed Grassbird, Rufous Babbler, Wynaad Laughing Thrush, Nilgiri Laughing Thrush, White-bellied Shortwing, [

Rare bird species found here include Ceylon Frogmouth and Great Indian Hornbill. The 2006 winter bird survey discovered Long-legged Buzzard, a new species of raptor at Sispara, the park's highest peak. The survey found 10 endangered species recorded in the IUCN Red List including the Red winged crested cuckoo, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Pale harrier. The area is home to 15 endemic species including the Black-and-orange Flycatcher. It recorded 138 species of birds including 17 species that were newly observed in the Silent Valley area. The most abundant bird was the Black bulbul.

Mammals

There are at least 34 species of mammals at Silent Valley including the threatened Lion-tailed Macaque, Niligiri Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Nilgiri Tahr, Peshwa’s Bat (Myotis peshwa) and Hairy-winged Bat. There are nine species of bats, rats and mice.

Distribution and demography of all diurnal primates were studied in Silent Valley National Park and adjacent areas for a period of three years from 1993 to 1996. Fourteen troops of lion-tailed macaque, eighty-five troops of Nilgiri langur, fifteen troops of bonnet macaque and seven troops of Hanuman langur were observed. Of these, the Nilgiri langur was randomly distributed, whereas the lion-tailed macaque troops were confined to the southern sector of the Park. Bonnet macaques and Hanuman langurs were occasional visitors. The Silent Valley forest remains one of the most undisturbed viable habitats left for the endemic and endangered primates lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri langur.

The tiger, leopard (panther), leopard cat, jungle cat, fishing cat, Common Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Brown Palm Civet, Ruddy Mongoose, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Dhole, clawless otter, sloth bear, small travancore flying squirrel, Indian pangolin (scaly anteater), porcupine, wild boar, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer and gaur also live here.

Insects

There are at least 730 identified species of insects in the park. The maximum number of species belong to the orders Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Many unclassified species have been collected and there is a need for further studies.

33 species of crickets and grasshoppers have been recorded of which one was new. 39 species of true bugs (six new) and two species of Homoptera (both new) have been recorded. 128 species of beetles including 10 new species have been recorded.

Over 128 species of butterflies and 400 species of moths live here. A 1993 study found butterflies belonging to 9 families. The families Nymphalidae and Papilionidae contained the maximum number of species. 13 species were endemic to South India, including 5 species having protected status. 7 species of Butterflies were observed migrating in a mixed swarm of thousands of butterflies towards the Silent Valley National Park. In one instance an observer noted several birds attempting to catch these butterflies. The bird species included the Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata, Nilgiri Pipit Anthus nilghiriensis, Tickell's Warbler Phylloscopus affinis, Greenish Leaf-Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides and the Oriental White-eye Zosterops palpebrosa.

At least 500 species of earthworms and leeches have also been identified in the park.

Flora

The flora of the valley include about a 1000 species of flowering plants, 108 species of orchids, 100 ferns and fern allies, 200 liverworts, 75 lichens and about 200 algae. A majority Of these plants are endemic to the Western Ghats.

In addition to facilitating recharge of the aquifer, water retention of the catchment basin and preventing soil erosion, every plant in the park from the smallest one celled algae to the largest tree in the forest has unknown potential for beneficial innovations in biotechnology.
Tailed Jay nectoring on a Daisy

Flowering plants

Angiosperm flora currently identified here include 966 species belonging to 134 families and 599 genera. There are 701 Dicotyledons distributed among 113 families and 420 genera. There are 265 Monocotyledons here distributed among 21 families and 139 genera. Families best represented are the Orchids with 108 species including the rare, endemic and highly endangered orchids Ipsea malabarica, Bulbophyllum silentvalliensis and Eria tiagii, Grasses (56), Legumes (55), Rubiaceae (49) and Asters (45). There are many rare, endemic and economically valuable species, such as cardamom Ellettaria cardamomum, black pepper Piper nigrum, yams Dioscorea spp., beans Phaseolus sp., a pest-resistant strain of rice Oryza Pittambi, and 110 plant species of importance in Ayurvedic medicine.[34] Seven new plant species have been recorded from Silent Valley, including in 1996, Impatiens sivarajanii, a new species of Balsaminaceae.

Trees

Occurrence of lion-tailed macaque is dependent on the flowering of Cullenia exarillata in the forest.[36]

Six distinct tree associations have been described in the valley. Three are restricted to the southern sector: (Cullenia exarillata & Palaquium ellipticum), (Palaquium ellipticum & Mesua ferrea(Indian rose chestnut) and (Mesua ferrea & Calophyllum elatum). The remainder are confined to the central and northern parts of the Park: (Palaquium ellipticum & Poeciloneuron indicum), (Calophyllum elatum & Ochlandra sp.) and (Poeciloneuron indicum & Ochlandra sp.)

A study of natural regeneration of 12 important tree species of Silent Valley tropical rain forests showed good natural regeneration of all 12 species. The species studied were Palaquium ellipticum, Cullenia exarillata, Poeciloneuron indicum, Myristica dactyloides, Elaeocarpus glandulosus, Litsea floribunda, Mesua nagassarium, Cinnamomum malabatrum, Agrostistachys meeboldii, Calophyllum polyanthum, Garcinia morella and Actinodaphne campanulata.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Kerala

2011-02-28T01:36:00.000-08:00

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, (CWS), is located 18 km north of Marayoor on SH 17 in the Marayoor and Kanthalloor Panchayats of Devikulam Taluk in the Idukki district of Kerala state in South India. It is one of twelve Wildlife Sanctuaries among the Protected areas of Kerala.

It is under the jurisdiction of and contiguous with Eravikulam National Park to the south. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is to the north and Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary is to the east. It forms an integral part of the 1,187 km2 (458 sq mi) block of protected forests straddling the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border in the Annamalai Hills. The Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster, including all of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.

Geography

CWS is located between latitude 10º15' - 10º21' N and Longitude 77º5' - 77º16' E. The Munnar – Udumalpet road SH 17 passes through the Sanctuary for 16 km and divides it into nearly equal portions. Average annual rainfall is only 500 mm, spread over about 48 days, because it is in the rain shadow region of the southern Western Ghats.

The altitude ranges from 400 meters (1,312 ft) at east end of the Chinnar River to 2,522 meters (8,274 ft) at Kumarikal Malai peak. Other major peaks in the sanctuary are Nandala Malai 2,372 meters (7,782 ft), Kottakombu malai 2,144 meters (7,034 ft), Vellaikal malai 1,863 meters (6,112 ft) and Viriyoottu malai 1,845 meters (6,053 ft). In contrast, Anamudi peak 2,695 metres (8,842 ft), located 23 kilometers (14 mi) away in the adjacent Eravikulam National Park, is the highest peak in South India.

The Chinnar River and Pambar rivers are the major perennial water resources in the sanctuary. The Chinnar originates near Kumarikal Malai, follows the interstate boundary along the northwest edge of the sanctuary for 18 km and becomes the Amaravati River in Tamil Nadu.

The Pambar River originates in the Anaimudi Hills and is joined by seasonal rivulets and a few perennial streams originating from sholas in the upper reaches. It traverses the Turner’s Valley in Eravikulam National Park and flows down into the Sanctuary through the Taliar Valley between Kanthalloor and Marayoor Villages and eastwards through the sanctuary. It joins the Chinnar river at Koottar. The spectacular Thoovanam water falls lie deep within the Sanctuary on the Pambar River. This breathtaking cascade is a major tourist attraction. The Chinnar, Pambar, Kabani and Bhavani are the only rivers of the 44 in Kerala that flow eastwards.

Settlements and crops

There are 11 tribal settlements inside the Chinnar WLS, each is well demarcated by temporary stone walls. The main inhabitants are Muthuvas and Pulayars. Cultivation of maize, ragi and lemongrass is practiced in the settlements. The Mudhuvas carry out small scale ganja cultivation for their religious purposes.

Fauna

34 species of Mammals live here, including many Panthers and Spotted deer, 50 -60 Indian Elephants, Gaur, Tigers, Sambar Deer, Common langur, Bonnet Macaque, Hanuman monkey, threatened Nilgiri Tahr, vulnerable Rusty-spotted Cats and about 240 of the only vulnerable Grizzled Giant Squirrels in Kerala. 245 species of birds including Yellow-throated Bulbuls. 52 species of reptiles including 29 species of snakes, Indian Star Tortoise and the largest population of vulnerable Mugger Crocodiles in Kerala live in the Sanctuary. Most common of the 42 species of fishes observed in the Chinnar and Pambar rivers are Garra mullya minnows, River-carp baril, Giant Danio and the endangered hill stream game fish Deccan Mahseer. 22 amphibian species live in the Sanctuary. There are 156 species of butterflies.

Flora

There are 965 species of flowering plants in the sanctuary Ecoregions of the sanctuary comprise mostly grassland and wet grasslands vegetation and some South Western Ghats montane rain forests and high shola at the higher western elevations. South Western Ghats moist deciduous forestss at mid elevations give way to dry deciduous forests and thorny scrub forests in the lower dryer eastern edges of the valley. The major Xerophyticspecies in the throny scrub forests are Acacia arabica, Acacia leucofolia, Acacia concinna, Prosporis juliflora, and Opuntia stricta.

The Marayoor Sandalwood forest is located here.

Major attractions include:

Gizzled Giant Squirrel: The riverine forests along with Chinnar and Pambar support a large number of highly endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrels. The sanctuary plays host to the second largest population of Grizzled Giant Squirrels in the world.

Thoovanam Waterfalls: Deep within the sanctuary, the spectacular Thoovanam waterfall is located. The river Pambar flows eastwards through the sanctuary and plummets down from a great height on the river Chinnar. Wildlife Department permit tourists to visit the falls as part of wildlife tourism.

Watch Tower: Standing on the lofty watchtower, one can have a panoramic view of the entire park and the wildlife beauties, adjoining jungles in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu and also the magnificent mountains far away.
[edit] Things to DO

Tourists can enjoy the natural walk along the Chinnar and Pamber river banks. They can also find the grizzled giant squirrel. This is an amazing place for the trekkers also. They can enjoy the scenic beauty of the nature by moving towards Thooyanam Waterfalls. Tourists can enjoy camping here.

Regional Cooperation

Contiguous protected areas like Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary will benefit from Regional cooperation. Senior officials of the Ministry of Environment and Forests (India), Principal Chief Conservators of Forests of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, together with other senior forest officials of these states and the Union Territory of Pondicherry, met at Thiruvananthapuram on November 3 and 4, 2006 and resolved several mutual issues concerning conservation and protection of forests and wildlife of the region.

This formalization of interstate cooperation on protected areas administration will improve effectiveness in the areas of daily staff communication including common wireless frequencies, joint enforcement action, boundary survey and demarcation, management of cross border resources like Biosphere Reserves, National Parks, Tiger reserves and Wildlife Sanctuaries, technology, staff and intelligence sharing and coordinated communication with the Govt. of India. A regular conference of the Forest Ministers and forest officials of the southern states are held once a year, in rotation in each State.

Visitor information

Eco-tourism is promoted and organized jointly by the Forest Department and the Eco Development Committees (EDCs) of the local tribal communities, the objective is to empower latter and involve them in the conservation of the forest ecosystem.

Trek paths most commonly used are the Chinnar – Chullipetty and Chinnar – Koottar. Trekking to the Dolmens, the megalithic burial sites of tribal communities in Alampatti, can be arranged. Daytime sighting of crocodiles and boars is possible while hiking along the riverside. The trail will also take you to the enchanting Thoovanam falls and to the watchtower in Jellimalai.

Chinar watchtower

The lofty Chinnar Watch Tower has a panoramic view of the entire sanctuary, and beyond to the jungles of Tamil Nadu to the east and the majestic hills of the Western Ghats in all directions. The watch tower is accessible to the public with the permission of the forest department. The watchtower is a 20-minute walk from the Chinnar check post. A fee of Rs. 15 per person is collected at the tower. A Forest guard and tourist guide accompanies visitors. The guide charges Rs. 100 a day.

Accommodations are available in three suites at the Forest guesthouse for Rs. 400 per room without food. Treetop machans, arranged by the Forest Department, cost Rs. 1,000 for an overnight stay for two. Camping overnight in tribal huts at Vasyappara gives opportunities to sight elephants, peacocks, langur, deer and the giant squirrel. Camping at the Vasyappara huts cost Rs. 2,000 (including dinner, night stay and breakfast). The Forest Department also arranges accommodation at log houses in Churlipatti. Dormitory facilities are also available at Chinnar. However visitiors must be warned that there are no means of buying anything to eat or drink at chinnar except the odd pack of milk biscuits and a few bottles of water.

Contact: The Wildlife Warden, Munnar division, Munnar-685612. Ph: 04865-231587; Email: emppmunnar@sify.com or: The Wildlife Warden, Idukki Wildlife Division, Idukki, Vellapara, Painavu P.O, Kerala-686 603, phone: 0486-232271 or: The Assistant Wildlife Warden, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Marayoor P.O. via , Munnar, Idukki District, Kerala.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

2011-02-28T01:27:00.000-08:00

Spread in an area of 14 acres of land, the Kumarakom Bird Sancruary is located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake in the state of Kerala in south India. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, known for it varied avian population is an ornithologist's paradise. The sanctuary is a favourite haunt of local varieties such as waterfowls, cuckoos and owls, as well as the migratory Siberian Cranes can be viewed here.

Key Factors

State : Kerala, in the southern part of India.
Climate : The sanctuary has a composed climate. It enjoys a tropical climate varies between 10 degree centigrade - 26 degree centigrade.
Area : 101 acres.
Travel Tips : Consult the Doctor before you leave for the trip. Get enough information about the place you are going to visit.
Best Time to Visit : June and August. To watch Migratory birds, November to February is the best time.
Nearest Town : Kottayam (12 km).

How to Reach
International Airport : At Chennai & Bangalore.
Airport : At Kochi (76 km) and Thiruvananthapuram (160 km).
Railways : Kottayam is connected to major destinations in Kerala by rail.
Road : Kottayam (12 km). Kumarakom can be reached by bus, auto rickshaw and taxi.

Taj Kerala Resorts, Near Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Stay There
There are several accommodations for all the categories of travellers. There is one Luxury hotel run by the Taj Kerala Resorts Ltd. Many other resorts are also available near the sanctuary and in Kumarakom.

Kumarakom

Hire a houseboat or a motorboat to experience the exotic world of magnificent birds. These are the best means for bird watching on the lake. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuaries is the rare haven that offers picturesque landscapes and is a nature lover's paradise. Set within the lush acres of wooded land nearby, acquaints you to the variety of migratory birds that flock in thousands, some from the Himalayas, some even from as far as Siberia. In addition, you will be thrilled to see the native kingfishers blazing in psychedelic colours and even delight in the acrobatics of the paradise fly-catchers.

The Avifauna

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.

Also visit Pathiramanal, an enchanting island on the lake, which can be accessed by boat. This 10 acre island on the backwaters is home to many rare varieties of migratory birds from different parts of the world.

Nearest attractions at Kumarakom

Kottayam, Alleppey, Cradomom Hills, Boat Cruises. You can also go to - Madurai, Cochin or Kochi, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Munnar. Something you should not miss in Kerala are Backwaters and Beaches. Also taste the exclusive South India cuisine here.

Extend the TripExtend the Trip to Tamilnadu from Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Though entire Kerala will keep you preoccupied through out your trip, if you desire to go to other part of South India, just move towards Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, both the state has numerous attractions.

Few Difficulties
You might not face any problem here. Kumarakom is easily accessible and you can easily wander around the park. But, you may face problems in communicating with the common people, as only the educated one are able to speak English here.

Few Suggestions
Don't get into any unknown or illegal activity. Do not disturb the local culture and local atmosphere. Try to be well informed about the routes and the place you are going to visit. Contact us when and where needed, while on a wildlife India Tour.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

2011-02-28T01:21:00.000-08:00

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is an animal sanctuary in Wayanad, Kerala, south India. It is on the way from Mysore to Sultan Battery. Wild animals such as Indian Bison, elephant, deer and tiger has been spotted. There are also quite a few wild birds in the sanctuary.Peacocks and Peafowl tend to be very common in the area.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala. It is bestowed with lush green forests and rich wildlife. Also known as the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, this wildlife area houses some of the rare and endangered species of both flora and fauna.

Established in 1973, the sanctuary is now an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphre Reserve. It’s bounded by protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka in the northeast, and on the southeast by Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu.

It is part of the Wayanad plateau and the vegetation is predominantly of the south Indian moist deciduous teak forests. Also, the sanctuary has pastures of the west-coast semi-evergreen trees. The wildlife sanctuary comes under Protect Elephant and one can spot herd of elephants roaming in the area.

Elephant rides are arranged by the Forest Department,Kerala. Discovering and observing the wildlife while being atop an elephant is an enthralling and unforgettable experience.

It is spread over 344 km² and is about 16 km east of Sultan Battery, the nearest large town.

Wayanad district has the largest population of aborigine people in Kerala. The native aadivasis mainly consist of various sects like Paniyas, Kuruma s, Adiyar s, Kurichya s, Oorali s, Kattunaikkan s etc. Comprising an area of 2126 km2, Wayanad has a powerful history. Relicts and edicts found in various parts of Wayanad speak of an importatnt prehistoric era. Historians are of the view that organised human life existed in these parts, at least ten centuries before Christ.

The sanctuary is part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The Western Ghats, Nilgiri Sub-Cluster (6,000+ km²), including all of the sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site

History

Wayanad wildlife sanctuary was formed in the year 1973 and was brought under the Project Elephant in the year 1991-92. This sanctuary occupies an area of 345 km2. Waynad Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest one in the state of Kerala. The sanctuary is separated into two disconnected parts known as the Upper Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the north and Lower Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in the south. The area in between the two parts was originally a forest region, though it is now occupied majorly by plantations.

Flora and fauna

Flora: Moist deciduous forest consists of maruthi, karimaruthi, rosewood, venteak, vengal, chadachi, mazhukanjiram, bamboos, more, while the semi-evergreen patches comprises veteria indica., lagerstroemia, lanceolata, termianalia paniculata.

Fauna: Elephants, tigers, panthers, jungle cats, civet cats, monkeys, wild dogs, bisons, deer, bears, monitor lizards and a variety of snakes are seen.

Avian-Fauna: Peacocks, babblers, cuckoos, owls, woodpeckers, jungle fowls are a few of the various types of birds seen here.

Climate

Wayanad climate is salubrious. Average rain fall in this district is 2322 m.m. Annual rain fall in these high rain fall areas ranges from 3,000 to 4,000m.m. High velocity winds are common during the south west monsoon and dry winds blow in March-April. High altitude regions experience severe cold. This place experiences a high relative humidity which goes even up to 95 per cent during the south west monsoon period. Generally, the year is classified into four seasons, namely, cold weather, hot weather, south west monsoon and north east monsoon. The dale, 'Lakkidi', nestled among the hills of Vythiri taluk has the highest average rainfall in Kerala.

How to reach there

Location: The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is located 16 km east of Sulthan Bathery in the state of Kerala.

Area: 344 km2

Route: The headquarters of the sanctuary is in Kapetta, which is well connected to other major cities of Kerala. There are regular buses from Calicut to Kapetta. The nearest airport and railway station is in Kozhikode. Reaching here, one can hire a taxi to reach the sanctuary.

* Nearest airport is Kozhikode - CCJ - airport - 140 km. Mysore airport at Nanjangud (76 km) is nearing completion.
* Nearest major railway stations Kozhikode - CLT - 105 km, Mysore - MYS - 99 km (no ghat section, faster access)
* The nearest railway station - Nanjangud - 76 km (only passenger trains from Mysore)

there are animals like leopard, jackal , sambar deer , porcupine

Periyar National Park

2011-02-28T01:16:00.000-08:00

Periyar is a protected area, and a nature reserve in the South Indian State of Kerala, set high in the mountains of the Western Ghats along the border with Tamil Nadu. It lies in the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta. The protected area covers an area of 925 km², out of which a 350 km² part of the core zone was made into the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, sometimes dubbed the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is often called by the name thekkady also. Thekkady is located four km from Kumily, approximately 100 km east of Kottayam, 110 km west of Madurai and 120 km southeast from Kochi.

The Periyar protected area lies in the middle of a mountainous area of the Cardamom Hills. In the north and the east it is bounded by mountain ridges of over 1700 metres altitude and toward the west it expands into a 1200 meter high plateau. From this level the altitude drops steeply to the deepest point of the reserve, the 100 meter valley of the Pamba River. The highest peak is the 2019 meter high Kottamalai.

The sanctuary surrounds picturesque 26 km² Periyar lake, formed by the building of Mullaperiyar Dam in 1895. This reservoir and the Periyar River meander around the contours of the wooded hills, providing a permanent source of water for the local wildlife.

Climate

The temperature varies depending upon the altitude and it ranges between 15° Celsius in December and January and 31° Celsius in April and May. The annual amount of precipitation lies between 2000 and 3000 mm. About two thirds of the precipitation occurs during the southwest monsoon between June to September. A smaller amount of precipitation occurs during the northeast monsoon between October and December.

Vegetation

Approximately 75% of the entire protected area are covered of unaffected evergreen or semi-evergreen rain forest. There typically tall tropical tree species such as Vateria indica, Cullenia exarillata, Hopea parviflora, Canarium strictum, Artocarpus hirsutus and Bischofia javanica are seen. They reach heights of 40 to 50 Metres.

Scarcely 13% consists of damp leaves forest, 7% of Eucalyptus plantation and 1.5% of grassland. The remainder (around 3.5%) of the protected area is covered by the Periyar artificial lake as well as the Periyar River and Pamba rivers.

Altogether the reservation counts nearly 2000 kinds of flowering plants (Angiosperms), three kinds of seed plants (gymnosperms) and 170 different species of ferns. Among the Angiosperms, there are 169 families of sweet grasses and 155 kinds of Fabaceae. Orchids, with 145 representative types, are the most frequent flower.

About 350 of the occurring plant types can be used for medical purposes.

Fauna

Mammals
Altogether 62 different kinds of mammal have been recorded in Periyar, including many threatened ones. There are an estimated 53 tigers(2010) in the reserve.[1] Tourists also come here to view the Indian elephants in the act of ablution and playfulness by the Periyar lake. The elephant number around 900 to 1000 individuals. Other mammals found here include gaur, sambar (horse deer), barking deer, mouse deer, Dholes (Indian wild dogs), mongoose, foxes and leopards. Also inhabiting the park, though rarely seen, are the elusive Nilgiri tahr.

Four species of primates are found at Periyar - the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, the common langur, and the Bonnet Macaque.

Birds

So far 320 different kinds have been counted in Periyar. The bird life includes darters, cormorants, kingfishers, the great Malabar hornbill and racket-tailed Drongos.

Reptiles

There are 45 different kinds of reptile in the protected area out of which there are 30 snake, two turtle, and 13 lizard species. Among those are Monitor lizards that can be spotted basking in the sun on the rocks along the lake shore. Visitors who trek into the Periyar national park often see a Python and sometimes even a King Cobra.

Amphibians

Twenty seven different kinds have been recorded, of which ten are endemic to the Western Ghats, such as some species of frogs and cecilians.

Fish

In the waters of the protected area 38 different fish types live, of which four are endemic to the Western Ghats.Salmon,trout is also here.

Insects

There is a remarkable variety of butterflies and there are about 160 different kinds in total. Some are dangerous enough to make a human seriously ill

Major Wildlife Attractions in Periyar National Park

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary Apart from Elephants, the other animals to be seen in the Periyar sanctuary are Gaur, Wild Pigs, Sambar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Dole or Indian Wild Dog and very rarely, a Tiger. There are, now, an estimated 40 tigers here. Four species of primates are found at Periyar - the rare lion-tailed macaque, the Nilgiri Langur, Common Langur And Bonnet Macaque. Periyar also happens to be the habitat of the elusive Nilgiri Tahr, which is rarely to be seen.

The birdlife comprises of Darters, Cormorants, Kingfishers, the great Malabar Hornbill and racket-tailed Drongoes. The reptilian population boasts Of Monitor Lizards that can be spotted basking in the sun, on the rocks along the lakeshore. Visitors who trek into the Periyar national park often see a Python and sometimes even a King Cobra.

Wildlife Sanctuaries in Kerala - National Parks of Kerala

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Kerala has a total forest area of 11,125.59 sq.kms which also includes wildlife sanctuaries. In terms of percentage, 28.88 percent of Kerala's landmass is forested which is much higher than the national average of 19.50 percent. Most of the forest area of Kerala is spread over the Western Ghats which is also known as the Sahayadri. The Western Ghats borders Kerala on its eastern side and forms a part of the 25 bio diversity hotspot of the world. Now, a bio diversity hotspot are those areas that are biologically rich but have lost seventy percent of their original habitat. The reduce in area (1.4% of the total land surface) notwithstanding, these bio diversity hotspot still support 60 percent of the world's plant, bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species.

The forested areas in Kerala fall into five major category - tropical wet evergreen forests, tropical moist deciduous forests, tropical dry deciduous forests, mountain sub tropical and plantations. These forests are home to around 102 species of mammals (56 of which are indigenous), 476 species of birds, 202 species of freshwater fishes, 169 species of reptiles (139 indigenous) and 89 amphibian (86 indigenous). Kerala also houses around 10,035 plant species which is a staggering 22 percent of India's total.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Occupying an area of around 90 sq km, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located at Devikulam taluk of Idukki district. Lying in the rainforest region of the Western Ghats, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary provides refuge to the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India. Other wildlife species that can be sighted here include Tigers, Elephant, Bonnet Macaques, Gaur, Kraits, Spotted Deer, Spectacled Cobras, Sambar, Turtles, Vipers, Little Cormorants, Darters and Black Eagles. Tourists coming here can also indulge in bit of adventure by undertaking trekking and boating expeditions.

Silent Valley National Park

Also a part of Nilgiri Bio Sphere, the Silent Valley occupies an area of 90 sq km. It lies at a distance of 80 km from Palakkad and 55 km from Coimbatore (in Tamil Nadu). Notwithstanding its name as a Silent Valley, there is actually nothing quiet about this park. Elephants, Lion Tailed Macaques and Tigers, the most common denizens of the park, along with 100 species of butterflies and 400 species of moths and other fauna keep the forest area alive and active.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

40 Kms From Thodupuzha in Kerala and 450 - 758 m above sea level is the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary occupying an area of 77 sq km. Amidst tropical semi-evergreen and deciduous forests, wildlife species like Elephants, Bison, Sambhar, Deer, Wild Dogs, Jungle Cats, Tiger, Wild Boar and reptiles such as Cobra, Viper, Krait can be spotted. The bird species of the park include Jungle Fowl, Myna, Laughing Thrush, Black Bulbul, Peafowl, Woodpecker, Kingfisher etc.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Occupying an area of 25 sq km, the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. Designed by a famous ornithologist, Dr Salim Ali, the Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is home to a large number of bird species like Bee-eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Black winged Kite, and the Night Heron. Also around 28 species of animals and nine species of reptile can also be spotted in this sanctuary.

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

This is one of the most important Wildlife Sanctuary IN Kerala that lies close to the Annamali Sanctuary. The animals and bird species found here include Tigers, Leopards, Wild Dogs, Sloth Bear, Elephants, Wild Boar, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Langurs and Macaques. The population of Gaur here is largest in the state of Kerala. The 140 species of birds keep the atmosphere of the park vibrant.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

Located 50 kms north east of capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is home to Tiger, Panther, Wild Dog, Lion Tailed Macaque, Elephant, Gaur, Sambhar, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Wild Boar, Nilgiri Langur, Malabar squirrel etc. The bird species Seen here include water birds like Darter, Little Cormorant, Pied Kingfisher and Egrets. Apart from these, numerous variety of snakes including the King Cobra and Python are frequently spotted in the park. The highlight of the park is the 13 tribes that still reside inside the park premises.

Hemis High Altitude National Park

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Place:Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
Main attraction:Shapu, Bharal, Snow Leopard
Best time to visit:June to October
Nearest town: Ladakh

Named after the famous monastery Hemis Gompa, the national park spread out over 600 sq. Km, is situated at Ladakh in J&K. The park known as the Snow leopard capital of India has an altitudinal range of 3,300 to 6,000 m, and hosts a remarkable variety of wildlife. Hemis was established as a national park on 4th February 1981. This national park offers the tourists an abundant treasure of natural beauty with mountains of various shapes and sizes, mixed with vast flatlands, deserts and bordered by the fast flowing river Indus.

Hemis occupies much of the catchments of the lower Zanskar River, from its confluence with the Markha river to its meeting with the Indus. The smaller northern sector consists of Sumdah Valley which runs south-east until it meets the main Zanskar Valley. In the southern sector is the beautiful Markha Valley, also a tributary of the Zanskar Valley, and the Rumbak Valley which runs eastwards directly into the Indus Valley.

The area of this cold desert is rocky and the thin soil cover supports a poor vegetative growth. Grass growth is relatively rapid during the summer season after the melting of the snow. The Markha and Rumbak valleys are high altitude deserts charecterised by sparse grasslands and herbaceous vegetation on mountain slopes. These areas consists of trees and plants like Junipers, Myricaria, Poplar, Salix, Birch, Astragalus, Taraxacum, Leortopodium, Ephedra and many sparse grasslands.

The National park is famous for its population of the rare Snow Leopards and the Ibex. The other main species recorded in the National park are Palla's cat, srapu, bharal, red fox, rhesus macaque, Hanuman languor, wolf, marmot, Tibetan argali and Ladakh urial etc. The bharal and urial are seen in large numbers. The park has been earmarked as one of the snow leopard reserves under a central government project to conserve the species.

Pin Valley National Park

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Location: Pin Valley, Spiti in Himachal Pradesh
Area covered: 675 sq. kms

Declared a National Park in 1987, Pin Valley is located in the cold desert region of the Spiti valley. With its snow laden unexplored higher reaches and slopes, the Park forms a natural habitat for a number of endangered animals including the Snow Leopard and Siberian Ibex. Spreading south of Dhankar in the Spiti district near the Tibetan border, the Park marks the Lahaul and Spiti divisions of the State. The elevation of the Park ranges from about 3,500 mts near Ka Dogri to more than 6,000 mts at its highest point.

Because of its high altitude and extreme temperatures, the vegetation in thearea is scant and mostly dominated by alpine trees, patches of Himalayan cedar and smatterings of several medicinal plants. In summer, flowers decorate the valley with startling hues. Along with animals, rare birds like the Himalayan Snowcock, Chukor, Snow Partridge and the Tibet Snow Finch also flourish in the area.

Steeped in history, the influence of Tibetan culture is prevalent in the surrounding areas of the Park, visible in the Buddhist lamas, shrines, monasteries and culture of its residents.

Reaching There (Pin Valley National Park):

The Park can be approached only on foot from the nearest road terminus at Mikkim. One route to Pin Valley is via Manali, Rohtang Pass and Kumzum La, while another is more commonly used via Shimla, Tapri and Kaza.

Nameri National Park, Assam

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Nameri National Park is located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalaya in the Sonitpur District of Assam, India. It is one of the richest and most threatened reservoirs of plant and animal life in the world. The Pakhui (Pakke) Sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh adjoins the Park on its Northeastern side. The Park extends up to east and south west bank of the river Bor Dikorai from interstate boundary at Sijussa to the left bank of Jia Bharali River up to the south bank of Balipara Reserve Forest.

The area is drained by the Jia Bharali and its tributaries namely the Diji, Dinai, Doigurung, Nameri, Dikorai, Khari etc. The Park covers an area of 200 sq. km. and is augmented by parts of the Balipara Reserve Forests Area, which acts as a 64 sq. km. buffer on the opposite side of the Jia Bharali and 80 sq. kms. of the Nauduar Reserve Forests. The terrain is uneven with altitudes ranging from 80 meters along the river banks to 225 meters in the central and northern parts.

© Sumit SenThe eco-region is part of the North Bank Landscape and is an Eastern Himalayan Mega Biodiversity Hotspot. It is one of the richest areas in the world in terms of Plant Functional Type and Plant Functional Complexity. The area is influenced by the tropical monsoons, which cause rainfall to be seasonal and heavy with an average 3,400 mm of rain falling between May and September.

Location: 35-km From Tezpur, Sonitpur District, Assam
Area: 200-sq-kms
Main Attraction: Four Species Of Hornbill
Best Time To Visit: November To March

HOW TO GET THERE:

Air: The nearest airport is Salon about 10-km from Tezpur, in Sonitpur district, which is 181-km away from Guwahati.
Rail: The nearest railway station is Rangapara 60-kms from Bhalukpong, which is 21-km from the park, in Sonitpur district.
Road: Regular buses ply to and from Tezpur, which is well connected with all the major cities of Assam.

WHERE TO STAY:

The Tourism Department has tourist lodge at Tezpur and Bhalukpong (21-km from the park). There is also an Eco-camp at Potasali, which provides comfortable accommodation and delicious food.
Contact: Tourist Information Officer, Tezpur Tourist Lodge, Tezpur, Sonitpur District, Assam
The Divisional Forest Officer, Western Assam Wildlife Division, Dolabari, P.O. Tezpur, Sonitpur District, Assam
Camp Director, Eco-camp, Potasali (Nameri National Park), Sonitpur District, Assam.

Milroy or Pabha Sanctuary, Assam

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Assam, one of the most picturesque states in India is located in the north-eastern side of the country. It is one of the Seven Sisters States that forms the North-East. Rightly known for its cultural heritage, Assam is also popular for the Assam tea, saris, petroleum resources and amazing tourist attractions. With the backdrop of the eastern Himalayas and mighty river like the Brahmaputra and Barak Valleys, this state has always attracted tourists from all over the country. Many wildlife sanctuaries fetch currency to the Assam state government. Among those, the Pabha Milroy sanctuary deserves special mention.

Assam's tourism with 6 national parks and 18 wildlife sanctuaries has made a leap progress in the recent past. Sanctuaries like the Pabha sanctuary, gibbon wildlife sanctuary, Burasapori Wildlife Sanctuary, Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. and many other have contributed a lot in the development of Assam tourism.

The Pabha or Pabha Milroy sanctuary is located near the border of Arunachal Pradesh; it is marked for its picturesque setting and wildlife conservation. The enchanting backdrop of the sanctuary is sufficient to keep the tourists occupied in the sanctuary.

Area and location:

This park is located in the Lakhimpur District in Assam. Lakhimpur district lies in the north-east corner of the state. The sanctuary spreads over an area of 49 sq km.

Main attractions:

With the primary aim of protecting and conserving the Wild Water Buffalo, the Pabha Milroy Sanctuary was established. Hence the Wild Water Buffalo remains to be the main attraction here. Watching the rare species of Asiatic water buffalo roaming around the park is really fun and exciting.

The wild Asiatic water buffalo or Bubalus bubalis is an endangered species that can still be found in countries like India, Bhutan, Nepal and Thailand. These are large animals weighing up to 1200 kilos and they mainly eat herbs, leaves, grasses and aquatic plants.

If you are lucky enough, you might happen to see other rare species of birds and some lesser fauna.

Best time to visit:

The area of the Lakhimpur is marked by tropical rainforest. So this influences the climate of the park. You should visit the sanctuary during the months of November to April. That is the ideal time when you can watch Mother Nature in her highest glory.

Accommodation:

Don't worry about your accommodation in Lakhimpur. You can stay in any of the hotels such as- Hotel Malinin in the KB Road, Hotel Shyam, Hotel Anupam in the Super Mraket Complex, Hotel Joya in NT Road, etc. Take a rented car from this hotel that will take you to the sanctuary.

How to reach the park?

Lakhimpur district is well-connected with all the major cities in Assam. If you want to travel by air, then Guwahati airport would be the nearest. You can take taxis or local transport buses from any city in Assam to reach Guwahati International Airport or Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport that is connected with Kolkata, Agartala, New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Imphal, etc.

For adventurers preferring railway, Guwahati would be the nearest railhead. Lakhimpur district is well connected to all the key areas of Assam and key cities in the country.

What else do you get?

Although Lakhimpur District is quite far away from Guwahati (396 km), yet you can visit a lot of places if you happen to visit the Pabha Sanctuary. You can see the Shiva temple located near the national highway and Padumoni temple.

To sum up, it can be said that though there are not a wide variety of wild animals, birds and reptiles in the Pabha Milroy sanctuary, yet a visit to the sanctuary would definitely be fruitful. An endangered species like the wild water buffalo and other animals wouldn't bore you. So take your partner or family for an adventurous trip that can add spice to the otherwise monotonous life.