Borra Cavesc, Araku, Visakhapatnam

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Borra Caves

• Destination: Araku, Visakhapatnam

Location

Borra Caves are located in the Ananthagiri hills amidst the Araku valley of Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. It is situated 85 km away from its district headquarters. The caves are referred to as “Borra Guhalu” in local language. It is one of the largest caves in term of size and the deepest caves in terms of depth in the whole country. It occupies an area of about 2 square km. The Caves are situated at an elevation of about 705 metres above the sea level and distinctly exhibits a variety of impressive speleothems ranging from very tiny to huge and irregularly shaped stalactites and stalagmites. The Caves are mainly bestowed with Karstic limestone structures extending to a depth of 80 metres.

Formation of the Caves

The natural formations of Borra Caves are solitary and breathtakingly awe-inspiring. These limestone caves were formed as a result of the action of the Gosthani River. It is believed that the river once flowed over this limestone area and then due to the pressure exerted by the river water on the mineral deposits, the limestone got dissolved and gradually the caves were formed. It was an indeed a two-way process. The dissolved limestone drizzled down drop by drop on the floor of the cave and gets thickened to form irregularly shaped stalagmites. Similarly, some of the water drops from the roof congealed to form stalactites. As the time went by, these calcium deposits of stalactites and stalagmites grew downwards and upwards respectively, and at some levels touched each other to form different formation inside the caves. While some of the deposits are formed into fantastic structures, acquiring a religious significance over a period of time among the people and on the other side, some deposits are weird in shape.
According to a legend, there is a Shiva Lingam inside the caves on which one can see a stone formation of a cow. It is said that the udder of this cow is the source of the Gosthani River which originates from here; flourish through Vizianagram and Visakhapatnam districts before draining into the Bay of Bengal near Bheemunipatnam. This river is the source of water supply to Visakhapatnam city.
The Caves came into existence in 1807 and was discovered by William King George from the Geological Survey of India team. The fauna observed in the caves are bats and the golden gecko. The type of bat most found in and around the cave is the fulvous fruit bat which roosts in large caves, old buildings and dark areas of old forts. This species has short and slim musculature with large eyes. They feed on flowers and fruits, particularly jamun, guava and mango. The forests in the area are of semi-evergreen deciduous type. The flora in the cave consists of mosses and brown-to-green algae. There is also mushroom formation inside the cave. Mining operations are considered to be in violation of the Environmental Protection Act so as to protect the endangered species found in this area.
A walk around the caves provides a picturesque view of the mountainous area which is rich in flora and fauna. APTDC has installed 26 mercury, sodium vapour and halogen electric lamps, which provide magnificent views of the formations inside the cave. Geologists and tourists visiting the caves are enthralled by the lighted caves.
The famous Araku and Borra rail-cum-road package tour organized by the APTDC is available from Visakhapatnam for tourists who are keen to see the Borra caves.

Details

Taluka: Ananthagiri Area: Visakhapatnam
Cave Timings: 10 AM-5:30 PM (On All Days)

Fast Facts

State: Andhra Pradesh District: Visakhapatnam
Languages: Telugu, English Weather: 18°C to 32°C
Best Time to Visit: November-February
STD Code: 08936 Pin Code: 535145

How to Reach

By Air

Visakhapatnam Airport is the nearest one, 77 km away from the caves and has direct flights to major cities of India and abroad.

By Rail

Borra Guhalu is the nearest railway station, which is located in very close vicinity to the cave. It is directly connected to Visakhapatnam. Travelling by train is the best means of transport as you will witness the train passing through the Eastern Ghats, crossing 30 tunnels and dense vegetation to reach Borra Caves. It lies on the Kothavalasa-Kirandul rail route. Major railway junction is at Visakhapatnam, which is well connected to major cities of India.

By Road

APSRTC buses and private taxis are available that ply to Borra Caves from Visakhapatnam. The journey is of about 3 hours via the scenic Ghat Road.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Visakhapatnam – 85 km
Vijayawada – 415 km
Bhubaneswar – 447 km
Hyderabad – 656 km

Tarkarli, Maharashtra, Sindhudurg, India

Tarkarli

 

• Destination: Maharashtra, Sindhudurg

Location

Tarkarli is a strip of beach located in Malvan Taluka of the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. It is situated 64 km away from its district headquarters. The most beautiful thing about this beach is its sparkling clean and blue water. The clear water gives a view of almost 20 feet deep into the seabed which is a rarity. The place is endowed with amplitude of natural beauty and offers tourists one of the best holiday experiences ever. The tall Shuru tree, distinctive to this region, adds to the attractive value of the beach.

History

Tarkarli has the best white sand beach in the entire Konkan stretch. It is one of the most-visited beaches in southern Konkan despite its very close proximity to Goa. The beach is sandwiched by the beautiful Karli backwaters on one side and the tranquil blue sea on the other. Tourists love to take a stay here as the wide river, the unique sailboats and the picturesque hamlets on the riverbank offer them an experience that they cannot enjoy anywhere else. Sighting dolphins is another key attraction for tourists here, which is again a rarity on Indian beaches. Fishing is the main occupation of the locals here as the sea water remains gathered throughout the year in the region. Apart from beach, there are many old forts also in the region dated back to 17th century including famous Padmagarh Fort.

Main Attractions

Tourists come here to experience the calm waves of turquoise blue water and the silver-white sandy beaches which stretches out for 6 miles. There are state-run and privately organized boat cruises available on the tranquil backwaters of the Karli creek for a exotic ride. The fresh seafood is definitely one of the highpoints for those who love no-vegetarian food. The MTDC Resort is the best place to stay as rooms and air-conditioned cottages are available at cheaper prices. It is advisable to book rooms in advance if you plan to go in the peak season.
If you want to spend the holiday reading a good book on the beachfront, there are number of hammocks and beach umbrellas scattered all over the place. Take a note that cell phones do not work here as there are no mobile towers around this area. However, MTDC resort provides landlines so that you may remain connected to the outside world in case of emergency. Konkani huts are also a great option for a unique staying experience. Booking houseboats to stay can also be a thrilling experience. They offer cruises during daytime around Tarkarli every day. Tarkarli is also the abode for adventure sports enthusiasts. You can do Snorkeling, Boating, White Water Rafting and Scuba Diving here. It is a great way to explore the exquisite underwater life and the seabed.
There are many other places nearby Tarkali which you must visit. These places are Sindhudurg Fort, Malvan Market, Sangam, Golden Rock, Kunkeshwar Temple, Malvan Rock Garden and Nivati Beach.
Ram Navmi and Ganesh Festival are the major festivals celebrated here.

Fast Facts

Taluka: Malvan District: Sindhudurg
State: Maharashtra Languages: Marathi, Hindi, English
Best Time to Visit: October-May Weather: 17°C to 37°C (Max.)
STD Code: 02365 Pin Code: 416606

How to Reach

By Air

Dabolim Airport is the nearest one, 128 km away from the beach and is well connected to major cities of India and abroad.

By Rail

Nearest Railway Station is at Kudal, 29 km away and is well connected to Mumbai, Pune and Goa. It lies on Ratnagiri- Madgaon rail route. Other railway stations nearby are Sindhudurg (35 km) and Madgaon (135 km).

By Road

State transport and private buses runs at regular intervals from Mumbai, Pune, Ratnagiri and Malvan to Tarkarli. Malvan is only 7km away from Tarkali beach.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Madgaon – 135 km
Ratnagiri – 147 km
Pune – 391 km
Mumbai – 534 km

Khandala, Maharashtra, Pune

Khandala

• Destination: Maharashtra, Pune

Khandala is a beautiful hill station located amidst the mighty Western Ghats in the Pune district of Maharashtra. It is situated 68 km away from its district headquarters. This hill station impresses the tourists with its picturesque scenery of lush green hills, scintillating valleys and magnificent cascades. A spectacular hilly terrain, Khandala is blessed with a cool and pleasant climate, which entice the tourists with its breathtaking spectacles throughout the year.
Though marked with a mysterious past, this hill station has witnessed the rise and decline of strong powers like the Heroic Marathas, the Lionhearted Peshwas and finally the British. Like all other hill stations, Khandala is grateful much to the progressive British for its wonderful mansions that proudly stood as a prominent testimonial to the colonial era.
Khandala proffers striking waterfalls and glittering lakes attributes to the grand look of a superb ambiance. A nice walk through the mesmerizing valleys brings forth the panoramic vista of the hill station. Khandala is the major attraction for those who are very fond of adventures. Mounting the heights in an enthralling atmosphere would be so tempting that one cannot forget its transcendence. The Duke’s Nose peak and Karla hills are the two popular spots for rock climbing.
Khandala is the best place to have a quiet and tranquil holidaying.

Major Attractions

Tiger’s Leap
Amrutanjan Point
Duke’s Nose
Rajmachi Fort
Bhushi Lake
Shingroba Temple
Reversing Station

Fast Facts

Taluka: Maval District: Pune
State: Maharashtra Languages: Marathi, Hindi, English
Best Time to Visit: All Seasons Weather: 12°C to 38°C (Max.)
STD Code: 02114 Pin Code: 410301

How to Reach

By Air

Pune Airport is the nearest one, 74 km away and is well connected to major cities of India and abroad. Other major airport is at Mumbai (101 km).

By Rail

Khandala has its own railway station. It lies on the Mumbai- Pune rail route and is well connected to all the major cities of India.

By Road

MSRTC and various private travels operate regular buses that ply to Khandala from Pune and Mumbai. The best way to reach here is by your own means of transportation like car, bike or private taxis.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Lonavala – 5 km
Pune – 68 km
Mumbai – 93 km
Kolhapur – 297 km
Surat – 353 km

Chikhaldara , Amravati, Maharashtra

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Chikhaldara

• Destination: Amravati, Maharashtra

Chikhaldara is a picturesque hill station located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra. It is situated 85 km away from its district headquarters. It is the only hill station in the Vidarbha region. It is also said to be the only coffee growing area in Maharashtra. The hills of Chikhaldara are very suitable for trekking. Apart from this, Chikhaldara is also famous for cotton plantation.

History

Located on a hilly plateau, Chikhaldara has a very interesting story behind its name. As per Hindu mythology, the region of Chikhaldara was once ruled by King Kichak, who was ultimately killed by the mighty Bheema – the strongest brother amongst the Pandavas, who later threw him into the deep gorge of the valley. This is how Chikhaldara get its name, where Chikhal is a close replica of the word Kichak and Dara denotes the deep valley.
Chikhaldara was discovered in 1823 by Captain Robinson who belonged to Hyderabad Regiment during the British rule. The Englishmen found this place very attractive as it was reminding them of England.

Major Attractions

Chikhaldara is also a wildlife paradise. It is situated in very close vicinity from the Melghat Tiger Reserve. One can see tigers, panthers, wild boar, wild dogs, flying squirrel, porcupine, Indian bison, leopard and pangolin to name a few.
The panoramic and scenic view of Chikhaldara Hills can be experienced from many peak points like Hurricane Point, Devi Point and Prospect Point. The other major attractions are:
Bhimkund-Kichakdara
Gavilgarh Fort
Narnala Fort
Devi Point
Panchbol Point
Pandit Nehru Botanical Gardens
Tribal Museum
Semadoh Lake

Fast Facts

Taluka: Chikaldhara District: Amravati
State: Maharashtra Languages: Marathi, Hindi, English
Best Time to Visit: October-June Weather: 13°C to 37°C (Max.)
STD Code: 07220 Pin Code: 444807

How to Reach

By Air

Nagpur Airport is the nearest one, 235 km away and is well connected to major cities of India and abroad.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is at Badnera near Amravati, which is just 93 km away. It lies on the Bhusawal- Nagpur rail route and is well connected to all the major cities of India.

By Road

MSRTC and various private travels operate regular buses that ply to Chikhaldara from Akola, Amravati and Nagpur. The best way to reach here is by your own means of transportation like car or private taxis.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Amravati – 85 km
Akola – 131 km
Nagpur – 230 km
Indore – 295 km
journeyplanner 

Panchgani, Maharashtra, India

Panchgani

 

• Destination: Maharashtra, Satara

Panchgani is a vibrant hill station located in the Satara district of Maharashtra. It is situated 48 km away from its district headquarters. Panchgani, basically means the place of five hills. This pictersque hill resort is located at an altitude of 1,334 metres. It is an exotic destination and its beauty multiplies with the backdrop of spectacular hilly terrains on one side and coastal plains at the other side. This town had been once used by the British officials as their summer resort.
The Panchgani hill station is popularly known for its unpolluted aroma and it is believed that the oxygen content in atmosphere is more here as compared to other regions. The ambience of this place is very cool and tranquil.
Panchgani was founded in 1854 by Sir John Chesson. It had been taken over as the best place for army retirees. The area was originally spread over five villages namely Dhandeghar, Khingar, Amral, Godavli and Taighat. In an attempt to build up a new township, the then Superintendent invited all kinds of workmen including building contractors, tailors and other professionals to construct and frame the entire township from scratch.
The place allocated for the Indian workmen was called Gaothan and it exists below the bazaar area even today also. Sir Chesson himself is buried in the St Peter’s Church graveyard, which he had helped construct. It is well known that dynasties of Mauryas, Chalukyas, Bahmani and Rashtrakutas once ruled over this region. Then, the Adil Shahi dynasty and the Marathas along with Peshwas and then Satavahanas also enjoyed their stay over a period of time at this very place. Later, it was conquered by the Mughals and then the British, almost all had left their footprints and historical facts at Panchgani.
After the advent of British, the attractive hill station became famous for its boarding schools as most of these schools were set up here in the early 19th century. This place is now renowned for its international quality education. It is also the preferred residential address for Parsis. Panchgani is also famous for its strawberry farms. Apart from trekking and hiking, one can also enjoy paragliding, as it is the most popular sport among tourists and adventure lovers who comes to this paradise.

Major Attractions

Sydney Point
Table Land
Parsi Point
Devil’s Kitchen
Mapro Garden
Kamalgad Fort
Rajpuri Caves
Serbaug
Lord Karthikeya Temple

Fast Facts

Taluka: Wai District: Satara
State: Maharashtra Languages: Marathi, Hindi, English
Best Time to Visit: All Seasons Weather: 10°C to 35°C (Max.)
STD Code: 02168 Pin Code: 412805

How to Reach

By Air

Pune Airport is the nearest one, 109 km away and is well connected to major cities of India and abroad.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is at Satara, which is just 52 km away. It lies on the Mumbai-Madgaon rail route and is well connected to all the major cities of India.

By Road

MSRTC and various private travels operate regular buses that ply to Panchgani from the major cities of state. The best way to reach here in less time is by your own means of transportation like car or private taxis.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Mahabaleshwar – 20 km
Pune – 98 km
Kolhapur – 171 km
Mumbai – 244 km
Panjim – 373 km

Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra, INDIA

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Mahabaleshwar

• Destination:

Mahabaleshwar is situated among the lush green hills and the farms of strawberries with awe-inspiring scenery. It is one of the highly visited tourist spots of not only Maharashtra, but also the country, especially during monsoons.
Mahabaleshwar is located in Satara district of Maharashtra amidst the Western Ghats. It is in close vicinty to Pune and Mumbai. It boasts several attractions that are tourist hotspots such as Venna Lake, the Mahabaleshwar temple, Pratapgad Fort and over 25 mesmerizing and adventurous points such as Arthur’s Seat, Babington Point, Lodwick Point etc. with exotic views of this lovely hill station.
The nearest landmark to Mahabaleshwar is Panchgani which is also known as “Old Mahabaleshwar”.

History

The word Mahableshwar has been derived from the word Mamleshwar which means “God of Mavalas”, who is Lord Shiva. The origin of Mahabaleshwar can be trailed back to the year 1215 and it is said that King Singhan, the ruler of Deogiri, built a small temple with a water tank near to the Krishna River in Old Mahabaleshwar. Then, a Brahmin dynasty ruled the city during 1350. The city came into stature around 16th century when this dynasty was defeated by Chandarao More. During this time, the old temple was reconstructed.
The historical Pratapgad fort was constructed in 1656 under the reign of great Maratha warrior, Shivaji Maharaj, when he captured Maharashtra and Javli. During the British rule, the district of Satara came into the territory of Raja of Satara. Mahabaleshwar was a place often visited by army troops and soldiers. The famous point Arthur’s Seat was named after Sir Arthur Mallet. The current hill station of Mahabaleshwar, however, came into actual existence around 1829. This place was also referred as Malcolm Peth as per the old records.
By the end of the 19th century, it had become one of the most attractive hill stations of the world. Raj Bhavan, the summer residence of the Governor of Maharashtra, is also situated here. The mighty river Krishna which flows through Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka originates from Mahabaleshwar.
Mahabaleshwar is undoubtedly the “Paradise of Maharashtra”.

Major Attractions

Arthur’s Seat
Kate’s Point
Needle Hole Point/Elephant Point
Wilson Point
3 Monkey Point
Pratapgad Fort
Venna Lake
Chinaman’s fall
Dhobi Falls
Lingmala Falls

Fast Facts

Taluka: Mahabaleshwar District: Satara
State: Maharashtra Languages: Marathi, Hindi, English
Best Time to Visit: July-March Weather: 13°C to 35°C (Max.)
STD Code: 02168 Pin Code: 412806

How to Reach

By Air

Pune Airport, is the nearest one, 130 km away and is well connected to major cities of India and abroad.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is at Satara, which is just 60 km away. It lies on the Mumbai-Madgaon rail route and is well connected to all the major cities of India.

By Road

MSRTC and various private travels operate regular buses that ply to Mahabaleshwar from the major cities of state. The best way to here is by your own means of transportation like car or private taxis.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Pune – 120 km
Kolhapur – 179 km
Mumbai – 231 km
Panjim – 380 km

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur ,india

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Taj Lake Palace

• Destination: Rajasthan, Udaipur

Location & History

Taj Lake Palace is a luxury hotel, which is an exotic abode of 83 beautiful rooms and suites featuring white marble walls, managed by Taj Group of Hotels, in picturesque city of Udaipur. It is situated on the island of Jag Niwas in Lake Pichola and its natural foundation spans across 4 acres. The hotel runs a speed boat which transports tourists through a jetty from the City Palace Complex to the hotel. It has also been voted continuously over the years as the most romantic hotel of India.
The bright and striking moonlight, the picturesque lake side, what could the princess resist. Maharana Jagat Singh II, the 62nd successor of royal Mewar dynasty, used to have moonlight picnics with the ladies of Zenana on this beautiful lake island. It was only till the time his father found out about it and closed this option for him. Therefore, he decided to make his own palace. It was built between 1743- 1746 AD and the palace was named as Jag Niwas, after the name of its founder.
As the years gone by, this palace started to lose its charm. But, Maharaja Bhagwat Singh, who was the last ruler of the Mewar, decided to convert this palace into Udaipur’s first luxury hotel as it was the only way visible through which the palace could be preserved for years to come. This beautiful palace was turned into a luxury hotel in 1971. Jamshyd D. F. Lam of the Taj Group greatly helped in the restoration of the original property with his works and experiences. He was also the first General Manager of the Taj Lake Palace & the youngest at that time in India. Later in 2000, a second restoration was also undertaken.

Architecture

The palace was erected facing east, so as to allow its inhabitants to pray to the Surya, the Hindu Sun God, at the crack of dawn. The successive rulers used this exotic palace as their summer resort, holding their regal durbars in its courtyards. The upper room of the palace is a perfect circle and is about 21 feet in diameter. Its floor is studded with black and white marbles. Also, the walls are ornamented with niches and adorned with arabesques of different colored stones. There are many courtyards present inside the premises with fountains, open terraces, beautifully done gardens. Many rooms by names of Ajjan Niwas, Bada Mahal, Phool Mahal, Khush Mahal and Dhola Mahal are there in Lake Palace. These rooms are exquisitely done with pink and green lotus leaves, glass work, unique paintings and carved arches.
At present, this hotel is placed among the top 10 luxurious hotels of the world. This breathtaking palace cannot be described in words and just one look at this heavenly creation will take your breath by its charm and beauty. The quiet Pichola Lake and the tranquil locations around will give one that needed break from the hustle bustle of the city. Taj Lake Palace is also a perfect movie location. Famous movies shot here are namely James Bond Octopussy, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Ram Leela to name a few.

Address

Taj Lake Palace
P.O. Box 5, Lake Pichola,
Opposite to City Palace Complex,
Udaipur,
Rajasthan

Details

Area: Udaipur Phone: 0294-2428800
Website: www.tajhotels.com
Room Reservations: Refer the website

Fast Facts

State: Rajasthan District: Udaipur
Languages: Hindi, Mewari, English Weather: 18°C to 43°C (Max.)
Best Time to Visit: August-March
STD Code: 0294 Pin Code: 313001

How to Reach

By Air

Udaipur has its own airport, 24 km away from Taj Lake Palace and is well connected to major cities like New Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur.

By Rail

Udaipur has its own railway station, just 3 km away from Taj Lake Palace and is well connected to all the major cities of India.

By Road

RSRTC and various private travels operate regular buses that ply to Udaipur from the major cities of state. The best way to reach here in less time is by your own means of transportation like car or private taxis.

Distance from Nearby Cities

Chittorgarh – 116 km
Ahmedabad – 255 km
Jodhpur – 259 km
Ajmer – 271 km
Jaipur – 402 km