Cochin - A trip to Paradise!

This lovely seaside city is flanked by the Western Ghats on the east and the Arabian Sea on the west. Its proximity to the equator, the sea and the mountains provide a rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate.

1) Bolghatty Island :
Bolghatty palace built by the Dutch in 1744. Later it became the seat of the British Resident of Cochin. Today it is a hotel run by K.T.D.C. The grounds have a small golf course & several vantage points for lovely views of the harbour & the sea.

2) Kalady :
Kalady is the birth place of Adi Sankaracharaya the great Indian Philosopher who lived in the 8th century is 45 Kms from Cochin. It is situated on the banks of river Periyar and there are two shrines in memory of Sree Sankaracharaya. One dedicated to him as Dakshina Moorthi and the other to the Goddess Sharada. Adi Sankara's Shrined in Kalady are open to all pilgrims irrespective of Religion and caste. The spot were Adi Shankara's Mother was cremated is called Vrindavan. Nearby is an old Krishna Temple, the family temple of Sankaracharaya. Another Temple known as Sri Ramakrishna International Temple was built in 1976 with the hope that it would ultimately become a temple for all religions and an abode of peace.

3) Cochin Boat Rides :
The highlight of Cochin is a boat ride through all the islands. The city face a broad expense of backwaters studded with palm-flanged islets.

4) Malayattoor Church :
53 km. from Cochin, 8km. From Kalady. Situated on a small hillock, it attracts thousands of devotees who undertake a trip to the shrine to participate in the annual festival, Malayattoor Perunnal (March/April) St. Thomas is believed to have prayed at this shrine.

5) Thattekad Bird Sanctuary :
Though recently established Thattekad is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in South India. A boat cruise from Bhoothathankettu to Thattekad is an unforgettable experience through the evergreen forests nesting migratory and indigenous birds. The birds commonly seen here are Malabar Grey horn bill, Great Indian horn bill, Grey jungle fowl, Heron egret, Parakeet and numerous other rare species. Thattekad is also accessible from Kothamangalam (20 km).

Source: hotelskerala
Photo: Flickr

Colours of Rajasthan!

Royal and exquisite is what best describes a Rajasthan tour. Sprawled languidly in ancient grandeur, the state of Rajasthan is a vibrant and exotic land where you will see perfect mixing of tradition and royal splendor merged together in a riot of colors set against the vast background of sand and desert. Being bejeweled with invincible forts, rich culture and magnificent palaces; this abode of yesteryear maharajas is truly a melting-pot of people, culture, costumes, music, customs, manners, dialects and cuisines.

One of the best ways to experience royal Rajasthan during your Rajasthan tour is by visiting the several majestic forts that can be found all around in Rajasthan-on the rocky Aravalis hills, over the ridge, in dense forests and even in the middle of the Thar Desert. You should definitely visit some of the most popular forts present here like the Jaisalmer Fort, the Chittaurgarh Fort, the Kumbhalgarh Fort, the Mehrangarh Fort and the Amber & Jaigarh Fort.

Like its topological variations the culture of Rajasthan is also a wide spectrum of brilliant hues fondled by the waves of a large variety of settlers. Due to this, you will come across colorful costumes, culture, fairs & festivals, folk dance & music and art & craft; all of which reflects enviable heritage. You will experience the most vibrancy of your trip during the time of colorful fairs & festivals when the entire desert land glitters with the colors of joyous celebration be it on a religious occasion or change of season or growth of harvest.

Moving on, Rajasthan is not only about the Thar Desert. It also has scrub-thorn arid forests, rocks & ravines, wetlands and lush green forests. All of these make Rajasthan a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. The state boasts of three national parks and over a dozen sanctuaries out of which the Ranthambhor National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and the Sariska Tiger Reserve are the most popular. You can visit these places round the year except for a brief period during monsoon when they remain closed. All the wildlife sanctuaries of Rajasthan will offer you some of the greatest wildlife tours in India that you can explore either on an elephant back or by a jeep.
Rajasthan is one of the most colorful states of India that always attracts the millions of tourists from all over the world.

Source: freeezinearticles.com
Photo: Flickr

5 Places in India to Escape the Summer Heat!

Summer is the perfect time of year for a family vacation to one of India's cool hill station retreats.

Take your pick of North, South, East or West and you will find a a hill or mountain destination to escape the extreme summer heat that hits most parts of India in April and May.

1.) Manali:
Nestled in the lower Himalayas situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh, lies Manali an ancient town surrounded by snow capped peaks and close in proximity to the snowline. It has a flourishing orchard industry and is a popular destination for adventure sport enthusiasts, campers, trekkers as well as honeymooners.

About 550 km from Delhi, the capital of India, Manali offers visitors some amazing natural sites like hot water springs , waterfalls and the river Beas that runs right through. Apart from those there are beautiful temples scattered across the place and the city center has a monastery as well as some good shopping and eateries to enjoy.

2.) Ooty: Sometimes known as the Queen of the hill stations, Ooty or Udhagamandalam is situated in the Nilgiri mountain range meaning "Blue Mountains". Ooty stands at 7,347 feet above sea level in the state of Tamil Nadu and keeps at a pleasant temperature of 15-20 degrees C around the year dropping to 0 degrees C in the winters.

The landscape is marked by rolling hills covered with dense vegetation, smaller hills and plateaus covered with tea gardens, and eucalyptus trees that lend out a minty fresh smell to the air around. It's picturesque views and pleasant weather make Ooty a great Summer Retreat. The Nilgiri Mountain Railway is one of the part of the charm of reaching the place as the steam train takes a very scenic route through many hair-raising curves, fearful tunnels and chugs alongside deep ravines full of verdant vegetation, gurgling streams and tea gardens.

3.) Gulmarg:
A valley retreat, Gulmarg is essentially a large meadow about 3-sq-kms in area and at altitude of 2,730 meters, 56-km south west of Srinagar in Jammu-Kashmir. The name Gulmarg literally means "meadow of flowers" and best describes the place in the sprint with it's rolling meadow filled with countless colorful Bluebells, Daisies, Forget Me Nots and Buttercups.

What makes the Valley even more picturesque and spectacular is the spectacle of snow-covered mountains, almost within touching distance enveloping it. It's a popular day trip from Srinagar to Gulmarg and it's popular for trekking. The maize and rice fields only add to the natural landscape of this cool retreat.

4.) Munnar: In the Kerala the state referred to as 'God's Own Country', is the popular Summer retreat Munnar. At 1600 m above sea level the British while ruling India made it their summer resort of the South. A breathtakingly beautiful haven, Munnar is a land of sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes with sweet aroma of spice scenting the cool air.

Munnar pronounced "Moon-aar" means "Three rivers" in Tamil and Malayalam. The three rivers - Madupetti, Nallathanni and Periavaru flow through this town and join some distance away from Munnar. National Parks, wildlife sanctuary's, lakes and waterfalls are all part of the reasons why it makes for a great vacation destination, especially to beat the heat.

5.) Nainital:
Known as Lake Paradise Nainital is one of the most charismatic hill stations that India harbors. Once called City of 60 lakes or 'Chakta', there are only a few lakes remaining today. The main lake Naini on the banks of which lie the main town is surrounded on three sides by beautiful mountains of the Kumaon foothills a part of the Himalayas. There are several other lakes around Nainital, which are equally beautiful and attractive as the Naini Lake itself.

Renowned for its lake, bird's-eye views, and prestigious educational institutions, Nainital makes for a great summer retreat. There are hiking tracks up the scenic mountains provide a spectacular view of the lake below. Yachting, boating and paddling make for enticing activities during the day.

Source: Indiamarks

Top Five Summer Destinations

Top Ten Summer Getaways list and we have something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling solo, with the family or a loved one we think you’ll find something that's just perfect for you.

1.) Lake Buena Vista, Florida:
What do you get when you mix the Florida sun, great rides, family entertainment and a mouse? Why Disney World of course. Yes, it can be very busy during the summer months but seeing all those smiling faces just adds to the magic that thrives here. In addition to the great rides and shows you also have an opportunity to create some fantastic memories.

2.) Amsterdam, Netherlands:
Of all the European cities we could have chosen why did Amsterdam make the list? With its 'anything goes' attitude it attracts thousands of visitors every year. It seems whatever your interests might be Amsterdam has the perfect site for you to explore. Plus, it has a ton of amazing events that take place all throughout the summer so anytime is a great time to visit Amsterdam.

3.) Miami, Florida:
South Beach is a great place anytime of year but when that Florida sun shines at its hottest it becomes the place to be seen. You might want to steer clear if you're in the mood for peace and tranquility though as the nightlife here is legendary. Party on the sand, in the clubs or hang out with your friends at a trendy restaurant.

4.) Santorini, Greece:
The Greek Islands are a hotspot for Europeans eager to feel the sand between their toes and North Americans are quickly following suit. History buffs love learning about its incredible past, artists are inspired by the beauty and beach bums get the best tan of their lives. Santorini is an amazing place for romancers as well. Who knows, maybe your summer fling will turn into endless love.

5.) Montreal, Quebec:
Canadian summers are fantastic and each province can provide you with a unique experience. Those interested in shopping, history and dining though will want to make a stop in Montreal. This French loving city is chalked full of charm and amazing sites. So much so that you'll want to spend more than a few days here to ensure you experience all that it has to offer.

Source: Hotelbycity

TOP 10 Summer Destinations

1. Capri


Italy's most glamorous getaway, the island of Capri is one of the most picturesque islands around. With white-washed villas shrouded in bougainvillea, cliffs reaching up from the sea, and medieval alleyways winding through romantic villages, Capri's charms are unwavering, even in the crowded summer months.

2. The Hamptons


Long stretches of sand, seaside villages, sprawling vineyards, and grand estates . . . the Atlantic-facing Hamptons are simply spectacular come summer and the perfect antidote to bustling New York City, just 120 miles away.

3. Greek Islands

Scattered in the sparkling Aegean Sea, the Greek Islands are a much-fantasized-about summer hotspot, with Europeans and Americans alike flocking to their dazzling shores for hedonistic fun in the sun.

4. London

London is never more animated than in the height of summer, when fair weather brings out the best in Londoners, who endure an infamously gloomy weather forecast the rest of the year.

5. Montreal

Montreal's joie de vivre is most visible in summer, when festivals and celebrations light up the town and droves of locals and visitors take to the streets to join the fun.

6. National Parks

Summer and the great outdoors go hand and hand, and the outdoors just don't get much greater than in our national parks. The US counts 388 of them, and you could easily spend a weekend hiking any of them.

7. New England

New England truly springs to life between the July 4 and Labor Day holidays, when a vibrant summer culture produces a mind-boggling array of special events in the region's many maritime and mountain towns and historic cities.

8. Russia

Notorious for its long, frigid winters, summer shines an entirely different light on Russia, particularly on its thriving cultural capitals of Moscow and St. Petersburg.

9. Scandinavia

While you'd have to be a thick-skinned Viking to make it through a Scandinavian winter, happily, you need not be much more than a reveling vacationer with a good pair of sunglasses during the summer months.

10. Upper Peninsula, Michigan

If city-living gets too hot, pack up some marshmallows, hot dogs, and camping gear and head to the refreshing Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where majestic wildlife, unspoiled rivers, waterfalls, and dense forests abound.

Source: The Weather Channel