Ladakh: Land of many passes and mystic lamas

Ladakh is variously known as ‘the land of many passes and mystic lamas’, ‘broken moon’, ‘little Tibet’ and even ‘the last Shangri-La’ – and no wonder… The region is bounded by two of the world's mightiest mountain ranges, the Great Himalaya and the Karakoram and it lies athwart two others, the Ladakh range and the Zanskar range.

Amongst the highest of the world's inhabited plateaus, Ladakh lies at altitudes ranging from about 2,750 m at Kargil to 7,672 m at Saser Kangri in the Karakoram. Its mountain ranges are strikingly parallel, stretching through the region from southeast to north-west. It has an area of about 97,000 km2, of which only about a half percent is inhabitable, and a population of approximately 200,000.

In geological terms, this is a young land, formed a few million years ago by the buckling and folding of the earth's crust as the Indian subcontinent pushed with irresistible force against the immovable mass of Asia. Ladakh was once covered by an extensive lake system, the vestiges of which still exist on south-east plateaus of Rupshu and Chushul, in the drainage basins or lakes of Tsomoriri, Tsokar and Pangong Tso. However, the main source of water is winter snowfall.

For centuries, Ladakh has been an important center of trade between India and the countries of Central Asia. Leh, the capital served as the terminus for caravans. Today, thousands of tourists from all over the world visit this mysterious land every year. They are fascinated by the natural grandeur of the entire region and more so by the hospitality and simplicity of the people. The geographical and cultural difference from the rest of India is striking; the features of Ladakhi people, their clothes and dialects are distinctly Tibetan or Mongoloid rather than Indian. These people, as well as their monasteries perched on hilltops overlooking the villages down below, the huge statues depicting the Buddhist philosophy of life, the fine Buddhist frescos and unending mountain ranges are each one of them a wonder and a miracle for the visitor.

How to Reach Ladakh:
Overland Approach - The overland approach to Ladakh from Kashmir Valley via Kargil is approx. 434 Km, which remains open for traffic from early June to November. The most dramatic part of this road journey is the ascent up the 11,500 feet 3,505 m high Zoji-La, the pass in the Great Himalayan Wall that serves as the gateway to Ladakh. The J & K State Road Transport Corporation (J&K SRTC) operates regular Deluxe and Ordinary bus services between Srinagar and Leh on this route with an overnight halt at Kargil. Taxis (cars and jeeps) are also available at Srinagar for the journey. Groups can charter Deluxe and A-class buses for Leh, Kargil or Padum (Zangskar) from the J & K SRTC at Srinagar.

Manali to Leh - Since 1989, the 473 km. Manali-Leh road has been serving as the second overland approach to Ladakh. Open for traffic from around mid-June to early October. This high road traverses the upland desert plateau of Rupsho, altitude ranges from 3,660m to 4,570m. A number of high passes fall enroute among which the highest one known as Taklang-La is world's second highest motorable pass at an altitude of 17,469 feet/5,235m. Himachal Pradesh Tourism, HRTC and J & K SRTC operate daily Deluxe and Ordinary bus services between Manali and Leh. The bus journey between Leh and Manali takes about 19 hours or two days with an overnight halt in camps at Serchu or Pang. Maruti Gypsy and jeep taxis are also available, both at Manali and Leh at quite reasonable rates.

Ladakh Weather:

Ladakh experiences extreme climatic variations much for its high altitude. The region is also sparsely populated. Greater Himalaya range of location exposes the place to extreme winters. At an altitude of 3521 meters above the sea level, the months of December and January are freezing below minus degree Celsius. Often people from the small towns of Ladakh move to mainland where the climate is still warmer. The barren locations of Ladakh are also dry and hot in the months of April to October. One important aspect of the climate of Ladakh is the absence or scanty rainfall over the years. You wind the roads more dry, windy, and sandy. Rainfall in Ladakh amounts to around 10.16 cm annually.

Winters
A typical feature of the winter months is extreme temperature dip in the nights but no snowfall, though the Himalayas remain snow capped during this time. Again, some parts experience snowfall from end of September and melts away faster. Ladakh winter temperature varies from minus 20°C and 15°C.

Summers
Just like the extreme winters, summer would set you dripping in perspiration. The temperatures soar up to 35°C, a sharp contrast to the winters. The parts that experience snowfall has it melting away at faster rate while in Leh and Shimla the snow stays on for at least a month

June to September is the best season to visit Leh of which July/August is the peak season of trekkers.

Tourist Attractions in Leh-Ladakh

Traveling to Leh - Ladakh can be an exhilarating experience. Ladakh holds immense beauty for the beholder; the mountainous desert stretches from peak to peak, a divine painting done in strokes of purple, brown and grey, with streaks of silver and patches of green along the Indus River. Tourist Attractions in Leh-Ladakh includes its pristine beauty, its well known monasteries, its cities and the adventure sports like trekking, rafting in Indus and mountain climbing. Safaris are also part of its tourist attraction. Exploring Ladakh on the Yak back or the camel, can be an experience worth taking back home.

The moment you land on this amazing mountain town, you can catch the breath taking beauty. The shocking pristine blueness of the sky above will almost sap you off your breath. The trekking along the mountain path can be an experience worth remembering back home. The snow covered peaks, the mountain flowers, the deep valleys and the streams flowing can transport you to a world of complete solitude. The lilting mountain music, the monks in maroon robes on their way to the monastery, men in sun beaten faces trailing behind their herd of sheep are the common sights and sounds of Ladakh.

TRIP TO KASARGOD, KERALA, INDIA

Kasargod is the northernmost district of kerala.Kasargod is known as the land Yekshgana and Theyyams

There are different views on the derivation of the name "Kasargod".One view is that it is the combination of two Sanskrit words "kaasaara"(which means lake or pond) and “ kroda “(which means a place where treasure is kept). Another view is that it is the place where Kaasaraka trees (Strychnos nux vomica or Kaanjiram or Kaaraskara) are in abundance. Bothe views are relevant as there are large number of rivers, lakes and ponds in the coastal belt of the district besides thick flora consisting of innumerable varieties of trees, shribs etc. particularly plentitude of Kaasaraka trees. Kasargod is equivalent to the older territory of Gods, enticing beaches, affluent and splashing lakes, verdant green hills, and splendid forts. Located in northernmost region of Kerala, Kasaragod is one of the finest tourist spots that are still untouched by human race or urbanization. Kasargod Beach can be the finest place to spend your vacation. It is a extensive and lengthy beach, consecrated with a big number of attractive swimming pool like figures created innately. These innate creations have become the main appeal of the Kasargod Beach. However, Kasargod Tourism also promotes Ananthapura Lake Temple, Sree Manantheswara Vinayaka Temple, Thapotsavam, Bekal Hole Aqua Park, Kanwatheertha Beach and several other appealing locations as well in Kasargod. Ananthapura Lake Temple is considered to be an exceptional and exclusive lake temple in entire Kerala. Global as well as Indian tourists throng this exciting place every year especially during the summer season.

Bekal Hole Aqua Park is situated on the northern side of Bekal

Main Attraction:

Bakel:
Bekal,at the northern tip of Kerala is 140 kms away from Calicut International Terminal.With the Konkan Railway Line, Bombay will just be 15 hours from Bekal. The beaches,backwaters and hill stations of Bekal offer a totally different backdrops to the holiday experience. Large number of forts, big and small like Bekal, Chandragiri, Hosdurg, Kumbala, Panayal, Kundamkuzhi, Bandaduka etc. reveal the historical importance of this land. Bekal Fort remains the largest and best-preserved fort in Kerala. History and legend are interwoven together in Bekal, particularly regarding its antiquity.

The Bekal Fort (16 Kms south of Kasaragod on the national highway)

The 300 year old Bekal Fort is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala.This imposing circular structure of laterite sites rises 130 ft. above sea level and stands on a 35 acre headland that runs into the Arabian Sea. Buses are available every 30 minutes from Kanhagad to Bekal.The Fort appears to have been built up from the seas since almost three fourth of its exterior is drenched and the waves do stroke the citadel.

Unlike most other Indian Forts, Bekal fort was not a center of administration, for no remains of a Palace are found within the Fort. Probably the fort was built for fulfilling the defence requirements. The holes on the outerwalls of the fort are so remarkable that they are specially designed to defend the fort effectively. The holes at the top are meant for aiming at the farthest points; the holes below are meant for hitting when the enemy is nearer and the holes underneath facilitate attacking when the enemy is very near to the fort. This is a remarkable evidence for the medival technology of defence strategy. Apart from this, the wild and ecstatic beauty of the setting sun is a glorious presence in the fort. [more]

Pallikere Beach (1 Km from Bekal Fort):
This Shallow beach offers a spectacular view of the fort and has ample facilities for recreation and relaxation.]

Bekal Hole Aqua Park (1 Km from Bekal Fort):

The only one of its kind in northern Kerala, this unique Aqua Park provides water sport facilities like pedal boats and water cycles.

Malik Deenar Mosque:

Kasargod acquired considerable importance as a center of Islam.The historic Malik Deenar Juma Masjid built in the typical Kerala style is believed to have been founded by Dinar.The Juma Masjid, which is one of the best kept and most attractive in the districts is located at Thalankara.

Kappil Beach (6Km from Bekal fort)

Remote and secluded , this beach is fast becoming a major attraction. The wide beach and calm waters promise you an experience without parallel. The Kodi cliff nearby offers a panoramic view of blue skies and rolling sands, making your visit one to remember.

Anandasaram (15 kms from Bekal):

This internationally renowned spiritual centre founded by Swami Ramdas in 1939, offers a quiet, peaceful ambience best suited for meditation and spiritual studies.

Ananthapura Lake Temple (30 Km from Bekal):

This 9th century temple is the only lake temple in Kerala and is the moolasthanam(original abode) of Anandapadmanabha, the deity of Sri. Padmanabha Swami Temple,Thiruvananthapuram.


How to reach KasarGod: 

By Air

Mangalore is the nearest airport from Kasargod located at a distance of 50 kilometers. The next closest airport would be at Cochin, which is almost 400 kilometers away from Kasargod.

By Rail

The city of Kasargod has a railway station and there are many trains that ply from this place to other parts of the country.

By Roadways

Kasargod has a wide network of roads that connect it with the rest of Kerala and in a way, the whole of India. You can always hire private buses and cabs to reach this place by road.

Tour to Karla Cave

Karla Caves were historically associated with the Mahasamghika sect of Buddhism. Located at a distance of approximately 40 km from the city, the caves date back to the 2nd century BC and represent the golden period of Buddhism in India. These ancient Buddhist Indian rock-cut architecture cave shrines were developed over two periods. These periods are from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD and from the 5th century AD to the 10th century AD.

Running eastward from the Arabian Sea into the Deccan, the caves are on a major ancient trade route. Within the caves, a Buddhist monastery, dating back to the 2nd century BC, is located. A temple dedicated to the Goddess Ekaveera, who is worshiped most notably by the Koli community of Mumbai, is also located within the caves.

Built on the difficult terrain of a rocky hillside, this complex of well-preserved Buddhist caves has its interior lighted by windows. Chaitya with huge pillars and intricately carved relief dating back to the 1st century BC are present in the main hall. Walls of the caves are adorned with sculptures of males and females, as well as animals, including lions and elephants.

Carved prayer halls or chaityas as well as viharas or dwelling places for the caves' monks are also present within the complex. Highlights of the complex are the arched entrances and vaulted interiors.

By Train: Lonavala is situated on the main line connecting Mumbai and Pune. Many express trains stop at Lonavala. Taxis can be hired from Lonavala to reach Karla caves.

By Bus: Lonavala is well connected to Mumbai and Pune by regular bus service. Both private and state-owned buses ply regularly. Tickets can be booked for the private buses through any of the tour operators in Mumbai or Pune.

By Air: Nearest airport is at Pune at a distance of 62 km. Pune is connected by flights to Mumbai, Goa and Bengaluruby air. Chatrapati Shivaji International airport, 100 km away at Mumbai, is the major international airport. Tourist taxis are easily available from Mumbai to Lonavala.

Climate:- Karla enjoys a pleasant climate all round the year.

Timings Of Caves :- From 09 hours to 17:30 Hrs or Sunset whichever is earlier

Also See Bhaja Caves

Bhaja (18°44’ N; 73°29’ E) is one to the important Buddhist centres of Hinayana faith in Maharashtra. The group consists of 22 excavations and located on a hill near Bhaja village, Maval Taluka in district Pune. The importance of Bhaja is further enhanced by the presence of two more monastic complexes namely Bedsa located on the south face of the same hill in which Bhaja is situated and Karla, directly opposite north of Bhaja nearly 5 Km fro the latter. All the caves are belonging to the Hinayana phase and are datable from 3rd century BC to 2nd century AD. However the group was under occupation up to 5-6th century AD as attested from some of the painted Buddha images in the chaityagrha. They are excavated on a scrap of the hill at a weight of 120 m from above the surrounding plains and all faces west. The river Indrayani is located near by and waters the valley. The area was also in occupation during medieval period is attested by tow Maratha forts, Lohagadh and Visapur along the adjoining hill top

The donor inscriptions noticed here do not attribute to any particular ruling family or dynasty. However an inscription datable to 2nd century AD as found on the back wall of a cistern records the donation of Maharathi Kosikiputa Vihnudata, can be attributed to the caves. Another two inscriptions inscribed on the wooden beam itself below the vault are short and dedicatory in nature and datable to 2nd century BC. The survival of this original inscription on the wooden beams indicated that they have survival for the past 2200 years.

Tour to Amarkantak

Situated in the Maikal Mountains,Amarkantak is an important pilgrimage center for Hindus. It is the meeting point of the Vindhyas and the Satpura Mountain Ranges in Central India. It is also the source of the rivers Narmada and Sone. There are dense forests of teak, Mahua, etc. around Amarkantak where one can find numerous small and trickling streams feeding the Narmada. Tour to Amarkantak will, therefore, be an escape from the mundane life.

Tourist Attractions in Amarkantak

Amarkantak, being a unique natural heritage, comprises of a number of places of scenic beauty. Apart from this it is source of origin of three important rivers.Tour to Amarkantak, a great pilgrim center for Hindus, is thus a unique experience of a lifetime. Some o the tourists' attractions in Amarkantak include:

· Narmadakund and temples: Around Narmadakund, a pool at the origin of Narmada, there are number of temples such as Narmada and Shiva temple, Kartikey temple, Shri Ram Janki temple, Annapurna temple, Guru Gorakhnath temple, Sri Shuryanarayan temple, Vangeshwar Mahadev temple, Durga temple, Shiv Pariwar, Siddheswar Mahadev temple, Sri Radha Krishna temple, Eleven Rudra temple etc.

· Ancient temples of Kalchuri period: situated in the south of Narmadakund, there are some ancient temples of Kalchuri period. These were built by Kalchuri Maharaja Karnadeva (1042-1072 AD). The Machhendranath and Pataleshwar temples are excellent examples of architecture.

· Sonemuda: Sonemuda,origin of Sone RiverSonemuda is the place of origin of Sone River. Enjoy the panorama of forested hills and valleys.

· Mai ki Bagiya (Goddess garden): it is a grove of trees in dense forests that is named Mai ki Bagiya in honor of the goddess Narmada. In this natural garden Mango, Banana and other fruit trees along with Gulbakavli, roses and other flower plants are there.

· Kapildhara (Kapil waterfall): it is the famous waterfall with a fall of about hundred feet. According to scriptures, Kapil Muni lived here. There is a scene of natural beauty with mountains and dense forest down hills.

· Kabir chabutra (the platform of saint Kabir): The local people, the Panikas, consider Kabir Chabutara as one of the holiest places of the Kabirpanthis because Sant Kabir spent many years here in meditation.

· Shri Jwaleshwar Mahadev (the temple of Shiva): The Jwaleshwar temple is situated at a distance of 8 km from Amarkantak on Shahdol road.

How to Reach Amarkantak

By Air
The nearest airhead is Jabalpur (245 kms).

By Rail
The nearest railhead is Pendra Road (17 kms) though Anuppur (48 kms.) is more convenient.

By Road
There are buses from Pendra Road, Bilaspur and Shahdol.

Tour to Amarkantak brings to you a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of nature.

Get all the information on Tour to Amarkantak and other places in India at www.indianholiday.com

Explore :

Situated at an altitude of 1065 mt. at the meeting point of the Vindhya and the Satpura mountain ranges amongst sylvan surroundings, Amarkantak is a great pilgrim center for the Hindus, and is the source of the rivers Narmada and Sone. While the Narmada flows Westwards from Amarkantak, the Sone flows towards the East. Amarkantak is indeed blessed by Nature. Holy ponds, lofty hills, forested surroundings, breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls and an ever-pervading air of serenity make Amarkantak a much sought-after destination for the religious-minded as well as for the nature-lover.

Facts / Did you know?

Among all the sacred rivers of India, the Narmada occupies a unique place. Legend has it that Lord Shiva blessed Narmada with unique purifying powers. Whereas to purify himself, a devotee requires to take one dip in the Holy Ganga, seven days' prayers on the banks of Yamuna and three days prayers on the banks of Saraswati, the mere sight of Narmada is enough. A charming folk tale describes the superiority of Narmada over Ganga. Once every year, after she herself is polluted beyond tolerance, Ganga visits Narmada dressed like a dark woman and takes a cleansing purifying dip in its waters! There are other rivers too, popular, romantic and life sustaining, each glamourized in the folk lore and history but none can match the mystique of Narmada.

Tons Valley : The Place is gem for the all those who are interested in exciting adventure sports

Tons Valley is a region in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This region is located in Netwar, and it is one of the most intriguing places in the entire state. Tons Valley differs from all the other locations through the temples present in the valley. A key feature of these temples is the fact that the temples in this valley are all dedicated to the Kauravas – antagonists in the popular Mahabharata folklore. The residents of Tons Valley worship the Kaurava clan from the Mahabharata as Gods, and there are many temples in this valley dedicated to prominent Kaurava figures like Karna and Duryodhana, portraying them as Gods. This is because the people of Tons Valley identify themselves as part of the Kaurava army from the ancient ages.

There are many other temples in this valley as well, and some of them are dedicated to the chief deity Lord Shiva. The temple dedicated to Karna is the most popular temple in the region. This temple is located in a small village called Sarnaul which is located a small distance away from the valley.

Another famous temple in the valley is the Pokhu Devta valley. Although similar to Karna’s temple in architecture, the insides of this temple resemble a sacrificial chamber. The face of the deity is rumored to be too intense and it is never shown to the visiting public.

How to reach Tons Valley

Tons Valley By Train:

Trains to Tons Valley can be taken till the nearest railway station, located in the city of Dehradun. Dehradun lies at a distance of 175 kilometers from the Tons Valley region, and buses will be available from the railway station in Dehradun to Tons Valley. Cabs can also be taken for fares ranging around Rs 10 to 12 per kilometer. Trains to Dehradun will be available from all locations including Jammu Tawi, New Delhi, Howrah, Ujjain, Mumbai, Okha and Allahabad. Trains from Mumbai will charge fares of Rs 441 for sleeper class tickets.

Tons Valley By Bus:

Buses to Tons Valley will be available from all nearby important locations like Mori, Mussoorie and even Dehradun. Buses from Mussoorie will be available in both air conditioned and non air conditioned types. Buses will also be available under private category and government-run category. Buses run under the government mainly cover many corners of the state comprehensively. Buses from the hill station of Mussoorie to Tons Valley will charge fares of around Rs 90 to 100, for the distance of 139 kilometers

Flora and Fauna of Tons Valley :

Tons is a botanists paradise. The rich variety of Himalayan flora and fauna adorns the valley. The green alpine valley is full of multicolored flowers – nasturtiums with bright yellow and red flowers, primulas, geraniums white chrysanthemums along with various types of wild roses.

The dense forests of deodar, pine, oak, birch, chestnut, rhododendron and jamun are a home to various species of birds including the Monal Pheasant, Western Tragopan, Himalayan Snow Cock, Golden Eagle, Black Eagle Bearded Vulture, Parakeets and Pigeons etc. The area is also known for the some of the most rare and endangered species of animals such as Snow Leopards, Himalayan Tahr, Balbk Bear, Brown Bear and Musk Deer. 

Tons Valley Adventure Activities : 

White Water Rafting Tons : 

Tons Valley comes with the excitement guaranteed tag for visitors. You can either choose from the complete six days whitewater wilderness experience with solid V+kind of sections or the small one day rafting trips according to your convenience. Rafting at Tons offers you the opportunity to discover the hidden treasures, enjoy the interactions with the locals and take photographs. Travel agents provide you the best safety measures along with the trained crew, there to help you any time. If you don't have the equipment  the camps here will arrange it for you.

Trekking Tons :

Enjoy Tons to the fullest. Embark on the exciting trekking trips at Tons. If you are interested in the small nature walks to the nearby villages and meadows, you can opt for the short trails. One can also take on the longer treks which can be simply night out in wilderness offering breathtaking and enthralling trekking routes for the adventure enthusiasts. You can trek to Kedar Kantha, the gorgeous Har-ki-dun Valley and the remote Ruinsara Tal. You can also trek to Kinnaur and onto the Yamuna and Bhagirathi water sheds.

Rock Climbing and Rappelling Tons: 

If you are an adventure freak and have a fascination of exploring the new heights, then this tour is perfect for you. Depending upon the experience of the participants, there are many sheer rock faces in the areas that are perfect for rock climbing. If are good at climbing, than you can definitely try out this sports. For the initiators team of experts that provide a very safe and exciting experience.

Camping Tons Valley Uttaranchal:

Get set for the great camping deals on the adventure tour to valley of Tons. Located at the height of 3,600 feet above the sea level, it is the ideal place for family camping. You have the option of pitching your own tent or putting up at an organized campsite on the sandy banks of the Tons river. Camping at Tons is a pleasant experience among the pine, fir, birch and rhododendron trees, providing you the ample opportunity to enjoy the serenity of nature with company of your friends and family.

Orchcha:

Orchcha
Orchha is one of the few places in India that combines natural beauty, the aesthetic legacy of history and a certain authenticity. Orchha is in transition from village to town and many of its smaller temples throne over well-tended fields. It's a paradise for bird watchers with a wide variety of colorful birds often making an appearance. Life in Orchha revolves around the Ram temple where one can see how vibrant Hinduism remains today.

Orchha's rapid development brings with it the chaos rooted in the lack of urban planning that is typical of India... inadequate roads, non-existent or choked drains and fast accumulating piles of waste. Being a small town of about 10,000 inhabitants, these problems are not insurmountable but require a strong dose of good governance and transparency in the use of public money. That is why the strengthening of local democracy is so important.
So is the empowerment of the women of Orchha who remain constrained by traditional attitudes concerning their roles and capabilities. Meeting women from other cultures has made them aspire to more independence for their daughters.

Best Season of Orchcha:

The Climates in Orchcha are both hot and cold. In summer, the temperature rises to about 48 °C and minimum temperature is about 25°C. Winters during December to February are pleasant within a temperature range of 9°C to 25°C. Mansoons offers average ranfall.

Bastar- Dussera days during September – October are very attractive with processions and Illuminations. Nine days festivals are accompanied by fairs and culture programs.

Best Time to visit is October to March. March and April provide eye catching view of landscape adorned of palash blossoms.

How to Reach:

Orchha By Train

Jhansi railway station, 16 km away from Orchha, is the nearest railway station. Jhansi is situated on the major rail route and there are regular train services to the major cities in India. Direct train services are available from Delhi, Mumbai and Agra. Taxis are available in the railway station and cost about Rs 350 to reach Orchha.

Orchha By Air

Gwalior is the nearest airport to Orchha (116 km). Flight services are available to Khajuraho, Delhi and Varanasi. Delhi, 435 km away from Orchha, is the major international airport, which is connected to all major cities in India and many cities in abroad. Taxis are available in the Gwalior airport and cost about Rs 2,500 to reach Orchha. Some of the closest cities to Orchha include Jhansi (19km/half an hour) and Bhopal (374 km).

 Orchha By Bus

Many private and Government Transport bus services are available to reach Orchha from Jhansi (16 km). Orchha is well connected by buses with Bhopal, Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho and Gwalior. Super fast, Tourist A/C and Deluxe buses are available these cities to reach Orchha.0

  

Munnar: The Summer getaway destination:

Come summer and all travel plans route through one destination in Karela- Munnar. Sitauted in Idukki District of Kerala, Munnar is one of the attraction that contribute to kerala’s popularity as a travel destination among domestic and foreign travelers. Perched about 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once used to be the summer resort of the British administrations in south India. Marked by vast expanses of tea plantations, canonical bungalows, rivulets, waterfalls and cool weather, it is also an ideal destination for trekking and mountain biking.


One of the Main attractions near Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park. Located about 15km from Munnar, this park is famous for its endangered inhabitant- the Nilgiri Tahr. Spread over an area of 97 sq. km., this park is also home to several species of rare butterflies, animal’s birds.

A great place for trekking, the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also the rolling hills caressed by blanket of mists. Located inside the park is the Anamudi Peak, the highest peak in south India standing at a height of over 2700m. treks to the peak are allowed with the permission of the forest and wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.

Another place of interest, located about 13km from Munnar town, is Mattupetty. Known for its storage masonry dam and the beautiful lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides, Mattupattey’s fame is also attributes to the dairy farm run by the Indo Swiss livestock project, where one would come across different high yielding breads of cows.

Pallivasal, located at about three Kms from Chithirapuram in Munnar, is the venue of the first hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place of immense scenic beauty and is often favored by Visitor as a picnic spot, Near the town of Munnar chinnakanal and the waterfalls here, popularly known as Power House Waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. When you have traveled about seven kilometer from Chinnakanal, you reach Anayirangal, a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by the tea plantation and evergreen forest.

Top stations, which is about 32km from Munnar, is at a height of 1700 m above sea level. It is the highest point on the Munnar Kodaikanal road. Travelers to Munnar make it a point to visit top station to enjoy the panoramic view it offers of the neighboring state of tamil Nadu. It is one of the spots in Munnar to enjoy the Neelakurinji flowers blooming over a vast area.

Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolutions of the tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Karela’s high ranges a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata tea in Munnar. This tea museum houses curios, photographs and machineries, all of which have a story to tell on the origin and growth of tea plantation in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata tea in Munnar and worth a visit. 

By Air: Nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport (CIAL) at Nedumbassery about 125 km away. It handles both domestic and international flights. One can fly to Singapore, Middle East and Malaysia and to most major Indian cities. Jet Airways, Indian Airlines and Kingfisher operate daily flights. Pre-paid taxi service Cochin Airport Taxi Society (CATS) can be hired to reach Munnar from Kochi. Both AC and non AC cabs are available. Taxis charge an additional premium of 15-25 per cent as night charges (7 PM-6 AM).

By Train: Though Theni in Tamil Nadu is the nearest railhead (60 km away), Aluva at about 110 km away, is preferred as it is a major train station and transport services to reach Munnar are more. Aluva lies on the Trichur-Ernakulam-Thiruvananthapuram line. Aluva is connected to major Indian cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, Mangalore, Delhi andMumbai.

By Bus: Munnar is connected to other cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu by government and private run buses. Many tour providers arrange packaged bus tours to Munnar from Kochi. Though direct buses to Munnar may be difficult to find, direct bus services to Kochi and Kottayam are plenty. Private deluxe AC buses ply regularly between Kottayam and Kochi and several south Indian cities, including Chennai, Mangalore, Bengaluru and Thiruvananthapuram. One can catch a connecting bus from any of the cities.