Easy Tourist Guide

Sepahijala, one of the most widely visited wildlife sanctuary of Tripura is of a very unique type. This hot spot of bio-diversity with abundant variety of flora, fauna, and birds attract tourists from around the world. The well maintained sanctuary having charming woodland, an artificial lake and natural botanical and zoological gardens is one of the most visited tourist spot of Tripura. In a country like India where there are a number of sanctuaries Sepahijala stands apart both because of its in-situ and ex-situ conservation of flora and fauna.

Where is Sepahijala?

Sepahijala sanctuary is in the West Tripura district of Tripura at a distance of 35 Km from the state capital Agartala.

About Sepahijala

Sepahijala wildlife sanctuary spreading over an area of 18.53sq Km came up officially in1972 with the setting up of one Deer Park so as to protect the land from encroachment. The sanctuary has a rich collection of wildlife particularly of birds and primates.
The picturesque landscape of the sanctuary with the undulated setting of deep green plants and the murmuring of transparent lake water in between and the rare species of wildlife has an enchanting appeal to the tourists.
The sanctuary has 456 plant species of monocotyledon and dicotyledonous along with abundant Rauwalfia serpentina and home to other endangered and endemic species.

There are 5 species of primates in this sanctuary. The crab eating Mongoose which was last sighted about 72 years ago in India has been discovered again in this sanctuary. The sanctuary has been designed as both a wildlife sanctuary and as an academic with research centre.
Presbytis, or spectacled langur, an endemic species is abundant here. Also different species of primates like Rhesus macaque, Pigtailed macaque, Capped langur, slow lories and a lot of many other wild animals are found here.
There are about 150 species of birds in this sanctuary. During winter lots of migratory birds visit the sanctuary. It is an absolute thrilling experience to watch them. Unique habitat of Sepahijala attracts lot of migratory birds including lesser whistling teal, white ibis, open billed stork and many others.

Sightseeing in and around Sepahijala

Sepahijala Zoological Park – It consists of five distinct sections : (i) Carnivores section (ii) Primate Section (iii) Ungulate section (iv) Reptile section (v) Aviary section. This zoological park now largely caters the need of ex-situ Conservation of wild animals. Animals have been kept both in open mooted enclosures and in conventional enclosures.
Botanical Garden – Various species of plants and trees, some of which are endangered are found here. Medicinal plants with more than seventy species are of prime attraction of this Garden.

Sepahijala Lake – Presence of quite a good number of lakes in the sanctuary ideally quenches thirst of wild animals. Amrit sagar lake and forest rest house (Abasarika) lake has boating facilities for the tourists. The lake is completely surrounded by natural forests and inhabits a variety of seasonal migratory and resident birds. The lakes thus provide a unique opportunity to have a close look at this avifauna from close quarters and study its behavior.
Toy Train – This is another major attraction for visitors in the sanctuary. 15 minutes ride on the toy train is worthwhile to have experience on passing through different type of habitat.
There are arrangements available for a joy ride on an elephant’s which will take you to the remote areas of the sanctuary offering an opportunity to come close to the inhabitants of the sanctuary.

How to reach Sepahijala?

By Air – Agartala is the nearest airport which is well connected by flights with Calcutta, Guwahati, and Delhi.
By Rail – The two nearest railway stations are Kumarghat (160 Km) and Dharama Nagar (200 Km). Both this stations are on the North-East Frontier Railway, and are connected with Lumding & Guwahati.
By Road – Good motorable roads connect Agartala with Silchar (288 Km), Guwahati (599 Km), Shillong (499 Km), Dharmanagar (200 Km).

Where to stay at Sepahijala?

In the midst of the sanctuary, a forest dak bungalow called Abasarika with 5 cottages offers accommodation for tourists. The solitude and the nearness to nature are by themselves a source of serene pleasure. Booking details can be availed at 0381-220773
Staying at Agartala is a good option as there are a number of good hotels and rest houses that are available here.
Hotel Welcome Palace at Agartala (Booking contact number – 0381-2384940/0219)
Hotel Radha International at Agartala (Booking contact number – 0381-2224530/2615)
Hotel Rajdhani at Agartala (Booking contact number – 0381-2223387/6312)
Hotel Amber at Agartala (Booking contact number – 0381-2223587)

Nalanda, one of the oldest universities of the world is one of the most visited historical places of India. A visit to Nalanda is a journey to the rich history of India. Tourists from around the world visit Nalanda every year to have a glimpse of this archaeological wonder of history.
Nalanda today is in ruins yet, imparts a scholarly look standing tall telling the story of its glorious history. Once an important centre of Biddhism is one of the must visit site of Buddhism.

Where is Nalanda?

Nalanda is in the state of Bihar in India and is 90 Km from the state capital of Patna.

About Nalanda

The University of Nalanda was founded in the 5th century by the Gupta emperors. The university was considered an architectural masterpiece, and was marked by a lofty wall and one gate. Nalanda had eight separate compounds and ten temples, along with many other meditation halls and classrooms. On the grounds were lakes and parks. The library was located in a nine storied building where meticulous copies of texts were produced. The archaeological zone here is classified into a number of sites that include 11 monasteries and several temples built in red bricks.
In this first residential international university of the world, 2,000 teachers and 10,000 students from all over the world lived and studied. The subjects taught at Nalanda University covered every field of learning, and it attracted pupils and scholars from Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Indonesia, Persia and Turkey.
Though Lord Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 6th-12th centuries AD. Hiuen Tsang, the Chinese pilgrim spent three years at Nalanda. He has left a detailed account about the university, its curriculum and activities.
The university remained in prominence till 12 century AD when the Afghans attacked Bengal and burnt down this great University.

Sightseeing in and around Nalanda

Nalanda Museum – Established in 1971, the museum has a good collection of ancient manuscripts and Buddhist statues that are rare in appearance and style. The museum also displays artifacts of the Maurya, Gupta and other periods.
Nav Nalanda Vihar – Established in 1951 so as to keep the ancient tradition of spreading knowledge alive. The Bihar government has set up this institute that teaches Pali near the ancient university. Here Indian as well as foreign students study and do research on Buddhism and Pali.
Rajgir – 15 km from Nalanda is Rajgir, the ancient capital of Magadha Empire which flourished in the 6th century BC. The city has a huge historical importance because of its association with Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira making the place a preferred destination of Buddhists and Jains. The first Buddhist council immediately after the Mahaparinirarvana of Lord Buddha, to pen down his teachings, was also held at Rajgir.
The hill town of Rajgir, surrounded by seven hills is in the midst of lush green forest is quite popular among tourists. Apart from its scenic beauty other major tourist attractions of the place are Jail of Bimbisara, playground of Jarasandha, Venuvana, Karand tank, Maniyar math, Swamabhandar cave, Pippala cave, and Viswa Shanti Stupa.

Bodhgaya – 55 km from Nalanda is Bodhgaya, the holiest amongst holy places of Buddhist World. It is the place where Prince Siddhartha attained the supreme enlightenment under the Bodhi tree and became Buddha, the enlightened one. The present Bodhi Tree is fifth in succession of the original tree under which Lord Buddha had attained the enlightenment.
The ancient Mahabodhi Temple, the railings and the Ashokan pillar are of great historical and architectural importance. The modern monasteries of Japan, Thailand, China, Tibet, Myanmar, Bhutan and Sri Lanka built in their national architectures are very colorful and remain humming with religious activities.
Gaya – 65 km from Nalanda is Gaya, one of the most sacred pilgrim centers for the Hindus. According to Hindu mythology there is a belief that an individual goes to heaven if his last rites are offered under the celebrated Akshayabat or immortal banyan tree, in Gaya.
The temple of Vishnupad on the bank of river Falgu attracts a very large number of pilgrims from all over the world.
Pawapuri – 26km from Nalanda is the city of Pawapuri. It is a great pilgrimage center of the Jains. Lord Mahavira, the greatest propounder of Jainism had delivered his last sermon, took Mahaparinirvana and was cremated here. Jalmandir and Samosharan are two beautiful temples here of exquisite architecture built in white marble.

Bihar Sharif - Located 13 kilometers away from Nalanda, Bihar Sharif was once the capital of the Muslim Governors of Bihar between 13th and 16th centuries and has a huge historical importance. The place houses the beautiful tomb of Malik Ibrahim Vaya constructed on top of the rocky hill. Hanuman Mandir at Badi Pahari, and prison of Jarasandh are other major tourist attractions of Bihar Sharif. Also, the place has a mosque of 14th century Muslim saint Makhdum Shah Sharif-ud-din, which attracts a large number of tourists every year.

How to reach Nalanda?

By Air – The nearest airport from Nalanda is Patna around 89 Km away. There are regular flights from Patna connecting to Kolkata, Delhi, Ranchi, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow and Kathmandu.
By Rail - Rajgir 12 Km away is the nearest railway station from Nalanda. Although nearest major railway point is Gaya around 65 Km away, and is well connected to all major Indian cities.
By Road – Nalanda is connected through a good road network with Rajgir 12 km, Bodh Gaya 50 Km, Gaya 65 Km, Patna 90 Km, Pawapuri 26 Km, and Bihar Sharif 13 Km.

Where to stay at Nalanda?

There are only a few hotels and rest houses available in Nalanda. It is better to stay at Rajgir and visit Nalanda on a day excursion. There are a number of good qualities and budget hotels available in Rajgir. Some of them are :
Indo Hokke Hotel, Nalanda (Booking contact number – 06112-255245/035/037)
Gautam Vihar, Rajgir (Booking contact number – 06119-255273)
Tathagat Vihar, Rajgir (Booking contact number – 06119-255176)
Ajatsatru Vihar, Rajgir (Booking contact number – 06119-255027)

The beautiful hill station of Munnar is one of the most popular tourist destinations in “God’s own country” – Kerala. Munnar’s mesmerizing greenery, mountain scenery, calmness and cool refreshing air attracts honeymooners and tourists from around the world throughout the year. Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala, Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantation, for wildlife watching or for simply getting the kinks out of a tired system. Munnar has been one of foremost tourist destinations of south India and is a place worth a visit.

Where is Munnar?

Munnar is located at an altitude of 1600 mt above sea level in the Idukki district of east Kerala.

About Munnar

Munnar sometimes called the ‘Switzerland of India’ has been selected by the National Geographic Traveler as ‘One of 50 must see destinations of a lifetime’ and ‘One of the 10 paradises of the World.
Set amongst the Kannan Devan hills, Munnar was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Large tea estates, picture perfect towns, winding lanes, trekking and holiday facilities makes the tour to Munnar a memorable experience. It is an excellent base for trekking through the surrounding hills, which are covered by lush green rainforests. Munnar is specially known for its sprawling tea gardens which apart from being the epitome greenery also produces large quantity of quality tea.
Munnar is home to the Neelakurinji, a flower which bathes the hills in blue hues once in twelve years. The Neelakurinji was in full bloom late 2006. The blue coloured flower, considered to be sacred makes the hill blue when it blooms.
Munnar has the highest peak in South India – Anamudi – which scales over 2695 mt. and is an ideal spot for campers who like to do some trekking.

Sightseeing in and around Munnar

Mattupetty Lake & Dam – Situated at an altitude of 1700 m. above sea level the place is a beautiful picnic spot with the panoramic view of the tea plantations and the lake. Placid waters of the lake and the picture perfect surrounding makes the tourists wonder struck by the beauty of the lake.

Close to the lake is the highly specialized dairy farm, a joint venture of the Indo-Swiss Live Stock project.
Shola Forest – Located near Mattupetty lake the forest is are ideal for trekking and are habitat to a variety of birds. Rivulets and cascades crisscross the terrain here, which again adds more attraction to the place.
Echo Point – 15 Km from Munnar, on the way to top station from Munnar is a small lake set amidst rolling hills. Every loud call made from a spot on the lake embankment returns as echo from the surrounding hills.
Top Station – 37 Km from Munnar on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, the place offers great views of the Western Ghats. Top station is the “top”-tourist attraction. This place gives a real ‘above the clouds’ experience.
Kundala Lake – This very beautiful and unique lake is situated amidst lush jungles. Hiring a pedal boat and exploring the lake and its surroundings is an awesome experience.
Atukkad Waterfall – This scenic waterfall amidst hills and jungles is just 5 Km from Munnar. The place is much popular among tourists as it provides the ideal location for photo shoot.
Anamudi Peak– Anamudi, the highest peak (2695 m) south of Himalayas, towers over the Rajamala (Eravikulam National Park) sanctuary in majestic pride. It is an ideal place for trekking. Facilities are provided here and tourists are allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi peak. Trekking here can perhaps give you a glimpse of Nilgiri Thar, the rarely seen mountain goat.
Eravikulam National Park – The slopes of the hills abound in all kinds of rare flora and fauna. The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is a unique inhabitant of the park. Other rare species of fauna found here are the Nilgiri Langur, the lion-tailed Macaque, Leopards, Tigers, etc.

Nyayamakad – Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 meters. The enchanting surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point. Both locals and tourists throng the place in large numbers.
Devikulam - This idyllic spot with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience and is one of the prime sightseeing destinations of Munnar. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.
Tata Tea Museum – Collections from colonial era, along with demonstration of tea production, information on machineries, tea processing and tea tasting makes a visit to this museum a memorable one.
Marayoor - Around 40km from Munnar it is the only place in Kerala with natural growth of sandalwood trees, natural caves with murals, and relics from Later Stone Age civilization. There is a sandalwood factory of the Forest Department of Kerala and a children’s park extending across one hectare of land under the canopy of a single Banyan tree. All of this attracts tourists in large numbers.
Walking and hiking around this small hill town offer an exhilarating experience. Munnar also beacons the adventure-seeking traveler interested in paragliding.

How to reach Munnar?

By Air – Kochi is the nearest airport at a distance of 130 Km from Munnar.
By Rail – Ernakulam Rail Stations (130 km) and Aluva Railway Station (18 km) are two stations that connect Munnar arterially with other cities of India.
By Road - Munnar is accessible by road from most of the towns in Kerala. It can also be reached from Madurai (6 hours) and Coimbatore (6 hours), which are located in the state of Tamil Nadu. Several state and private run buses ply between the Ernakulam, Madurai, Cochin etc., and Munnar.

Where to stay at Munnar?

Staying options at Munnar is unlimited. Hotels ranging from cheap budget hotels to luxurious star category hotels are in plenty. Following are some of the well known hotels of Munnar :-
Abad Cooper Castle (Booking contact number – 04865-231201/202)
Black Berry Hills Hotel Munnar (Booking contact number – 04865-232978/979)
Deshadan Mountain Resort (Booking contact number – 04865-232910
Hill View Munnar (Booking contact number – 04865-230567/241)
Hotel Royal (Booking contact number – 04865-230440/231112)
Issacs Residency (Booking contact number – 04865-230501)

Panchmari is a silent and serene hill station among the Satpura range in Madhya Pradesh. This small and somewhat sleepy hill station is an ideal holiday destination for those who wish to relax and spend their time in close association with nature. Also known as the “Queen of Satpura”, Panchmari is perhaps one of the loveliest hill stations of India with a unique combination of religion, history and nature.

Where is Panchmari?

Situated at an altitude of 1067 mt. in the Satpura hills, this is the only hill station of Madhya Pradesh and is in the Hoshangabad district.

About Panchmari

Panchmari derives its name from the five rock-cut caves that are there in Panchmari. They are associated with the Pandavas of Mahabharata and the stunning cave paintings are a reminder of our glorious past.
Blessed by nature Panchmari is truly heaven on earth. From bouncing waterfalls to calm rivers, from serene valleys to deep gorges everything here is spectacular.
Presence of a number of holy caves and temples has made Panchmari a favourite pilgrimage destination of Hindus. Shrines of Lord Shiva located in deep caves, ravines and atop cliffs speak of the rich Shaivite tradition Panchmari has.
Amidst this rich Shaivite tradition of Panchmari exists a pleasant English Panchmari, – the colonial hill station. The picturesque town of Panchmari was developed by the British as a resort to escape the hot Indian summers. Panchmari is also famous for its colonial architecture. Pretty bungalows with red tiled roofs, well tended gardens and pebbled paths dot Panchmari town. The churches with beautiful stained glass windows are lovely too.

Sightseeing in and around Panchmari

Be it a rock climber, a wild life enthusiast or simply a nature lover, Panchmari has something to offer to everyone. This lovely hill station is abound with natural beauty. Some of the major sightseeing destinations of Panchmari are :-
Fairy Pool – It is easily accessible by a short trek through the forest. The pool is suitable for small children since it is quite shallow.
Bee Fall - Also known as Jamuna Prapat this fall is located 3 Km from the town and is so popular among tourists that they prefer to scale the roads leading to this fall on foot. The place is well known for its bathing pools and spectacular backdrop. Taking a bath in the fall rejuvenates the body and soul.

Duchess Fall – It is the least accessible of all the waterfalls of Panchmari. A fairly steep descent of almost 4 Km by foot takes one near the fall. In spite of this, people brave the trek for the serene beauty and majestic cascade that awaits them. The deafening roaring sound which this 100 mt. fall makes on hurtling down needs special mention and can be heard from a distance.
Pandava caves – This is an ancient rock cut caves. They have been declared a national monument. According to Hindu mythology the legendary Pandava brothers are said to have taken shelter in these caves. The well maintained garden near the cave is another attraction for tourists.
Big Fall – It is a ten minute descent from the Fairy Pool. It is one of the most popular waterfalls of Panchmari.
Irene Pool – It is named after Irene Bose, wife of Justice Vivian Bose and its discoverer. The water here leads to a cave and then disappears underground.
Mahadeo – This is the most sacred Shaivite spot in Panchmari. This 30 m long cave temple is famous for beautiful cave paintings of the 6th century BC. Each year thousands of people come to offer trishuls (tripronged spears) to Lord Shiva on the occasion of Shivratri.

Jata Shankar – This is another famous cave formation resembling the locks of the Hindu god, Shiva and hence considered holy. Pilgrims as well as tourists in large number visits the cave in large number. The location and the surroundings of the cave is stunningly beautiful. This is one of the major sightseeing spot of Munnar.
Chauragarh – Chauragarh is four km from Mahadeo, it is one of Satpura’s prominent landmarks, the summit crowned with emblems of Mahadeo worship.
Dhoopgarh – It is the highest point in the Satpura mountain range (1350 mt). It is best to visit the summit at dawn or just before dusk to have a spectacular view of sunrise and sunset. The view of the morning sun rising above the glistening lake and behind the scrubby hills or the sun gliding slowly behind the hills is a spectacular sight.
Forsyth Point – Now called Priyadarshini Point, it is the place from where Panchmari was discovered by Captain Forsyth. This view point is popular among tourists and they flock in large number to get a glimpse of beautiful and picturesque Panchmari hills.
The Catholic Church and Christ Church are the two most prominent churches of Panchmari and were both built by the British. They are renowned for their architectural beauty and exquisite stained glass windows.
Camping out in Panchmari’s forests is a rare joy and an experience to cherish life-long.

How to Reach Panchmari?

By Air – Nagpur and Bhopal are the closest airports connected with regular flights from Mumbai and Delhi. From the airport buses and taxis are easily available to reach Panchmari.
By Rail – Pipariya on the Mumbai-Howrah mainline is the nearest rail station well linked to Panchmari (47 Km) by buses and taxis.
By Road – M.P. Tourism runs regular buses from Bhopal. Buses and taxis are also available from Nagpur.

Where to stay at Panchmari?

Panchmari has accommodation for every traveler.
1) The Golf View (Booking contact number – 07578-252115, 252716)
2) Hotel Pandava (Booking contact number – 07578-252380, 252381)
3) Rock End Manor (Booking contact number – 07578-252079)
4) Satpura Retreat (Booking contact number – 07578-252097)
5) Glen View Resort (Booking contact number – 07578-252533, 252445)
6) Hotel Highland (Booking contact number – 07578-252099)

Kurseong, a lesser known destination on the tourist map lies between Siliguri and Darjeeling at an altitude of 1458 mts. The rich flora of Kurseong is so fascinating that it has aptly been described as a ‘Botanists’ Paradise’. White orchids grow in plenty around Kurseong. All around Kurseong are some of the famous tea plantations, growing some of the best varieties of famous Darjeeling tea.
Peace, serenity and healthy climate of Kurseong had attracted many a great person to this place. Gurudev Rabindra Nath Tagore and the great composer Atul Prasad Sen got inspiration for some of their famous works while staying at Kurseong. Sister Nivedita, the great disciple of Swami Vivekananda made Kurseong her home. Even Mark Twain is believed to have spent some time in Kurseong in 1885. Fazul Haque, the Prime Minister of undivided Bengal also stayed here. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose was interned by the colonial Government for a couple of months in a house at Giddhapahar near Kurseong town in 1936.

Where is Kurseong?

Kurseong is in Darjeeling district of West Bengal in India. On the way of Darjeeling from Siliguri lies Kurseong.

About Kurseong

Though Kurseong lags behind in the race to become a preferred tourist destination compared to its glamorous counterpart Darjeeling, there is tranquility and peace about the place that does not fail to attract tourists, and that quest for peace and tranquility brings him back to this place again and again.
Kurseong receives heavy rain during rainy season; in fact Kurseong receives the highest amount of rainfall after Cherrapunjee in Meghalaya. Moreover such heavy rainfall is ideal for white orchids that adorn the hill-slopes of Kurseong in abundance.
Trekking from Kurseong to surrounding areas is a fascinating experience. A one day trekking route from Kurseong to Mirik via Namsu and Balasun River is organized by the Tourism Department in group.

Sightseeing in and around Kurseong?

Eagle’s Craig view point – This view point is 1 Km uphill from Kurseong Railway station seemingly perched on a cliff. Tourists flock in large number at this place to have a sweeping view of the surrounding mountains, hills, hamlets, slopes and the mighty Teesta River. The spectacular view of the unspoiled plains below is mind blowing. The place has a cafeteria, a watch tower and a flower garden. Watching sunset from here is an unforgettable experience for the tourists.

Giddapahar view point – This view point, a few kilometers from Kurseong provides a great view of mountains and is a great place for clicking photograph. The place is extremely popular among tourists.
Kettle Valley Picnic Spot – This is an ideal picnic spot in Dilaram Tea Estate on the banks of the river Rinchengtong. The place offers a rare opportunity to play in its crystal clear water of the river in the backdrop of snow-clad mountains.
Dow Hill - The Deer Park, the Forest Museum and the mini amusement park all set amid moss-laden conifers of Dowhill is worth visiting.
Grotto – The grotto houses the statue of Virgin Mary and is located in a beautiful surrounding. It is a peaceful place and peace is what one feels when there. It is frequented by young couples because it offers seclusion.
Bhangzang Salamander Lake – At a distance of 14 Km from Kurseong this beautiful green-tinged lake shelters the rarest and most endangered species of salamanders – a species under threat of extinction. The beauty of the lake and its surroundings mesmerizes every tourist.
Giddapahar Seti Mata Temple – This temple is carved out of an ancient rock and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple is considered very sacred for the Hindus.
Bagora - Also called zero point this place has the highest elevation in Kurseong. It also has a base camp of the Indian Air Force with a helipad.

Tea gardens around Kurseong are major attraction for tourists. All The finest varieties of Darjeeling Tea are found in the tea gardens surrounding Kurseong. The finest teas are produced by Castleton, Makaibari and Ambootia Tea Estate. Visitors can have a first- hand experience of how tea leaves are processed and prepared for production by visiting the nearby tea factories.

How to reach Kurseong?

By Air – Bagdogra is the nearest airport. Taxis/buses are available at the airport for transit to Kurseong which is 60 Km away.
By Rail – Siliguri, 50 km and New Jalpaiguri, 57 km are the two nearest main stations. From both this stations taxis/buses are available to reach Kurseong.
Kurseong is connected to New Jalpaiguri via toy train. The toy train takes a little over 5 hrs to reach Kurseong from New Jalpaiguri and the experience is magical.
By Road - Kurseong is well connected by all weather metal roads with Darjeeling, Siliguri, Kalimpong, Mirik, Gangtok etc.

Where to stay at Kurseong?

A number of luxury and budget hotels are available in Kurseong which provides descent accommodation facilities.
1) WBTDC’s Kurseong Tourist Lodge (Booking contact number – 0354 – 44409)
2) Hotel Amarjeet (Booking contact number – 0354 – 44678)
3) Hill Top Lodge (Booking contact number – 0354 – 2345887)
4) Kurseong Palace (Booking contact number – 0354 – 2344741)
5) Pradhan Guest House (Booking contact number – 0354 – 2344644)

Maravanthe, the seaside town sandwiched between Arabian Sea on one side and the Satuparnika River on the other, with a mountainous backdrop of Kodachadri Hills, is a perfect holiday destination. The endless golden sand, swaying palm trees, clear sky and the soothing sea of Maravanthe beach makes the tour to Maravanthe in Karnataka an out-of-the-world experience. This sea side resort is an ideal place to spend time in solitude away from the humdrum of busy city life.

Where is Maravanthe?

Maravanthe is in Udupi district of Karnataka and is about 50 Km from the town of Udupi.

About Maravanthe

The Maravanthe beach is a picturesque virgin beach with no tourists to spoil miles and miles of endless golden sand. Each and every corner of the beach is an epitome of beauty that look more like a place out of the leaves of the fairy tale books of children’s.
The most attractive feature of this place is the sunset that will leave each and every tourist spellbound. At sunset, a crimson sky and golden rays reflected both in the sea and the river convert Maravanthe into a fairyland of scenic beauty.
The water at Maravanthe beach is safe for swimming with huge but gentle tides inviting and appealing to come and play with them. Maravanthe beach is also famous for its friendliness towards water sports. Wide varieties of turtles found on the Maravanthe beach is another attraction for tourists

To experience the serenity of this picturesque virgin beach one can take a drive along the beach through NH 17 that offers a magnificent view of the Arabian Sea on one side and Satuparnika River on the other. Sailing on the waters of the River Satuparnika is another option for the tourists.

Sightseeing in and around Maravanthe

Baindur – 45 Km away from Maravanthe is the small town of Baindur which has a beautiful beach worth visiting. The virgin and unspoilt beach with golden sand is an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. The Belekal Theertha falls near the town is another spot to see here.
St. Mary’s Island – The place is just a boat ride away from Maravanthe. The beautiful volcanic rock formation here is a major tourist attraction. The virgin beach of this island is an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate in solitude with your loved ones. This spectacular island is a perfect weekend gateway and a major picnic spot for locals.

Ottanane – The place is famous for its mesmerizing surroundings and glorious sunset. The view of the setting sun from here is so spectacular that will certainly remain vivid in mind.

How to Reach Maravanthe?

By Air – Mangalore is the nearest airport. From here one can hire taxi or can pick a bus to reach the beach.
By Rail – The nearest railhead is Kundapur at a distance of about18 Km and Mangalore at a distance of about 110 Km. Take a bus or hire a taxi from here to reach the beach.
By Road – Maravanthe is 50 Km from Udupi, 110 Km from Mangalore, 275 Km from Goa and 450 Km from Bangalore. Regular bus services to. Maravanthe are available from all these above places.

Where to stay at Maravanthe?

Maravanthe, in spite of being an off-beat and newer tourist destination is not short of good hotels and resorts. Some of the better hotels and resorts are :-
Beach Resort (Booking contact number – 08254 – 45401).
Asara Holiday Home (Booking contact number – 08254 – 2745607)
Turtle Bay Water Sports & Beach Resort (Booking contact number – 08254 – 45422, 09844125712)
Sagar Kinara Beach Resort (Booking contact number – 9448724861)

The historic city of Murshidabad situated on the bank of river Bhagirathi is one of the most visited historical places of Bengal. This city of Nawabs and their splendor is a silent witness to some of those events which have changed the course of Indian history. A visit to Murshidabad takes one down the memory lane to the era of Mughal and British rule in India. This historic city holds the ruins of several mosques, monuments and palaces of the Mughal era which are the main attraction for the visitors.

Where is Murshidabad?

Murshidabad town is in the district of Murshidabad in West Bengal, and is situated on the southern bank of river Bhagirathi, a tributary of River Ganges.

About Murshidabad

Murshidabad, the last capital city of independent Bengal was named after Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, the Dewan of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa who founded the city and made it the capital of Bengal. Murshidabad has witnessed perhaps the biggest treachery and palace politics, which finally resulted in passing off of Bengal into the hands of the East India Company and ultimately to British. Murshidabad was the first capital of British India till 1772.
Murshidabad is also famous for its silk sarees which is hugely popular not only in India but around the world as well.

Sightseeing in and around Murshidabad

There are a number of monuments, mosques and palaces to visit in and Murshidabad which are the prime attraction of this historic town. Some of the major attraction of Murshidabad are :-
Hazarduari Palace – This palace with thousand doors is the chief tourist attraction of Murshidabad. The palace was constructed by Duncan McLeod of the Bengal Engineers for the Nawab in 1837. Built in European architectural style this three-storey palace has 114 rooms, 8 galleries covering a total area of 41acres. It is now a museum and has an exquisite collection of armoury, splendid paintings, exhaustive portraits of the Nawabs, various works of art including beautiful works of ivory. The other attractions are Vintage Cars and Fittan Cars used by the Nawabs and their families.

Katra Masjid - The huge and impressive Katra Mosque was built in 1724 by Nawab Murshid Quli Khan on the same lines as that of the Great Mosque at Mecca. The gorgeous building has huge domes and high minarets. The tomb of Murshid Quli Khan is also in this mosque.
Kath-Gola – This was the palace garden of Raja Dhanpat Singh Dugar and Lakshmipat Singh Dugar. The famous Adinath Temple belonging to Jainism is located here. The walls of this temple are intricately carved lending a unique a beauty to this Jain temple. The site is visited by hundreds of tourists every day.
Motijheel - Motijheel is a lake, located 3 km from Hazarduari. The lake stands in front of a beautiful three-storied palace, built by Nawab Naoajes Mohammad Khan. People believe, treasures of the Nawab are still buried in the lake. Hundreds of tourist flocks to see this wonderful lake every day.
Nasipur Palace – The palace was built by King Kirtichand Bahadur in late 19th century. Within the palace compound are the Ramachandra temple and the Lakshmi-Narayana temple. Closely situated is the Ashram of Mohandas and Jafraganj Deuri. The two cannons present here are said to be gifted to Mir Jafar by Clive.
Wasef Manzil – This palace built by Sir Wasef Ali Mirza, Nawab of Murshidabad, lies near the south gate of Hazarduari palace. The staircases made of marble and beautiful statues of this Palace are worth visiting.

Imambara – Parallel to the north face of the Hazarduari Palace, stands the Nizamat Imambara, built in 1847 AD. by Nawab Nazim Mansoor Ali Khan Feradun Jah, son of Humayun Jah. The Imambara is the largest in Bengal, and is perhaps the largest in India. Apart from being a place of worship for Muslims it is also a rime tourist attraction of Murshidabad.
Jafargang Cemetery - About half a mile from the Hazarduari Palace is Jafarganj the ruined palace of Mir Jafar. The Cemetery contains the tombs of the Nawab’s Nazim, from Mir Jafar to Humayun Jah. This cemetery was built by Mir Jafar, over an area of 3.51 acres.

How to reach Murshidabad?

By Air - The nearest airport is NSC Airport, Kolkata. Murshidabad is around 182 Km from Kolkata.
By Rail – Berhampore Court is the nearest station and is well connected Kolkata. Kolkata in also very well connected to the rest of India. It takes around 6 hours from Kolkata to reach Berhampore via rail route.
By Road – Berhampore and Kolkata are very well connected to the rest of India via roadways network. Buses ply frequently from Kolkata to Murshidabad and Behrampore.

Where to stay at Murshidabad?

A number of options for staying are available in Murshidabad, Berhampore and Lalbagh. These include luxury, budget and government owned hotels. Lodges, guest house are also available in here. Some of them are :-
Netaji Abas (Booking contact number – 0348-270033)
Hotel Manjusha (Booking contact number 0348-270321)
Hotel Indrajit (Booking contact number 0348-271858)
Hotel Anurag (Booking contact number 0348-270629)