Easy Tourist Guide

Majuli, the largest freshwater river island of South Asia is on the Brahmaputra River, in the Indian state of Assam. With a population of 1.6 Lakh, majority being tribal, Majuli has a very rich cultural heritage and has been the abode of Assamese Vaishnavaite culture. With tremendous option for spiritual and eco-tourism, the island is a bio-diversity hotspot and has a rich ecology with rare breeds of flora and fauna.

Where is Majuli?

Majuli is a sub division of the Jorhat District in Assam. It is located 20 Km off Jorhat town and is located 1100 Km from the mouth of the river Brahmaputra in Tibet.

About Majuli

Majuli is a natural & cultural heritage site with water bodies covering most of the areas. The wetland of Majuli is a hotspot for flora and fauna, harbouring many rare and endangered avifauna species including migratory birds that arrive in the winter season. Among the birds seen here are the Greater Adjutant Stork, Pelican, Siberian Crane and the Whistling Teal. Dark wild geese and ducks fly in flocks to distant destinations.

The island of Majuli was formed due to the change of course by the river Brahmaputra and its tributaries, mainly the Lohit.
The island is bounded by the river Subanisri and her tributaries Ranganadi, Dikrong, Dubla, Chici and Tuni etc. on the North West, the kherkatia Suli (a spill channel of the river Brahmaputra) in the northeast and the main Brahmaputra River on the South and the South west.
Majuli being the cultural capital and the cradle of Assamese civilization for the past five hundred years, is presently undergoing scrutiny and consideration for declaring it as World Heritage site as Cultural landscape by UNESCO.

In and around Majuli

The pollution free environment and the vastness of the island is perhaps the main attraction.

Satras or gurukuls are the famous Vaishnav monasteries in Assam and are favourite among tourist. There are twenty-two Satras in Majuli, with collections of Assamese pottery, handicrafts and prayer horns. They are very closely associated with Assamese culture, dance, art and music. One should try to visit as many Satras as possible as each one of them is unique in its design and all of them have very interesting tales from history to their credit.

Pottery made in Majuli from beaten clay and burnt in driftwood fired kilns in the same mode carried out by the peoples of the ancient Harrappan Civilisation is unique of its kind and admired by the tourists coming from around the world.

How to reach Majuli?

The island of Majuli is separated from the mainland of Assam by 2.5 Km. It is approached from Neemati Ghat in Jorhat district by ferry, which is on the south of the island, and Kamalabari in Majuli is where one lands. From Jorhat, Neemati Ghat is only 14 Km.
By Air - Jorhat is the nearest airport and is well connected with flights via Guwahati and Kolkata from different metros of the country.
By Train - Jorhat is the nearest railhead and is well connected by train from Guwahati via Mariani Jn.
By Road - From Guwahati Jorhat is seven hour bus ride. Night services are also available.

Where to stay at Majuli?

Majuli does not have a developed infrastructure for tourism. There is one hotel.
Some Satras have guestrooms. If you write in advance, they would certainly be available. The Satras that have such facilities are Natun Kamalabari, Uttar Kamalabari, Auniati, Bhogpur and Dakhinpat
In addition to the Satra facilities, there are Inspection Bungalows at some points on the island (the one at Kamalabari is well located), and a Circuit House at Garamur, which is the sub-divisional headquarters. For the Inspection Bungalows and Circuit House, you could write to the Sub-Divisional Officer, Garamur, Majuli, Assam.
For assistance one can contact at :-
1. Directorate Assam Tourism, Guwahati: (0361)- 2542748 2547102 Dy Dir 2544475 (Tourist information officer)
2. Assam Tourism Development Corporation, Guwahati: (0361)- 2454570, 2454421, 2457117, 2609182
3. Majuli: +91-3775-274440 (Jiten Deka, Secy, MIPADC Majuli Unit

Tarkarli beach, situated on the west coast of India along the Arabian sea is still one of the virgin beaches of Maharashtra which has not yet been swept by tourists.. Far away from the humdrum of the city life, the beach of Tarkarli presents the perfect destination for all those weary hearts who wish to relax and rejuvenate. Located at the convergence of the Karli River and the Arabian sea the place has gained prominence because of its transparently clear seas and the MTDC Resort which has started in recent years.

Where is Tarkarli?

Tarkarli beach is in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, India. It is situated 6 Km south of Malvan 160 Km from Kolhapur and 546 Km from Mumbai.

About Tarkarli

The major attraction of Tarkarli is the long and narrow stretch of white sand that seems to run forever, emerald green pristine waters and a line of casuarina trees in the backdrop which seems to hide the beach from outside world. In fact, the water is so clear that on a fairly sunny day, one can clearly see the sea-bed upto 20 feet of depth. Adding to the beauty of the Tarkarli beach are the Shuru trees, which provide the green background to the white beach sands.

The wide river, the beautiful sailboats and the tiny wonderful islands hamlets situated on the river bank, adds to the beauty of Tarkarli making it one of the best beaches of India according to the London Sunday Times magazine.

In and around Tarkarli

When at Tarkarli do not forget to visit the forts of Sindhudurg and Padmagarh. Fort Sindhudurg is one of Maharashtra’s more popular and important sea fort, built in the 17th century by the great Marathi ruler Shivaji.
There is a coral reef located in the outskirts of this island of Sindhudurg which is an added attraction. Scuba diving and snorkeling is popular here to witness the corals.

For adventure water sports lovers, snorkeling and scuba diving facilities are also available at Tarkarli. For novice, well-trained snorkeling guides will guide snorkeling trip ensuring safety and make it sure that one can have the first and finest ever experience of marine life.
While at Tarkarli, do make a point to taste special Malvani food like Kombadi Vada and variety of fish items.

How to reach Tarkarli?

By Air - Nearest airport is Dabolin (Goa) at a distance of 190 Km. One can also come down at the Mumbai airport.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Kudal, 45 kms, on Konkan Railway.
By Road - State Transport buses ply from Mumbai, Kolhapur, Pune to Malvan and from Malvan to Tarkarli. Rickshaws are also available from Malvan.

Where to stay at Tarkarli?

The newly built MTDC Cottages built in Konkani style are ready to provide comfortable accommodation and recreation facilities. MTDC has even made houseboat facility at Tarkarli. Two houseboats, namely, Hiranyakeshi (a deluxe houseboat) and Karli (a standard houseboat) are at the service of discerning traveler. These fully equipped luxury boats have the Hi-tech equipment and all luxurious amenities on board.
For more details and booking contact at 02365-254243.
Staying at Swati Tent Resort is another very good option. For booking contact at 09320747798

Anantagiri is a breathtakingly beautiful hill station of South India near Vishakhapatnam (Vizag). Perched at an altitude of 3100 ft, Anantagiri is an ideal summer holiday destination, where lush green hills dotted with waterfalls and gorges unfolds stunning viewpoints. Among the three hill stations of Andhra Pradesh, Anantagiri hills are extremely popular among tourists.

Where is Anantagiri?

Anantagiri is in the Vishakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh and is about 60 Km from the city of Vishakhapatnam.

About Anantagiri

Anantagiri, located along the lush undulating ranges of the Eastern Ghat is an ideal retreat for nature lovers and honeymooning couples. Though Anantagiri is considered to be a ideal summer holiday destination, but the place is amazingly vibrant in the rains as well because this is when the green belt is vivid in color and the waterfalls are in their full resplendent glory.

Emerald green forest, twittering of birds and gushing of playful waterfall gives a heavenly look to this beautiful hill station of Andhra Pradesh. Driving through the coffee plantation enjoying gushing of waterfall from the mountains gives the unique charm of exhilarating beauty of the place.
Moreover, the drive from the city of Vizag to Anantagiri presents some cherishable scenes, ranging from mango groves and coffee plantation to dense forests.

In and Around Anantagiri

Lord Ananta Padhmanabha Swamy temple built centuries ago by a Muslim king is a must visit for every tourist as it bears the testimony of our rich cultural heritage and brotherhood among Muslim and Hindu.

The trekking trips organized by the resort of Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) are enjoyable and a must for every tourist.
Katiki waterfalls and the Tatiguda waterfalls add to the cascading beauty of the place. During monsoon these two waterfall gushes downward with full glory. Both of them are among the must visit sites of Anantagiri.

How to Teach Anantagiri?

By Air – Vishakhapatnam is the nearest airport. From here one can hire car to reach Anantagiri at a distance of 60 Km.
By Rail - The nearest railhead is Srikakulam at a distance of 3 Km.
By Road – APSRTC, State transport buses plying from RTC Bus Depot at Asilmetta junction in Vizag are available. One can also hire private car.

Where to Stay?

Anantagiri Hill Resort (+91 8936 231888)
Haritha Hill Resort.

Alampur, near Hyderabad is known as the Dakshina Kailasam and home to nine Nava Brahma temples dedicated to Lord Shiva built by the Badami Chalukyas about 200 years ago. The holy city of Alampur located at the confluence of Tungabhadra and Krishna River is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites of India. This place preserves numerous archaeological remains in the form of the temples, which represents a crossbred of architectural style.

Where is Alampur?

Alampur is in Mahbubnagar district, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is located at about 90 KM from Mahabubnagar, 27 km From Kurnool and 200 km from Hyderabad.

About Alampur

Alampur, one of the most sacred places of worship in South India is believed to be the place where the beauty of the earth is concentrated on that bend where the Tungabhadra rushes on to its sangam with that Krishna. The aesthetic pleasure of the striking landscape of Alampur is believed to have fused with the spirits in the shrines where the morning and evening prayers rang to the sound of bells to awaken the deities.

This ancient temple of Alampur built in a Dravidian style has fort like walls, towers and a rich endowment of sculptural work. It is even regarded as one of the finest specimens of Chalukyan architecture.

In and Around Alampur

The Nava Brahma temples are the main attraction of Alampur. The nine Nava Brahma temples enclosed within a miniature fortress on the left bank of Tungabhadra River are, – Taraka Bhramma, Swarga Bhramma, Padma Bhramma, Bala Bhramma, Garuda Bhramma, Kumara Bhramma, Arka Bhramma, Vira Bhramma and the Vishwa Bhramma. All of these temples though dedicated to Lord Shiva are markedly different from each other in their architectural style. The brilliance of the artists who carved the sculptures of these temples is indeed commendable.
Also in the enclosed courtyard is located the Suryanarayana temple, dating back to the 9th century. This temple has reliefs representing the incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

There is also a Narasimha temple with inscriptions from the period of Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire.
Near Alampur, is Papanasam with a cluster of over 20 temples of varying sizes and styles. The most important of these is the Papanaseswara temple.
To the west of Alampur lies Sree Sailam, which is regarded as one of the greatest Saivite shrines in the Indian subcontinent and constitutes one of the 12 Jyotirlingam shrines of Lord Shiva.

How to Reach Alampur?

By Air - Hyderabad is the nearest airport where both domestic and international planes land. From the airport one can hire private car to reach Alampur.
By Rail - Kurnool is the nearest railway station from where regular bus services are available to reach Alampur.
By Road – Alampur is well connected with other towns by regular bus services.

Where to Stay?

Though the place is ideal as a day long weekend tour yet there are a number of good budget hotels available.
The Mourya Inn (8518) – 224999
Hotel S.V. Regency (08518 – 248212).
Haritha Hotel (08514-284516).
Hotel Rajshri (08512-253304).

Malpe, near Udupi in Karnataka is an ideal holiday destination with its virgin beach, endless stretch of golden sand, graciously swaying palm trees, clear blue sky and the gentle gurgle of the sea. The pristine beauty of the Malpe beach is complemented by peaceful surroundings; which makes it a favourite holiday spot for pure holidaying and relaxing among tourists from in and around the world.

Where is Malpe?

Malpe is just 6 Km to the west of the holy town of Udupi in Karnataka.

About Malpe

Malpe, a natural port situated at the mouth of the Udyavara River (also known as Malpe River), is an important fishing centre that enriches Karnataka’s coastline with its fabulous beach.
The beach of Malpe is well known for its sandy land circled with palm trees that are a delight to every eye. The sea water full of mild waves, are ideal for swimming and other water sports. One can entertain oneself at Malpe beach in Karnataka by swimming in the waters or retiring on the warm sand or taking a sun bath. Facilities of water sports is another major tourist attraction.
The port of Malpe is strategically located and is one of the busiest port of Karnataka. A visit to this port can be undertaken after obtaining requisite permission. The experience will be a resounding one, enriching our never ending quench of knowldge.

While doing all these, do not forget to pamper the taste buds with some mouth watering local cuisines at the stalls that stand on the Malpe Beach.
Close to the mainland of Malpe are four rocky islands:
(1) Daria-Bahadurgad is the northernmost island
(2) Kari-Illada-Kallu is the southernmost island
(3) Daria-Gadara-Kalluthe is situated in between the above mentioned two islands.
(4) The fourth one is St. Mary’s Island, also called (Thonse paar)

In and Around Malpe

Vadabhandeshwara temple enshrines the idol of Balarama.
St Mary’s island is a delightful get away spot right across Malpe. The speed boat trip from Maple to St Mary isles is really a thrilling experience. The beach here is ideal for honeymoon couples who want to spend time in solitude with each other.
The fort on the island of Daria-Bahadurgad, off the shores of Malpe, is said to have been built by Basavappa Nayaka of Bidanur and is a must visit for every tourist.

The temple of Anantheswara is another destination nearby where tourists as well as pilgrims flock round the year.

How to Reach Malpe?

By Air – The nearest airport is Mangalore which is 60 Km from Malpe.
By Rail – The nearest railhead is Udupi, which is about 4 km from Malpe. Mangalore is another nearest railhead and falls on the main railway network.
By Road - Malpe is well connected by road with Udupi and with other parts of the state with good network of roads.

Where to Stay?

Hotel Sunshine (0824-2522656, 0824-2523838).
Hotel Karthik (0820-537887).
Hotel Sharada International (2521968, 2522912).
Paradise Isle Beach Resort (2537300, 2538035).

Varkala, a small hamlet town north of Thiruvananthapuram is an important religious destination, which has also grown into a popular seaside resort over the years. It has a beautiful beach facing the Arabian Sea, but what is more unique are the steep cliffs rising from the beach with unique geological formations and natural springs. The mineral rich waters are used for spa treatments and this small unexplored destination has been attracting many tourists, including foreigners, for a mix of beach relaxation and natural therapies.

Where is Varkala?

Varkala is in the Indian state of Kerala and is about 50 Km north of Thiruvananthapuram.

About Varkala

Varkala often referred to as “Dakshin Kashi” has grown into a popular beach resort in recent time. Varkala beach is a quiet sea resort rich in mineral water springs. A dip in the holy waters at this beach is believed to purge the body of impurities and the soul of all sins. Shining white sands, cloudless skies touching the blue water, the red soil of the hilltop, coupled with yellow-green paddy fields, and green coconut trees, make such a composite picture of beauty which will touch the heart of every visitor.
Taking a bath in the bubbling waters of the hot springs, the sulphurous waters of which bring relief to a number of ailments related to the skin and musculo-skeletal structures rejuvenate and revitalize tired and ageing bodies, providing a respite from the ageing process.

The mineral rich waters are used for spa treatments and this small unexplored destination has been attracting many tourists, including foreigners, for a mix of beach relaxation and natural therapies.
What is more unique about the Varkala beach is the steep cliffs rising from the beach with unique geological formations and natural springs, known as the Varkala Formation.

In and Around Varkala

Sivagiri mutt - It is the samadhi (memorial) of Shri Narayana Guru, spiritual leader and social reformer of Kerala. A man much ahead of his times, he propagated the idea of one caste, one religion, and one God.

Sree Janardan Swamy temple - 2000 year old Janardan swami temple is an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India. According to legend the temple was built by a king of the Pandyan dynasty who was instructed by the Lord Brahma to construct the Janardan Temple to relieve the king of his sins.
Anjengo fort – The Dutch East India Company built a strategic Garrison called Anjengo fort near Varkala Beach. This fort seemed to have played a very important role in their military strategy during the 17th and 18th centuries.

How to reach Varkala?

By Air - Thiruvananthapuram international airport is the nearest airport and is just 57 km away.
By Rail - The railway station of Varkala is just 3 Km from the beach.
By Road - Varkala is just 50 Km from Thiruvananthapuram and 37 km from Kollam. It is just 11 Km off NH-47, which runs from Salem to Kanyakumari. A number of buses connect Varkala with the rest of the state.

Where to stay at Varkala?

Varkala has numerous accommodation facilities, ranging from luxury to budget category. The ‘cliff-top’ at Varkala is where most of the hotels & restaurants are located, over looking the Arabian Sea. Some of them are:-
Preeth beach resort (0470-2600942 / 2602341)
Karthika plaza tourist resort (909946388654, 04702992432).
Hindustan beach resort (04702604254).

Bhimbetka, a natural art gallery and an architectural treasure in Madhya Pradesh is a recognized UNESCO World Heritage site and is one such destination that offers a trip down the history with a slice of natural beauty. With more than 600 rock shelters, Bhimbetka spells awe and wonder in the heart and mind of every traveler. This place of historical importance has become one of the most visited places of Madhya Pradesh.

Where is Bhimbetka?

Bhimbetka lie in the Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh and is just 47 km south of the
capital city of Bhopal.

About Bhimbetka

Hidden in the midst of thick vegetation and dense forest, these caves were accidentally
discovered and revealed by an archeologist, Mr. V.S Wakankar (considered as the father of
rock art in India) of the Vikram University, Ujjain in 1957.
The word Bhimbetka is said to derive from Bhimbaithka, meaning sitting place of Bhima, a
hero-deity of Mahabharata, renowned for his immense strength.
The site of Bhimbetka rock shelter spreads over a length of 10 Km and a width of about 3 Km.

There are more than 600 rock shelters, of which over 400 have paintings yet only 12 are open for tourists at the moment, but they shows the best paintings that are there in all other caves. The walls of these caves are literally the unspoken story of our ancestors who once walked on this land. Its Stone Age rock paintings are approximately 9000 year old; making them among the world’s oldest. Of particular interest to the tourist are the Auditorium Rock Shelter, Zoo Rock and Boar Rock in Bhimbetka Cluster. It is a virtual pre-historic panorama of India, filled with hunting and battle scenes and all kinds of animals such as deer, buffalos, rhinoceros, bears, tigers along with vivid depiction of daily routine activities.

Besides the cave paintings, various stone tools and many other historic structures have also
been discovered.
The superimposition of paintings shows that the same canvas was used by different people at different times. The drawing and paintings is be classified under seven different periods :-
Period 1 (Upper Paleolithic), Period 2 (Mesolithic), Period 3 (Chaleolithic), Period 4 and 5 (Earlier history) and period 6 and 7 (Medieval).

How to Reach Bhimbetka?

By Air - The nearest airport is Bhopal (45Km). From the airport one can hire private cars to
reach Bhimbetka.
By Rail - The closest rail head is Bhopal, located on the Delhi-Chennai and Delhi-Mumbai
mainline. Bhimbetka is connected with Bhopal by bus. One can also opt for taxi or private cars.
By Road – Regular bus services connect Bhimbetka with Bhopal.

Where to Stay?

Though there are quite a number of hotels in Bhimbetka, yet it is ideal to stay at Bhopal and visit Bhimbetka on a day-long excursion trip. Some of the most well known hotels of Bhopal are :-
Hotel Lake Prince (9826396986)
Hotel Amar Palace (07553918110)
Hotel Arch Manoor (07552577771)
G.K.Palace Hotel (07552577713)
Hotel Amber (07554259701)
Hotel Lake View Ashoka (07552660096)

Nahan – an off-beat tourist destination is a well planned picturesque town, situated on a lonely ridge right atop the stunning Shiwalik Hills overlooking greenfields below. The amazing beauty of Nahan conquers the hearts of every tourist the very moment one steps into its realm. Verdant green woodlands, towering mountain ranges, perfectly carved river valleys and forceful blessings of Mother Nature at every step make Nahan a unique tourist destination.

Where is Nahan?

Nahan is located in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh in India, and is 90 km from Chandigarh.

About Nahan

Nahan is a small hill station in the unknown south Himachal area at an altitude of 932 m. Nahan presents an all weather option of visit and enjoyment because the climate throughout the year is pleasant.
Apart from a host of beautiful natural picnic spots Nahan town and its picturesque surroundings are sure to mesmerize any tourists with its uncharted forest routes and soothing greenery. The town of Nahan presents a laid back attitude having green fields, dust-free atmosphere and clean roads.
The gentle level walks of Villa Round, Military Round and Hospital Round evokes an inner feeling about the city’s past.

In and Around Nahan

Rani Tal at the center of the town with a water tank, a temple and a garden is worth visiting for every tourist.
Trilokpur temple situated at a distance of 23 km from Nahan is a place of great religious importance. The temple of the goddess Mahamaya Bala Sundri is very famous and attracts lakhs of pilgrims from all over northern India. A fair is held twice a year during the Navratras in April and October when a large number of devotees visit this temple and pay their respects to the goddess.
Suketi Fossil Park, also known as Shivalik Fossil Park, at a distance of 21 km from Nahan, displays life-size fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) models of pre-historic animals whose fossil skeletons were unearthed here.

Dhaula Kuan, 20 km from Nahan is worth visiting to see a sprawling orchard consisting of citrus plants and mangoes and a fruit canning factory of various kinds of juices, jams, pickles and canned fruits.
Kastasan Devi temple, a little away from Dhaula Kuan is  built by Raja Jagat Singh to commemorate his victory over the advancing army of Rulam Quadir Rohilla.

How to Reach Nahan?

By Air – The nearest airport is Chandigarh, with Dehradun as an option.
By Rail - The nearest railway stations are Ambala, Chandigarh and Kalka, which are connected by a regular bus service. Yamunanagar is another rail station close to the town.
By Road - Nahan is approachable from many directions by road. There are regular bus services linking it to the other towns like Shimla, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Delhi and Haridwar.

Where to Stay?

Black Mango Resort (1702) – 238562 , 238582
Hotel Natraj (09816979666)
City Heart Hotel (09418004024)
Sirmour Retreat (09313002006, 09313202006)