Enjoy Desert Festival at Runn Utsav with Gujarat Tourism

In the months of December till February the area of Kutchh in Gujarat is altered into probably one of the lovliest and most vibrant attractions in the country when on the full moon night in the month of December the ‘Festival of Rann of Kutch’ conquer starts getting together the varied features of the tradition and customs of this exclusive regionalal wonder of the Kutchh district of Gujarat. Gujarat has appeared as one of the preferred locations of tourists in India among both domestic as well as overseas tourists.

The ‘Vibrant Gujarat’ has been able to attract tourists of all age and choices with anything to offer to everybody. The Rann Utsav is one of the marquee activities of the Gujarat government under the tutelage of its Vibrant Gujarat strategy which seeks to bring forth through this festival beauty and culture of the region of Kutchh to the entire world. The festivals takes place in one of the most diverse and exclusive landscape in the world, the Rann of Kutchh, where one can feel the unlimited and be captivated and anxious by the grandness of the scenery.

The people today of the Kutchh are full of dance, music, color, art and pleasure with a genuinely nice individual nature that is introduced forth in the social relationships in the festival. The event takes off on the full moon night of the month of December and remains for over two months till the month of February providing a magnificent treat of the local folk dance, music, handicrafts, art and the prospect to experience the raw beauty of the nearby area of Kutchh. The festivals start in the city of Bhuj, the funds of the region of Kutchh, goes around the area before finally concluding at Bhuj in a grand finale. The event sees more than 8000 visitors arrive at the city of Bhuj to experience this great scene of the Kutch culture and the interesting sites of the nearby area.

One of the most effective in which one can expertise the Rann Utsav is through staying in the excellent heritage and homestay accommodations in Gujarat. The location of Kutch is very famous for some heritage properties which provide a great homely experience laced with the best of facilities. Along with heritage properties, Gujarat Tourism has tried to promote homestays in the region which provide perhaps a unique way of experiencing Kutchh.

A stay at a homestay allows one to absorb the culture, better understand it and understand the people of the region as well as explore the great destinations near the festival area such as Kalo Dungar, Mandvi and the Great Rann of Kutchh itself. The Rann Utsav is the area to be at this winter season with the event pegged to be larger and much better than all its previous features.

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A Paradise in the Hills, Idukki in Kerala

Idukki in Kerala is one the places that truly justify the tag of 'God's Own Country', it is the second largest region in the state. More than 97% of Idukki comprises of hills and woods, which is why the location is key to all those looking to see the ideal of what nature has to offer. With so much natural cover, it comes as little surprise that many destinations in the position are all organic wonders! Situated among the Western Ghats, Idukki is home to some of the most well-known hill stations in South India such as Devikulam, Anamudi, Munnar. The largest peak in the Western Ghats, Anamudi also offers excellent trekking opportunities. The district abounds with nature's treasures, and has many attractions from wildlife sanctuaries to numerous waterfalls. A trip to this captivating place is highly recommended and provides a stark relief from city life. Here are some of the locations you must visit in Idukki. Our travel information highlights the key sightseeing destination in the district.

Anamudi

At an elevation of 8,842 ft, the Anamudi or Anaimudi is the greatest peak in South India and is a part of the Western Ghats. This peak resembling an elephant's forehead is also popular for trekking opportunities. Situated close to the Eravikulam National Park, travellers can traverse the easier trails on the north and south faces. The amazing views makes Anamudi a must-visit place in Idukki.

Mattupetty

Dam is a scenic location that attracts tourists. It is especially crowded during peak season, the views of the surrounding areas are beautiful from the dam point. Boating facilities are also available. The dam is a prominent source of hydroelectricity. It is also notable for the variety of fauna and flora see on the periphery of the dam including wild elephants.

Devikulam

The wonderful town of Devikulam is another place to visit in Idukki. Situated close to Munnar, this lovely hill station offers the best of nature from vast tea estates to rubber tree plantations and lakes. The place is named after the legend that states Goddess Sita took bath in the waters of Devikulam lake, and so got the name Sita Devi Lake. The waters of the lake are even believed to have medicinal properties.

Thomman Kuthu

Waterfalls Among the popular tourist attractions in Idukki is the Thomman Kuthu Waterfalls. The scenic fall looks like a fantasy of nature that came true. Discovered only in the late 1920s, the beautiful waterfall has also attracted filmmakers to shoot here. Located inside the jungle, the waterfall consists of seven steps. If you are done enjoying the pristine waters, you can also indulge in trekking through the forest.

Thoovanam Waterfalls

An excuse to drive through the scenic trails of Idukki is presented by the spectacular Thoovam Waterfalls, located in the Chinnar reserve. The waterfall is formed by the river Pambar that flows through the reserve. The guided trek into the forest is an unforgettable experience and arriving at the heavy cascade of the waterfalls will be a moment to remember. This rare experience to the depths of unspoilt nature makes Thoovanam integral to tourism in Idukki.

Keezharkuth

Waterfalls This beautiful waterfall which has multiple streams cascading across the rock face from a height of 4,921 ft is definitely a must-visit place in Idukki. Located at a distance of 25 km from Thondupuzha in Idukki, it is also known as Rainbow Waterfalls. Surrounded by rich forests, the place is an ideal haunt for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The place also offers activities like hiking, trekking and rock-climbing.

Madammakkulam

Waterfalls A dreamy location, where the cascading waterfalls meets a natural pond, surrounded by lush forests. The Madammakkulam waterfalls deep in the woods used to be a favourite spot of the British planters and even got its name from a British lady who used to visit the place often! The many such attractive waterfalls seen all across the region of Idukki is vital to its dynamics and eco-tourism.

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Best Destinations to Visit in South India in This Month

The land of beautifully sculpted temples, mysterious forests, abundant rivers, postcard views, vibrant culture and exotic food. South India has very much to present the exploring traveler. In the rainy season, the rich plants of the south looks even more beautiful and more scenic, the highways delivering unmemorable drives and the destinations attracting people to come rejuvenate and relax. If you fancy an idyllic vacation in the lap of nature as you enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee on mornings, interesting walks into the forests, fantastic sightings of wild-animals and the magical experience of fireflies in the dark, here are some hand-picked locations, just for you. South India in the monsoon season has a lot to offer, while we protected some of the places you must visit in this mansoon, here are some other wonderful monsoon locations that you can visit in this month.

Yercaud

A amazing holiday to the charming hill station Yercaud situated in Tamil Nadu, begins at the beautiful drive to the place. In Yercaud, enjoy the picturesque vistas that only becomes more beautiful during the monsoons. Head out to the Killiyur Falls, Yercaud Lake, Lady's Seat and Pagoda viewpoints. Also explore some activities such as boating, photography and trekking. The numerous nature and spectacular views makes Yercaud one of the best places to visit in South India in This month

Pollachi

Pollachi located at a distance of 40 km from Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu is the best location to visit in South India in this month. Situated close to the Western Ghats, the town is an important centre for agricultural produce. This also means you can see many coconut farms, rice fields and other plantations. At short distances of lesser than 100 km from Pollachi, you can visit popular location such as Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Top Slip, Amaravathy Dam, Thirumoorthy Hills and Crocodile Park etc. Pollachi is also popular for temples; Arivu Thirukoil and Arulmigu Subramanyar Thirukoil Temple

Kodaikanal

The most famous hill station in Tamil Nadu is also one of the best tourist spot to visit in South India in this month. At an height of nearly 7000 ft, Kodaikanal features of cool temperatures. You will be enthralled by the grassy meadows, the rays of sun light that have difficulty to enter through the huge eucalyptus trees, picturesque lakes and more. There is much to see in and around Kodaikanal, you can start with the Pillar Rocks, Berijam Lake, Silver Cascade, Pine Forest, Dolphin's Nose, Coaker's Walk, Bear Shola Falls etc. Also, don't skip out on trying the home-made chocolates here.

Idukki

Idukki has a great deal to present all nature lovers and those looking to get away the chaos of city life. Largely wooded valleys with a backdrop of steep hills and flowing rivers makes Idukki one of the best places to visit in South India in this month. There are many places to visit in and around Idukki, such as the Idukki Arch Dam, Wildlife Sanctuary, Hill View Park, Nadukani, Ramakkal, Anayirankal Dam, Kalvari Mount, etc. Enjoy scenic drives, wildlife photography, boating, picnics and numerous activities here.

Kollam

One of the best tourist destinations to visit in South India in this month is Kollam in Kerala. Those who want to escape to a place with waterscapes and scenic beauty must visit Kollam. It has plenty of backwaters besides the beach. Located close to the Ashtamudi lake, Pick your places that you want to visit such as Thirumullavaram Beach, Palaruvi Falls, Munroe island, Sasthamkotta Lake, etc

Thekkady

In this Mansoon, Thekkady is the top place to visit in South India. The wonderful place that consists of spice plantations and national reserves set against a backdrop of hills is great to for activities like trekking and mountain walks. The scenic place will relax and revitalize your senses. Visit the Murikkady, Periyar Lake, Periyar Tiger Reserve, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Anakkara and Chellar Kovil.

Coorg

Set coffee plantations and amidst pepper, the postcard town of Coorg is another famous hill station in Karnataka. People from the world over come to visits Coorg to enjoy the brilliant nature and the stimulating coffee experience. There are many tourist attractio destinations to explore if you have the will to leave your pleasant stay at the wonderful coffee estate home-stays. Discover places such as Abbey Falls, Nisargadhama, Madikeri Palace, Madikeri Fort, Gaddige, Raja's Seat, etc.

Vizag

The wonderful beach city of Visakhapatnam or Vizag in the state of Andhra Pradesh is one of the top locations to visit in the monsoons in South India. The picturesque views from the beach and other local destination such as Visakha Museum, Indira Gandhi Park, Submarine Museum and even beautiful temples, will make the trip here memorable.

Araku Valley

Make a memorable trip to the nearby Araku Valley. Among the best tourist destination in South India in this month, the lush green valleys and other points of interest such as the Chaparai waterfalls, Borra Caves, Katiki falls, Galikondu viewpoint, etc., make the trip here a must during the monsoon season.

Kudremukh

A very stunning location in Karnataka, Kudremukh has so much to offer an avid visitor. Grassy valleys that seem too magical to be true, hill ranges of varying colours, rolling grasslands and waterfalls, make Kudremukh one of the best places to travel in South India in this month. Explore attractions that come alive during the monsoons such as the Lakya Dam, Kadambi Falls, trekking across Gangamoola, Kudremukh National Park, etc.

Poovar

Poovar in Kerala is where the waters from the sea, lake, and river meet. Poovar in the past used to be the trading centre for spices, sandalwood, timber and ivory. Today it is one of the popular picturesque locations in Kerala. One of the few beach locations in the country to retain its pristine charm, the place has not yet been found by professional tourism. Explore the golden beaches, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, and the birthplace of a unique sort of martial arts.

Sirsi

Sirsi located in the heart of the Western Ghats in Karnataka is enclosed by thick forests and is the land of many spectacular waterfalls. Explore beyond what nature has to offer at Sirsi; look at local attractions such as the temples including the Sahasralinga, M
adhukeshwara and Sri Vadiraja Matha. Enjoy the rejuvenating waters at Unchalli Falls and don't miss the excellent rock formations at Yana, located at a distance of 40 km from Sirsi.

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Explore Tourist Destinations in India - India Tourism

Out of the many possible tourist destinations, few are able to compare to the delights of India. From the attractions, to the people, and even the smells, India is a wide rich land waiting to beguile visitors who value beauty. Though the country of India is known the world over for its fascinating culture and delightful cuisine, many outsiders may feel anxious by the sheer size and diversity of this magical land. Here are some of the best spots to get the most out of your trip


1. Delhi
Delhi is one of the most important tourist destination to visit in India. Providing as India’s capital city, Delhi is perfect for offering a broad features of the country’s many impacts. Museums and historical monuments are numerous in India, and safe for tourists to visit. The incredible age of this impressive city is plainly evident in variety of architecture.

2. GoaThe influences of Goa’s colonial past can be seen in the many different types of spiritual buildings. Awe motivating Hindu temples are only a relatively short taxi ride away from ancient Christian churches, serving as a regular reminder of the region’s dense history. But what draws the immense crowds here are the amazing parties.

3. Kolkata
To really get a sense of the beauty of India consider a journey through Kolkata, The heart of West Bengal. Calcutta is most wonderful darkness of its former wonder. When in Calcutta, be sure to take advantage of the close proximity to the many national parks and beaches in West Bengali. With six different parks, a Tourist is exposed to the stunning variety of natural sites.

4. Tamil Nadu
Tourists, healers, and other caregivers head to this unique land. There are over 34,000 temples in this extraordinary place. Located near the southern most end of India, Tamil Nadu is nearby to many scenic views of the Indian Ocean. Also based nearby is a spot popular with tourists, the ancient wooden fortress of Padmanabapuram’s Palace here.

5. Punjab
The modern advantages of Punjab have recognized itself from other parts of India, making this cozy heaven for more than 100,000+ guests of the city. Aside from its efficient communication transportation networks, Pujab is located quite near to conventional housing regions which shows unique designs to the district.

6. Mumbai

Mumbai has it all, Genuinely a city for the  world, From Scuba divingto Bollywood, breathtaking Shrines to World class Cuisine, Mumbai genuinely has something for everyone.

7. Kerala
Almost the reflect opposite of Mumbai, The state of Kerala is one of the world’s best kept secrets. Located along the Malabar coast, this tropical heaven is known for untouched beaches and a healthy respect for nature. Historical Forts, nature sanctuaries, and a collection of hill stations provide plenty of adventure                                                               

8. Karnataka
If any single region in India can show how tremendous the country truly is, it would be Karnataka. Though not as popular as some other Indian destinations, Karnataka still has its decent share of important shrines and historic sites. Makes for a great get away for visitors wanting to travel, but not wanting to contend with busy sites. The waterfalls in the region are some of the preeminent falls in Asia.            

 

9. Haryana

Regarded by many to be the support of the Hindu society, the sites within Haryana are home to intensely celebrated pilgrimages. The most well known of the pilgrimage sites is Jyotisar, original site of Bhagwad Gita creation.
 

10. Uttar Pradesh
Home to the world famous Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh. It is quite properly regarded the heart of India. This place is fascinated by the Ganges river, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers. This land figures prominently in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. The world’s most ancient dances and recipes would have been created years 1000's years ago here

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Top Waterfalls in India You Must to See This Monsoon

5 waterfalls in India you need to see this monsoon

There's something exciting about facing a waterfall flowing down from a height: you stand on the edge, hesitating before finally taking a deep breath and dipping yourself under the torrent. The apprehensiveness is easily replaced by a rush of adrenaline and you emerge breathless, but undaunted, grinning ear to ear. And even for those who choose to stay dry, a picnic by a waterfall—with the roar of the water in the background, fine spray in the air—is one of the most immersive ways to experience the outdoors. And there's no better time to do that than when the rivers are deluged by the monsoon rains. While there's no dearth of waterfalls to seek out, here are five waterfalls in India to gush about.



1 NATURAL WONDERS, KARNATAKA

Jog Falls

Hidden within the thick forests in Sagara (Karnataka), the Jog Falls are created by the Sharavathi River tumbling over four breathtaking cascades—Raja, Rani, Rover and Rocket—which combine to form a grand waterfall.



2 NATURAL WONDERS, GOA

Dudhsagar Falls

Locals say that Goa is never more attractive than when it rains. Far from the beaches and tourist hotspots, the forested hinterland of the State literally comes alive during the monsoon.



3 NATURAL WONDERS, KERALA

Athirappilly Falls

Nicknamed ‘The Niagara of India,’ for a reason, the Athirappilly Falls in Thrissur (Kerala) are a sight to behold for their panoramic stretch—a 330-foot wide span.



4 NATURAL WONDERS, CHHATTISGARH

Chitrakoot Falls

Possibly the most majestic waterfall in the country, the Chitrakoot Falls span a prodigious 520-feet across a horseshoe-shaped cliff from where the muddy waters hurtle down close to a 100 feet.



5 NATURAL WONDERS, TAMIL NADU

Hogenakkal Falls

Experiences like coracle rides (round wickerwork boats called parisals by the locals) and medicinal baths make Hogenakkal Falls literally a much more immersive experience than other large waterfalls in the country.

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Amazing Bridges You Must Cross in India

India’s rivers and seas are home to so many amazing bridges that are specimens of architectural and great engineering. Attracting travellers and daily commuters in equal measure, These road bridges not only linked far-flung places or ease traffic in Metro cities, but also make for great photo-ops. So pull out your cameras and get ready for some high-on-adventure rides on these engineering masterpieces across the Nation.

Bandra-Worli Sea Link, Mumbai

Opened in 2009, the 5.6 km-long bridge is India’s answer to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge and the country’s longest bridge over water.Race the winds as you drive under the stunning silver cone cables of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and gaze at the stunning sunsets of Arabian Sea.  Illuminated beautifully at night, the bridge sparkles on Mumbai’s skyline after sun down and is among the city’s most enthralling sights.

Howrah Bridge, Kolkata

One of the most famous landmarks of the City of Joy, the Howrah Bridge is a engineering wonder that carries more than 100,000 vehicles and over 150,000 pedestrians each day. Constructed on the waters of Bay of Bengal, the bridge was built without any nuts and bolts. The architectural marvel stands tall on 26,500 tons of steel riveted strongly to form a distinct shape.

Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula, Rishikesh

This bridges are only meant for pedestrian use and are a must-visit for visitors to Rishikesh. It is the most iconic structures in Rishikesh, Ram Jhula and Lakshman Jhula are two iron suspension bridges built on the Ganga River.

Living Root Bridge, Cherrapunji

Cherrapunji’s living root bridges are made by intertwining the aerial roots of banyan trees. They are hand-crafted by members of the Khasi tribe of Meghalya and used for crossing streams and gorges. Of these, the double-decker suspension bridge Jingkieng Nongriat in the Nongriat Village is popular among travellers too. Known to be extraordinarily strong, these bridges can uphold the weight of about 50 people at a time, and become even more durable over time.

Vembanad Bridge, Kochi

The longest rail bridge in India, the Vembanad Bridge overlooks Kerala’s stunning backwaters and connects Edappally and Vallarpadam in Kochi. Spanning over 4.6 km, it is earmarked only for trains carrying freight. Built of 11700 tonnes of reinforced steel and 58000 tonnes of cement, the bridge sees a daily traffic of 15 trains.

Yamuna Railway Bridge, Delhi

The old Yamuna Bridge or Bridge No. 249 in technical railway parlance, was constructed in 1866 by the East India Railway at a cost of £16,16,335. It was built with a total length of 2,640 feet and consisted of 12 spans of 202.5 feet each. With the completion of this bridge, two principal cities of North India, Kolkata and Delhi, were connected by the Railways In 1913, this was converted into a double line by adding down line girders of 12 spans of 202 feet each and 2 end spans of 42 feet to the bridge. For the movement of road traffic, two road bridges were provided below the lines

Pamban Bridge, Rameshwaram

Literally rising above the waters of the Indian Ocean, this 100-year-old rail and road bridge connects a a two–km-long stretch between Rameshwaram on Pamban Island and the Indian mainland. The engineering marvel not only offers spectacular views of the seascape and the islands around, but also periodically opens up to let the ships, cargo carriers, fishing vessels and oil tankers sail through it.

Kolia Bhomora Setu, Sonitpur

The plummeting waters of the Brahmaputra River are also home to the 3-km-long Kolia Bhomora Setu, which connects Sonitpur on the north bank with Nagaon District on the south bank. Drive over this engineering marvel during evenings, when the sky paints a colourful canvas of many hues and the link lights up beautifully.

Godavari Bridge, Rajahmundry

The second of the three bridges built on Godavari—the largest river of south India— the Godavari Bridge is a rail-cum-road bridge which runs 4.2 km long. Years of perfect planning led to the construction of this striking masterpiece. The road deck runs above the railway stretch, making the concrete link appear like a two-storey freeway.

Godavari Arch Bridge, Rajahmundry

One of the longest prestressed concrete arch bridges in Asia, the Godavari Arch Bridge is the third link built on the Godavari River. Standing tall on 28 piers, the 2.7-km-long stretch is shadowed by stunning parabolic arches, making it one of the most striking architectural specimens in the country.

Vidyasagar Setu, Kolkata

Running 3.6 km over the Hooghly River and linking the cities of Kolkata and Howrah, Vidyasagar Setu is the longest cable-stayed bridge in India and Asia. It comprises of nine traffic lanes that allow a total of 30,000 vehicles to traverse through it each day. It is one of the several bridges built on the Hooghly River and is often called the second Hooghly Bridge.

Nivedita Setu, Kolkata

Designed to withstand 48,000 vehicles each day, Nivedita Setu is a cable-stayed bridge built over Hooghly River in Kolkata. Stretching up to a kilometre, the bridge comprises of seven spans helping in the easy movement of traffic in the City of Joy.

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