TOP DESTINATIONS TO VISIT IN OCTOBER

GOA

Boasting of sun-kissed beaches with white sands, glistering sea waves and more, the fun and frolic Goa is one of the most popular beach destinations of India. Your vacation here would not be an ordinary one as this lovely state has much to offer to tourists that flock it in crazy number, every year. Embedded with the Arabian Sea, this laid-back destinations offers a memorable vacation that is an ideal mix of serenity, sightseeing and adventure. The month of October is ideal to witness the experiences that this destination has to offer. You can partake in water sports, savor sumptuous local food, explore the churches and forts or simply just laze around in Goa.


                   

HIMACHAL PRADESH

Blessed with abundant natural beauty of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and lush meadows and valleys, Himachal Pradesh boasts of housing several picturesque hill stations that are frequented by tourists, all round the year. After rains, the month of October is the perfect time to visit the popular destinations for enjoying sightseeing, partaking in adventure activities, indulge in shopping, have a rendezvous with the wildlife and so on. Kullu-Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Great Himalayan National Park, Chail and Kasauli are some of the famed destinations of Himachal. Enjoy activities like zip lining, rafting, mountain biking, mountain climbing, trekking, para-sailing and so on.

                  

RAJASTHAN

The Land of the Royalty, Rajasthan is one of the most vibrant states of India, frequented by national and foreign in crazy numbers. The onset of October month brings with itself a pleasant weather with cooler morning and nights when the temperatures get low. This splendid place has much to offer wonderful forts and palaces, varied exotic fauna, colorful markets filled with amazing goods, village visits, wholesome food, several great festivals and fairs, camel rides, desert safaris etc. Visit Rajasthan to get a sneak-peek into the life of the erstwhile Kings and Queens of the region.

KERALA

This South Indian state is known as a tropical paradise and is one of the leading tourist destinations in the country. The region of Kerala runs down the Western Ghats and ends to the Arabian Sea covering the wide range of vegetations and landscape. Kerala is famous for its backwaters, hills, spices, sandy beaches, Ayurvedic spas and more. The state of Tamil Nadu lies to the east and the state of Karnataka, lies to the North. Kerala is home to numerous religions, so you can find Hindu temples, mosques and churches. The ideal time to visit Kerala would be in the month of October, it is cool and pleasing after the showers of the monsoon.

                         

KANYAKUMARI

Former ‘Cape Camorin’, during the reign of the British is our present Kanyakumari. This small town is situated at the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and the Indian ocean, in the southernmost part of India. The interesting feature of the place is that, you can witness a sunrise and a sunset in the same spot. The place is also known for Swami Vivekananda, one of the greatest philosophers in India who spent some part of his life here. In dedication to Vivekananda, there is a headstone erected along the shore. The best time to visit Kanyakumari is from October to February as you can enjoy all the sightseeing sites and the water activities. Moreover,  it is this time the Cape festival takes place.

                

KOLKATA

The former capital of the British Raj, Kolkata still dwells within the colonial architecture. The city is the perfect blend of old and modern in various fields, we witness people who are rich in culture and tradition along with ultra westernized ones; and the slum occupants as opposed to the ones who live the high life. The best part about this city is that the residents are happy and welcoming than in other parts of the country. The best time to visit Kolkata is during the Duheera festival, in October, the celebration is elaborate. Moreover the temperature decreases and makes the place pleasant.


                       

VARANASI

Varanasi is located along the banks of the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, and is the holiest places for the Hindus, Bhuddists and the Jains. The place is filled with old temples, palaces, and fringing  terraces (Ghats) along the Ganga. Hindu pilgrims come all the way from other states just to bathe in the holy water of Ganga. You can find yourself amidst the chaotic and vibrant markets and derive peace by cruising across the river in the morning hours . Varanasi has a very extreme climate, so starting from October and March is the best time to visit.

MYSORE

Mysore holds a very rich past and heritage within the state of Karnataka and is also called the “city of palaces”. The city has been built with great planning, the vibrant palaces and the busy markets are very alluring. The city is famous for premium silk productions, sandalwood, incense and more. Mysore is a must visit place, once you are travelling down South, you will be enchanted by the magnificent Mysore Palace and the striking fountain dance at the Brindavan Garden. October - February is the best time to visit Mysore; the weather becomes cool and pleasant. During October, the tourists can witness the festival of Dussehra being celebrated on a grand scale.

Top Destinations for Weekend Trips

1. Mahabalipuram

Listed as a World Heritage Site because of its ancient archaeological wonders, this fascinating place is also known as Mamallapuram or as some call it - “Mahabs”. It is a laid-back town which most travellers flock to.

Attractions: The windswept Shore Temple is a sight worth catching on the water’s edge. Mahabs is known for the Five Rathas (sculptured temples in the shape of chariots) and Arjun’s Penance (huge carvings on a rock depicting scenes from the Mahabharata).

The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is a remarkable event that one cannot miss. Other religious sights are the Krishna Mandapa, Trimurti Cave Temple, Ganesh Ratha and Draupadi Ratha. The Sculpture museum is a treasure trove of the most magnificent sculptures and paintings in the city.

Distance from Chennai: 52 km

Best time to visit: December - March

2. Pulicat

A small seashore township, Pulicat resides in the Thiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu on the island of Sriharikota dividing the Pulicat Lake from Bay of Bengal. Itis renowned for its invigorating sights worth catching a glimpse of.

Attractions: The major attractions of the place are the beach, the Dutch cemetery, Fort, church and particularly the bird sanctuary where a variety of migratory birds reside. Between December and January, the Tourism Board organizes the Flamingo festival when thousands of the bird species align on the swampy regions of the Pulicat Lake. Two neighbouring villages of Vedurupattu and Nelapattu are other attractions here.

Distance from Chennai: 55 Kms

Best time to visit: October - March

3. Kanchipuram

Also known as the “Silk City”, the popular city of Kanchipuram is not only reputed for its world famous traditionally crafted silk sarees but also its culture and civilization with its glorious display of a thousand temples. If you aim to visit someplace religious, historical and entertaining altogether,Kanchipuram is one of the best weekend getaways around Chennai.

Attractions: Considered the city of thousand temples, Kanchipuram has temples that stand proof of the Dravidian legacy left behind some of which are Ekambareswarar, Kamakshi Amman, Devarajaswami and Kailasanathar.

Another must-visit sight is KanchiKudil, a 90 year ancestral home resembling the olden style of architecture of the entire town. Additionally, a prominent attraction is the Vedanthangla Bird Sanctuary is a bird watcher’s paradise.

Distance from Chennai: 72 km

Best time to visit: September - March

5. Vellore

The Fort City of Tamil Nadu, as it is affectionately called, Vellore has the perfect blend of rich cultural heritage reminiscent of the ancient Dravidian civilization as well as picturesque scenery. Thus it is an ideal weekend getaway from Chennai.

Attractions:A monument of National importance and a noted tourist attraction, Vellore Fort marks as one of the most prominent landmarks in the city. Within the fort are the ancient Jalakanteswara Temple and the epic State Government Museum.

Srilakshmi Golden Temple that is coated with gold both in the exteriors and interiors is another must-visit in Vellore. Additionally, the Archaeology Survey of Indian Museum is another that must be up on your to-do list. 

Distance from Chennai: 136 kms

Best time to visit: October - March

6. Pondicherry

Fondly termed as ‘Pondy’, this former French colony is a sea of tranquillity what with its quiet, clean cobbled streets and colonial townhouses aligned beside them. The vibe of the township is a faded colonial bohemian chic with a touch of new age international French culture.

The presence of the internationally recognized Sri Aurobindo Ashram lends in the peaceful yoga-like feel to the place. By popular demand, Pondy has earned itself a number on the list of most popular weekend getaways from Chennai.

Attractions: There are several sights of tourist interest in Pondy. The first that comes to mind is the French Quarter, a quaint little neighbourhood laced with cobbled streets, white and mustard romantic colonial buildings. The most well-known landmark is the Sri Aurobindo Ashram founded in 1926 that is un-missable when here.

A series of religious attractions are favourites here as well, namely Notre Dame des Anges, Our lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Sacred Heart Basilica and Sri ManakulaVinayagar temple.

Distance from Chennai: 161 Km

Best time to visit: October - February

7. Nellore

Plonked in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Nellore is an ancient town that existed since the time when the Mauryan Empire ruled under the kingship of 

Attractions: The environs of Nellore offer some interesting places as tourist attractions namely the Pulicat Lake and the Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary. Other attractions of a man-made nature are the Somasila Dam, Udaygiri Fort and SatishDhawan Space Centre.

Distance from Chennai:177 Kms

Best time to visit: December - February

8. Yelagiri

Get pleasantly lost in the magical hill station of Yelagiri, in the Vellore district of Tamil Nadu. Have a tryst with the charming neighbourhood of tribal villages in here.It is because of the tranquillity and solitude of this hillock that Yelagiri scores high on the list of most popular weekend getaways around Chennai.

Attractions: Yelagiri is for those seeking an easy-paced holiday away from the madness of the city. Perhaps the signature landmark of the place is the Punganoor artificial lake-cum-park where tourists can enjoy a walk or some boating.

Additionally, the picturesque Swami Malai Hills are a dreamy treat to the eyes. One can even take a walk by the cascading waters of the majestic Jalagamparai Falls.

Distance from Chennai: 227 Km

Best time to visit: November - February

9. Tharangambadi

A tiny windswept town in Tamil Nadu which goes by the Danish name of Tranquebar, Tharangambadiis the ideal weekend getaway if heritage buildings, cultural history and architecture is your thing. The beachy town is also affectionately termed as the “village of the dancing waves.”

Attractions: Besides Fort Dansborg where Danish manuscripts and sculptures are the only remnants of the Danish East India Company, there are a ton of churches that are must-visits here. One of the most significant ones is the Zion Church, a new Jerusalem church built in 1701. There is also the Danish Museum for those of who keen of studying the antiques belonging to the colonial period.

Distance from Chennai: 283 kms

Best time to visit: February- August

10. Yercaud

Cuddled in the verdant green environs and undulating hills of Salem district of Tamil Nadu, Yercaud is a mystical destination. Escape into the array of flora and fauna of this sleepy little getaway when here.

Attractions: The stunning Yercaud Lake which is surrounded by gardens and woods is one you should not miss. The Pagoda Point is another site where you can catch the panoramic view of the enchanting town. Some other natural gems of Yercaud are the Kiliyur Waterfalls, Lady’s Seat, Silk Farm and Rose Garden, Deer Park, Bears Cave, Kottachedu Teak Forest and Anna Park.

Distance from Chennai: 358 km

Best time to visit: October - June

Celebration of Ganesh chaturthi in Mauritius

Mauritius is a culturally rich heritage island marking unity in diversity. Ganesh Chaturthi is also a holiday in Mauritius. Due to differences in the Hindu calendar, it may fall on a different day to the Indian festival.

Celebrations in Mauritius can be dated back to 1896 when the first Ganesh Chaturthi Puja was held in the Seven Cascades Valley by the Bhiwajee family. The family still celebrate the festival to this day, but over the last century, the popularity of the festival has spread so much across the island that it is now an official public holiday.

Hinduism being the main culture of Mauritius with 52 percent of the population, all the Hindus of the island country celebrates this festival with great fervor. All the devotees of Lord Ganesha do pujas in the temples and celebrate the festival.

People from different towns and villages join in the process of the immersion of lord Ganesha’s idol. They all gather along the beaches of the island country and take part in the immersion ceremony. The statue of lord Ganesha is also worshipped in many family and households and then these statues are also taken to the rivers and seas for immersion.

What is Special About Jaipur?

Jaigarh Fort in Jaipur was regarded as the stronghold constructed by Sawan Jai Singh II. This intact fort is encircled by huge battlements and is also connected to the Amer Fort through subterranean passages. The main motive being the construction of the fort was to protect the Amer Fort and the Palace within the complex. Jaigarh Fort has been constructed similarly in terms of architecture to that of the Amer Fort. The fort also becomes a must visit as it provides a panoramic view of the Jaipur city. 

The world's largest cannon on wheels, housed in the fort, also make this a popular tourist attraction. The palace is also must-visit due to its features such as the palace complex, ‘Shubhat Niwas’ - the assembly hall, a museum and an armory. The intricate architecture of the fort is worth appreciation and thus, the story of the huge treasure buried under the fort also makes the fort popular amidst tourists. Achrol Lodge/House is one of the finest luxury hotels in Jaipur, located in proximity with the attraction. - See more at: http://www.heritagehotelsofindia.com/articles/whats-special-about-jaipurs-top-10-attractions#sthash.6Jhh6Qpb.dpuf

Famous Bird Sanctuaries of India

Birdwatching has become one of the most sought-after recreational sports during the past few years. Venturing out in solitude or with a group of friends to explore the avifauna is not only interesting but also very rejuvenating. As urban settlers, we have all grown up watching sparrows, pigeons, crows, peacocks and mynas, but there is so much more to birds than these. Diversity is a unique feature of India as a nation. Just as there is a montage of wildlife in the country, so is the case with the variety of bird species. India is a home to over 1,200 exotic species of local as well as migrant birds that have attracted birdwatchers from all over the globe. The stupendous variety of birds and a good number of bird sanctuaries make India an ideal destination for bird lovers.  So, if you are one such passionate birdwatcher or simply want to have an enriching experience, here is a list of five must-visit bird sanctuaries in India:

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan: Also known as the Keoloadeo Ghana National Park, this is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in India.  The rarest of rare species of birds are said to be found here, especially during the winters. The Bharatpur Sanctuary is the pride of Rajasthan.

Chilka Lake Bird Sanctuary, Odisha: Located near Puri in Odisha,the Chilka Lake is one of the most beautiful saltwater lakes in India. This is one sanctuary with the largest flocks of migratory birds that find shelter in India during winters.

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Gurgaon: This famous bird park is the home to the most colourful bird species in the country. Located right next to the national capital in the district of Gurgaon, it is one of the most visited bird sanctuaries in India.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kerala: The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a unique park that offers houseboats for birdwatching. It is also popular by the name of Vembanad Bird Sanctuary. There are a few more beautiful bird sanctuaries in Kerala.

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat: Located in Ahmedabad, the largest city of Gujarat, this is one of the largest wetland bird sanctuaries in India. It comprises a huge lake and ambient marshes that make it a beautiful tourist spot. This sanctuary remains crowded throughout the year.