Kashmir, known as the ‘Paradise on Earth’, is a beautiful region in India that offers stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventurous activities. It is surrounded by the Himalayan and Pir Panjal mountain ranges, and it is blessed with some of the most beautiful lakes, gardens, and valleys in the world. In this blog, we will be discussing the top 20 places to visit in Kashmir with detailed information about each place and the distance from major destinations.

1. Srinagar: The capital city of Kashmir is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful gardens, serene lakes, and houseboats. It is located around 300 km from Jammu and 870 km from Delhi.
2. Gulmarg: Gulmarg is a popular ski resort that is located around 50 km from Srinagar. It is known for its scenic beauty, snow-clad mountains, and adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledging.
3. Pahalgam: Pahalgam is a picturesque town located around 95 km from Srinagar. It is known for its beautiful valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. It is also the starting point for the famous Amarnath Yatra.
4. Sonamarg: Sonamarg is a scenic hill station located around 80 km from Srinagar. It is known for its stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and adventure activities like trekking, camping, and skiing.
5. Yusmarg: Yusmarg is a hidden gem in Kashmir that is located around 47 km from Srinagar. It is known for its scenic beauty, meadows, and adventure activities like hiking and camping.
6. Kokernag: Kokernag is a small town located around 70 km from Srinagar. It is known for its natural springs, gardens, and picnic spots.
7. Verinag: Verinag is a small town located around 80 km from Srinagar. It is known for its natural springs, Mughal gardens, and historical significance.
8. Achabal: Achabal is a small town located around 60 km from Srinagar. It is known for its beautiful gardens, waterfalls, and historical significance.
9. Doodhpathri: Doodhpathri is a scenic meadow located around 42 km from Srinagar. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, trekking trails, and adventure activities like camping and horse riding.
10. Lolab Valley: Lolab Valley is a scenic valley located around 120 km from Srinagar. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, apple orchards, and adventure activities like trekking and camping.
11. Gurez Valley: Gurez Valley is a remote valley located around 123 km from Srinagar. It is known for its stunning landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and adventure activities like trekking and camping.
12. Naranag: Naranag is a small village located around 50 km from Srinagar. It is known for its ancient temples, beautiful landscapes, and historical significance.
13. Aharbal Waterfall: Aharbal Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located around 70 km from Srinagar. It is known for its scenic beauty, trekking trails, and adventure activities like camping.
14. Martand Sun Temple: Martand Sun Temple is an ancient temple located around 60 km from Srinagar. It is known for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and scenic surroundings.
15. Hemis National Park: Hemis National Park is a popular national park located around 240 km from Srinagar. It is known for its wildlife, birdwatching, and trekking trails.
16. Drass War Memorial: Drass War Memorial is a memorial located in the town of Drass, around 145 km from Srinagar. It is dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Kargil War of 1999. It is a significant tourist attraction and a symbol of national pride.
17. Shalimar Bagh: Shalimar Bagh is a famous Mughal garden located around 12 km from Srinagar. It is known for its beautiful fountains, water channels, and flowerbeds. It is a popular tourist attraction and a perfect spot for picnics.
18. Nishat Bagh: Nishat Bagh is another famous Mughal garden located around 11 km from Srinagar. It is known for its terraced gardens, beautiful flowers, and stunning views of the Dal Lake. It is a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
19.  Dal Lake: Dal Lake is a popular lake located in Srinagar. It is known for its scenic beauty, houseboats, and floating markets. It is a perfect spot for boating, fishing, and picnics.
20. Wular Lake: Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India and is located around 60 km from Srinagar. It is known for its scenic beauty, birdwatching, and fishing. It is a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Kashmir is a beautiful region that offers a diverse range of tourist attractions. From scenic valleys to beautiful lakes, from historical temples to Mughal gardens, and from adventure activities to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in Kashmir. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventurous one, Kashmir is the perfect destination for you.

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Beautiful Hill Station near Bangalore, View Points, Forest, Temples

Devarayanadurga (ದೇವರಾಯನದುರ್ಗ – DD Hills) is one of the Coolest and Beautiful Hill Station located near Dabaspet, Tumakuru Dist., Bangalore. Best Places to visit in Devarayanadurga Hills  are Bhoga Narasimha Swamy Temple, Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple, View Points, Namada Chilume (Deer Park and Historical Place related to Lord Rama), Forest Road etc…

The spot is situated over 4000 feet above ocean even out and can be an end of the week journey spot and escape for a speedy retreat or cookout, to escape from the crush of the every day hurrying around of city life.

It is likewise an adventurer’s heaven, because of the way that it has various hillocks encompassing it, and numerous untamed life devotees, truth be told, crowd the spot for different natural life shoots and so on It is announced as a defensive saved woods by the woodland branch of Government of Karnataka.

Since it is firmly situated to Tumkur City and region and furthermore the IT city of Bangalore, the groups swell here on ends of the week and public occasions.

Yoga Narsimha Temple is said to have been worked at where Lord Brahma, after a long, profound retribution, was visited by Lord Vishnu, in his Narsingha manifestation, and Goddess Lakshmi. While Lord Brahma was occupied with atonement, Sage Durwasa, the angriest among them all, visited him and introduced an icon of Narsingha at where the Bhoga Narsimha Temple has been constructed.

Bhoga Narasimha Temple

The Bhoga Narasimha Temple is situated at the foundation of the hillock of the Devarayanadurga and the god as we as a whole know is devoted to Lord Narasimha. This sanctuary delighted in the support of numerous rulers from different administrations and furthermore is notable for its straightforward however lovely design wonder. There are various columns specking the sanctuary, on which engravings have been cut in regards to the historical backdrop of the sanctuary and the different rulers.

Yoga Narasimha Temple

Another sanctuary which is situated in Devarayanadurga is the Yoga Narasimha Temple which is on the hillock. Around 100 stages must be move to arrive at the sanctuary and the picturesque excellence will leave the climbers enchanted. Rich greenery can be found around the hillock which gives an alleviation from the dreary errand of climbing the means.

Distance: 

By Road – Approximate distance from Bangalore is around 75 Km’s

Other Tourist Attractions near Devarayanadurga HIll

• Namada Chilume (6 km)
• Goravanahalli (20.6 km)
• Nijagal Betta (21.6 km)
• Kaidala Shri Chennakeshava Swamy Temple (24.1 km)

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Amazing Monsoon Trekking at Rajgad Fort, Pune, Maharashtra

Rajgad Fort is one of the grand forts of the Sahaydris and lies at an altitude of 1400 m (4, 600 feet). Formerly known as Murumdev, Rajgad Fort was the capital of the Maratha Empire during the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for 25 years, before moving the capital to Raigad Fort. The Rajgad Fort was built with the treasure found on the adjacent Torna Fort. This was one of the favourite forts of Shivaji Maharaj and he stayed the most in this fort. Many historical events took place in this fort, such as the birth of Shivaji’s son, Rajaram Chhatrapati, his queen, Saibai’s death and Afzal Khan’s head is buried in the fort.

The fort is of great historic significance. Rajgad was home to Shivaji for over 25 years till he became Chhatrapati. Post coronation he shifted his capital to Raigad. The fort has witnessed lots of historic events, including the birth of Shivaji’s son Rajaram, the death of Shivaji’s Queen Saibai, the return of Shivaji from Agra, the burial of Afzal Khan’s head in the Maha darwaja walls of Balekilla, the strict words of Sonopant Dabir to Shivaji, and the Khandoji Khopade episode. Rajgad Fort is an iconic place located near pune. The place is historic and attracts many tourists to it. This fort can be considered as a Holy place as it was first capital of Hindavi Swarajya, established by Chhatrapati Shivaji Mahataj. Trek to this fort via Gunjavane & Chor darwaja is bit difficult, but will test your mental and physical ability.

The fort is divided into four parts, Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, Sanjeevani Machi, and Balekilla (small fort). The fort is an example of splendid design and construction. The diameter of the fort at the base is 40 km making it difficult for anybody to lay siege to it.

Sanjeevani Machi:

The three layer fortification of Sanjeevani Machi is simply a marvel and is located on the southwest end. This extends approximately for 2.5 km along with many cisterns. The lower layers of the fort were separated by fortified bastion along with gate in order to defend independently. There is also an underground escape route which leads directly to the outermost fortification.

Suvela Machi:

Suvela Machi, located on the eastern part of Rajgad fort, is a narrow strip that leads to a fortified end. Before the fortifications, there is a Hanuman temple and towards the right of the hanuman temple is Nedh. Nedh is a giant hole on the rock face about 3 m in diameter carved by years of erosion.

Padmavati Machi:

This part of Rajgad Fort was a military base as well as a residential area. The Padmavati Machi has a Lake, Padmavati Temple, Pali Darwaja, Chor Dwaraja, Gunjawane Darwaja, Diwankhana, Daru Kothar, Rajwada, and Ghod Tale. Besides these there is also a Samadhi of Saibai, Shivaji’s first wife.

Balekilla:

This site is one of the highest parts in the Fort Rajgad that includes caves, water cisterns and palaces. The entrance door of the Balekilla is called as Maha Dwaraja. From here, one can easily view the whole fort. Rajgad is amongst the most popular trekking destinations near Pune, Maharashtra. There are several trekking routes to reach the Fort. Trek to Padmavati Machi via Chor Darwaja is the most popular route and the trek starts from Gunjawane village. From Gunjawane the 4.5 km trek is a little bit tough and it takes almost 3 1/2 hours to reach Padmavati Machi. One needs to navigate a steep rocky incline to reach Chor Darwaza.

The trek via Pali Darwaza is a simple climb and it starts from Pali village. The 3.5 km trek from Pali should take approximately 2 hours to reach the fort. There is another route called Bhor route which starts from Bhutonde. From Bhutonde village, a 3 -4 hours trek will take visitors to Alu Darwaja of Rajgad. This route is not popular as other two routes. It is always recommended that visitors should carry their own drinking water and food.

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Best Places to Visit in Mettupalayam, Ooty

Mettupalayam is small town in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu state, India near to Nilgiri hills. Mettupalayam is one of the prominent towns in Coimbatore district, populace of this region depends on agriculture for their livelihood, and climate will be pleasant in this region. Mettupalayam is surrounded by Coonoor, Rasadi, Karamadai, Annur, Coimbatore, Ooty and Avinashi and located at an altitude of 314 meters above the sea level. Mettupalayam pin code is 641301 and coordinates are 11.3000° N, 76.9500° E.

Tourism in Mettupalayam:

Mettupalayam in Coimbatore district is located at the bottom of Nilgiri hills and tourists visiting Nilgiri Mountains or Ooty should pass through this town. From Mettupalayam tourists can get a view to Nilgiri mountains and it is delightful to watch and there are several temples in and around the town visited by numerous devotes.

Places to Visit in Mettupalayam:

Coonoor Hills: Coonoor is located at the distance of 35 Kms from Mettupalayam and this region is located on the Nilgiri Mountains and famous for the production of Nilgiri tea and it is located at an elevation of 1,850 meters above the sea level and these hills are best suited for trekking.

Athar Jamad Masjid: this Masjid is located in Coimbatore city at the distance of 35 Kms from Mettupalayam and it is one of the holy Masjid for Islamic followers and visited by number of devotes around the India.

St. Stephen’s Church: this church was built by Stephen Rumbold Lushington in 19^th century, for the Governor of Madras and it is one of the oldest churches in the Nilgiri Mountains and visited by number of tourists and fest are celebrated in grand manner. This church is located at the distance of 55 Kms from Mettupalayam.

Maruthamalai Temple: this is one of the famed and most visited temples in Mettupalayam and this temple is located top of the hill. This temple is devoted to Lord Subramanya and also famous for annual festival celebrated every year, this temple is located at the distance of 15 Kms from Mettupalayam.

Ooty: Ooty is located at the distance of 50 Kms from Mettupalayam and it is one of the most admired tourist destinations in south India and tourists visit this region to escape from the summer heat. Ooty is located in the heart of the Nilgiri Hills and renowned for its natural beauty.

Other interesting places to visit near Mettupalayam:

• Bannari Temple
• Perur Temple
• Tamil Nadu Agriculture University
• Forest College
• Glenmorgan
• Pykara
• Mariamman Temple
• Eachanari Vinayakar Temple
• Chemmedu Muthumariyamman Temple
• Santhanamalai Murugan Temple
• Elanchi Mandram

Best Time to Visit Mettupalayam:

Mettupalayam is bound by Nilgiri Hills and climate will be pleasant throughout the year and best time to visit Mettupalayam is between the months of October to April.

How to Reach Mettupalayam?

By Air: Coimbatore Airport is located at the distance of 46 Kms from Mettupalayam and it is one of the major airports in Tamil Nadu which connects to various cities in India like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin. Tourists can hire a taxi from airport to Mettupalayam or can board a bus to travel within the city.

By Train: Mettupalayam is served by Mettupalayam Railway Station located 1.5 Kms from centre of the village and this railway line connects to various cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states as well.

By Road: National Highway 67 is one of the major highways in Tamil Nadu linked to various cities and towns in Tamil Nadu and numerous public and private buses ply from Coimbatore and neighboring cities to Mettupalayam.

Hotels in or and Mettupalayam:

Mettupalayam is located at the bottom of Nilgiri Hills and tourists going towards Ooty and Nilgiri Hills must pass through this village and hotels in Mettupalayam are classified into budget, midrange and luxury and budget hotels in Mettupalayam may cost from Rs. 400 to 1,200 and midrange and luxury hotels cost from Rs. 1,500 to 3,000 and above per night and these mid and luxury hotels provide world class facilities to visitors like spa, swimming pool, view of Nilgiri Hills and various other facilities. Some of the major hotels in Mettupalayam are:

• Hotel Prince
• Agarwal Hotel
• Luxus Resorts India Private Limited
• EMS Hotel and Lodge
• GV International Hotel
• Achaya Hotel
• Hotel Arya
• Zam Zam Hotel
• Sree Devi Hotel
• Sri Ambika Hotel
• Hotel Welcome Inn
• Ramba Bar and Hotel
• Sri Annapoorna Hotel
• Glen View Hotel
• Jamuna House
• Asoka Inn
• Black Thunder
• Sathya Hotel
• Kurumba Village Resort
• De-Rock Jungle Living Resort

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Commonly called as BR Hills is in Karnataka that is an ideal destination for tourists from all over the world.

You get to see exclusive species of flora and fauna that forms the major attraction of this place. More than 200 species of birds is found here. It shelters wild animals that include panthers, bears, tigers, elephants etc. You also get to see 3 varieties of squirrels one is the giant flying squirrel, barking Deers and many more. It holds a wide range of vegetation that makes it an ideal destination for photographers.

One can indulge in sober and calm type of things like the bird watching and fishing. People who love adventure can spend their day in river rafting and trekking. You are also permitted for camping and boat riding. Enjoy your journey in this place in a jeep, or trekking is also fine. Ultimately the point visiting this place is to have fun and enjoy your with your family and friends.

What is the best time to visit?

Avoid the summer heat and visit this place during autumn or the spring in the months of July and October, as it is the time when animals come out in search of water.

Where does one stay?

You can find many hotels, cottages and resorts that would suit your pocket. Exclusively you can opt for the twin bed tents that come with good toilet facilities. Maharaja’s Bungalow will provide you the best stay over than the other resorts.

Interesting Facts

You can find Biligiriranga Temple that was built for Lord Ranga Swamy. This was the forest where Veerappan used to hide. It shelters Soliga tribe and is believed that Lord Ranga Swamy had been to this place leaving paw marks of his feet. Most interesting part of this place is that Honnametti Kallu, a big rock produces a metallic sound when hit by another stone. There is a myth that this rock contains gold. People get together in the month of April to join the celebration of ‘Ratha’ festival in honor of Lord Ranga Swamy. This place is known for coffee plantation and was initiated by a Scotsman called Randolph C. Morris in 19^th century.

Biligiriranga Hills, Karnataka, India

This sanctuary is surrounded by four mountain ranges called the Yelandur, the Kollegal, the Chamarajanagar and the Punjur ranges. Kollegal is considered to be the largest. Each range has its own Forest Range Officer who looks after the administrative efficiency.

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