Best Tourist Places in Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka, India

Best Tourist Places in Madikeri, Kodagu, Karnataka, India

Madikeri is situated in Kodagu district in the Indian state of Karnataka which is a popular tourist destination in this part of the world. Madikeri has a literacy rate of 81% and Kannada, Tulu and Konkani are the most widely spoken languages by the locals living in this place. Madikeri is known for its sublime weather and is situated at an altitude of 3481 feet above sea level. Madikeri coordinates with 12.42’08” degree North Latitude and 75.73’97” degree East Longitude with Pin Code being 571201.

Abbey Falls Madikeri

Meaning & History:

It is said that the word Madikeri derived from Muddha Raja Keri who was a Kodagu ruler who ruled this place from 1633 to 1687. Madikeri was ruled by Kadambas from 2nd century A.D to 6th century A.D. Later on Madikeri was ruled by Cholas in 11th century as Ganga rulers were defeated in a war. Madikeri was also ruled by Hoysalas and Vijaynagar Kings until it came under the rule of the British in the year 1834 A.D.

Places to see in Madikeri:

Raja Seat:

This comprises of a square mantap supported by 4 pillars bound by beautiful and elegant arches. It is called as Raja Seat because the kings used to have a good recreation time watching the mountain cliffs and ridges from a high level. It is one of the popular tourist places in Madikeri.

Madikeri Fort:

This fort was built by King Mudduraja during 17th century which was later renovated by Lingarajendra Wodeyar II in 1812 A.D. There is a temple of lord Ganesha within the premises of the fort having statues of life size elephants at the entrance of the fort.

Omkareshwara Temple:

This temple was built by king Lingarajendra II in 1820 and is dedicated to lord Omkareshwar who is also known as lord Shiva. The temple draws many devotees and tourists during Shivratri and other auspicious days of the year.

Dubare Elephant Sanctuary:

The Elephant Sanctuary is located near Madikeri which is inhabited by several species of wild elephants, Bison, Sambhar deer, Indian Gaur, Crocodiles and birds like peacocks, woodpeckers and partridges. Tourists can avail jungle safari which takes them around the dense jungle.

Dubare Elephant Sanctuary

Abbey Falls:

Abbey Falls is located about 8 kms away from Madikeri where river Cauvery flows across mountain terrains, cliffs and ridges. There is a hanging bridge near the falls which provides a magnificent view of the falls to the visitors.

Cauvery Nisargadhama:

This place is an ideal picnic spot that is formed by cluster of tributaries of river Cauvery. Bound by groves, lush greenery, sandalwood and teak trees, this place offer the tourists a enchanting life time experience.

Chelavara Falls:

Chelavara Falls are located about 26 kms from Madikeri and approx 2 kms from Choma Kund hills. The falls provide a breathtaking view of the river plunging deep to a height of 395 feet, a popular tourist site near Madikeri.

Gaddige Tombs:

The tombs of built in memory of king Viraranjendra and Lingarajendra in year 1820 and is situated atop a hill from where the tourists can have a spectacular view of the town.

Coorg:

Coorg is famous for hill station, coffee plantations, waterfalls, forts and temples which is about 17 kms from Madikeri.

Mysore:

Mysore is approx 118 kms from Madikeri known for sarees, sandalwood, temples, zoo, gardens and palace.

Wayanad:

Wayanad is located 122 kms away from Madikeri well known for wildlife sanctuaries, hill station, honeymoon and dams.

Kabini:

Kabini is about 127 kms from Madikeri famous for rivers, camping, boating, bird sighting and wildlife sanctuaries.

Mangalore:

Mangalore is approx 143 kms from Madikeri well known for beaches, cuisines, temples, gardens and museums.

Chikmangalur:

Chikmangalur is about 162 kms from Madikeri well known for coffee estates, hill station, forts and wildlife.

Bandipur National Park:

Bandipur National Park is located at a distance of 171 kms from Madikeri famous for rivers, rich natural vegetation, wildlife sanctuaries and trekking.

Bangalore:

Bangalore is about 253 kms from Madikeri very well known for gardens, shopping, cosmopolitan outlook, temples and Amusement Parks.

Connectivity to Madikeri:

Madikeri is adequately connected by all means of transport such as roadways, railways and airways. State Highway 88 is at close vicinity from Madikeri. It is 120 kms from Mysore and 136 kms from Mangalore. Madikeri is approx 252 kms from Bangalore. Since Madikeri does not have its own railway station, the nearest railway station is Hassan Railway Station which is approx 115 kms. Mangalore Airport is about 140 kms from Madikeri is the nearest airport from this place.

Best Season to visit Madikeri:

Madikeri can be visited all round the year from summer, monsoon and winter. Many tourists visit Madikeri during summer because the place remains pleasant and moderately cool at this point of time. It can also be visited during rainy seasons, when the falls will be at their full glory and flow.

Hotels in Madikeri:

Madikeri being one of the top tourist destination in Karnataka, attracts lots of tourists all round the year. Hence the Govt. has built many hotels, resorts and guest houses to provide timely accommodation for the tourists visiting the place. List of some of the hotels situated in and near Madikeri are:

  • Hotel Hill View
  • Hotel Crystal Court
  • Hotel Coorg Regency
  • Hotel Highton
  • Hotel Popular Residency
  • Hotel Chitra
  • Hotel Vivanta by Taj
  • Hotel Coorg International
  • Hotel Rajdarshan
  • Hotel Hilltown
  • Sri Venkateshwara Residency
  • Hotel Mayura Valley View
  • Hotel Kannika International
  • Hotel Green Heaven

Madhopur Places to Visit in Madhopur, Pathankot, Punjab, India

Madhopur Places to Visit in Madhopur, Pathankot, Punjab, India

Madhopur is a town located in Pathankot district in Punjab situated at an altitude of 1089 feet above sea level. Madhopur has a literacy rate of 75% and comes under Gurdaspur Parliamentary Constituency. Madhopur coordinates with 32.32’23” degree North Latitude and 75.59’96” degree East Longitude with Postal Code being 145024.

History of Madhopur:

Formerly Madhopur used to be a princely state of Nurpur ruled by Pathiana Rajputs in the year 1849 A.D. Madhopur is also called as the “Gateway of Punjab” since it has access to 3 North Indian States namely Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. It is also become a prominent hub for the Indian Army in recent times.

Main attractions in and around Madhopur:

Pari Garden:

This is one of the oldest gardens located in Madhopur built during time of the British regime. The garden has many flowers and beautiful trees lined on either sides which looks awesome during monsoons. One can also have a good view of the sunset from Pari Garden in the evenings.

Osho’s Ashram:

Madhopur is well known for ashram of philosopher and spiritual leader Osho who is famous for religious and spiritual teachings. Many local and foreign tourists visit the ashram from time to time.

Madhopur Church:

Madhopur is famous for its church which was built during British era and is one of the prime landmarks in this part of the city. The church conducts Sunday masses and is flooded with visitors during Christmas.

Jammu & Kashmir:

Jammu is famous for hill stations, temples and rivers which is about 103 kms from Madhopur.

Amritsar:

Amritsar is renowned for its Golden Temple and rivers which is located at 136 kms from Madhopur.

Kulu:

Kulu is known for hill station, trekking, skiing, honeymoon and temples that is approx 206 kms from Madhopur.

Manali:

Manali is famous for hill stations, paragliding, rock climbing, honeymoon, rivers, snow clad mountains and glaciers which is approx 324 kms from Madhopur.

Shimla:

Shimla is famous for snowfalls, ice skating, skiing, mountaineering, honeymoon and fruit orchards is about 329 kms from Madhopur.

Kufri:

Kufri is famous for rock climbing, skiing, trekking, snowfalls and honeymoon that is approx 342 kms from Madhopur.

Ranikhet:

Ranikhet is famous for hill station, trekking, orchards, honeymoon, rivers and temples which is about 740 kms from Madhopur.

When to visit Madhopur?

Though Madhopur can be visited all round the year, the best time to visit the place would be during winters when the climate remains pleasant and cool.

Accessibility to Madhopur in Punjab:

Madhopur is well connected by road, rail and air modes of transport. Madhopur lies on the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway which makes this place easily accessible by road. Many State owned and private buses ply from Madhopur to Gurdaspur, Patiala, Firozpur, Chandigarh and Pathankot at regular intervals. The nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station which is approx 10 kms from Madhopur and Amritsar Airport is the closest airport lying at a distance of 136 kms from Madhopur.

Where to stay in Madhopur?

Madhopur has some fine hotels and guest houses that provide excellent boarding facilities for the visitors coming to stay in Madhopur. The tourists can select a hotel based on their requirements, needs and budget. The rates differ from hotel to hotel and hotels coming under single star costs around Rs. 500 for single day where as hotels coming under 5 star category costs anywhere around Rs. 5000 for single day that offers hosts of services and amenities. Some star hotels offer services like airport pickup and drop, doctors on call, sauna, spa, Ayurvedic massages and therapies, undertake travel bookings, set up help desk centers and much more. List of hotels located in and near Madhopur are:

  • DLM Valley Resorts
  • Walia Resort
  • Hotel Kings
  • Hotel Venice
  • Hotel Grand
  • Woodland Hotel
  • Hotel Capri
  • Hotel U-Nite
  • Parag Hotel
  • Hotel Tourist
  • Hotel Mehak
  • Hotel Gagan

Tourist Places to Visit in Luni, Rajasthan, India

Tourist Places to Visit in Luni, Rajasthan, India

Luni is a major river that originates in the Aravalli ranges in the western part of Rajasthan and flows through Ajmer until merges in the Arabian Sea in the Rann of Kutch after covering a distance of 530 kms. In the year 1892, the Maharaja of Jodhpur built Jaswant Sagar between Bilara and Bhavi and is one of the largest artificial lakes in India. Luni River is also known as Lavanavari due to the high salt content in the waters of the river. The river flows through Ajmer, Barmer, Jalor, Jodhpur, Nagaur and Pali regions.

Tourist attractions in and near Luni river:

Jaipur:

The capital city of Rajasthan often called as “Pink City” is known for forts, palaces, temples, food, rich culture and rivers. Many tourists visit Jaipur to look at some of the historical monuments.

Pushkar:

Pushkar is situated 11 kms away from Ajmer famous for lakes, camel rides, camel safari and temples.

Pushkar Lake:

This lake is one of the largest manmade lakes that was built in 12th century when a dam was built across river Luni. The lake has 52 ghats and has many recreation facilities like children park and boating facilities.

Brahma Temple at Ajmer:

This is the one and the only temple built in name of creator of the Universe who is also known as Lord Brahma. The temple is situated in Ajmer and was built in 14th century on the banks of river Pushkar. The temple is built of marble decorated with silver coins and has a silver turtle on the floor of the temple. It is one of the popular tourist hubs in Rajasthan.

Varaha Temple:

The temple is dedicated to lord Varaha, the third avatar of lord Vishnu in Dasavatar. Indian mythology says that the battle between Varaha and Hiranyaksha lasted for 1000 years. Many devotees visit the temple during auspicious days and is a popular tourist place in Ajmer.

Apteshwar Mahadev temple:

The temple built during 12 century is dedicated to lord Shiva that has glorious architecture and many people visit the temple to seek the divine blessings of lord Shiva who is the main deity of the temple.

Ramavaikunth Temple:

This temple was built in the year 1920 known for its great architecture and workmanship. The temple invites the devotees with wonderful decorated gopurams and has 360 different deities in the temple premises.

Savitri Temple:

The temple is dedicated to goddess Savithri, wife of lord Brahma which is located atop Ratnagiri hill. Many public throng the temple during Navratri festival and is a popular tourist site in Ajmer.

Temple of Rangji:

The temple is also called as temple of Sri Vaikunthji who is the incarnation of lord Vishnu built in 1823 constructed as per Dravidian style of architecture.

Man Mahal:

Man Mahal used to be the residence of Maharaja Man Singh that is situated on the banks of river Pushkar. Currently this monument has been renovated and transformed into a heritage hotel.

Kuchaman:

Kuchaman is famous for the fort built by the Gujjar Pratihara dynasty which houses the Meera Mahal. Kuchaman also have a Dev Lok temple which has some finest carvings and paintings depicting the life of Meera Bai.

Roopangarh Fort:

The fort was built in the year 1648 by Maharaja Roop Singh now being converted into a heritage hotel. The fort is known for its grace and grandeur which attracts several national as well as international tourists all round the year.

Best time to visit Luni river:

The ideal season to visit the Luni river and its nearby places will be from October to March as the weather remains cool and pleasant. Summers are normally hot and dry that makes uncomfortable for the travelers visiting the place.

Connectivity to river Luni in Rajasthan:

There are several buses plying from Ajmer, Jodhpur and Jaipur to the proximity of the river. There are regular bus services from Pushkar too to reach river Luni. The nearest railway station is Luni Railway Station and nearest airport is Jaipur Airport which is approx 131 kms away from Luni.

Hotels in and around river Luni:

Luni being a popular tourist hub in Rajasthan attracts many visitors all round the year. Hence the tourism department has built many hotels, resorts, guest houses and lodging houses for the travelers to have a comfortable stay at these hotels. The fares vary from hotel to hotel and it starts with Rs. 600 for normal budget class hotel and goes up to Rs. 5000 and above for ultra rich luxurious class hotel. Some of the hotels situated in and near Luni are:

  • Hotel Shobhraj
  • Hotel Kanak Sagar
  • Embassy Hotel
  • Hotel Prithviraj
  • Hotel Vega Inn
  • Hotel Regal
  • Hotel Payal
  • Hotel Mehmaan Manzil
  • Neelkamal Hotel
  • Hotel Shehehshah
  • Hotel Country Inn

Places to Visit in Shravanabelagola, Hassan, Karnataka, India

Places to Visit in Shravanabelagola, Hassan, Karnataka, India

Shravanabelogala is a conurbation in Karnataka, India.  It is a very prominent pilgrimage hub positioned in Hassan district. The statuette of the Jain saint Gommateshwara engraved out of a mount is said to be one of the most elevated and elegant statuette in the globe. It is positioned in this miniature civic at the crest of the Indragiri knolls. The vast monumental statuette is 58 feet lofty, nude, with 26 feet broad shoulders, 10 feet of its foot. Remarkably simple, the brilliantly carved textures of this effigy exemplify peacefulness.

 

History of Shravanabelogala

Bahubali and Bharatha are sons of the earliest Tirthankara of Jains Rishabdev. It is believed that the kingdom was divided between the brothers but due to the supremacy that Bharatha gained there was a fight between the brothers.  There was a contest organized amongst the brothers. After the significant win, Bahubali lost all his desires for the kingdom and went to attain Kaivalya Jnana- Absolute Knowledge.

Attractions in Shravanabelogala

Chennarayapatna                      

Channarayapatna is positioned just around 14 km from Shravanabelogala. The town is positioned on the Bangalore-Mangalore National Highway 48. It is alleged that the township was titled after the ruler Channigaraya. Chandramouleshwara sanctuary ,The Chennakesava shrine and Kote Ganapati Devasthana are some of the well-liked landmarks in the vicinity.

Gomateshwara Statue                     

Gomateshwara statuette also recognized as Bahubali statuette is a chief magnetism which is 17 meters elevated. It is the premier colossal effigy of Lord Gomateshwara in the globe. This statuette was structured in the 10th century by Chamundaraya, the General to the sovereign Rajamalla of the Ganga reign.

Vindhyagiri Temple                      

Vindhyagiri shrine identified as Odegala Basadi is positioned at Vindhyagiri knolls. This shrine preserves the statuettes of Jain Tirthankaras namely the Adinatha, Neminatha and Shantinatha. It symbolizes the rock-cut structural outline and has three cubicles. Akhanda-bagilu is the foremost access way of the shrine. The figurines of Lord Bahubali and his kin Bharata are engraved in the vicinity of the shrine.

Akkanabasadi Temple                     

Akkanabasadi sanctuary was built in the year 1121 by Achiakka the consort of a Brahmin vicar Chandramouli. It is constructed by making use of steatite in the Hoysala structural design.

Chandragiri Temple                     

Chandragiri shrine was built by Chamundaraya the partisan of Acharya Nemichandra. It is positioned on the Chandragiri knolls and has been constructed by making use of igneous rocks. The dedications engraved in the sanctuary dates back to the 10th century. These captions have supported the intellectuals in understanding the account of Kannada literature and its lingo.

Places of interest in and around Shravanabelagola

  • Kalamma Temple
  • Sante Bachahalli
  • Chandragiri Hills
  • Jain Math
  • Bhandaribasadi Temple
  • Belur
  • Halebidu

 

Best season to visit Shravanabelogala

The best time to visit Shravanabelagola is during the months of October and March. The summers are very hot and unbearable. The monsoon season gets adequate rainfall. The climates during the winter season are pleasant and the ideal time for the tourists to visit Shravanabelagola.

Accessibility to Shravanabelogala

By Road: KSRTC provides regular buses to this place. The city is well connected by road network to the major cities in and around Karnataka like Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Hassan, Tumkur and Mandya. Following is the distance to major towns from Shravanabelogala:

  • Channarayapattana 14 km
  • Hassan 48 km
  • Halebidu 77 km
  • Belur 85 km
  • Mysore 80 km
  • Bangalore 155 km
  • Mangalore 225 km

By Train: The nearest railhead is at Hassan 45 km from the city. One can hire cabs or take public transportation to reach Shravanabelogala.

By Air : The nearest airdrome is at Bangalore 155 km away from the city. Bangalore gets flights from all the major cities in the country. One can hire cabs or take public transportation to reach the destination.

Accommodations in Shravanabelogala

One can find plethora of hotels, resorts, guest houses and lodges in Shravanabelagola. The hotels present many facilities and the rates differ from hotel to hotel. Being the prominent tourism destination in Karnataka, the department of tourism has taken many steps to cope up with the increasing demand. List of hotels in Shravanabelagola are:

  • KSTDC
  • Raghu Hotel
  • Hotel Mahaveer
  • Hotel Abhishek
  • Hotel Southern Star
  • Royal Orchid Brindavan Garden
  • Suvarna Regency
  • Silent Shores Resort & Spa
  • Hotel Dasaprakash
  • The Green Hotel
  • White Orchids
  • Golden Landmark
  • The Rappa
  • Pai Vista
  • Hotel Ginger
  • Grand Maurya Hotel & Resort
  • Parklane Restaurant
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