Darjeeling.

Darjeeling , the queen of all acropolis stations,famous for its accustomed beauty, apple-pie beginning air,year annular plesent acclimate and aloft all, the eversmiling and affable bounded people.The 3rd accomplished aces in the world,mount Kanchenjunga is actual abutting to this lpece and additionally gives the clearest view.Darjeeling is broadly accepted as visitors paradise because every day it offers article fresh to anybody ,may be the aboriginal time visitoe and may be the approved one.The morning alarm comes to the vewers back the firts ray of sun touchesthe mountaina pick.This is tiger hill,a abrupt ride of bristles kilometers from Ghoom, is the abode area one can attestant this hevenly feelings.Here the air is arctic ,but different to get an experience.Here the fresh day starts with the apple acclaimed alloy of tea,foggy and smokky weather,mountain appearance and animated face of bounded Gorkhi people. Darjeeling is additionally a abode to apperceive Tibetan culture,Himalayan Tribal Life, and to see the Tibetian Monasteries, Pine Trees,Tea garden etc.very closely.

Darjeeling (General Information)

Altitude: 2134 and above.

Climate: Summer--15-23 degC.Winter--2-10 degC.

Best time to visit: April to mid june,September toNovember.

Visitors are adviced to carry raim wear in all season and light woolen clothes in summer also.

Darjeeling (Culture and Food)

The bodies of Darjeeling and abreast about places like Kalimpong and Mirik are abide of the Gurungs from West Nepal.Other contest like Bhutias,Gukhas from east Nepal,Lepchas from Sikkim are additionally active togather.People from plains additionally came and accept acclimatized there as the abode is actual charming. 

The bounded book is rice and meat back-scratch and momos which are aflame dumplings, and of course, chow, the locally fabricated noodles. This about accompanied by chhang, a locally brewed wine fabricated from millet or the jaad which is fabricated from brewed rice. The Gurkhas are allegiant Hindus and bless all Hindu festivals with according dedication. But Dussehra is the best accepted Gurkha anniversary . 

Darjeeling (Places To Visit)

No appointment to Darjeeling is complete afterwards a appointment to Ghoom which is 6 km abroad from the capital town. The acclivity is bedeviled by the acclaimed Yiga Choeling Abbey which has 15 images of the Maitreya Buddha. Belonging to the chicken hat sect, the abbey contains abounding age-old approach blade and cardboard manuscripts in Tibetan script. The Museum of Natural History is breadth one can see a accomplished accumulating of Himalayan animals, reptiles, birds and insects. If flora is what one enjoys, again Llyod Botanic Garden is the abode of interest. It has a astonishing accumulating of aerial flora and orchids. 

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the abandoned centermost in India for the ancestry of the attenuate snow leopard. The Ussurian tigers and the Himalayan atramentous buck are additionally amid its attractions. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institutean which accustomed in 1954 by the again Prime Abbot Jawaharlal Nehru, is the abode breadth one can get all the advice and capacity of acquisition Mount Everest. Tenzing Norgay,one of the aboriginal climbers of Everest was the Founder Director and Advisor till his demise. Darjeeling-Ranjit Basin ropeway is the addition allure which is actual nearer to this place.The Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centermost is the abode breadth the accomplished Tibetan crafts like carpets, copse and covering assignment are displayed for the visitors. 

Kalimpong 

Teesta ,the acme of this queenee basin is spreaded the tinny boondocks Kalimpong. The appearance of Mac Farlane Church welcomes the tourists with accessible easily to this nature's paradise Once, it was the address of a Bhutanese Governor. The chat kalim agency king's abbot and pongmeans the stronghold. The abode is anchored at an ambit of 1250 meters and covers arround 3.5 aboveboard miles. 

Dr. Graham' s Homes academy which was founded by Dr. John Anderson Grahman in 1900 is one of the capital attrctions of Kalimpong.. This has been congenital on the slopes of Delo Hill,approximately three kilometers abroad from the town.Visitors who wants to attestant a bird' s eye appearance of the arresting abode has to go to Durpin Dara, an anchor point at acropolis top, from breadth he or she can get an all-embracing appearance of the boss Himalayan ranges.There are numbers of monasteries in this area, amid them the Pedong abbey and Thongsha Gompa are the oldest and mostly known.. Addition abbey is the Tharpa Choling Abbey which has been complete in 1937 by the Chicken Hat camp , is anchored at Tirpai Acropolis at a ambit of arround two kilometers from Kalimpong. 

Mirik

Mirik is the abode which is acclaimed tor tea area and orrange orchards. The distance of this abode is air-conditioned and absorbing nad gives a absolutely altered experence to the visitors.Lush blooming basin covered with tea plantation,small cottages, continued oke trees, big basin and jucey orranges are the things which is altered to its comparison.This is the ideal abode to absorb some time abroad from the banausic burghal activity with friends,family or alone.Fishing and canoeing in the basin gives article added to the tourists. 


Darjeeling (Shopping)

Capital is the abode breadth the visitors can accord the finishing blow "shopping" to there visit. This is basically a comercial centermost of this valley.Here one can acquisition duke knitted sweaters,hand corrective bank hangings,fancy bags, himalayan and tibetian aged , and distinctively tibetian affair based oil paintings of black&white in colour.Here the bounded bodies additionally arise with some adequate aliment like momos etc. 

Capital leads to Chowrasta which is additionally accepted and crowdy like capital for arcade purpose. Actuality hotels, restaurants and shops are plentily availabale in advanced and altered range.Woollen garments, affiliated ornaments, Thankas, rosaries, assumption statuettes and Gorkha acrimony arewidely accessible here.Some shols offers foriegn goods.But the two places, Capital and Chowrasta deserves arcade afterwards huge bargaining.

Darjeeling (Trekking)

Trekking in the Darjeeling hills started about a aeon back.It was one of the aboriginal acropolis arena in India breadth biking were organised .The Everest and Kanchenjunga stillalluring bags of attributes lovers from altered genitalia of the apple back it was discovered. 

The best time to undertake biking programeis April-May and Octoberan dNovember. Through Travel Agents and claimed affairs both are adequate here.Both low and aerial ambit treks are abiding over here.Some of the best accepted treks are Maneybhanjang (2134 m), Meghma (2900 m), Toughu (3070 m), Gairibas (2621 m), Sandakphu (3636 m), and Phalut (3600m)etc. 

Anotherattractive aerial ambit expedition is to Kalimpong basin from Relli, Pankhasari, and to the accomplished point in the areas, Rochella (3,400 m).All the varietiy of Himalayan flora and faunaare broadly accessible her to acquaintance The mostly acclimated and adviseable routes are from Darjeeling to Kurseong through the Old Military Road, Darjeeling to Singla, Darjeeling to Bijabbari and Darjeeling to Tiger Hill.

Darjeeling (Travel Information)

Air: The nearest Airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra.It gives arround 100 km journey to Darjeeling.

Rail:Shiliguri is conected to all the major cities of india by train.From Shiliguri and New Jalpaiguri, the Toy Trains are available which gives a memorable journey to Darjeeling.

Road:Shiliguri is also well accessed by road ways and buses , minibuses jeeps run every thirty minutes or so from Siliguri to Darjeeling,Mirik,Gangtok Katmandu and other places.

Darjeeling Tour package 

Day 01: Arrival Bagdogra - NJP - Darjeeling (95 kms.) 3-4 hrs. Drive
On arrival at Bagdogra airport or NJP railway station, meet our representative and transfer to Darjeeling, on arrival at Darjeeling check in at the hotel evening free, overnight stay at hotel.

Day 02: Darjeeling - Tiger Hill (Full day Sightseeing)
Early morning drive to Tiger Hill to for a singular experience of the first rays of the sun bathing the Himalayas. On the return visit the Ghoom Monastery. Built in 1875 the monastery which follows the Gelugpa sect, houses one of the largest statue of the Maitreya Buddha-"the future Buddha".

After breakfast drive to Darjeeling Railway Station (10 mins) and take the joyride on the famous heritage toy train till Ghoom. On arrival at Ghoom Railway station transfer to your vehicle and visit The Himalayan Zoo which houses the Himalayan fauna like the Red Panda, black bear, yaks, tigers, snow leopard etc. in their natural habitat, and the adjacent Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - a premier training centre for mountaineers and a museum detailing the ascent of the Mt. Everest by Tenzing Sherpa & Sir Edmund Hillary and numerous other expeditions. Also visit Tibetan Self Help Centre, a centre of training young people in the intricate art of Tibetan handicrafts and handlooms. The sales emporium is open to visitors to pick up souvenirs. Overnight stay at the Hotel.

Day 03: Darjeeling - Samdruptse - Gangtok (94 Kms.) 4 hrs. Drive
Morning after breakfast drive to Gangtok, en-route visiting Samdruptse. On arrival at Gangtok check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 04: Gangtok
Morning after breakfast an excursion tour to Rumtek monastery. Rumtek the Dharma Chakra Center, the seat of the Kagyu order, one of the 4 major Tibetan Buddhist sects. Since the late 1960's, after the arrival of His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, the center houses some of the world's most unique religious scriptures and religious art objects. Traditional in design, it is almost a replica of the original Kagyu headquarters in Tibet.

Rumtek monastery, a must for every visitor, where one can find some of the worlds most unique art objects, this place is the seat of the Kagyu order a close replica of the original Kagyu in Tibet. In the afternoon return to Gangtok Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 05: Gangtok – Bagdogra - NJP - Departure (124 Kms.) 5 hrs. Drive
Morning after breakfast drive to Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri on arrival in Bagdogra transfer to Airport time to catch the flight for onward destination. 

Ooty.

Nestled in the ablaze blooming hills of the Nilgiris, Ooty or Udhagamandalam, is one of the favourite summertime retreats of bodies in South India.Orchards of peaches and plums, terraced tea plantations, and eucalyptus, ache and arrangement lining the landscape… a archetypal acropolis base in abounding ways.

Founded by the British in the aboriginal allotment of the 19th century, Ooty is home to abounding Britishers who accept collapsed in adulation with this acropolis base area they apparent a little bit of England. "…such admirable English rain, such adorable English mud" is how Lord Lytton-Viceroy of India from 1876-1880 declared Ooty to his wife! The British access is arresting in the handrolled cigars, amber and cheese one enjoys here. You additionally accept the accepted derby, and 'hunt' captivated annually. 

A acropolis base with a mural perpetually belted in mist, Ooty's adorableness has a around-the-clock appeal.

Ooty (Location)
Situated at an altitude of 2,268 m in the Nilgiri mountain ranges of Tamil Nadu. 

Ooty (History)

History of ooty

Udhagamandalam, The "Queen of hill station" is the capital of Nilgiri district. It is one of the best tourist resorts.Nilgiris is called as "Blue Mountains".The name Nila, we know to have been used over 800 years ago since,the King of the Hoysalas Vishnu Vardhana, who ruled from 1104 to 1141 A.D. seized the Nilgiris Plateau.His general Ponisia recorded this fact in 1117 A.D. with mention of Todas. The name Nilgiri was due to the blue haze which envelopes the range with most distant hills of considerable size. 

This Nilgiri territory came into possession of East India Company as part at the ceded lands, held by Tipu Sultan, by the treaty of Srirangapatnam in 1799. Rev. Jacome Forico, a priest was the first European who visited Nilgiris in 1603 and released his notes about the place and people of Nilgiris. In1812 surveyor William Keys and Macmohan visited the top of the plateau. In1818,Wish and Kindersley,Assistant and Second Assistant to Collector of Coimbatore visited this spot and submitted their experience report to the Collector of Coimbatore Mr. John Sullivan. Collector Mr.John Sullivan with his party proceeded to Nilgiri Mountain and made camp at Dimbhatti, just north of Kotagiri in 1819 in January. Again in May 1819 he came to the Hill of Ooty and began the construction of his bungalow at Dimbhatti (near Kotagiri), The first European dwelling on the hills. Then the Collector John Sullivan laid path from Sirumugai (near-Mattupalayam) to Dimbhatti in 1829 and the work was completed in May 1823. The Best route up to Coonoor was laid in 1830-32. Ootacamund remained still undiscovered. 

The first mention of the place occurs in a letter of March 1821 to the Madras Gazette by an unknown correspondent as "WOTOKYMUND". The first house was build at Ootacamund was undoubtedly the 'Stone House' by John Sullivan in April 1822. John Sullivan already started flower and kitchen garden at his Dimbhatti bungalow (Kotagiri). Also he had began at Stone House of Ooty with Scottish Gardener Johnstone to take care of it. In 1821-22 Caption B.S. Ward surveyed and mapped the hills. Mr Ward said in his writing that travellers temporary bungalows were put up at Kodapamund,Nanjanna, Killur and Yellanhali and European vegetables had been tried including Strawberries and apple.

In 1827 Sullivan sums up the progress of Ooty including laiding of Ooty lake. 17 European houses had been build and five more at Kotagiri. Then later on by several Englishmen Ooty, Coonoor and Kotagiri were developed. After 1947. the free Indian people administrators made all developments works of hill station and made popular health and hill tourism resort.

Ooty(Places To Visit)
Government Botanical Garden (2 Kms)
This garden was laid out earlier by Marquis of Tweedale, the then governor of Madras in 1847. This garden covers an area of 22 acres. A fossil tree trunk of 20 million years is preserved here. The flora of the garden consist of six section comprising varieties of tree species, grass carpet, variety of ferns, fashioned beds laid beds laid out in an Italian style, multi coloured flowering plants, house ferns and orchids and nurseries. This garden will create tourist's mind a memorable one. 

Lake View
About one Km. distance, an artificial lake can be seen with a charming look, which was formed in 1824 by Mr. John Sullivan,the then Collector of Coimbatore. Tamil Nadu tourism Development Corporation provided the following facilities to the tourists. 

Mini Garden
Tourists can visit this mini garden which is on the way to the Boat House. The children amusement park is housed here. A snack bar is also available. It is maintained by T.T.D.C. 

Doddabetta
It is the highest peak (2623 meters) in the Nilgiris and is about 10 Kms from Ooty. It lies at the junction of the Western & Eastern Ghats and offer beautiful vistas of the Nilgiri Hill ranges. It is surrounded by dense sholas. One can have a panoramic view of the landscape.

The Mukkurthi Peak & National Park
Mukkurthi Peak is about 40 Kms. form Ooty. The Mukkurthi National Park is located on the Southern corner of the Nilgiris Plateau. The area contains a viable population of Nilgiri Thar (Hamitragus hilocrius). The Kollaribetta and Nilgiris Peak are other major peaks around. The area is chained by innumberable beautiful and perennial little streams,which fall into Bhavani Puzha. The Silent Vally in the Western Ghat is located on the Western side of these ranges. A fascinating feature of the Mukkurthi Sanctuary is its endemism and relationship with Himalayan Flora and fauna. 

Hindustan Photo Films
The HPF, one of the major industrial units ot the district, is a public sector enterprise. This unit is located (about 5 Km away from Ooty railway station) over a sprawling area of over 300 acres, near the Ooty golf-links on the Ooty- Mysore road. The HPF was inaugurated by Mrs. Indra Gandhi, Prime Minister, in January, 1967. This industrial unit is currently producing Indu roll films which are used for taking photographs; Indu X-ray films, the quality of which is acknowledged to be among the best in the world; Indu bromide paper on which photographs are printed; and Induaerographic for geological and defence mapping, industrial X - ray film, laser recording film, CAT film, special film for space photography, oscilloscope direct print paper, photo typesetting paper and range of chemicals for the film processing. 

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary
This Sanctuary lies at an elevation of 1140 mts in the junction point of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and extends over and area of 321 sq.kms. A variety of habitats ranging from tropical ever green forest, moist teak forest, secondary grass lands and swamps are found. Panther, Sambar, spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Wild boar,Porcupine etc. The avifauna is varied with Minivets. Hornbills, Fairy Blue Birds, Jungle Fowls etc. 

Pykara
It is situated about 21 kms from Ooty, on the Ooty-Mysore Road. The tourist attraction are well protected fenced sholas, Toda settlements, undisturbed grassy meadows and also a good wildlife habitat.The Pykara Dam,Pykara falls and the reservoir attracts many tourists.There is a forest Rest House at Pykara. a boat House with Restaurant is available.

Deer Park
It is located at a distance of one Km. on lake road which has Sambar, Chital and Hares besides water
birds. 

THE NARROW TRAIL
This is a journey nobody should miss. A journey where you jostle with unimaginable crowds and squeeze into tiny coaches, a journey where you feel you can actually reach out and touch the elusive Nilgiris. It starts at Mettupalayam, 46 km southeast of Ooty, where you board the Blue Mountain Express that gets pushed by an engine instead of being pulled! 

When you hear frequent references to the Ooty mountain train, you would somehow conjure up Lilliputian images of people sitting in orderly, storybook fashion. That' s sure mistake, for this small train of the Nilgiris couldn' t be more full, with human forms oozing from every pore! And if you still harbor rosy images, try clambering on from Coonoor where it stops en route to Mettupalayam. This is a precious travel tip, mind you. But once you are on, it' s heaven. The overpowering Nilgiri landscape has the ability to make you oblivious of the human ocean around you and the greenery is bliss. It' s a memorable 4. 5-hour journey, so don' t miss it for anything. 

Ooty (Climate)
Temperatures range from 25°C in summers to 5°C in the winters. 

OOTY (When to Go)
Between November and March, avoiding high-season crowds (April-June and September-October). 

Ooty (Wildlife)
The region is a treasure of wildlife, with some animals even native to these southern mountain ranges. There is that deep-voiced Nilgiri langur (Presbytis johnii) with its shiny black body and yellow-brown crown. The Nilgiri langur happens to be one of the five langur species found in India and Sri Lanka. These langurs of the Nilgiris are often found in the sholas, which are amongst their favourite haunts. It' s in the sholas that you can also see the lion-tailed macaque. 

The shy, timid and hard-to-spot Nilgiri tahr (Hemitragus hylocrius) also has its home in these blue mountains. This animal has pride of place in being the only wild goat to inhabit any region south of the Himalayas. It has a short coat, dark yellow brown in color, and prefers to inhabit craggy regions above forest level. The Nilgiris are home to a great variety of carnivorous animals like tigers, panthers, jackals and hyenas. Elephants, wildcats, civet cats, giant squirrels and mongoose are also part of Nilgiri fauna. The Nilgiri marten, nightjar, hill mynah, and golden oriole are some of the region' s avifauna. In essence, this range of mountains harbors a massive diversity of animal life. 

GETTING THERE
Coimbatore, 105 km from Ooty, is the nearest airport. Indian Airlines has flight to Coimbatore from Bangalore, Cochin and Madras. 

The Blue Mountain Express to Ooty is from Mettupalayam (47 km). Mettupalayam can be reached from Coimbatore by the Tea Garden Express.

Shimla.

Shimla, the summertime basic of the British India, is anchored at a acme of 2,196 metres. While the British accept larboard the echoes amble on. today, its able-bodied developed facilities, accessible accessibility and abounding attractions accomplish it one of India's best accepted resorts. In the Himalyan lower ranges, it is amidst by pine, cedar, oak and rhododendron forests. 

Shimla is amid appear the southern genitalia of the arctic Indian accompaniment of Himachal Pradesh. Now It is the accompaniment basic and is at a ambit of 343 km from Delhi, 260 km from Manali, and 119 km from Chandigarh. The temperature ambit is not actual aerial and the best temperature not often crosses 25°C during summers. Winters are algid due to the arctic apprehension from the high Himalayas.

Shimla ( History)

The British discovered Shimla in the form of a little village in 1819. Until then, it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. It was during Lord William Bentinck's time that Shimla was truly acquired by the Government of India. The British persuaded the local Raja to part with the land in 1830, and the settlement became the subcontinent's most fashionable summer resort. In 1864, Shimla was declared the summer capital of India. After the independence of India, Shimla became the capital of Punjab until 1966, when it came under Himachal Pradesh.

SITES TO VISIT
Ridge
The Ridge is one place in Shimla where you must spend at least a couple of hours in a day, basking in the lazy sun. You won't be alone though, for the Ridge is perpetually swarming with the young and the old, out for a chitter-chatter stroll, a plate-full of chaat or a few shutterbug clicks of poses against the distant peaks.

Lakkad Bazaar
Find this world of wooden marvels right below the ridge. Lakkad Bazaar offers anything and everything you can imagine carved out of wood. From key chains, walking sticks, massagers, toys and jewellery boxes to sailor's wheels, planters and stationary holders - Lakkad Bazaar gives you plenty to pick from and take back home for friends and relatives, without flattening your wallets.

St Michael’s 
St Michael's Cathedral is a stained-glass masterpiece. Once considered the finest cathedral in India, it depicts Hope, Faith, Patience and Humility.

Institute of Advanced Studies
Built in 1888, the institute was originally the Viceregal Lodge. It's a magnificent English Renaissance grey-stone edifice set admist beautiful gardens and lawns. Entry is by ticket. The grounds are open for visitors only on Sundays. 

Tara Devi Temple
Situated atop a hill, Tara Devi leaves visitors gasping at the panoramic views. Built amidst oak and rhododendrons, it is accessible by road, rail and by foot. 

SITES NEARBY

Naldhera
Naldhera, with its brilliant green landscape and dappled sunlight, is a recreational getaway 22 km from Shimla. You'll find charming log huts and also regular rooms. The Golf Course and the cedar forest (for its heavenly treks and pretty picnic spots) are the main attractions here. The log huts (HPTDC) cost between Rs 800 and Rs 1,000 (Tel: 487 809). The nearby Golf Glade Hotel offers rooms at the same cost.

Chail
Visit the highest cricket pitch and the highest polo ground in the world in Chail. Once the summer capital of Patiala, the town is worth a day's tour. Located 45 km from Shimla (via Kufri).

Fagu
Situated along the National Highway, about 22 km from Shimla, Fagu offers pleasant views of the distant Himalayas along with some fun treks. Include a trip to the Deshumata Temple in your visit to Fagu. You will be lured to the apple orchards simply by their sweet fragrance.

Kufri
Kufri is a half-hour's drive out of Shimla (12 km). Loaded with hundreds of picnic and look-out points, it even has a deer park. Something else you'll find in abundance here are the quaint souvenir shops. The Kufri slopes are a hot favourite with snow seekers. 

Narkanda
Narkanda, 64 km from Shimla, offers wonderful slopes for skiing. At an elevation of 2708 m, it has dense pine forests. Hatu peak, 8 km from Narkanda, provides a striking panorama of the plains below. 

Sarahan
Sarahan is a small village worth visiting. It provides a spectacular view of Shrikhand Mahadev (5224 m) and hiking opportunities to the nearby villages such as Ranwin and Bashal Peak. The Bhimakali temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is the finest example of Himachali architecture.

Tattapani
Tattapani (STD Code 0117), 51 km from Shimla, is a spot well known for hot sulfurous springs. 

Shimla (Place for Adventure Activities)
In Shimla one can go to Kullu from Shimla And Sarahan to Sangla for a Trekking Some other treks are to the Shalipeak, to the Kullu valley, Shimla to Chail, Shimla to Junga and Shimla to Tattapani. Angling for trout can be done on the river Pabbar, near Rohru. Skiing is possible at Narkanda and Kufri (January–mid-March). Naldehra also offers a well-groomed nine-hole golf course. 

Travel Information

By Air : Shimla Airport is 23 kms from the city connected by daily flights from Delhi and Kullu.

By Rail : Broadguage Railway line upto Kalka connecting Delhi,Calcutta and Amritsar. Kalka to Shimla (95 kms.) by Narrow gauge railway.

By Road : Well connected with Kalka. Chandigarh,Delhi, Amritsar and Jammu etc.

Shimla( Places to Stay)
There are so many hotels & guest house are located in Shimla which suits to the budge of every Travellers. The Mall is the best site for entertainment. 

Shimla(Facts & Figure)
Languages : Hindi, Himachali, English. 
Best Time to Visit : May–July and September–November .
STD : 0177.

Khandala.

Khandala, set at a acme of 625 mt, amid on the western slopes of the Sahyadri abundance ambit is a acropolis base in Maharashtra. Fascinating across-the-board adorableness adorns this place.Although it is analogously baby as analyze to lonavala but it is appropriately adored with accustomed adorableness and bounty. Deep basin on one ancillary and aerial hills on the added ancillary bisect Khandala and Lonavala. Luckily, avant-garde industrialisation has not abnormally afflicted Khandala. Whenever a day-tripper visits Lonavala he additionally wishes to appointment Khandala. While travelling on Mumbai Bangalore National Highway, one has to cantankerous the backbreaking Khopoli - Khandala Ghat. This is the acclaimed Borghat. In a abbreviate ambit of 8 Kms one has to ascend a acme of 369 meters. This is a difficult Ghat to climb. But already you ability here, you feel that this ascend has been account the trouble. Khandala is One abode area you will abatement in adulation at First Site. Lonavala and Khandala are abounding of day-tripper about for the accomplished year. Main affidavit for this is the actuality that it is actual abutting to Mumbai.

KHANDALA (Location) 
Khandala is located in the western part of the state of Maharashtra,India. It is set amongst the hills and valleys of the Sahyadri mountain range. It is situated 101 km southeast of Mumbai and 69 km from Pune. It is 5 km from Lonavala.

KHANDALA (Weather)
 Weather in Khandala is pleasant. Summers (April-June) are mild, while winters are cool (November-February). It experiences heavy southwestern monsoon rains between June and September.

KHANDALA (When to Visit)
The best time to visit Khandala is between the months of October and May. 

KHANDALA (History)
The Past of khandala is similar to Lonavala. Chattrapati Shivaji, the founder of the first Maratha Empire, ruled the area around Khandala. then it came under the Peshwa rulers, finally it was taken over by the British when they defeated the Peshwas.

KHANDALA (Places to See)
There are Plethora of Places of Tourist attraction in Khandala & Lonavala ... Beautiful Hills, Deep Green Valleys, Huge Lakes, Historic Forts, Waterfalls etc. 

Rajmachi Park: 
On the way to Mumbai from Lonavala there is a beautiful garden before the beginning of the Ghat. It gives a spectacular view of the surroundings. On the East Side two towers of the Rajmachi Fort can be seen and at the bottom is the huge valley. There is a restaurant here and a temple close by. The Ghat begins from this point so many people come to enjoy the view. There is children's park here and there are regular bus services from lonavala bus station.

Ryewood 
This is a big and beautiful garden situated near Lonavala. This garden covers a lot of ground and it is full of majestic tall trees. There is an old Mahadeo temple in this park. There is history behind the name Ryewood. An English officer Mr. Rye stayed in this place for quite some time. Hence this woods are named after him. The name may also have come from the Marathi words "Rai" which means thick forest. Earlier it was under the care of civil dept. In 1959 it was transferred to the State Government's Forest Department. This garden has plenty of place for children to play.

Duke's Nose
This place is named after Duke Wellington whose pointed nose this cliff resembles. It also looks like a hood of a snake, which is why it is also called as "Nagfani" (Hood of Snake). This point can be approach from INS Shivaji and Kurwande Village. Watching the nature's beauty here is an unforgettable experience. 

Shivaji Park
This ground which was known as a playground which was converted into a garden in 1956 there is statue of Shri Shivaji Maharaj in this park. As it is near located near the city many people visit this park. 

Lohagad Darshan
In this small garden located in Bhangarwadi, there are plenty of toys for children to play there is also a big statue of Savarkar here. 

Amruntanjan point 
At the beginning of the Khandala Ghat, and at the end of the first slope there is a huge hoarding of Amrutanjan. There is a lot of flat space around here and the view of the valley and Dukes Nose is breath taking beyond this one can also see the city of Khopoli.

Kune Falls
This water falls where water comes down from a height of more than 100 feet is majestic in appearance one can have bath in the water that flows through the valley. This place is between Lonavala and Khandala. This fall can be seen in Khandala Ghat while coming from Mumbai. It runs for many days long after the monsoon is over. 

Tiger's Leap
This is a special spot in this area. If one looks at the valley carefully from this spot it appears as if a tiger is leaping into the valley, that is why this name. This spot is a furlong away from INS Shivaji. It gives a fascinating view of the valley. There is provision for viewing the valley from the safe confines of a big hole. A stone thrown down from here ricochets at many places and gets destroyed here. Making it as an another unique experience. 

Sakur Plateau
On the way to INS Shivaji there is a turn and a zigzag road. At a distance of approximately 4 miles and at a height of 1000 feet is a plateau. This plateau is on the way to village Ambavane. Thick forests occupy it and it's sparsely populated. Tungi, Korigad, Lohagad etc. Forts are very close from here. 

Monkey Hill
All the trains coming down from Khandala halt here for brake testing. There is a huge flat land to south of the railway tracks. This place is exactly above Khopoli town and it can be approach from Khopoli as well as Borghat reversing station. It is a favourite picnic spot. 

Reversing Station
This old place belonging to the railways now remains unused. This spot is outside tunnel no. 26. On the rail route and one can see the advertisement boards of Amrutanjan and other Products. At the bottom one can see Khopoli and the surrounding regions. During the night, this place illuminated with hundreds of lights becomes alive and gives a fascinating view. The division of Lonavala and Raigad District starts from here.

HOW TO REACH
By Air : Lonavala & Khandala do not have an Airport one has to fly to Bombay or to Pune. Nearest International Airport is Bombay and Domestic Airport is Pune. Bombay international Air port is approximately 110 kms. and Pune is 66 kms

Train : The Nearest railway station is at Lonavala. As Lonavala is on the main railway line between Mumbai and Pune.

Road: Khandala is well connected with Mumbai and Pune by road and the bus service for Pune (travel time 2½ hours) via Lonavala is good. However, it takes about four hours to reach Mumbai from Khandala.

Languages : Marathi, Hindi and English.
Best Time to Visit : October. May

Dehradun

The Doon Valley is anchored amid the two best important rivers of India. i.e. Ganga & Yamuna, is best arresting accepting abstinent climate, adolescent a cardinal of places of day-tripper interest. 


It is called afterwards Guru Dronacharya - A abundant abecedary in Mahabharat epic. The acclaimed religious boondocks of Rishikesh, the queen of hills Mussoorie, the acclaimed sulphur springs at Sahastradhara and a allotment of Rajaji National Park, the abdicate Chakrata hills all lie in this district. Also appointment the Chardhams. 

Dehradun is anchored at an distance of 2200 anxiety aloft sea level. It is one of the best developed cities of India accepting abstinent climate. The places to be visited adjacent are Sahastradhara (14 Kms.) Robbers Cave (8 Kms.) Forest Research Institute (5 Kms.) Tapkeshwar Temple (5.5 Kms.), Laxman Sidh (12 Kms.) Malsi Deer Park (9 Kms.)

Prime Attractions of Dehradun

Rajaji National Park
Rajaji National Park is distinct for its pristine scenic beauty and rich bio-diversity.

Dehradun- Mussorie Trekking
Enjoy the scenic beauty of Himalayas while trailing through this beautiful trek.

Tapkeshwar Mahadev Temple

Tapkeshwar Shiv temple is an ancient place of worship.

Excursions from Dehradun
Mussoorie
(36Km.)
Mussoorie is located in the Garhwal hills. Due to its immense natural beauty, Mussoorie is known as the queen of hill stations. more..

Asan Barrage

Popularly known as Dhalipur Lake, Asan Barrage, created in 1967, was developed By Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), as a water sports complex in 1994. 

Dakpathar
(45Km.)
Located on the foothills of Shivaliks, on the banks of river Yamuna, Dakpathar is the newly developed recreation center of GMVN (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam).

Jhanda Fair

The Jhanda Fair marks the arrival of Guru Ram Rai, the Sikh Guru, at Dehradun.

Lakha Mandal Temple

Lakhamandal is situated on a hill slope along the bank of the yamuna in district Dehradun.

Lakhawar Mela

Lakhawar fair is a village fair, held during the months of September- October and is very popular in the neighbouring area of Chakrata, 78 km. from Mussoorie.

Mundali
(129Km.)
Located in the Dehradun district of Uttar Pradesh, Mundali is 129 kms from Dehradun via Chakrata.

Rishikesh

Rishikesh is just 24 Kms from Haridwar. Located in the laps of lower Himalayas, this place is considered to be the access point of three other pilgrim places of Badrinath - Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri the four great places which combine to make Chardham .

Sahastra Dhara Falls
(14Km.)
Located 14 km from Dehradun is the famous picnic spot called as the Sahastra Dhara. Noted for their astounding beauty the medicinal sulphur waterfalls are a great attraction. 

Chakrata
(92Km.)
Situated at a distance of 92 Kms. from Dehradun, at an elevation of about 700 feet. Chakrata is known for its serene environ and sylvan charm. The place is devoid of all artificiality and one can move in perfect calm & in pollution free atmosphere. One can find accommodation in the forest rest house. There are few ordinary hotel also. The northern part of Chakrata sub-division, Provides most fascinating area for trekkers and nature lovers. Covered by dense virgin forest dotted with attractive village of colourful Jaunsari tribe, the area is dominated by 10,000 feet high peak of Kharamba. On its northern slopes is situated Mundali (9,000), where skiing is possible during the period from November to April. Deoband (9,000) Kanasar (8500), Kathiyan (7000) (all connected by road), Molta (7000), Tiger Fall near Chakrata are some other spots worth visiting. The famous temple of Mahasu Deota at Hanol is annually visited by thousands of pilgrims from Garhwal and Himachal Pradesh.

Kalsi
(50Km.)
It is about 5 kms. from Dak Pathar on way to Chakrata, where there is an Ashoka edict inscribed on the sizeable rock. It is preserved by National Archaeological Department. 
Lakhamandal

About 80 Kms. from Mussoorie on Mussoorie - Yamnotri road Lakhamandal is believed to be the place where Duryodhana of Mahabharat episode conspired to burn alive the Pandavas in the Lakshyagriha a house specially constructed with shellac. There is a temple believed to be constructed in the eighth century with a number of carved figures on stone which are of archaeological significance. 
Laxman Sidh
(12Km.)
This picturesque place about 12 Kms. from Dehradun on Hardwar road is frequented by a large number of people specially on Sundays. Legend has it that a saint underwent penance at this place. The place is connected by local bus service.

Badrinath

Cradled in the abundance ranges of the Nar-Narayan, with the spendid Neelkanth aiguille as the alluring backdrop, is amid the holiest of all the Hindu pilgrimages, Badrinath. Along the larboard coffer of river Alaknanda, the address is alleged badrinath as it was already carpeted with 'badris' or agrarian berries 

Legend 

When River Ganges was requested to alight to apple to advice the adversity humanity, the apple was too feeblw to buck the force of tis descent. Hence the boss river was breach into twelve channels, one of them actuality Alaknanda, which after became the address of Lord Vishnu or Badrinath. 

The present temple was congenital about two centuries ago by the kings of Garhwal. The arch idol in the temple is of atramentous bean and represents Vishnu built-in in a attentive pose, and belted by Nara-Narayan. Badrinath is additionally accepted as Vishal Badri and is one of the Panch Badris.

Fairs & Festivals

Mata Murti Mela, Janmashtami, Badri Kedar Festival. 
How To Get There 
By Air
Nearest airport is Jolly Grant, Dehradun. 
By Rail
Nearest railheads are at Rishikesh and Kotdwara. 

By Road

Badrinath is connected by good motorable roads with Rishikesh, Dehradun, Kotdwara and other hill stations of Garhwal and Kumaon region. 

Local Transport

Taxis, horses, ponies. 

Places To Stay
Chand Cottage, Shri KedarBadri Temple Committee. 
Gujrat Bhawan, Shri Kedar-Badri Temple Committee.
Modi Bhawan, Shri Kedar-Badri Temple Committee. PWD Inspection House.
Hotel Devlok, (GMVN), Near Bus Stand. 
Travellers Lodge, (GMVN), Bus Terminal.
General Information
Location
Uttranchal. 
Main Attraction
Badrinath Temple, Tapt Kund. 
Best Time
May To October. 
Languages
Garhwali, Hindi, English. 
Area
3 sq. km. 
Altitude
3,133 metres. 
Useful Information
Banks / Money Changers
State Bank of India, Badrinath. 
Hospitals
State Allopathic Dispensary. 
Clothing
Summer
Light woollen. 
Winter
Heavy woollen. 
Prime Attractions of Badrinath
Badri Kedar Festival
The Badri-Kedar festival, held at the sacred shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath is held in the month of June.
Mata Murti Mela

On the day of Mata Murti Ka Mela, the mother of Shri Badrinathji is worshipped, and a large fair held at the Badrinath Temple in the month of September.

Bhavishya Badri

The temple of Bhavishya Badri is at an altitude of 2744 metres and is surrounded by dense forests. 
Hemkund Saheb

The high altitude Lokpal lake, known as Hemkund ( 4329 mts.) lies in heavenly environs. A steep trek from Ghangharia leads one to this spot in about four to six hours.

North India Hill Stations: Almora

Climate - Almora

April to June and September to November are the best seasons to appointment Almora. In actuality except the backing seasons, Almora can be visited any time of the year. During summers the temperature of this abode is analogously added than any added acropolis stations. Even again black and morning temperatures are low abundant to abrasion ablaze balmy cloths. The fun of walking amid hills in balmy sunlight can not be declared in words. During winters anniversary of Dussehra has its own added attraction.

General Information
Location
Kumaon (Uttar Pradesh). 
Main Attraction
Nanda Devi Temple. 
Best Time
April to June And September to November. 
Languages
Hindi, English, Kumaoni. 
Population
About 54,000 people resides in this city. 

Useful Information - Almora
Tourist Information Centres
Uttar Pradesh Tourist Information Center -Mall Road, Nanital, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Kumaon Mandal Vikash Nigam - The KMVN Information Center mountaineering Tours, Talli tal, Nanital, Uttar Pradesh, India. 

Uttar Pradesh Tourist Office - Incharge, Kumaon Mandal Vikash Nigam, Chandralok Building, 36 Janpath New Delhi - 110 001 India 

A Word of Caution - Almora
To all tourist - beware of touts, if, new to the place.