Exploring the Enchanting Vibes of Goa: A Traveler's Paradise

Located on the southwest coast of India on the Arabian Sea, Goa has a unique blend of beautiful sandy beaches, colonial heritage and a bohemian vibe that sets it apart from anywhere else in the world and wins the hearts of millions of travelers every year. Nightlife, parties and endless fun come to mind in Goa as soon as we hear the name. But apart from these, South Goa is a wonderful place for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty and explore the unheard-of unknown places.

Church of St. Cajetan

Beaches in Goa:

Goa's beaches stretch as far as the eyes can see. From the popular beaches of Calangute and Baga to the laid-back atmosphere of Palolem and Agonda, there is a beach for every taste. Sink your toes into the soft sand and bathe in the azure waters of the Arabian Sea under the warm sun. For the adventurous, there is a range of thrilling experiences including surfing, jet skiing, parasailing and scuba diving. The main difference between the North Goa beaches and the South Goa beaches is the less crowded, quieter atmosphere. Nature is worth enjoying here. And at night, Goa's beaches are dressed up magically with the touch of light. 

A Glimpse of the Goa Coastline

Cultural Diversity:

Goa's rich cultural heritage is an interesting blend of Portuguese and Indian influences, evident in its architecture, cuisine and festivals. Old Goa's UNESCO World Heritage sites are must-sees where magnificent churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral stand as testaments to the colonial era. There are many colorful Portuguese houses along the narrow streets of Fonteinhos which is quite a sight to see. Get a taste of local life by visiting bustling markets like Mapusa and Anjuna, where you can shop for spices, handicrafts and traditional clothing. The historic Fort Aguara next to the Arabian Sea offers a glimpse of Goa's maritime history. 

Basilica of Bom Jesus

Catholic Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Amazing local food:

Goa can experience a delightful culinary journey through the diverse local cuisine. The local cuisine of Goa combines traditional Goan spices with Portuguese cuisine to take the flavor combination to another height. Dishes like Goan fish curry with prawn curry, various fish preparations and rice stay in the mind for a long time. Don't forget to taste the famous Goan Vindaloo, a spicy meat dish here that has gained international fame. A popular drink here is locally produced feni, a cashew or coconut-based liquor. A trip to Goa would be incomplete without tasting the local cuisine at the various beach shacks, charming cafes and restaurants along the coastline.

Festivals and Nightlife:

Goa is famous for its lively night parties and energetic festivals. If you're a music lover, don't miss the Sunburn Festival, which attracts famous disc jockeys from around the world. You can experience the nightlife of various popular beach clubs in Goa. For a taste of traditional Goan festivals, visit during Carnival season, when the streets come alive with colorful parades, live music and cultural performances.

Immense Beauty of Nature:

Beyond the beaches and bustling cities, Goa is home to abundant natural beauty. As you pass through the Western Ghats, you will find numerous small waterfalls, spice gardens and wildlife sanctuaries. Bondla and Kotigao wildlife sanctuaries offer a chance to see various bird species, deer and even leopards. Tambdi Surla Temple inside Lord Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa is very famous for archaeological reasons. The skillful art on the black stone is truly a sight to behold. On the way to this temple, the Kulem railway station is next to it, near which is the famous Dudhsagar waterfall shown in the Hindi movie 'Chennai Express'. 

 

The Wildlife Map of Goa                                                                                                                                  Shikra              (Courtesy: Mrugaya Xpeditions)

Goa is a place that fascinates all types of travelers with its overwhelming diversity. Although winter travel to Goa is the most popular, I like the beauty of the Monsoon here the most as the surroundings are filled with greenery. Travel, accommodation and food arrangements in Goa are of very good quality and cater to all types of people and their requirements.

St. Augustine Church Tower

Exploring Badami: A Hidden Gem of Ancient Splendor

 When we hear the name ‘Badami’, we naturally think of one color. But today I will tell about another ‘Badami’.

Badami (ancient name Batapi) in the Baglakot district of present-day Karnataka was the capital of the Chalukya dynasty from 540 to 757 AD, which can also be called the paradise of medieval stone architecture. The way these regions have excavated the mountain walls and built various beautiful temples is not seen elsewhere in India except at Ajanta and Ellora in Maharashtra. Around the 6th century Chalukya king Pulakesi I started construction of the cave temple of Badami, later his son Kirti Varman and later Pulakesi II completed the construction of the temples. 

Sculpture at Badami Cave Temple

Badami's key places are: 1. Bhuthanath Temple, 2. Mallikarjuna Temple, 3. Archaeological Museum, 4. Upper Shivalaya Temple, 5. Lower Shivalaya Temple, 6. Badami Fort, 7. Malgatti Shiva Temple, 8. Dattatreya Temple, 9. Yallamma Temple, 10. Badami Cave Temples (4).

A huge reservoir, Agastyakund, was excavated during the Chalukya rule between the two mounds of brown sandstone. And the famous Badami cave temples are built on the nearby hills. The Badami Caves mainly contain statues of Hindu deities and Jain Tirthankaras, there are four mountain caves, the first three of which have various forms and avatars of the Gods Vishnu and Maheshwar (Shiva) and the last one has statues of 24 Jain Tirthankaras and various Jain relief works. Also in 2015, some cave temples were discovered at a distance of 500 meters from the main cave temples, which contain Buddhist relics. Almost every temple has wonderful sculptures as well as numerous cave paintings that give a lot of insight into the lifestyle and religious beliefs of that time. 

Agastya Kund and Bhutnatha Temple

On the hill directly opposite the Badami cave temples are two-thousand-year-old Shiva temples. Lower Shivalaya is a Shiva temple built in Dravidian style and Upper Shivalaya is at the very top of the hill from where the settlement below, Agastyakunda and the Badami caves on the opposite hill appear very beautiful. ASI Archaeological Museum is located below this hill. The famous inscription of the Chalukya king Pulakesi II on the rock is preserved next to the museum. A little further along this road are the North and East Bhutnatha Temples. There is also a Jain inscription on the hill next to it. 

Cave at Badami, Agastya Kund, Upper and Lower Shivalaya

It is assumed that there was a population in Badami even during the megalithic period. Because in this area, many contemporary artifacts (which are kept in the museum) and several ancient tombs or dolmens have also been found. Along with these prehistoric monuments, the ruins of the Badami Fort built during the reign of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan can be seen here.

You can easily reach Badami by car/bus/train from Bangalore via Hubli. The best time to visit Badami of Karnataka is Winter or Spring seasons. At other times of the year, it is quite hot here. A visit here should also include historic Hampi, Aihole and Pattadikal, which are equally interesting.

Badami is a wonderful blend of natural beauty and unique architecture that lingers in the mind for a long time.

Exploring India’s largest Open Air Museum: Hampi

Hampi is one of the most popular historical tourist destinations in South India. Hampi is near Hospet town in the Bellary district of Karnataka state. Historically significant Hampi is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Aerial view of Hampi

In the history of India from ancient to medieval times, Hampi is mentioned again and again, sometimes as Kishkindhya of Ramayana and sometimes as Vijayanagar, the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi is surrounded by many big hills including Hemkuta, Malayabhant, Matunga, Rishyamukh, Anjanadri, etc. and through these hills flows the calm and beautiful river Tungabhadra, with which a special emotion of Bengali people is attached because of the novel 'Tungabhadrar Teere' by well-known writer Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay.

Tungabhadra River

Harihara and Bukka founded the kingdom of Vijayanagara in 1336 AD. A reign of 310 years by 29 kings of four dynasties, King Krishnadeva Raya is the best among them who was well-known as a hero, lover, artist, writer, scholar, and pious. Raja Krishnadeva Raya was the author of 'Amuktamalyada', the greatest gem of Telugu literature. Ashtadigvaja was the glory in his Raj Sabha, along with Tenali Ram. This was the golden age of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Royal Enclosure covers a few acres of land. So many palaces, so many temples, elephant stables, horse stables, baths... almost nothing remains. It was looted for a month. After winning the battle of Talikota in 1535 AD, the sultanate rulers pounced like hungry tigers on the rich Vijayanagara state. They took what they could, else they broke the artifacts. What still survives among the ruins is amazing. 

Watch Tower

Hampi is a big place, it takes time to see. Hampi is divided into five parts for the convenience of travelers… 1. Hemkuta and Matunga Hills region, 2. Achyutaraya temple area, 3. Palace area, 4. Kamalapur and adjacent areas, 5. Anegandi (on the other side of the Tungabhadra river). From the west, you can see the Ugra Narasimha idol, then Krishna temple and go towards Virupaksha temple. It is the oldest Shiva temple in Hampi, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Local belief is that god Shiva and goddess Parvati got married in this temple. Leaving the temple, the road goes straight towards Hampi Bazaar. Leaving the market on both sides, the road ends at the Monolithic Bull Temple. This is where the world-famous bazaar used to be, with diamond and jewelry stalls. Merchants from many faraway countries used to come here to trade. Vijayanagar was then considered the second most famous city in the world. From here, one can walk along the banks of the Tungabhadra River and reach the famous Vishnu temple, Vijaya Vittala temple through the Achyutaraya Temple complex area. Inside the great Vijaya Vittala temple are the famous stone chariots and musical pillars that have been mesmerizing us for ages. 

Vijaya Biththala Temple Complex

Stone Chariot

Other notable places in Hampi include Mahanavami Dibba, Hazara Rama temple, Badavi Shiva Linga, Pushkarini (Stepped tank), Kamal Mahal, and Queen’s Bath. Taking the help of a trained guide is essential to explore and understand Hampi well.

Stepped well

Mahanavami Dibba

The direct train from Kolkata to Hospet is Amravati Express, a 32-hour journey. There are plenty of options to stay and eat.

 After all, it is almost impossible to explore Hampi completely just by visiting once. After Rome in Italy, Hampi is well-known as the second-largest open-air museum in the world. A traveler's experience remains incomplete without visiting Hampi.

Purulia: Exploring the Nature's Canvas

Located in the western part of the Indian state of West Bengal, Purulia is famous for its enchanting scenery, attractive landscape, ancient temples, vibrant folk culture, rich cultural diversity and heritage and is one of the popular tourist destinations in the country.

Natural Landscape and Beauty:

Purulia is a diverse and amazing natural landscape adorned with hills, dense forests and waterfalls which is an unmissable attraction for nature lovers. Start your journey by visiting the picturesque Ayodhya Hills, where you can trek through the greenery, encounter a variety of flora and fauna and witness breathtaking views from its summit. Ayodhya Hills and its surrounding area is a scenic spot adorned with lush greenery, sparkling waterfalls and picturesque scenery. Marvel at the majesty of the majestic Matha Hills, which showcases the serene surroundings and experience stunning sunset views. The vivid beauty of Bamni Falls and the mysterious atmosphere of Charida village reservoir are must-sees for every traveler. Ayodhya Hill is also a paradise for bird watchers, trekking and adventure enthusiasts.

Fishing in the water stream

Pardi Dam near Gorgaburu Hill

The historically important Garpanchkot in Purulia, surrounded by lush green forests and serene lakes, continues to fascinate visitors even today with its majestic ruins of ancient palaces and temples. One can enjoy the mystical beauty of Muradi (Baranti) Lake hidden in a dense forest and the company of migratory birds. Pakhi Pahar, Duarsini, Baghmundi and many lesser-known places with their pristine natural beauty await the avid travelers.

Fishing in the River

Ancient Temples and Architectural Wonders:

Steeped in history, Purulia is home to an amazing array of ancient temples and architectural wonders that reflect the region's rich history and cultural heritage. One of the most famous places is the historic Panchkot Palace (Kashipur Rajbari), a magnificent example of a fusion of Mughal and British architectural styles. The ruined fort of Garpanchkot still stands as a reminder of the bygone days. The iconic Jaichandi hilltop fort is known for its striking terracotta architecture and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Besides, among the many ancient temples Deulghata, Banda, Pakbirra, Telkupi, Suisa, etc. are famous.

Tribal Villages and Tribal Folk Culture:

One of the most fascinating aspects of Purulia is its vibrant tribal folk culture. One can visit the remote tribal villages and witness the unique traditions and customs of the Santal, Kurmi, and Munda communities here. A trip to Purulia is incomplete without experiencing the region's colorful festivals (Tusu Parab, Bhadu Parab, Jitu Parab, Chhata Parab, etc.) and the diversity of folk art. The Chou dance performed during the Chou festival is an indigenous folk dance in which dancers dressed in colorful masks and costumes of mythological characters narrate mythological stories through their unique rhythmic movements. Besides, the Baul community here blend their philosophies, life and love with the soulful tunes of Baul music sung by them.

Tusu festival Choudol Seller

Chau Dance

From natural wonders to ancient heritage, tribal folk culture to architectural marvels, the Purulia district truly offers every traveler an enchanting travel experience. To connect with nature and history one can never miss the call of the charm of Purulia attractions. There is a common saying about Purulia, 'Purulia is poor by wealth yet it is extremely rich in culture'.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Shimoga: A Tranquil Haven in Karnataka

Located in the heart of the Indian state of Karnataka, the city of Shimoga is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions with its picturesque landscape, towering waterfalls, lush forests, and fascinating heritage. Nestled within the green hills of the Western Ghats in the Shimoga district of Karnataka is the enchanting Agumbe Rain Forest. Known as the "Cherrapunji of the South", Agumbe is a hub of biodiversity and one of the wettest places in the country. Surrounded by lush greenery, surrounded by waterfalls, diverse wildlife and mist-covered hills, Agumbe is a unique attraction for nature enthusiasts.

The Beauty of Nature:

Shimoga has many natural wonders that amaze us. One of the highest waterfalls in India is the breathtaking 'Jog Falls'. Jog Falls is a waterfall located on the Sharabati River in the Western Ghats of Shimoga district, it is the third-highest waterfall in India. This waterfall depends on the rains of the region and a spring of Sharabati River forms the waterfall. The waterfall is a major attraction for tourists and is ranked 36th in the list of free waterfalls worldwide, 490th in the world according to the list of waterfalls in terms of total height.

Barkana Falls located in the area adjacent to Agumbe is the 10th highest waterfall in India. The sight of the water roaring down from a height of about 450 feet is awe-inspiring. Surrounded by dense forests and misty mountains, this picturesque setting makes one feel at one with nature.

One of the most charming attractions in Agumb is the Abe Falls. The waterfall is cascading from a height of about 200 feet, creating a mesmerizing scene amidst the green surroundings. As the golden sunsets, the water glistens in its rays and a mesmerizing soundscape is created as the water falls into the reservoir below. 

Jog Waterfalls

Rain Forest Wonderland:

Shimoga is home to the lush forests of the Western Ghats. The 'Agumbe Rain Forest' is a treasure trove of biodiversity and an integral part of the Western Ghats UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many species of plants and animals in this dense evergreen forest. Among the special attractions here are ancient towering trees, vibrant orchids, local flora, various indigenous and exotic bird species, colorful butterflies and exotic insects. And there is the fearsome King Cobra, as Agumbey is known as the "King Cobra Capital of India".

Trekking through the thick forests of Kodachadri hills is an extraordinary thrilling experience. From the top of the hill, one can see the picturesque view of the surrounding valley and the Arabian Sea, which wins the hearts of photographers.

Agumbe is famous for its beautiful sunset and Agumbe Sunset Point is the best place to see this scenic view. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky turns orange, pink and purple and casts a magical glow on the region.

 

Malabar Gliding Frog

Tiger Beetle

Historical Resources:

Among the rich historical heritage of Shimoga, one can visit ancient temples and architectural marvels. The Sharabati River and its backwaters are home to the sacred site of the Rameswara Temple, known for its exquisite wood and stone carvings and spiritual ambience. The historic village of Keladi, once the capital of the Nayak dynasty, with its ancient temples and palaces reflects the region's glorious past. The Sacred Heart Church in the heart of Shimoga is an architectural masterpiece.

Local herbs:

Shimoga is known for its delicious spicy dishes and other preparations made in authentic Malnad style of cuisine. Yummy "Kadubu" (steamed rice dumplings), "Akki Roti" (rice flour bread), and "Kote Kadubu" (Idlis cooked in jackfruit leaves), are a must-taste. Additionally, the locally produced coffee here is equally popular.

 

The city of Shimoga is easily accessible by rail and road from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. Shimoga is one of the most beautiful places in India that should be included in South India travel plans for a few days away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city.

Exploring the Enigmatic Delights of Delhi

Delhi is the bustling capital city of India that seamlessly combines its rich tapestry of historical heritage and culture with the vibrancy of a modern metropolis. Delhi is known for its architectural magnificence, impressive cuisine and vibrant markets ranging from majestic ancient monuments to bustling bazaars, from scrumptious street food to contemporary art galleries, everywhere offers a wealth of fascinating experiences that mesmerize travelers from all over the world.

Old Delhi, a Glimpse of the Past:

Time seems to stand still in old Delhi amidst the blurred streets and historic landmarks. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Red Fort, the red sandstone walls of which are still awe-inspiring. One can visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India and enjoy its architecture. Climb the minaret of the Jama Masjid for a panoramic view of Old Delhi. Don't miss a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk, a busy market where you can taste Delhi's famous street food and shop for items at reasonable prices.

Humayun's Tomb, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture:

Entering New Delhi, we see Humayun's mausoleum, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This architectural masterpiece inspired the construction of the famous Taj Mahal and stands as a testament to the glory of Mughal architecture. Stroll through its beautifully landscaped gardens and marvel at the intricate Persian-influenced marble work that adorns the mausoleum.

 

Humayun's Tomb

Qutub Minar, The Tower of History:

A visit to Delhi is incomplete without seeing the Qutub Minar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 12th century, the towering Qutub Minar (73 meters high) is a stunning iconic minaret that stands amidst the ruins of the ancient structure. Here you can see the stone carvings of the Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the striking iron pillar, known for its rust-resistant structure.

 

Qutub Minar

Akshardham Temple and Lotus Temple, Spiritual Center:

Akshardham Temple and Lotus Temple are must-visits marvel at the splendor of two modern architectural masterpieces that showcase India's rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Marvel at the magnificent craftsmanship of Akshardham Temple, exhibits depicting ancient Indian history are the highlights. Lotus Temple, a Bahai house of worship shaped like a lotus flower, is also famous for its extraordinary architecture.

Street Food Fun:

Delhi is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse experience of flavors and cuisines. Old Delhi's Parotta Alley is famous for its delicious street food, where you can taste hot parathas filled with a variety of fillings. From the scrumptious chaats here to the delicious kebabs of Old Delhi and the Jalebis of Chandni Chowk, nothing goes without it.

Shopping Paradise:

Delhi is a shopper's paradise, home to an array of markets and luxury shopping destinations. Janpath and the colorful lanes of Sarojini Nagar are well known for trendy fashion at affordable prices. You can buy traditional handicrafts, textiles and jewelry at the Delhi Haat or indulge in a luxury shopping experience at Khan Market or Select Citywalk malls.

With its fascinating blend of history, culture and modernity, Delhi encourages travelers from all over the world to experience its numerous wonders. From its ancient monuments to its bustling markets, delicious cuisine, exhibition halls, various museums, and murals create a wonderful blend of past and present.

Exploring the iconic Bodhgaya and Rajgir

Bodhgaya and Rajgir are two important pilgrimage destinations in the Indian state of Bihar, known for their historical and spiritual significance. These places attract a large number of visitors every year, including tourists and devotees from all over the world. In this article, we will explore the key attractions and experiences that these two places offer.

Bodhgaya is a small town located in the Gaya district of Bihar, and it is the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. The Mahabodhi Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most prominent attraction in Bodhgaya. The temple complex comprises several shrines, monasteries, and meditation centers, and it is considered to be one of the holiest sites for Buddhists worldwide. The main shrine in the temple complex houses a gilded statue of Lord Buddha in a sitting posture, and it is surrounded by ornate carvings and murals depicting the life of the Buddha. The temple complex is also home to the Bodhi tree, under which Lord Buddha meditated and attained enlightenment. The tree is believed to be a direct descendant of the original Bodhi tree, and it is considered to be one of the most sacred trees in the world.

Sujata Stupa, Bodhgaya

Apart from the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodhgaya has several other attractions worth visiting. The Royal Bhutan Monastery, built-in in the traditional Bhutanese style, is one of the most beautiful monasteries in the town. The Thai Monastery, with built-in Thai architecture, is another popular attraction that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Thailand. The Tibetan Monastery, built-in traditional Tibetan style, is a great place to witness the colorful prayer flags and experience the Buddhist way of life. The Great Buddha Statue, located near the Mahabodhi Temple, is a 80-feet tall statue of Lord Buddha, and it is one of the tallest statues in India.

80-feet tall statue of Lord Buddha

Rajgir is another ancient town located in the Nalanda district of Bihar, and it was the capital of the Magadha Empire during the reign of King Bimbisara. Rajgir is known for its association with Lord Buddha, who spent several years here during his lifetime. The town is surrounded by hills and forests, which add to its natural beauty and tranquility.

One of the most popular attractions in Rajgir is the Vulture's Peak, a hill that is believed to be the site where Lord Buddha delivered several sermons to his disciples. The hill provides a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, and it is a great place to witness the sunrise or sunset. Another popular attraction in Rajgir is the hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties and are said to cure several ailments. The hot springs are located at the foot of Vaibhava Hill, and there are several bathhouses and pools built around them for visitors to take a dip.

Rajgir is also home to several ancient ruins and monuments that offer a glimpse into its rich history. The Bimbisara Jail, where King Bimbisara was imprisoned by his son, is one such monument that is worth visiting. The ruins of the ancient Nalanda University, which was one of the oldest universities in the world, are also located near Rajgir. The university was a center of Buddhist learning and attracted scholars from all over the world.

Nalanda Mahavihara

In conclusion, Bodhgaya and Rajgir are two important pilgrimage destinations in Bihar that offer a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty. Whether you are a devout Buddhist or a history buff, these places have something to offer for everyone. So, if you are planning a trip to Bihar, make sure to include Bodhgaya and Rajgir in your itinerary, and experience the magic and serenity that these places have to offer.

The Enchanting beauty of Aleppy, Thekkady, Munnar

The southern Indian state of Kerala is blessed with stunning natural beauty, which draws visitors from all over the world. Three of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala are Aleppy, Thekkady, and Munnar. Each of these places has its own unique attractions, making them a must-visit on any Kerala itinerary. In this blog post, we will explore what makes these three destinations so special.

Aleppy:

Aleppy is a serene town located on the backwaters of Kerala. It is famous for its houseboat cruises, which take visitors on a leisurely tour of the backwaters, passing through lush green landscapes and quaint villages. The houseboats are traditional Kettuvallams, which have been converted into luxurious floating homes with all modern amenities. A houseboat cruise in Aleppy is the perfect way to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Kerala.

Apart from houseboats, Aleppy is also known for its beaches, temples, and traditional coir industry. Visitors can take a stroll on the white sand beaches, visit the ancient temples, or watch the skilled artisans at work in the coir factories. The local cuisine of Aleppy is another highlight, with fresh seafood and traditional Kerala delicacies.

Thekkady:

Thekkady is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and birds. The main attraction in Thekkady is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers visitors a chance to spot wild animals in their natural habitat. The sanctuary also has several trekking trails, bamboo rafting, and boating options for visitors.

Apart from wildlife, Thekkady is also known for its spice plantations. Visitors can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the different spices grown in Kerala, such as cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon. Thekkady is also a great place to shop for spices, tea, and handicrafts.

Munnar:

Munnar is a hill station located in the Western Ghats of Kerala. It is known for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, and trekking trails. The town is situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters and is surrounded by misty mountains and verdant valleys. The tea plantations of Munnar are a sight to behold, with rows of tea bushes covering the slopes.

Apart from tea plantations, Munnar is also known for its waterfalls, lakes, and wildlife. Visitors can take a trek to the top of the Meesapulimala peak, which is the second-highest peak in the Western Ghats. The town also has several wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Eravikulam National Park and the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary.

In conclusion, Aleppy, Thekkady, and Munnar are three destinations in Kerala that should not be missed. Each of these places has its own unique attractions, making them perfect for a varied and exciting itinerary. A trip to Kerala is incomplete without experiencing the natural beauty, wildlife, and culture of these three places.