Things to see in Southern Karnataka

It is one part of Karnataka that attracts tourists from all over the world. Some of the interesting places in Southern Karnataka includes the city of Bangalore, Historical Mysore and most famous Bandipur National Park.

Bangalore :

Foremost on the tour to Southern part of Karnataka comes – Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka. Popularly known as the ‘Garden City of India’, Bangalore is dotted with numerous well laid out parks and gardens. The city enjoys the salubrious climate and is home to large number of sightseeing destination. It was once the part of the Vijayanagar empire and was founded by Kempa Gowda in 1537 AD. Toady it is one of the fastest growing city in south east Asia and is emerging out as the high tech capital of India.

The three major highlights of the city of Bangalore are Vidhana Soudha, sprawling Cubbon Park and Colourful Lalbagh. It is venue of many cultural events that take place here from time to time. On the excusion trip from Bangalore can make a visit to the famous Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Bannerghatta National Park and Chamundi Hills.

Mysore :

Mysore, one of the most popular travel destination in south India, is a veritable melting pot of rich heritage as well as art and culture of India. Also called Mysooroo, it is the second largest city in Karnataka. The word Mysore is derived from Mahishuru or Mahishasura, the name of the cruel demon king who is believed to have had his base there. The City of Palces – Mysore was once the capital of the Wodeyar rulers.

The city is popular for its unique sandalwood products and Dasara festival which is celebrated in the month of February every year. Mysore is a home to some of the most interesting destination such as Srirangapatna, Krishna Raj Sagra dam and Sivasamudram falls.

Bandipur National Park :

Located on Mysore-Ooty highway, Bandipur National Park, is most suited for those, who are looking for exciting Gateway far away from the hectic city life. It offers you lot of adventure for you as you will have opportunity to take heaps of gorgeous wildlife view in the form of several rare flora and fauna.

Bandipur National Park In Karnataka became one of the first of India's Tiger Reserves in 1973 and the southernmost of the nine reserves specially formed under Project Tiger. In 1974, intention was declared under the Wildlife Protection Act to notify the Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary as a National Park.

The park boosts of the pulsating wildlife that includes Asian elephant, Bonner Macaque, Jungle Cat, Wild Boar, Indian Palm Squirrel, Smooth-coated Otter, Common Palm Civet, Jungle Cat, Indian Palm Squirrel, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Rusty-spotted Cat, Nilgiri Tahr (adjoining areas), Indian Porcupine, Golden Jackal, Indian Grey Mongoose, Bengal Fox, Ruddy Mongoose, Indian Elephant, Indian Pangolin, Nilgiri Langur, Tiger, Chital, Grizzled Indian Squirrel, Dhole- Asiatic Wild Dog, Sloth Bear, Leopard Cat, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Gaur, Lion-tailed Macaque, Leopard and Four-horned Antelope.

Beyond the amazing Game Viewing at Bandipur, there is other adventure activities such as elephant safari, jeep safari, birding that will be awaiting you to explore the nature's magical view.

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Udupi Pilgrimage Destination in Mangalore, Karnataka

Udupi, located at the distance of 60 kms from Mangalore is the south India's holiest Vaishnavite pilgrims. The place is associated with the famous Hindu saint Madhwacharya, who was born here (1238 -1317). Madhwacharya was the founder of the Dwaitha philosophy. He established the eight Sanyasi Mutts at Udupi and is one of the Mokshapuris, who taught here 700 years ago. Udupi is most famous temple of Shri Krishna and Paryaya festival celebrated here with great zeal and enthusiasm.

Tourists Attractions :

Krishna Temple :

Udupi is most famous for the Shri Krishna temple, built here in the 13th century. The temple is popularly known as the Krishna Mutt or Krishna Matha of Udupi. Madhwacharya founded the maths (monasteries) here, which are visited by lakhs of pilgrims each year. According the legends there was once a popular kuruba devotee known as Kanakadasa, who was pious and and devoted to Lord Krishna. But he was not allowed to enter the temple, because he doesn't belong to the same caste, but didn't upset him, instead made him pray with intense.

Seeing all this Lord Krishna was so pleased that he made the statue of himself turn around to allow the disciple gaze upon his heavenly form through the window at the back of the mutt (monastery).

Everyday puja is performed here from (5:30 am to 8:45pm). The temple remains open to the non Hindus as well. But men are only allowed to enter the main shrine bare chested. The eight mutt here are named as Pejavara, Puttige, Palimaru, Adamaru, Sodhe, Kaniyooru, Shirur ana Krishnapura.

Festivals :

The largest number of devotees gather at the temple during the late winter, when the town host the series of spectacular car Festival and gigantic, bulbous domed chariot are hauled through the streets through the temple. Another famous festival celebrated here is the Paryaya festival, held after every two years. Each of the Mutt is headed by the Swami, who will be in charge of the temple during his Paryaya. Even the festival of Bhajana Saptaha is quite important, which is held in Sri Laxmi Venkatesh Temple.

Udupi Cuisines :

Udupi is birth place of nationally known Masala Dosa. Tourists coming on the tour to the Udupi, make sure that they do not leave the place without trying out this crispy delicacy.

Excursion trip from Udupi :

On the excursion trip from Udupi beach tourists can make a visit to Maple, which is a popular beach destination. Indulge in beach activities and take a boat ride to St. Mary's Island. Than you can also visit Kollur, a tiny hamlet located at the distance of about 80 kms from Udupi.

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Kanyakumari Travel

Surrounded by the magnificent hills and lush green fields on one side and endless sea on the other, Kanyakumari is small yet extravagantly beautiful town. Also known as Cape Comorin, it is located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu at the southern most tip of peninsular India.

Tracking the history of civilizations dating back to hundred of years, it has been ruled by Cholas, Nayaks, Cheras, Pandyas and later on by the British. Popularly referred to as the 'Alexandra of the East', it was earlier the important trading center of south India. Surrounded by the natural beauty on all sides – sea, paddy fields and coconut trees, Kanyakumari is worth a visit.

As far as I could see there are huge number of coconut tress dancing gently in the sunny morning sun peppered with old houses, windmills, churches and hotels with the glittering greenish blue water making the perfect scenery. Nearby stands statue of Thiruvallure and the Vivekananda Rock Memorial on two islands in the ocean, making a picture complete.

Popular attractions of Kanyakumari

Gandhi Memorial :- Gandhi Memorial is the important attraction of Kanyakumari. It is built on the same place where where there is an vase that contained the ashes of Gandhiji before they were immersed into the water. The architecture of the memorial is designed on the pattern of central Hindu temples in a way that the first rays of the sun fall exactly on the place where ashes of Mamahtma Gandhi are kept.

Alvar Tirunagari Temple :- Dedicated to Lord Adinatha, the Alvar Tirunagari Temple is the first Jain Thirthankara. It is the popular Vaishnavaite temples in India, visited by thousand of devotees all around the world.

Kanyakumari Beach : - Located to the south of Nagercoil, the beach of Kanyakumari is known for its multi colored sand. As the beach is too rock and rough sea, swimming is prohibited in the area. Despite that lot of visitors from all around the world come to visit this place. It is also a perfect honeymoon destination. Apart from that 3000 year old Kanyakumari Temple is worth a visit.

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Mangalore Karnataka Tour

Mangalore is the largest city of the Karnataka coast, located at the distance of 357 kms from Bangalore. Situated at the point where Netravati and Gurupur rivers flow into the Arabian sea , Mangalore is the gateway to the Karnataka. The city drives its name on the name of Goddess Mangla Devi.

Mangalore was once one of the most famous ports of south India. Today the city is mainly known for the processing and export of coffee, cocoa and cashew nuts. It is also the center for the production of cigarettes. Petrified with white sandy beaches, picturesque hilly terrain and leisurely winding streets make a must visit among the tourists coming to India. The city of Mangalore has been renamed by the Karnataka Government as Mangalooru.

Tourists Attractions in Mangalore :

Sultan's Battery :

Located at the distance of 4 km from the city, Sultan's Battery is the watch tower constructed by Tipu Sultan during the Mughal regime in India. Built in black stone's it gives the impression of the miniature fortress that was actually built, to prevent intruders from entering the city.

Kadri Temple :

Dating back to the 1068 A.D., Kadri is the another historical site in Mangalore. It is located on the highest hill here. The temple derives its name from the Lord Manjunatha Swami. The main highlight of the temple is the Lokeshwara statue that is made of the finest Indian bronze. It is basically a square shaped temple that has nine tanks.

St Aloysius College Chapel :

The church is not an ancient historical monument still it is of much importance to the city. Located near to the Nehru Maidan bus stand, the church was built in the year 1899-1900. It is dedicated to Aloysius Gonzaga who served the victims of plague in the 16th century Rome. The major highlight of the church are the paintings of famous Italian artist Antony Moshaini adorn the walls of the temple.

Light House Garden :

Light house garden is another major landmark of the region. It was built by the Haider Ali in the 18th century. One can spend time at the garden and one can get a beautiful view of the sea, the sailing ships and boats from here.

Mahatma Gandhi Museum :

The city of Mangalore also houses Mahatama Gandhi Museum that boosts of the zoology, anthropology, sculpture, art, coins and manuscripts. The museum remains open from 9.30 to 12.30pm and 2 to 5.30pm on all days.

Tourists Activities :

Beach Activities :
If you are looking for some adventure you can spend time lazing at city beach. The most famous beach in the region is the Ullal beach, backed by the wispy fir tress and scenic environs. Locals from nearby places make a visit to the beach to get the magnificent sunset view.

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Discover Pattadakal and Aihole Around Badami Caves

Besides visiting the magnificent caves of Badami, tourists can make a excursion trip to the nearby sightseeing destinations that includes :

Aihole :

Aihole located at the distance of 50 kms from Badami, is the site of the first capital of the Chalukyan, who ruled the region from 4th to 6th century. It houses more than 100 temple, half of which are in ruins. The temple known by the name of Lad Khan, dating back to the AD 450, is probably the Aihole's oldest building. It was once used as an assembly hall for the royal marriages. Inside the temple stands the Nandi bull and a small sanctuary containing a shivalingam is next to the back wall.

Another most impressive part of the Aihole is the Durga Temple , built in the 7th century. It is notable for its semicircular apse, which was copied from Buddhists architecture. Other sculptural highlights includes the decoration on the entrance to the mandapa hall way and niche images on the outer walls of the semicircular sanctum. Behind the Durga temple is small museum that contains the best of Chalukyan sculpture work. Other highlights of Aihole's include Gandar, Ladkhan, Kontigudi, and Hucchapaya.

Pattadakal :

Pattadakal is a riverside village located at the distance of 22 km from Badami. It served as the site of Chalukyan coronations between 7th and 8th centuries. Doted with dozen of temple, Pattadakal, is a must visit destination outside Badami. Like the Badami and Aihole, it boosts of the fine Chalukyan architecture. It is one such place where you will find both north and south Indian style of temples. Earliest among the temple sis the Sansameshvara temple, built by king Vijayaditya during the 8 century AD. Dedicated to Lord Shiva the temple is also known as Shri Vijayeshvara.

Two of the southern style temples called Mallikarjuna and Virupaksha are also located here, which were built by ttwo sisters who were successively the queens of Vikramaditys II. Virupaksha is one of the largest temple during that period.

Its interiors depict the scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata, while Mallikarjuns depict the tales based on the life of Shri Krishna. Another must visit temple here is – Papanatha, built in the northern style of architecture. It was built in the 8th century. Outside the walls features the relics from the Ramayana. On the historic tour to Karnataka tourists can also visit Rashtrakutta, located 11 km from the village.

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Gokarna Tourism

Gokarna is a quaint village located on the coast of south Indian state of Karnataka. It lies at the distance of 579 Kms, from Bangalore and 60 Kms, from Karwar. Set behind the pristine white sand beach, with the forest cover foothills of the Western Ghats forming a back ground, Gokarna is among the India's most scenically situated sacred sites. Go-Karna actually means 'cows ears' in Sanskrit.

According to the legend, Lord Shiva emerged from the cow's ear. Gokarna is beautifully set at the at the meeting point of the two rivers Gangavali and Agnashini, which is shaped like an ear. The city is renowned for housing the famous Shiva temple where you may find the Aatma Lingam enshrined. Gokarna is is one of the major seven pilgrimage centers in the state of Karnataka.

Gokarna Attractions :

Temples in Gokarna :

The most famous temple in Gokarna is the Mahabaleshwar temple, which is home to the revered Lingam (the phallic image of Lord Shiva). It is regarded so auspicious that the mere glimpse of it can wash away hundred of sins and bad deeds. Usually the tourists are seen taking a holy bath in the sea before going for the darshan at the temple. Tourists from all over the country make a visit to this temple.

Near to the Mahabaleshwar temple is the popular Ganpati temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Foreigners are not allowed to enter the temple. The temple honors the role of Lord Ganesha played in rescuing the lingam. Tourists can also make a visit to the another renowned temple known as Venkataraman temple, and 100 km south of this is Koorti Teertha, the largest temple tank where pilgrims and Brahmins perform their ablutions next to dhobi walls on the ghats.

Beaches in Gokarna :

Gokarna is the town of numerous magnificent beaches. It takes you on the tour to the famous Kudle beach. Sited with the vast stretch of white sand and lined up palm tress it is also a popular picnic destination. Please don't go swimming as the water could be bit dangerous here. Also catch the mesmerizing sunset view from here. Further 20 minutes walks bring you to Om Beach, with a handful of palm leaf chai stalls and seasonal cafes. It is named as such as it shaped like th Hindus spiritual symbol OM. Moving towards the south you come across isolated Half Moon Baech and Paradise beach.

Ayurveda Tour :

There are number of Ayurveda centers at OM Beach and SwaSwara. Apart from that goos range of Ayurvedic treatments are available at Kerala Ayurveda Hospital Institute of Medical Technology.

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Gomateswara - Sravanabelagola

Sravanabelagola, an important Jain pilgrimage site, is located at the distance of 49 kms south est of Hassan and 93 km north of Mysore. It consists of the two hills and a tank. The largest hill also called the Vindhyagiri or Per- Kalbappu IS 3347 feet above the sea level. Sravanabelagola is a home to the extra ordinary eighteen meter high monolithic statue of the naked male figure – Gomateshwara (Lord Bahubali).

It is said to be the world's largest monolithic statue, which one can actually see before reaching the pilgrimage town of Sravanabelagola. Viewing the statue closely is the main reason for heading to this picturesque town, whose name means 'the monk of the white pond'.

The statue's simplicity is in complete contrast to the complex sculptural work at Belur and Halebid. The town of Sravanabelagola is linked historically with the Chandragupta Maurya, who settled on the hill in the 3rd century BC along with his guru Bhagwan Bhadrabahu Swami after renouncing his kingdom.

Tourists Attractions :

Mahamastakabhisheka Ceremony :

Every twelve years, million of pilgrim flock to this place to attend the Mahamastakabhisheka Ceremony at Sravanabelagola temple, which involves the statue being dowsed with thousands of pots containing the milk, coconut water, ghee, curds, saffron, jaggery, bananas and sandalwood paste. The next Mahamastakabhisheka Ceremony will be held in January 2018.

Chandragiri Hill :

Apart from main stature, the tourists can make a tour to the several Jain monasteries and to the smaller Chandragiri Hill. The scenic vistas, gushing rivers, as well as lush sugar cane fields make Chandragiri hill a popular picnic spot among the tourists. Tourists can also visit the Jinanathapura village, where you will find another ornate Hoysala temple, the Shantishvara basti. Chandragiri comprises of the several bastis built in the Chalukya style.

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Nagarhole National Park in Karnataka

Nagarhole National Park is a beautiful forest reserve located in south Indian state of Karnataka. Spread over the Mysore and Kodagu districts, the park is bonded by the Kabini river to the south, the Wayanad Sanctuary to its south-west and the Bandipur Tiger Reserve to its south-east.

Nagarhole is one of the oldest National Park in India. It is a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve inhabiting tigers as well as some of the other rare and endangered species. It was declared as a Game Sanctuary in 1955. With a view to preserve the exotic wildlife of the forest, the area of the park was extended by combining Mysore forests with Nagarhole National Park. The best period to visit Nagarhole is between October to April.

Flora of Nagarhole National Park :

Nagarhole consists of the moist and dry deciduous with an abundance of teak and rosewood trees. To the west, where rainfall is greater, the vegetation is mainly tropical moist and semi-evergreen forests. There are also patches of swampy fallows that are dominated by grasses and sedges, providing ideal grazing areas for many wild herbivores. Tectona Grandis and Dalbergia Latifolia trees are found in abundance in southern parts of the park.

Fauna of Nagarhole National Park :

At Nagarhole large groups of sambar, chital, gaur and elephants, and occasionally a tiger or leopard can also be easily spotted. Among other mammals are muntjac, the tiny mouse, deer, wild boar, pangolin, giant squirrel, slender loris, langurs and the macaques. Some 250 species of birds have have listed in the park and these include Malabar Trogan, and Malabar pied hornbill, the Great Indian black woodpecker, the Indian pitta and the green imperial pigeons.

Things to see and do :

Elephant Rides :

The best way to explore the Nagarhole National Park is by taking a one hour elephant safari, which begins early in the morning. A maximum of four people are allowed on each elephant. Enjoying the majestic walk of Elephant while being on his back and tramping through the tall grass is full of adventure and fun.

You get the chance to meet plenty of animals such as sambar, chital, toger and even leopards. The forest officials keep a strict watch on the moment of tiger and when is sighted alert is sounded. Remember that the elephant rides are in short supply in the high season, so make all your bookings well in advance. Tourists are charged Rs 50 for the ride, But keep in mind that they may not be on all times.

Mini Bus Safari :

The Forest Department runs approximately one hour mini bus safari into the park, both in the mornings and the evenings. It provides you the greater opportunity to peep closely into the animal life, giving you a lot of newer and unique experiences. Remember open jeep safaris are not allowed in the park, however you use private jeeps for taking jungle safari, but you need to take prior permission from Forest Department at Hunsur.

Make sure that you do not disturb the animals, by blowing horn or making making too much noise, otherwise they would hide away and you will loose the golden opportunity to spot them. Please confirm schedule and rates while planning your wildlife tours.

Birding :

Bird Watchers have a treat in store at Nagarhole National Park. The park is a home to number of 250 species of birds including blue-bearded bee-eater, scarlet minivet and Malabar whistling thrush. Join a local birding group. Sit silently besides the Kabini river and listen to the sweet chartering of birds. You can also walk around some areas- just make sure that you have a forest guide with you.

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Bandipur National Park in Karnataka

Explore 874.2 sq. km. of forests area and open grasslands, stalk more than 30 species of animals, spot 250 types of exotic birds and collect a lifetime of rare memories on the visit to the Bandipur National Park. Located in Chamarajanagar district of the southern Indian state of Karnataka, adjoining Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Bandipur was once the popular venue for royal haunting families.

Counted among the India's finest reserve, it is one of the finest habitat of the Asian elephants. In 1973, it became one of the first of India's Tiger Reserves and the southernmost of the nine reserves specially formed under Project Tiger. In the year 1974, the Bandipur Wildlife Sanctuary was declared as a National Park. The park provides the best sightings between April to October.

Flora of Bandipur National Park :

The enticing jungles of Bandipur national Park consists of deciduous forests, evergreen forests and scrub jungles. The deciduous forests trees reach a height of30 meter and provide a valuable hardwood like teak and rosewood. The scrub jungles consist of stunted trees, bushes and open grassy patches.

Fauna of Bandipur National Park :

Bandipur is a very special biosphere for it harbors largest species of birds and animals. Some of which are highly endangered and listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red Data Book. Large herds of elephants can be quite easily seen in the park. While other attractions of the park include tigers, Leopards, Gaurs, Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, Mouse Deer, Black Napped Hare, Sloth Beer, Wild dog (Dhole), Langur, Bonnet Macaque, Indian Giant Red Squirrel, 4 Horned Antelope (Chausingha), Porcupines, Slender Loris, Jungle Cat, Leopard Cat, Rusty Spotted Cat, Small Indian Civet, Palm Civet, Common Otter, Wild Boar, Jackal, 4 varieties of Mongoose, Flying Squirrels, Pangolin, Giant Fruit Bats and Striped Hyenas.

Things to see and do :

Elephant Safari :

There is no better way to explore the jungle than by taking an elephant safari. Get up early in the morning, embark onto the elephant, go deep into the forest area and take some memorable photographs worth recording your nostalgia. The elephant, padding his silent way through thick undergrowth allows deeper and far better access into the jungle. The elephant safaris last for approximately half an hour. The rides may not be on all times.

Don't miss the bus :

Forests Departments offer hour long mini bus safaris inside the park. Bus rides into the sanctuary leave in the mornings and afternoons from the main gate area. It offers you the excellent view of the exotic wildlife (elephant, deer, gaur and langur) of the park at the close range. It gives you the clear view of the dense forest as well its rich floral asset. However you can also hire a open jeep safari, ideal for the daring wildlife enthusiast and photographers. While taking a jeep safari you can make a visit to the Moyar Gorge.

Birding :

Bandipur is a delightful birding destination. Binocs and bird books are are essential accompaniments, if you want to stalk Junglefowl, Malabar Pied and Malabar Grey Hornbill, Malabar Parakeet, Heart-spotted Woodpecker....Birdwatching requires a lot of patience, so don't be upset when you can't identify birds on their calls. For identifying a specie, try comparing its beak, tail and the eye with the picture or sketch in Salim Ali's book on birds.

Game Viewing :

Indulge in Game Viewing at the Bandipur National Park, to explore its richness of flora and fauna in a much better way. Do not forget to take the wildlife expert guide, who can give you the better insight of the jungle and wilderness.

Tribal Visit :

Besides spending time along with the wilds in the jungle, make a visit to the nearby tribal villages that are still untouched by the razzle-dazzle of the outer world. A glimpse into the tribal lifestyle will provide you an experience, quite different from the turbulent city life. Greatly pleased you will be watching and participating in the tribal dance along with the villagers. Tribal women will love to serve their guests with the traditional dishes.


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Badami Caves in Karnataka

Located in the south Indian state of Karnataka, Badami caves are renowned for its magnificent carved cave temples, artificial lake, and museums. Surrounded by the yawning expanse of the flat farm land, Badami was once the capital of the Chalukya empire , which covered much of the central Deccan between the 4th and 8th century. Along with these cave temples you will find number of other historical monuments belonging to the ancient period.

These caves reflect the perfect blend of the architectural design of the south India and north Indian Nagara. Beyond the Badami village, to the east, lies the artificial lake, Agastya, that dates back to the fifth century. The whole Badami area is home to the troupes of monkeys, especially around the monuments, and you are likely to find the funny characters all over you if you offer any food.

Located between a lake and a hill of sans stone, Badami cave temple complex comprises four ancient rock cut caves. Out of which three are Brahmanical caves and one is is Jain cave. These caves are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Lord Mahavira Swamy.

Cave 1 :
Cave 1, located just above the entrance of the complex, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Carved out in the later half of the 56th century, it is probably the oldest of the four caves. On the cliff wall to the right is the striking 1.5 m high image of a sixteen armed dancing Shiva, known as Nataraja. He holds a snake, a musical instrument and a trishula (trident).

The cave is fully filled with the paintings and splendid carvings, that will mesmerize you the moment you get a glimpse of them. The porch area is highlighted with the huge figure of Ardhanarishvara. The right half of the figure shows features of Lord Shiva, such as matted hair and third eye. While to the left of the porch, a dvarpala door guardian stands beneath Nandi bull.

Cave 2 :
A little higher, similar to the Cave 1, is the Cave 2, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The cave boosts of some of the impressive sculptures and paintings along with the huge shrine of Lord Vishnu. IN this cave you will find Vishnu in different forms and shapes. In one of the images Lord Vishnu is portrayed as Trivikrama. The image is shown with one foot conquering the earth and the other covering the sky.

There is one more very beautiful image of Vishnu which displays him as Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu. But the most striking feature of the cave is the form Lord Vishnu, riding the Garuda and the lotus is encircled by the sixteen fishes. Step and slopes lead on upwards, past a natural cave containing a smashed image of the Buddhists bodhisattva, Padmapani, an incarnation of Buddha.

Cave 3 :
Carved in AD 578, Cave 3 stands beneath thirty meter high perpendicular bluff. It is largest and most attractive cave of the four caves. On the left hand of the cave is a large carving of the Lord Vishnu, sitting on the coils of the snake. Next to it lies the spectacular image of Varaha with four hands. The pillars have carved brackets in the shape of yalis and the sides of the pillars are also carved. There are also images of Shiva on the bull, Indra rising an elephant and Brahma on swan.

Cave 4 :
Among the three Brahmanical caves it is the only Jain temple cave in Badami. It is situated to the east of other three caves, overlooking the Agastya cave and the town. The construction of this cave cave took almost 100 years. The main highlight of the cave is the image of Lord Mahavira inside the sanctum. Another most important image in the cave is that of Suparshvanatha surrounded by 24 Jain tirthankars.

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South India Temples

Rameshwaram Temple :- Rameshwaram is a popular Hindu Temple in Tamil Nadu dedicated to Linga of Sri Ranganatha, which is one of the twelve Jyotrilingas of India. The significance of Rameshwaram is no less than Benaras or Varanasi, which is considered as the place to attain moksha. It is the same place from where Lord Rama, built the huge bridge across the sea in order to rescue Goddess Sita, from her felon, Ravana.

The temple was built in the 17^th century depicting the perfect example of Dravidian style of architecture. It is most famous famous 54 meter tall gopuram and 1200 meters magnificent granite columns. The other attractions around the temple include Agnitheertham, Gandamadana Parvatham, Dhanushkodi and Erwadi.

Tirupati Balaji Temple :- The sacred and ancient temple of Lord Venkateswara is located in the popular hill town Tirumala, close to Tirupati in the Chittor district in the Indian state of Andhara Pradesh. It is situated on the seventh peak named Venkatachala on the Tirupati hill and lies on the southern banks of Sri Swami Pushkarini.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara also known as Govinda, Balaji and Srinivasa. It is one of the most visited temple in India, visited by more than 200,000 pilgrims daily. The entrance to the temple is allowed for Hindus. Brahmotsavam is the major festival celebrated for nine days in the month of September or October at the temple annually.

Mahabalipuram Temple :- Popularly renowned for its shore temples, Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram was earlier the second capital of Pallava Kings of Kanchipuram. There are particularly two low hills in Mahabalipuram, In the larger one, on both sides, there are eleven excavated temples, popular as Mandapas, two "open air bas reliefs", out of which one is incomplete, and a third is enclosed one. Out of a big rock standing free nearby there is a "cut out" temple, called a "Ratha". This type is unique to Mahabalipuram. The other small hill standing around 200 m to the south, are raised five more Rathasalong with three huge sculptures of Nanadi, a lion and an elephant.

Madurai Meenakshi temple :- The popular Meenakshi temple in Madurai is named after the Pandyan daughter who is believed to be born with three breasts. During the time of her birth, the king was told that her breast would disappear after the marriage and this happened when she met Lord Shiva on the Kailash Parvat.

Meenakshi temple is the perfect example of Dravidian style of architecture, embellished with multi pillared halls decorated from top to bottom with multi-colored images of various God and Goddess. Another major attraction of the temple is museum known as Temple Art Gallery which exhibits beautiful stone and brass images, ancient scriptures and attempts to explain the Hindu pantheon and many other legends associated with it.

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Tour to Bangalore

Bengaluru (Bangalore), the capital of Karnataka, is one of the fastest growing cities in Asia. Bengaluru is a part of the southern part of India, located 949 m above the sea level, on the top of the ridge on the Karnataka plateau. Its salubrious climate, tree lined streets, green public parks and gardens made it the 'Garden City'. In the short span of time, the city has emerged as the high tech capital, budding with numerous software parks as well as major national and global IT firms. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife with loads of discos and pubs in the city. has a stylish high speed reputation that ensures it is quite unlike anywhere else in south India.

History of Bengaluru :

The name of the city means 'Town of Boiled Beans', which has been derived on the name of the old women who used to serve cooked pulses to the lost and hungry Hoysala king. The city was founded by the feudal Lord Kempegowda in 1537. In 1759, the Maharajah of Mysore gifted the city to to Hyder Ali by. Later on 1831 British moved their regional administrative base from Sriangapatnam to Bengaluru. In the 20th century the city emerged as the science and technology center, BY the year 1905, it became the first city in India to have electric street lights. Since 1940 it is a home to Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), India's first aircraft manufacturing company. Ever Since its foundation, has undergone many changes and till today it is dramatically changing.

Tourists Destination in Bengaluru :

Lalbagh Botanical Garden :

Spread to the total area of 240 acres of land, Lalbagh Botanical Garden was set up by the Hyder Ali in 1760. It has been named as such because of the profusion of red roses here. John Cameron, the Superintendent of the Garden imported several species from the Kew Gardens in London. Here you may find centuries year old trees and other collection of plants from all over the world. A beautiful glass house, modeled on the original Crystal Palace in London, is the venue of flowers shows that is held in the month of January and August every year.

Bengaluru Palace :

The Bengaluru Palace was built by the Wodeyar King in the year 1887. Spreading to the total area of 13, 700 sq km, the palace was earlier surrounded b the beautiful gardens in the midst of the open area, which has been considerable reduced today. Bangaluru palace is renowned for magnificent paintings and carvings. The interior of the palace boosts of the elegant wood carvings, and Tudor-style architecture, complete with Gothic windows, battlements and turrets. Tourists can also check out the breathtaking floral motifs, cornices, moldings and paintings on its ceilings. The palace remains open from 10 am to 6 pm on all days.

Cubbon Park :

This wooded, bed flowered park is named after the former British commissioner Sir Mark Cubbon. Spread to the total area of 120 hectare, Cubbon Park boosts of the red painted Gothic style State Central Library, two municipal museums, an art gallery and a bleak Government Aquarium. Latest additions to the park include fairy fountains, lush green lawns, shady flowering trees, august bandstand and a wealth of atatury.

Iskon Temple :

Located on the Chord Road, Iskon temple was built by the wealthy International Society of Krishna Consciousness, known as Hare Krishna's. Depicting the exotic mix of ultra contemporary and traditional style, it is well maintained temple in Bangalore.

Bull temple and Dodda Ganesha temple :

This temple was built by the Kempegowda in the Dravidian style in the 16th century. The temple houses the magnificent stone statue of sacred Nandi bull. It stands over 15 feet tall and is over 20 feet long . In Nov/Dec every year, when the groundnuts have been harvested, a groundnut fair is held near the temple. Near to the Bull temple, is the Dodda Ganesha temple, with an equally enormous Ganesha idol. The temple remains open to the tourists from 6 am to 1 pm and 4pm to 9 pm.

Aparana Chauhan

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