WGW_Bangalore

Pondicherry

State

Pondicherry is the capital city of puducherry union territory . Pondicherry is a peaceful city. Pondicherry is referred by names such as ‘Quintessence of French Culture’, ‘India’s Little France’ and ‘The French Riviera of the East’. This territory was under the French rule for nearly 281 years. Still it has the French flavor in it as one can see by the grand colonial mansions, beautiful boulevards, and placid promenades, spellings on sign boards and buildings, names of roads and public places.

History

The modern History of Pondicherry can be traced back with the reign of the Sultan of Bijapur who acceded the throne after the fall of the Vijayanagar Empire that came to an end in the year 1638. Since the beginning of the 16th century, the influence of the foreign countries gained prominence in Pondicherry.

The 17th century marked the beginning of colonial era in India. The French East India Company set up its trading centre at Pondicherry in 1673 and eventually became the chief French settlement in India. Dutch and British trading companies also wanted trade with India and thus wars raged between these European countries and spilled over into the Indian subcontinent. The Dutch captured Pondicherry in 1693 but returned it to France by the Treaty of Ryswick in 1699. During the Anglo-French wars (1742-1763), Pondicherry changed hands frequently. It was taken again by the British in 1793 amid the Wars of the French Revolution, but once again returned to France in 1814. When the British gained control of the whole of India in the late 1850s, they allowed the French to retain their settlement Pondicherry and thus it remained a part of French India until 1954. It was organized as a Union Territory in 1963.

Accessibility

By Air:Pondicherry does not have any airport with in its boundary, Chennai airport is 135 kms from Pondicherry and flights connect to major cities in India and directly to many other international destinations.

By Rail: Pondicherry is connected by rail to Villupuram (36 kms), which connects to Chennai and Madurai/Trivandrum.

By Road: There is a good road network, originating from National Highway 45, which covers Pondicherry: Chennai (150 km), Bangalore (320 km).

Shopping

The Aurobindo Ashram makes hip leather bags, wallets and sandals with a unique style where patterns are carved out of the leather. They also sell very good handmade paper, incense sticks and batik that comes from their own factory. Other shops also sell similar ware but you must at least check out the Ashram shops.

The exquisite local handicraft items are popular among tourists. Pondicherry being a tax free zone, all items from garments to cars are in great demand here. Infact, Pondicherry is turning out to be a major shopping hub of southern India.

Accommodation

Pondicherry has good accommodation facilities in budget, mid-range and top-end categories. Hotels in the luxury category are Ananda Inn and Pondicherry Ashok. Examples of good hotels in mid-range category are Adhitya, Ajantha, Nadesh and Sooriya.

The Aurobindo Ashram by the sea has some of the best accommodation. The guesthouses are neat, the rates are very reasonable and they are in the best area. No Smoking, No Drinking rules apply strictly and you have to report back by 10:30 at night, but since Pondicherry is anyway a Wee-Willie-Winky town, it shouldn’t hurt much. There are some reasonably priced hotels that give you the luxury of air-conditioning, cable TV and in-house bars out of which The Promenade is recommended as is the De L''Orient Hotel which belongs to the Neemrana chain. Budget accommodation is plentiful and good value for money though most have a shared-bath system.

Attractions

Yanam River Cruise
Yanam, in coastal Andhra Pradesh, provides a different route to exhilaration. As you enjoy a sunset cruise down the spectacular Goringa Godavari river which winds through rich mangrove forests.

STD Code
0413
Termperature
Summer 24-38°C, Winter 20-23°C
Best time to visit
October to April

Kabini

State

Kabini is one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Karnataka, probably because of its easy accessibility, lush green landscape surrounding a large picturesque lake, and fantastic sightihgs of large herds of elephants. It is 80km away from Mysore and 205km from Bangalore, and comprises the south-eastern part of Nagarhole National Park. Situated on the banks of River Kabini, this forest reserve is spread over 55 acres of forestland and water bodies.

History

Once there was a Maharaja in Mysore who loved the outdoors. His kingdom eventually spread over beautiful countryside, jungles teeming with wildlife. The flowing river kept everything lush and green and flourishing. And he loved the environs so much that he built a hunting lodge by the banks of Kabini, a tributary of the Kaveri. His guests and travelers from all over the world stayed there.

Thus, Kabini became quite popular. It also became the headquarters of the world famous kheddah (the corralling of wild elephants for domestication in the Royal stables and for agriculture, held every three or four years by the Maharaja and his descendants till 1971).

Even today the lush forest around Kabini remains unspoilt. People still come from all over the world to enjoy its richness and diversity of its flora and fauna.

Accessibility

Air: Bangalore is the nearest Airport, which is 208 km away from Kabini. Cab costs about Rs 4000 from Bangalore Airport to Kabini. Bangalore airport is well connected to almost all airports in India. International flights to major foreign cities are also operated from Bangalore.

Rail: Nearest railway station is Mysore, which is about 80 km away from Kabini. Mysore is well connected with other cities in India through Bangalore Majestic Terminal. Mysore railway station to Kabini costs about Rs 1500 by taxi car.

Road: Kabini is well connected by KSRTC buses to all neighboring cities including Bangalore. Bangalore and Mysore are connected to Kabini by many deluxe buses. Bangalore to Kabini costs about Rs 300 – Rs 400 by state bus and Rs 600 - Rs 800 by private deluxe A/C buses. Mysore - Kabini costs about Rs 125 for state bus and Rs 300 by deluxe bus.

Things to do

Boating: Apart from enjoying wildlife safaris, one can also choose to take a cruise down the Kabini river. One can see fabulous sceneries, feasting the eyes for a lifetime memories with the flora and fauna around the lusting greeneries, atop of the boat.

On the way through the dense woodlands, in a boat cruise, glimpses of animals like leopard, gaurs, antelopes, crocodiles, tigers, cobras and pythons and a herd of wild elephants moving leisurely or a vociferous leopards, moving behind the dense undulated terrains of Kabini forests are abundantly possible.

Kabini offers, besides the animals, an interesting view of a rich variety of plant life.

Elephant Camp
To reach this elephant camp at Balle, you must drive via Karapur and it would take less than half an hour. After taking a left on from Mysore-Mananthavady Road, Balle Camp can be reached in 15-20 minutes. Here entry is free and timings are from 7am to 6pm. In April and May, this place is closed for tourists. There is something special about this place and what exactly is that, would be clear when you will see these huge creatures being fed their snack. The sight of elephants standing in a row, resting their trunks on wooden poles uncomplainingly and waiting for their turn to get the snack is amusing.

Elephant Safari: Elephant safari helps the visitor to travel through such intricate terrains where even jeeps cannot venture. One can take himself back to the old golden era, when only the Kings used to ride on these gigantic animals, since nothing can even match up to with the dignity of the Pachyderm.

Any tourist reaches this destination can proudly sit over the cushion (seat) on the top of the animal which moves slowly and steadily and fulfill their adventurous dream of an Elephant Safari. If any animal rules Kabini, it is the elephant. The forest reserve has the single largest congregation of Asiatic elephants.

Elephant safari is offered in Sunkadakattee. Here one can enjoy the thrill of moving around the thick forests on tamed elephants.

Jungle Safari: Eco friendly tourists and environmentalists love to travel around the dense and populated forested regions of Kabini, for its diverse topography and wide-ranging collection of animal and plant life. Go on a jeep safari for wildlife sighting and have a truly mingling of wild life for a unique experience. Nature walks are nice options to loose oneself in the exuberant environs at Kabini.

Tourists and nature lovers pour into the place in good numbers to enjoy the sights and spend some quality time here. The Kabini is adorned with the lush vegetation with one endless streak of verdant green. Various tourist operators can also arrange for a nature walk which will be exciting and unforgettable. This area is awesome for Jungle safari as the climate is mostly warm and temperate and the winter is very short.

District
Wayanad District
STD Code
08228
Termperature
Summer 23-37°C, Winter 13-20°C
Best time to visit
November and June
Famous For
Naturally beautiful landscape, wildlife, herds of elephants

Madikeri

State

The charming town of Madikeri is the district headquarters of Kodagu, formerly called Coorg. When the British occupied Kodagu they nicknamed it the “Scotland of India”. Lying in the Western ghats at an altitude of 5,000 feet above sea level, the picturesque hill station, dotted with red-roof topped homes, has an economy that mainly depends on agriculture, coffee plantations and tourism.

The Kodavas, easily identified by their distinctive dresses and ways, are the main inhabitants of this region and consider Madikeri their home.

History

Madikeri was formerly called Muddurajakeri after Mudduraja, a Haleri King who ruled Kodagu. After gaining independent from the Nayakas in 17th century the town was briefly occupied in the 18th century by Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan before regaining its independence.

Accessibility

Air: Nearest airport to Madikeri is Mangalore terminal, which is about 136 km from Madikeri. Taxi charge for the travel from Mangalore to Madikeri is about Rs 2500. Nearest International airport is Karipur (Kozhikode), which is 180 km away from Madikeri. It cost around Rs 3500 from Madikeri to Karipur. Karipur airport is connected to many Arab cities. Mangalore air terminal is connected to Bangalore and Chennai.

Rail: The nearest railway stations are Hassan, Thalassery, Kannur and Kasrgod, all are nearly 115 km away from Madikeri. Nearby major railhead is Managalore which is connected to all cities in India with rail facilities.

Road: Madikeri is well connected by KSRTC buses of Kerala and Karnataka. Many private buses also connect Madikeri with other nearby cities.

Shopping

Madikeri is famous for coffee and pork, you can also try for good quality liquor which suites the local condition.

Things to do

Trekking: Madikeri is probably the best place in Karnataka to indulge in adventurous trekking. There are number of trek routes that turn out to be a great fun. Some of them are apt for starters, but there are few that are good enough to test even the most experienced.

Thandiyandamole and Pushpagiri, rising to a height of 5729 feet and 5626 feet respectively are the highest peaks of all in Madikeri. Though not very high from a good trekkers perspective, it is their steepness that makes them tough to conquer.

These trek routes still do not see a lot a lot of human intervention, due to which they are kept very clean and green. The picturesque surroundings only add to the allure of these trek routes.

District
Kodagu District
STD Code
08272
Best time to visit
October to April

Nandi Hills

State

60 kms from Bangalore, Nandi Hills of Karnataka is the most popular weekend getaway. Perched at a height of 1455meters above sea level, Nandi Hills provides an idyllic retreat for many tourists, just as it served as an ideal summer repose for Tipu Sultan and the British. The hill station abounds in natural beauty. Walking along the mountain tracks among innumerable scenic spots can be a very rejuvenating experience for you. The rich mountain valley, sharp hairpin turns along steep slopes, small cottages clinging along the mountain edges, the cool breeze and the clear blue sky above, are reasons enough for you to plan your vacation in this pristine hill station.

Accessibility

Air: The nearest airport is Bangalore international airport. It is about 60 km away from Nandi Hills. Taxis are available in the airport and fare is about Rs 1200 from airport to Nandi hills. From Bangalore airport one can travel to all the major cities in India and many cities abroad.

Rail: The railway station nearest to the Nandi Hills is that of Chikkaballapur just 9 km away. Though it is the railhead at Bangalore though 65 km away from the Nandi Hills is connected with all the major places in India through rail. There are frequent trains that connect Chikkaballapur with Bangalore.

Road: The excellent road network links the Nandi Hills with the important places like Bangalore and Chikkaballapur. Nandi Hills is situated on the Bangalore - Hyderabad National Highway

Accommodation

Accommodation is easily available at the Nandi Hills. You may take your pick from hotel, cottage, tourist bungalow, Forest lodge, Guest House et al at the Nandi Hills. Otherwise you may stay at any of the several star categorized hotels or Budget accommodations in Bangalore, just 65 km from Nandi Hills. In fact you may take up the one-day conducted tour to the Nandi Hills from Bangalore coordinated by the Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation and other tour operators. It is an hour and a half's drive from Bangalore to the Nandi Hills.

District
Chikkaballapur district

Srirangapatna

State

Srirangapatna is a historic city 13 kms from Mysore with huge cultural, religious and historic heritage. Srirangapatna looking like an island surrounded by Cauvery river - was the capital of the warrior kings Hyder Ali and his son Tipu Sultan – The tiger of Mysore.

Srirangapatna was the former capital of Mysore State when it was ruled by Hyder Ali, and later his son Tipu Sultan. Situated 13 kms from Mysore, Srirangapatna has great religious, cultural and historic importance. It was founded in 894 AD by chieftain Thirumalain.
Locate on an island carved out by the Cauvery River, Srirangapatna is sprinkled with temples, palaces and mosques all of which have a tale to tell. The sacred Paschima Vahini section of the Cauvery also flows through the town.

History

Srirangapatna has a history dating back to the Vijayanagar Empire when it was the seat of power for an important viceroyalty and from where Mysore, Talakad and other provinces were controlled. With the decline of the Vijayanagar empire, Srirangapatna came under the control of Raja Wodeyar. As Mysore didn't have a fort of its own, the fort at Srirangapatna became the defacto last line of defence for the Mysore State during times of war.
When Tipu Sultan ("The Tiger of Mysore") took control of Mysore, Srirangpatna became his capital. In 1799, Tipu Sultan died in his fort in battle against British forces. Much of the town and the royal treasures were plundered by the British. Following their victory, the capital of Mysore State was shifted to Mysore.

Accessibility

Air: Mysore domestic airport is the nearest air terminal, which is nearly 14 km away from Srirangapatnam. Taxi facilities are available in the airport and taxi fare is about Rs 300 from Mysore to Srinrangapatna. Bangalore is the nearest international airport which is at a distance of 140 km away from Mysore. There are regular flights to Bangalore from all the major cities in India. Bangalore is connected to many international cities as well. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Srirangapatna which costs about Rs 3000.

Rail: Mysore railway station is the nearest railhead to Srirangapatna. Mysore is connected to Bangalore, which is 140 km away. Bangalore is well connected to all the other cities in India. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Srirangapatna which costs about Rs 3000.

Road: There are excellent bus services provided by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation connecting Srirangapatna to other nearby cities. Vanities of tourist buses, A/C, super fast and Deluxe Volvo buses, are available from Bangalore to Srirangapatna and fare is about Rs 4 to 5 per km.

Accommodation

The Karnataka State Tourist Development runs a hotel, which is located on the riverbank. There is also a traveler's bungalow operated by the Public Works Department.

District
Mandya district
STD Code
08236
Best time to visit
November to April

Coorg

State

Coorg (1525 m above sea level), meaning dense forest on steep hill, is 252 kms from Bangalore on the Western ghats. Coorg is said to be Scotland of India, providing tourists view to misty hills, lush forests, coffee plantation, orange groves and breathtaking views. Coorg is a beautiful hill station set amidst verdant valley, surrounded by teakwood forests. The river Cauvery originates in Coorg at Talacauvery.

History

Inscriptions on stone and copper dating back to the 9th century provide valuable information concerning the early history of the place. Coorg was believed to have been part of the Ganga Kingdom between the 9th and 10th centuries, followed by a short spell under the Kadambas. During the 11th century, the Kodagu was under the reign of the Chola dynasty who ruled over it till the 12th century. The Kongalvas and Changalvas ruled briefly and subsequently Kodagu remained free till it came under the control of the Hoysalas in the 14th century, the Nayakas in the early 16th century and the Haleri Rajas in the middle of the same century.

Accessibility

Air: Nearest domestic airport is Mangalore, which is 160 km away and International airport is Bangalore which is 265 km away. Mangalore is connected by air to airports in South India, especially to Chennai and Bangalore. Bangalore airport is well connected to many gulf countries and other foreign cities. It takes about Rs 2000 for Taxi from Mangalore to Coorg and Rs 3000 from Bangalore to Coorg.

Rail: Nearest railhead are Managlore, Hassan, Mysore and Thalasserry. Mangalore is the major railway station close to Coorg, Mangalore is connected by rail to all cities in India.

Road: Coorg is well connected by K.S.R.T.C buses from all over Karnataka, particularly it is connected to the cities Mysore (125 km), Bangalore (265 km) and Mangalore (160 km). Deluxe bus services are available from these cities to Coorg. Deluxe buses charges about Rs 2 – Rs 3 per kilometer.

Shopping

Shopping in Coorg is not the focus of activity. This is a land of unspoilt natural beauty. You would not find swanky shopping malls, rising structures in glass and concrete and raucous buyers in Coorg. It is not a typical shopping destination.

But for some, returning from a tour without buying some souvenir for near and dear ones, is just impossible. Coorg has some good news for. Shop for the local produce here. Cardamom, pepper and honey should top your shopping list in Coorg.

You can also pick delicious oranges in seasons while shopping in Coorg.

What else but the natural produce can you get in a destination like Coorg were natural beauty is the highlight. Once you have come to Coorg, buy them to take back. Such things as fresh as here are hard to get in big cities.

Accommodation

With travelers thronging over this beautiful spot, locating a decent Hotel in Coorg is not tough, and that too definitely providing value for money. Look for hotels that shall offer you neat and clean accommodation, hygienic food, warm hospitality and reasonable rates.

Here is a selection of hotels in Coorg:

Orange County Resort
Hotel Coorg International
Club Mahindra Kodagu Valley
Kannika International

Hotel Coorg International, Madikeri.
Hotel Rajdarshan, Madikeri.
Orange Country Resort, Siddapura.
Hotel Chitra, Madikeri.
Capital Village, Madikeri.

Attractions

Coffee:
Coffee, the pause that refreshes is grown extensively in Kodagu on plantations that dot most of the hillsides, with coffee, orange, black pepper and cardamom at the bottom of the slopes, under canopies of huge trees.

Well maintained with modern curing and irrigation, these plantations exude a heady fragrance in April, when the coffee bushes blossom. Coffee picking time is from November to March.

District
Madikeri, Somwarpet, Virajpet
STD Code
08272
Termperature
Summer 22-40°C, Winter 10-32°C
Best time to visit
April to November
Famous For
River Cauvery, Coffee Plantations

Chikmagalur

State

Chikmagalur situated in southwestern part of Karnataka, it is nestled in the Baba Budan hills. Chickmangalur literally means, 'The Younger Daughter's Town.' Legend reads that this town had been given as a dowry to the younger daughter of Rukmangada, the famous chief of Sakrepatna. Chikmagalur is a calm, serene town full of scenic surprises. Hills, valleys, streams and snow-white coffee blossoms are all here to woo. In and around Chikmagalur there are beautiful hill stations and places of picturesque beauty. The district is strewn with many holy spots and proliferates legends associated with stories from the epics of Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

History

The birth place of coffee in India is Chikmagalur.The first seeds were sown about 350 years ago on the slopes of Baba Budan Giri Hills in Chikmagalur.As History tells it is the Arab Connections that led to the mushrooming of the coffee industry in India.The story goes like this a piligrim known as Baba Budan also known as Hazarat Shah Janab Allah Magatabi smuggled seven seed of coffee from Mecca while he was on a piligrimage.The seer sowed these seeds in his garden near a cave in Chandragiri.

The Hills was called as Chandra Drona in the ancient age and now called as Baba Budan Giri after the seer.Mysore Maharaja KrishnaRaja Wodeyar III gave away lands and establised norms for growing coffee in India.Even Tipu Sultan gave inam and rent free lands to farmers to grow coffee.

Sanctuary, taking picnics to the picturesque Kemmanagundi and Bababudangiri hills or just trekking around the region.

Accessibility

Air: Mangalore is the nearest domestic Airport, which is 170 km away and Bangalore is the nearest international airport, which is 240 km away. Taxi cab costs about Rs 2500 from Mangalore and Rs 3500 from Bangalore. Mangalore air terminal is connected to Bangalore and Chennai. Bangalore airport is well connected to almost all airports in India. International flights to major foreign cities are also operated from Bangalore.

Rail: The nearest railway station is Kadur (40 km) and Hassan (60 km). The Major railhead near Chikmagalur is Hubli which is 239 km away from the heart of the city. Kadur to Chikmagalur by taxi costs around Rs 600. Hubli is well connected

Road: State owned bus services are available connecting Chikmagalur to other major cities in the state. Special deluxe luxury buses are available from Chikmagalur to Mangalore (170 km), Bangalore (240 km) and Hubli (239 km). Bus fares for deluxe buses are Rs 3 – 4 per km.

Accommodation

Some of the major hotels in Chikmagalur, offering a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity as well as a comfortable stay, are The Taj Garden Retreat, The Planters Court Hotel, Hotel Mount Palace, Hotel Rajmahal, etc.

Hotel Taj Garden Retreat, K.M Road, Chikmaglur.
Naveen Lodge, Indira Gandhi Road.
Prakash Lodge, Indira Gandhi Road.
Quality Inn, Indira Gandhi Road.
Padanshree Lodge, Near Taluk Office.
Woodlands,Indira Gandhi Road.
Rajmahal, Indira Gandhi Road.
Vasantha Vihar Lodge, Rathanagiri Road.
Usha Lodge, Malladuru Road.

District
Chikmagalur
STD Code
08262
Termperature
Summer 22-40°C, Winter 10-32°C
Best time to visit
September - March

Bandipur

State

Bandipur is a wonderful wildlife centre, built by the Maharajas of Mysore and is situated in the Nilgiris. The Kabini, Moyar and Nugu Rivers drain the area. This place is under Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and is also the first Biosphere Reserve of the country.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/subharnab/2641816119/

Accessibility

By Air: Bangalore International Airport is the major airport, 215 km away from Bandipur.

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Mysore, which is 80 km away. This station is connected to Bangalore and other local cities in the state.

By Road: Many state owned buses are available to reach Bandipur from nearby cities.

Accommodation

The forest department maintains reasonably priced lodges, rest houses and cottages. Sprawling deluxe bungalows are also available.

District
Chamarajanagar, Gundlupet
STD Code
08229
Termperature
Summer 22-40°C, Winter 10-27°C
Best time to visit
March to June and September to November

Mysore

State

Mysore, the second largest city in the state of Karnataka, is well known for its history and culture. At an altitude of 770m above sea level, the city of Mysore is at a distance of 140 km from Bangalore. The city is famous for its exquisite temples, pilgrimage centers, surrounding forests, palaces, sandalwood and silk.
According to Hindu mythology, Mysore got its name from the buffalo headed demon, Mahishasura. In the past the place was called Mahishur. It is said that the demon was killed by the Goddess Chamundeshwari and a temple is dedicated to the Goddess on Chamundi Hills.

History

According to Hindu mythology, the area around Mysore was known as Mahishūru and was ruled by a demon, Mahishasura. The demon was killed by the Goddess Chamundeshwari, whose temple is situated atop the Chamundi Hills. Mahishūru later became Mahisūru and finally came to be called Maisūru, its present name in the Kannada language. The anglicised form of the name is Mysore. In December 2005, the Government of Karnataka announced its intention to change the English name of the city to Mysuru. This has been approved by the Government of India but the necessary formalities to incorporate the name change are yet to be completed.

Accessibility

Air: Mysore has a small domestic airport which is connected to Bangalore. Bangalore is also the nearest international airport which is at a distance of 140 km away from Mysore. There are regular flights to Bangalore from all the major cities in India. Bangalore is connected to many international cities as well. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Mysore which costs about Rs 3000.

Rail: Mysore railway station is connected to Bangalore, which is 140 km away. Bangalore is well connected to all the other cities in India. Taxi services are available from Bangalore to Mysore which costs about Rs 3000.

Road: There is an excellent bus service provided by Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation. Vanities of tourist buses are available from Bangalore to Mysore and fare is about Rs 4 to 5 per km.

Shopping

Mysore is famous for carved sandalwood and ivory products, inlay works, silk sarees and incense (agarbatti). Main shopping area in the city is on Sayaji Rao Road. The Cauvery Arts and Crafts Emporium on Sayaji Rao Road is the one of the most popular shops of Mysore. Here you will find the whole range of arts and crafts. There are many other crafts shops along Dhanvantri road, some of the them specialise in ivory chess sets. The best buy includes the carved sandalwood images of Indian deities which retain their scent for years. You can also stroll down Devraj Urs Road, the main shopping hub of Mysore, visit various shops for the famous Mysore silk sarees.

Shopping in Mysore is a fantastic experience. Rich tradition of handloom and handicrafts, colorful local bazaars and warm-hearted people would make your shopping in Mysore a treasured memory. Outstanding souvenirs, delightful gift items or personal possessions - whatever you wish to buy, there are abundant options available in Mysore.

Shopping in Mysore would be a real experience. The warmhearted people and the conventional handloom varieties and the different handicrafts are food for the eye.

Mysore silk saris are hot favorites among Indian women. Silk saris come in vivacious colors and beautiful designs and purchasing one or two saris is traditional among the tourists of Mysore. Numerous sole private shops are scattered around the Devaraja Market that borders the principal Sayyaji Rao road. Government Silk Weaving Factory and the Government Sandal Oil Factory have their retail shops in the city markets.

The most popular item for shopping in Mysore is the silk saris. Silk saris are huge favorites with the Indian women and are believed to reveal the feminine grace most perfectly. Vibrant colors and exquisite motifs adorn the silk saris of Mysore. A piece or two must feature in your shopping cart in Mysore.

Sandal woodcrafts are yet another hot favorite with those who go for shopping in Mysore. Mysore grows one of the finest varieties of fragrant sandal wood from which the ace craftsmen chisel out exquisite artifacts. From arty souvenirs to utilities or objets d'art - the sandalwood crafts may leave you spoilt for choice while shopping in Mysore. You may also choose to buy some authentic sandal wood oil that has phenomenal healing and cosmetic quality and is widely used in Ayurveda.

Several other traditional handicrafts of the state of Karnataka are available in the shops of Mysore. Beautiful woodcarvings, Bidriware, Metalware, Stone Carvings and Mysore paintings may lead you to a shopping spree in Mysore.

Numerous exclusive private shops dot around the Devaraja Market that skirts the main Sayyaji Rao road.

Accommodation

There are a large number of hotels in Mysore. From pompous luxury to great value for money and to cap it all the heritage palaces now opened for tourist accommodation in Mysore- hotels in Mysore offer you a range of choices.

A rich cultural heritage blends perfectly with opulence in the luxury and heritage hotels in Mysore to offer you charming glimpses of glorious past of India. Splendid architecture, idyllic location is complemented by lavish comfort.

Mysore is dotted with plenty of hotels ranging from deluxe to economy class hotels. Being a major tourist centre, Mysore has a number of western-style hotels, the majority of them are equipped with modern facilities and offer pleasant stay to guests. Some of the popular hotels of the city are Lalitha Mahal Palace, Quality Inn Southern Star, Kings Kourt, Best Western Ramanashree, Mayura Hoysala, Mysore Dasprakash, Sandesh The Prince etc.

Here are a few selected hotels in Mysore:

Luxury Hotels in Mysore

Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel (Heritage)
The Viceroy Hotel
Hotel Ramanashree

Budget Hotels in Mysore

Nalapad Residency
Kings Kourt Hotel
Hotel Southern Star

Attractions

Ayudha Pooja
It is a part of the Dassara celebrations. All vehicles and implements are worshipped on this day. The nine-day celebrations culminate in the grand Dassara procession on Vijayadashami, the day of victory. The Dassara procession begins at the Palace with uniformed soldiers, horses, caparisoned elephants, dancers and floats accompanied by brass hands playing evocative Indian melodies. The Palace Guard and Mysore Lancers march past as graceful folk-dancers twirl and swirl between the floats. A majestic elephant adorned by golden anklets, bell and chains carries the city's patron goddess, Chamundeshwari in a 'howdah'. This extravagant celebration comes to an end with a torchlight parade by the State Police, as fireworks light up the night sky.

Mysore Dussehra : Dussehra is the most popular festival of Mysore city and local people celebrate this festival with great pomp and enthusiasm. Every year during the months of October - November, the Dussehra festival is celebrated in Mysore. Dussehra in Mysore is famous for keeping alive the royal traditions. Lakhs of people from all over the world visit Mysore during Dussehra to see the procession of king, soldiers and elephants. Richly caparisoned elephants, liveried retainers, cavalry, the gaudy and flower-bedecked images of deities, make their way through the streets of Mysore. It's a real extravaganza and you shouldn't miss if you are anywhere in the area at this time of the year.

Things to do

Planet X: The largest family entertainment center in South India and the first such center of Mysore is the Planet X.

It is cuddled at the foot of the beautiful Chamundi Hills and is 5 km away from the Mysore Zoo. It is set over an area of 6 acres. This center has bowling alleys and carting facility. Snooker, billiards with a mini golf course also forms a part of the entertainment center. It also has video games. Besides this, a coffee shop is also located in the center.

The entertainment center is open from 4 pm to 11 pm from Monday through Saturday and from 12 pm to 11 pm on Sundays.

STD Code
0821
Best time to visit
October to March
Famous For
Sandalwood, Silk

Ooty

State

Ooty, short for Ootacamund (an anglicized name for Udhagamandalam), is a popular hill resort in the state of Tamil Nadu in Southern India.

Ooty or Udhagamandalam was aptly called the "Queen of Hill Stations" by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. This beautiful hill station sprawls over an area of 36 sq km and is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level. Its year long pleasant weather makes it a very popular holiday destination.

The name ‘Udhagamandalam’ is derived from the Tamil word ‘Ottakkalmandu’, meaning ’a village of a single stone’, perhaps referring to the sacred stone revered by the local tribe, Todas.

History

History of Ooty is significant and praise worthy. It grabs the visitor’s attention. Vishnu Vardhana, the Hoysala King, from 1104 to 1141 AD, lines the earliest history of Ooty. Ooty came under the rule of the British East India Company and later after several years. John Sullivan, the district collector of Coimbatore started the formation of the hill station-Ooty and promoted it as an ideal summer retreat. In the year of 1812, the Assistant Revenue Surveyor, Mr. Keys and Mc Mahon, were the district collectors of Coimbatore. In the year of 1818, J.C Whish and N.W. Kinderseley visited this place and in 1819 the route to Ooty was laid as an important tourist destination. In the year of 1821, the earliest route to Nilgiri from Coimbatore was laid.

Accessibility

By Air: Coimbatore airport is the nearest airport about 105 km away from Ooty.

By Rail: Mettupalayam, which is 47 km away from Ooty, is the nearest major railway station. There are regular train services from Coimbatore and Chennai to Mettupalayam.

By Road:
Ooty is well connected with all most all south Indian cities by bus. There are regular bus services from Mysore, Bangalore, Madurai, and Kanyakumari and also from many cities in Kerala.

Shopping

Ooty and Nilgiris are well known for a variety of local products like tea, eucalyptus oil, chocolates, spices and gourmet cheese. There are a lot of shops that deal these products though you have to be careful you get an authentic product.

Shopping in Ooty would be a nice experience for the passionate shopper. Although the region does not have any specialty handicraft of its own, there are many other things for shopping in Ooty.

On the slopes of the great Nilgiri range, the region grows some of the best qualities of coffee and tea in India. The sprawling plantations and the heady smell are feast to senses. You may choose to buy some coffee or tea while shopping in Ooty.

Hand made chocolates are also popular items for shopping in Ooty. Also pick up aromatic oils and spices while shopping in Ooty.

Besides, there is the wide variety of handicrafts of Tamil Nadu. The ace craftsmen of Tamil Nadu are skilled in making fantastic Jewelry, painting, pottery, and stone crafts. Look for such artifacts as you go on shopping in Ooty. You may also come across some tribal crafts in the shops. The local bazaars are replete with private shops and Government run emporia, where you can shop till you drop. Many hotels have shopping arcades where of course the price would be a bit on higher side.

Main Bazaar: Main bazaar is the central hub and the best shopping junction of the place. All the things which are produced in the city along with all small groceries and cutlery are sold here under a single umbrella. The chief thing produced in this area is tea and all variety of tea is available for tasting as well as purchase.

Handicraft and specific paintings made by the local residents is appreciated and highly liked by several people all across the country. Special goodies for the festival are made available and clothes are available in specific local variety which has the essence of the prevalent culture of the place.

Accommodation

The picturesque hill station of Ooty in Tamil Nadu is a tremendously popular destination in South India. Since long, Ooty has been a favourite haunt for the hill-lovers.

There are a large number of hotels in Ooty.
From top-end luxury and heritage properties to rather economy class ones - plenty of hotels are available in Ooty.

On the green-carpeted slopes of the Nilgiri hills, hotels in Ooty promise you a tranquil retreat. Colonial influence has blended into a perfect elegance with the local culture to create a unique character in Ooty. A stay in the hotels in Ooty would offer you charming glimpses of that culture.

Here are some selected hotels in Ooty:

Luxury Hotels in Ooty
Savoy Hotel
Fortune Hotel Sullivan Court
Holiday Inn Gem Park Ooty
Budget Hotels in Ooty
Welcom Heritage Regency Villas
Nalapad Residency
Hotel Lakeview
Quite a few large Indian chains have their hotels in Ooty. Most of these hotels in Ooty fall in the luxury segment of course. Beautiful architecture, rooms with sleek décor, plush lobby, multi-cuisine restaurants, heath club, entertainment center would ensure that you spend a good time at the luxury hotels in Ooty.

Things to do

Boating
One of the leading tourist attractions in the city, the Ooty Lake is immensely popular with tourists for boating. The lake and boat houses have emerged as key tourist hangouts in the hill station. The boat house is at the far end of the Lake. Boat pageantry and boat races are held in summers in the lake when it is crowded with visitors. Fishing is also allowed in the Ooty Lake but prior permission should be sought from the authorities. The entire lake is delimited with a footpath and you can also walk alongside it.

Hand-Gliding & Angling
Ooty offers a range of adventure sports to tourists for a thrilling experience. Hand-gliding will give tourists the joy of flying high like a bird in the vast expanse of the open sky. Trained and professional hand-gliders should be guiding you when you try hand-gliding. Angling is another prominent adventure sport to experience in Ooty. There is an ample scope for fishing in the clean streams and swift flowing rivers of the Ooty hills.

Nature Walk
Ooty is an ideal destination for those who are seeking the companionship of nature. Rich in Natural splendor and adorned with phenomenally beautiful environs, Ooty has some spectacular gardens like the Rose garden for nature lovers. It is a perfect choice for those who want to absorb the sublime freshness of nature and soothe their nerves in a calm environment to beat the city stress on a vacation.

Trekking
Trekking is, undoubtedly, the best way to explore the exotic mountain ranges of Ooty and the picturesque landscape that makes it a thriving natural wonder and one of the most popular hill stations in India. The rugged mountainous terrain of Nilgiris hills can be trekked to view the real beauty that Ooty is celebrated for. Professional guidance should be sought by the amateur trekkers. One of the most adventurous sports, trekking the highest peaks of Nilgiris will be a thrilling experience for the trekkers.
Visiting the Church
Ooty has a lot of ancient religious places to see and the tourists are going to really enjoy this light walk into the religious history of Ooty. One of the first colonial structures of the hill station discovered by the British, St. Stevens Church is one of the heritage attractions of Ooty. The cemetery of the church has the graves of some of the famous names of Ooty. Tourist can visit two the Union and Holy Trinity churches in Ooty to see the stained glass windows.

District
Nilgiri
STD Code
0423
Termperature
Summer 10-21°C, Winter 5-21°C
Best time to visit
November to March
Famous For
Hill Resort