Archive for July, 2010

Mussoorie – an immaculate work of art – is simply a perfect hill station in India that is established very delicately. The streets are adorned with black ornamental light posts, viewpoints, carefully laid benches and a number of attractions. Located about 250 miles from Delhi, the capital of India, this beautiful city is titled as ‘the Queen among the hill stations‘. Overlooking the picturesque city of Dehradoon, the hill station also offers marvellous view of the holy and mighty rivers Ganga and Yamuna.

Established as a summer resort in the year 1823, Mussoorie lies at a height of around 7000 ft above sea level.

Prominent Attractions
Popular as the ‘Honeymoon Capital of India‘, Mussoorie has no dearth of attractions.
Gun Hill
This is the second highest peak of Mussoorie, which is best explored by a rope way ride. The distance by rope way is only 400 meters, but lets you enjoys the panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges namely Bunderpunch, Shrikanta, Pithwara and Gangotri. In the pre-independence years, a gun mounted on this hill was fired at mid-day to enable the people to adjust their watches. Therefore, the hill was named ‘Gun Hill’.

Kempty Falls
Located 15 km from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road at an altitude of 4500 feet, this is the most beautiful waterfall in the entire valley. Surrounded by high mountains, it’s beauty is best enjoyed during the monsoons.

Municipal Garden
Famous for a beautiful garden and an artificial mini lake with boating facilities, the municipal garden is a nice place to spend evenings with family or friends.

Lal Tibba
Situated in the Landhour area, Lal Tibba is the highest point in Mussoorie. It also serves as the oldest colony of Mussoorie and one can enjoy a horse ride or trek to the Childer’s Lodge here.

Jwalaji Temple
Perched on top of the Benog Hill, 9 km from the city centre, this famous temple offers an excellent viewpoint. The last 2 km to the temple have to be covered on foot by the devotees, which serves as an entertaining short trek route.

Adventure Sports
If adventure is your cup of tea, Mussoorie has numerous opportunities for you. Ranging from the long walks towards Charleville and the Tibetan settlement of Happy Valley to the Benog Hill and the Lal Tibba, there is a lot to explore in Mussoorie.

Shopping
The city offers something special to all the shopaholics. Oakwood walking sticks, hand-knit cardigans, Tibetan Prayer wheels, flower vases from the Tibetan Street Market and woodcarvings are undoubtedly the best buys in Mussoorie. Apart from that, you can pick wonderful brass statues, ceramic vases and precious stones from the shops along the Mall. Pure Ladakhi Shawls and antique Jamawar Shawls some other specialties of the city.

A deaf woman (Marlee Matlin) with a transplanted device, which is supposed to enable her to hear, turns into a transmitter for aliens who are crying for help.

MUNNAR

Munnar – breathtakingly beautiful – a haven of peace and tranquility – the idyllic tourist destination in God’s own country.
Set at an altitude of 6000 ft in Idukki district, Munnar was the favored summer resort of the erstwhile British rulers in the colonial days. Unending expanse of tea plantations – pristine valleys and mountains- exotic species of flora and fauna in its wild sanctuaries and forests – aroma of spice scented cool air – yes! Munnar has all these and more. It’s the place you would love to visit – it’s the place you would wish never to leave- so welcome – log on to munnar.com for all information on Munnar anytime, every time.

MUNNAR – Fact File

Altitude : 1600 Mts to 1800 Mts above sea level
Temperature : Min. 0 c – Max. 25 c
Clothing : Warm Clothes and Rain Gear
Tourist Season : August to March .

Tea or Chai is the most widely drunk beverage in the whole world. The tea plant, Camellia Sansis, is a cultivated variety of a Tea planttree that has its origins in an area between India and China. There are three main varieties of the tea plant – China, Assam, and Cambodia – and a number of hybrids between the varieties. The China variety grows as high as nine feet (2.75 metres). It is a hardy plant able to withstand cold winters and has an economic life of at least 100 years.

The Assam variety, a single-stem tree ranging from 20 to 60 feet (6 to 18 metres) in height. Regular pruning keeps its height to a more manageable 4 to 5 feet tall. It has an economic life of 40 years with regular pruning and plucking. When grown at an altitude near that of Darjeeling (Assam) or Munnar (Kerala), it produces tea with fascinating flavours , sought after around the globe.

MAIN SUB VARIETIES OF TEA
The tender light-leaved Assam
The less tender dark-leaved Assam
The hardy Manipuri and Burma types
The very large-leaved Lushai
The dark-leaved Assam plant from Upper Assam.

The Cambodia variety, a single-stem tree growing to about 16 feet (five metres) in height, is not cultivated but has been naturally crossed with other varieties.

History of Tea

Behind this everyday brew lies a colorful and fascinating story that meanders its way through the social and cultural history of many nations. According to ancient legend, tea was discovered by chance by a Chinese Emperor in third millenium B.C. as some tea leaves floated into his boiling pot of water from somewhere.

Whether this is fact or fiction, we will never know. In fact, there was no written reference to tea until the third century B.C., until a famous Chinese doctor recommended it for increasing one’s alertness. Most historians however agree that tea was used in China long before this date.

Tea entered its ‘golden age’ during the Tang Dynasty in the 7th century AD. Tea entered the age of rituals and traditions. No longer drunk simply as a medicinal tonic, tea was taken as much for pleasure as for its restorative powers. The preparation and service of the liquor developed into an elaborate ceremony, while the cultivation and processing of the leaf were tightly controlled.

Tea became important enough during this period for a group of merchants to commission the writer, Lu Yu, to compile the first ever book on the subject – Classic of Tea. All tea produced in China was originally green.

However, with an increase in trade during the Ming Dynasty (A.D. 1368 – 1644), the Chinese growers were challenged to preserve tea’s delicate qualities during its long journeys, as far afield as Europe. The solution was the invention of new processing methods to make black and flower-scented teas. Ming producers found that fermentation was able to preserve tea leaves, making them suitable for the long overseas journey. And though Europe’s first taste of tea was green, the fashion gradually changed to black as Chinese growers altered tea production methods to suit the logistics of distant trade.

Top
When one looks at Europe, one is not sure who was responsible for introducing tea there – the Dutch or the Portuguese in the early seventeenth century, for both nations were then actively trading in the China Seas. The Portuguese shipped China teas to Lisbon, and from there the Dutch East India Company carried goods on to Holland, France and Germany.

Tea’s fate in Britain took a lucky turn in 1662 when King Charles II married a Portuguese princess. Britain’s new queen was addicted to tea and carried with her some tea as part of her dowry. As word of the new beverage spread, more and more people wished to try it. Soon tea became Britain’s most popular drink, replacing ale at break-fast and gin at any other time of day. Tea also became an essential part of people’s entertainment outside the home.

Luxurious tea gardens appeared all over the country, where people from all walks of life, including royalty, could take fresh air, drink tea, and enjoy a variety of entertainment. The British tradition of ‘after-noon tea’ is normally ascribed to Anna, the Dutchess of Bedford. She conceived the idea of having tea around four or five in the afternoon to ward off the hunger pangs between lunch and dinner. Soon all of fashionable London was indulging in these after-noon gatherings to drink tea, eat sandwiches, and exchange gossip and general conversation.

As tea consumption in Britain grew, the balance of payment turned in favour of the Chinese. Britain came up with an answer to correct the imbalance and trade in opium, which the Chinese wanted. But soon trade in opium became a serious international issue, and to secure monopoly, Britain declared war. China retaliated by placing an embargo on all export of tea. The Opium Wars had begun.

Its trade with China cut off, Britain began to seek other locations for the production of tea. Northern India was particularly promising due to its climate and altitudes. It is here that in 1823 the British East India Company’s first crop was planted. Its first shipment of Assam tea reached London fifteen years later, and the Company soon expanded into other areas, most notably Darjeeling and the hills of Munnar in Kerala. The Kannan Devan Tea was thus born.

It was inevitable that tea would find its way to North America along with the settlers from Europe. All over the New World, tea was drunk in the same elegant fashion as in Europe. In colonial America, tea and the complimentary silver and porcelain were symbols of wealth and social status. Even the less affluent families viewed the taking of tea as a display of their good manners. The Boston Tea Party ended America’s liking for both the British and their tea. The origins of the trouble lay in the passing of an Act of Parliament in 1767, which attempted to tax the American colonies.

Within two years of its passing, most American ports were refusing to allow any dutiable goods ashore, and when the British sent seven shiploads of tea from London, feelings ran high. In New York and Philadelphia, demonstrations forced the ships to turn back. In Boston, general unrest over several weeks was followed by the boarding of the Dartmouth by a band of men disguised as Indians, to cries of “Boston harbour – a teapot tonight.”

In the course of the next three hours, they threw 340 chests of tea overboard. The British government’s closure of Boston harbor and the arrival of British troops on American soil marked the beginning of the War of Independence and America’s coffee-drinking tradition. World War II marked a final blow to America’s affinity for fine teas. Prior to the war, Americans were well versed in the many varieties of tea. Imported exclusively in the Orient, however, these teas became scarce during the war, and were replaced with lower quality black tea from Argentina and other open markets. Sadly, to this day, almost all tea consumed in the United States is low-grade black.

Growing Tea

Tea bushes are planted 1 metre to 1.5 metres apart to follow the natural contours of the landscape. Sometimes they are grown on specially prepared terraces to help irrigation and to prevent erosion. Fifty years ago tea plants were raised from tea seeds and they Tea estatewere known as seedlings. Each plantation grew its own seed bearers in tea trees which grew to a height of approximately 25 metres. These young plants are raised from the cuttings obtained from a strong and rich bush. They are carefully tendered in special nursery beds until they are 12-15 months old and then planted in the tea gardens.

Trees are often planted in between the tea plants to protect them against intense heat and light, particularly on the plains of Assam and Kenya, where sunshine is most intense. The trees also provide microclimatic and soil improvements. Geometric spacing are used, often in quite wide spacing. This, again, ensures uniform treatment (shade) and ease in mechanized operations. Common shade trees are Erythrina, Gliricidia, and Silver Oak.

When the tea plant is allowed to grow wild and unfettered it becomes 10 mts high. To simplify cultivation and stimulate the production of leaf buds, they are regularly pruned and shaped into flat-topped bushes of about one metre in height. When the plant develops to a height of about half a metre above ground, it is cut back – pruned to within a few inches off the ground – to set it on course to develop into a flat-topped bush. Generally, a tea bush is 1 to 1.5 metres in height. Regular 2 to 3 year pruning cycles encourage the supply of shoots, the flush which is plucked every week to ten days, depending on where it is cultivated.

The tea leaves are mostly hand plucked. The tea plant is plucked every 5- 10 days, depending on where it grows. The length of Tea workerstime needed for the plucked shoot to redevelop a new shoot ready for plucking varies according to the plucking system and the climatic conditions. Intervals of between seventy and ninety days are common.

When the tea plant is plucked two leaves and a bud are cut. An experienced plucker can pluck up to 30 kg tealeaves per day. To make one kg black tea, approx. 4 kg tea leaves are needed. One tea plant produces about 70 kg black tea a year. In a warm climate the plant is plucked for the first time after four years and it will produce tea for at least 50 years. A suitable climate for cultivation must have a minimum annual rainfall of 1,140 to 1,270 millimetres. Tea soils must be acidic and tea cannot be grown in alkaline soils.

A crop of 11,650 kilograms per hectare requires 3.7 to 4.9 workers per hectare to pluck the tea shoots and maintain the fields. Mechanical plucking has been tried, but because of its lack of selectivity, it cannot replace hand plucking. Since 1900, advancements in tea cultivation have increased the average yield per acre in India from 180 to 450 kilograms, with many estates producing over 680 kilograms.

PLACES TO VISIT

Mattupetty (13 km from Munnar)

Situated at a height of 1700 Mts ,Mattupetty Mattupetty is famous for its highly specialised dairy farm, the Indo-swiss live stock project. Over 100 varietes of high yielding cattle are reared here.Visitors are allowed into three of the eleven cattle sheds at the farm

Visit Time : 0900 – 1100 hrs and 1400 – 1530 hrs.
Rate : Rs. 5/- per head. ( liable to change)

The Mattupetty lake and dam , just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed Launch and slow speed motor boats are available on hire.

Pothamedu (6 km from Munnar)

Pothamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenery here is ideal for trekking and long mountain walks.

Devikulam (7 km from Munnar)
Devikulam

This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.

Pallivasal (8 km from Munnar)

This is the venue of the first Hydro Electric Project in Kerala and a place of immence scenic beauty.

Attukal (9 km from Munnar)

A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treks.

Nyayamakad (10 km from Munnar)

Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 meters. The enchanting surroundings makes an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.

Chithirapuram (10 km from Munnar)

With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world charm. Home of the Pallivasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.

Lock Heart Gap (13 km from Munnar)

This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.

Rajamala (15 km from Munnar)

The natural habitat of the Niligiri tahr ,Rajamala Rajamala is 2695 Mts above sea level. Half the world’s population of the rare mountain goat or tahr which is fast becoming extinct, is now found here.The Niligiri tahr in Rajamala are now to be found in small herds found in Eravikulam-Rajamala region. The total number of Niligiri Tahrs in Rajamala is estimated to be over 1300.

Visiting Time : 0700 – 1800 hrs.
Visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.
Entry Pass : Rs. 10 for adults, Rs. 5 for children below 12 years, Rs. 50 for foreigners.( liable to change)
Permitting Authority : Wild Life DFO, Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park (15 km from Munnar)

The 97 sq. km. park is situated in the Devikulam Eravikulam National ParkTaluk and is home to the Nilgiri Tahr. The Anamudi peak (2695 Mts) is located in the Southern region of the park.

Originally established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex), the Eravikulam National Park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki District. It was declared as a sanctuary in 1975. Considering the ecological, faunal, floral, geo-morphological and zoological significance, it was declared as a National park in 1978. It covers an area of 97 sq kms of rolling grasslands and high level sholas (evergreen forests). The park is breathtakingly beautiful and is easily comparable to the best mountain ranges found anywhere in the world.

Sanctuary Visit :

Nilgiri Tahr The park is divided into 3 regions – the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area which is in the Rajamala region. The Nilgiri Tahr can be observed at close quarters here.

Trekking facilities are available here. Tourists are allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi. This is also a place for adventure tourism.

Trekking Areas : Anamudi, Rajamala.

Power House Waterfalls (18 km from Munnar)

The waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock 2000 Mts above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic Western mountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady.

Kundala (20 km from Munnar)

Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Station. The Golf Course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction. Aruvikkad Waterfall is also near Kundala.
CSI Christ Church
CSI Christ ChurchThe British built the Christ Church in 1910 AD. Built of stone, the church is known for its stained glass windows. There are several brass plaques in the church placed in the memory of the tea planters.
IN AND AROUND MUNNAR

AnayirankalAnayirangal (22 kms from Munnar):

It’s a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by Tata Tea plantations and evergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spot.

Devikulam (7 kms from Munnar)

This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns , exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air offers a rare experience to visitors. The Sita Devi lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal trout fishing.

Valara Waterfalls
Valara (10 kms from Adimali on the Kochi-Madurai highway)

Valara has a chain of waterfalls surrounded by thick green forests.

Marayoor (40 kms from Munnar)

This is the only place in Kerala that has a natural growth of sandalwood trees. The sandalwood factory of the forest department, the caves(muniyaras) with the murals and relics from the New stone age civilization and the children’s park spread across a hectare of land under the canopy of a single banyan tree, are of great interest to tourists. Thoovanam waterfalls and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also nearby. +more

Cheeyappara

The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located between Neriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi – Madurai highway.

TopstationTop Station (32 kms from Munnar)

1700 Mts above sea level , this is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodiakanal road. The rare Neelakurunji (strobilanthus) belongs to this region. Top Station (a viewing point) also offers a panoramic view of neighbouring state of Tamil nadu.

Echo Point (15 km from Munnar)

This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar.

Meenuli

It is noted for 2 acres of evergreen forests upon a huge rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and an ideal spot for mountaineering.

Malankara Reservoir (6 kms from Thodupuzha)

Located on the Thodupuzha – Moolamattam road, this artificial lake isMalankara Reservoir accessible by road. The reservoir is ideal for boating and fishing.

Thommankuthu waterfalls (17 kms from Thodupuzha)
The seven step waterfall here is a much loved picnic spot . At each step there is a cascade and a pool beneath . Thommankuthu is an ideal place for adventure tourism. (This is also a tricky spot and visitors are advised to exercise caution !)

Nadukani (25 kms from Idukki)
Moolamattam town , Malankara lake etc. can be viewed from the high pavilion situated here.

Kalvari MountKalvari mount

This is a famous pilgrim centre on the way to Kattapana.

Palkulamedu (12 kms from Idukki)

Kochi, Allapuzha and other nearby towns can be seen from this peak at 3125 mts above sea level.

Chithirapuram (10 kms from Munnar)

With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old play grounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world charm. Home of the Pallivasal Hydel power project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantation.

RamakalmeduRamakalmedu (16 kms from Nedumkandam)

Rolling green hills and fresh mountain air make Ramakalmedu an enchanting retreat. The hilltop also offers a panoramic view of the picturesque villages of Bodi and Kambam on the Eastern slope of the Western ghats. One can enjoy the splendid beauty of nature. This is an ideal place for trekkers and mountain climbers.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (60 km from Munnar)

Situated on the Tamil Nadu border, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is spread across 90.44 sq km.

Giant Squirrel
Animals

Most of the Southern Indian wild animals can be found in this forest. These include the grizzled giant squirrel, champal squirrel, elephant, sambar deer, gaur etc.

Rare BirdBirds

Jungle fowl, myna, laughing thrush, black bulbul, peafowl etc.

Access
Munnar – Udumalpetta Road     60 km
Coimbatore – Udumalpetta – Chinnar Road     100 km
Cochin – Chinnar     190 km
Parambikulam via Pollachi – Chinnar via Udumalpetta     60 km
Kottayam – Chinnar     250 km

Visiting Time

0700 – 1800 hrs. Entry passes are available at the office of the Assistant Conservator of Forests or the Check Post Information Counter.

Permitting Authority
Wildlife Warden, Idukki Wild Division, Painav/Wildlife DFO, Munnar.

Trekking Routes
Palapetty, Champakad
Karimuty – Inchapetty
Karimuty – Alampetty

High Range Club

Charmingly colonial in style, this clubhouse built of wicker and teak still serves as a social centre for the far – flung farmers of the region around Munnar. The club houses an elegant lounge and a dining room, the obligatory gentleman’s bar, a billiards room, a library etc. Entry is limited to members only.

Trekking Points in Munnar
Anamudi, Rajamala, Meesapulimala, Top Station, Kundala, Devikulam.

Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing tours are arranged from the District Tourist Infornation Office, Thekkady Jn., Kumili. Tours cover spice plantations, herbal gardens, tribal settlements, other places in and around Munnar etc.

Tourist Circuits in Munnar
Munnar – Mattupetty Dam – Indo Swiss Livestock Project – Echo Point – Kundala Dam – Top Station (34 km).
Munnar – Pothamedu – Chitirapuram – Pallivasal – Cheyappara – Adimali – Valara (40 km).
Munnar – Rajamala – Marayoor – Chinnar (70 km).
Munnar – Devikulam – Lock Heart Gap – Power House Waterfalls – Anayirankal (32 km).

Accomodation options

Luxury
1     Tea County      Munnar     4 Star     Rs.3,500 – 6,000
2     Club Mahindra     Chinnakannal     4 Star     Rs.5,000 – 15,000
3     Cloud 9     Naduparai     3 Star     Rs.2,400 – 3,400
4     Sienna Village     Chinnakannal     3 Star     Rs.1,800 – 2,500
5     Oak Fields     Pothamedu     3 Star     Rs.2,200 – 2,400
6     Eastend     Munnar     3 Star     Rs.1950 – 2,300
7     Issacs Residency     Munnar     3 Star     Rs.1,250 – 2,500
8     Chancellor Resorts     Chinnakannal     3 Star     Rs.1,500 – 3,500
9     West Wood     Munnar     3 Star     Rs.1,350 – 2,350
10     Sterling Resorts     Chinnakannal     3 Star     Rs.1,700 – 2,400
11     B Six Holliday Resorts     Latchmi Est.     3 Star     Rs.1,500 – 2,000
12     Fort Munnar     Chinnakannal     3 Star     Rs.5,000 – 11,000
13     Deshadan Mountain Resort     Potemedu     Luxury     Rs.2,750 – 4,000

SN.     Resorts/Hotels     Location     Rating     Tariff
Deluxe
14     Las Palmas     Devikulam     Classic     Rs.900-1,650
15     Spring Dale Resorts     Devikulam     Budget     Rs.650 – 5,300
16     Lonely Planet     Devikulam     Budget     Rs.750 – 5,000
17     Munnar Inn     Munnar     Classic     Rs.1,200 – 1,500
18     Hill View     Munnar     Classic     Rs.750 – 2,500
19     Elysium Garden     Munnar     Classic     Rs.600 – 2,500
20     S.N.Annex     Munnar     Classic     Rs.950 – 2,000
21     S.N.Tourist Home     Munnar     Budget     Rs.850 – 2,000
22     Munnar Tourist Home     Munnar     Budget     Rs.900 – 3,000
23     Misha Tourist Home     Munnar     Budget & Classic     Rs.480 – 1,300
24     Sun Mount View Resorts     Pullivasal     Budget     Rs.950 – 2,000

SN.     Resorts/Hotels     Location     Rating     Tariff
Economy
25     Tea Garden Resorts     Munnar     Cheap     Rs.450 – 1,200
26     Dhanyasree     Munnar     Cheap     Rs.550 – 1,500

courtesy

www.myhappyjourney.com

Levi Mitchell, a physicist and skeptic, meets Lynda Tillman, a woman whose strength and faith help him unravel the mystery of a ‘haunted house.’

The second of two volumes showing photographers how to pose a model for the camera.
Photography Posing Secrets Volume 2

Singularity: Game Preview S1E10 Ravensoft makes the leap from licensed products to original properties with the release of their time jumping cold war shooter, “Singularity”. FOR MORE MACHINIMA GOTO: www.youtube.com TAGS: Singularity Game Preview gp trailer ravensoft raven software unreal engine entertainment shooter fps science fiction scifi UPC: 47875837096 time travel jump cold war qt:quality=high

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was surely a great connoisseur of destinations who described Ooty ‘the Queen of Hill Stations’. The short version of Udagamandalam, Ooty is situated at an altitude of 2240 m which blesses the town with salubrious climate and spectacular beauty. The capital of the Nilgiri district in Tamilnadu, Ooty is one of the most acclaimed holidaying retreats characterized by mountains, dense woods, rolling meadows, aromatic tea gardens and lush green valleys. This quaint hill station caught the attention of the British and remained their summer resort for a long time. The enchanting beauty of this paradisaical territory is unparalleled and draws numerous nature lovers. The annual tea and tourism festival is a major lure for the tourists who throng in here in enormous numbers. Visiting this cool hill station during this festive season is a remarkable experience.

The entire town is a feast to the eyes and you just cannot take your eyes off the panoramic vistas offered by this place. The lake at Ooty is the prime landmark and enriches the exquisiteness of this town. There are several other places of tourist interest in Ooty that should not be missed out. Botanical Gardens made by the Marquis of Tweepdale is located on the downhill slopes of the Dodabetta peak. This charming garden is replete with lily ponds and many curt bushes. A fossil of tree trunk here is a top draw amongst the tourists as it is believed to be 20 million years old.

The St. Stephen’s Church is one of the oldest churches in Nilgiri and was built in the year 1829. Some of the other noteworthy attractions in Ooty comprise Government Museum, Ketty Valley View and Doddabetta.

Ooty is also popular for a number of interesting and picture perfect sites that can be explored during the excursions. In your leisure, you can embark on the short excursions and discover some of the unfrequented places of pristine beauty. Some of the important spots you must visit on your excursions are Madumalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagiri, Sim’s Park, Dolphin’s Nose, Avalanche and Coonoor. Apart from these attractions, Ooty is also recognized for its fairs and festivals when the entire ambiance is filled with joy and excitement. Makar Pongal and Flower Show are the two events besides the renowned tea and tourism festival which is held annually.

Relax and luxuriate in any of your favorite  hotels. You choose any Hotels in Ooty to put up in. There are various types of accommodations available in Ooty and include the luxury, heritage, three star and budget categories. The unmatched south Indian hospitality will surely win the heart of even the most discriminating tourists.

Ooty is well linked by air, rail and road. The nearest airport is located in Coimbatore and is well connected to Chennai, Mumbai and Bangalore. Mettupalayam is the main railway station on narrow gauge and is connected to Chennai.

Ooty has motorable road network and regular bus services for Ooty are available from Coimbatore, Trichy, Bangalore, Madurai, Kanya Kumari, Mysore, Palghat, Calicut and Tirupati.

Choose this captivating hill station for your tour the next time you visit India as it promises to make your tour a rewarding experience.

On a military base, in the frozen vastness of Greenland, an army psychiatrist devises a machine which enables him to tune in directly to his patients’ thoughts. He uses it on Major Brothers, a highly dangerous paranoid who had been brought to him after persisting that the base had been invaded by a snowman-like creature. But an accident occurs which effects the machine and produces an incredible phenomena. The men’s minds have been switched.

Mention Darjeeling and it evokes many images- Queen of the Hills, lush green tea gardens, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, sturdy Gorkhas and amazing views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Going beyond these images, Darjeeling has much to offer in terms of its cultural diversity, education and exciting opportunities for lovers of adventure sports. Like most other hill stations in India, the British developed Darjeeling as a respite from the oppressing summer heat in the Gangetic plains. Located in the lower Shivalik Hills region of the Himalayas at a height of 2,134m above sea level, Darjeeling toll the initial years of the 19th century was a part of Nepal and Sikkim. After a lease agreement with the Chogyal of Sikkim in 1835, the British started developing Darjeeling as a hill station.
After independence, Darjeeling became a part of the state of West Bengal.

MUST TO SEE
Chowrasta and the Mall
Like most other hill stations developed during the British era, the Mall in Darjeeling is the centre of all the action. It is the place around which you will find most of the tourist amenities including hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, banks, ATMs, post offices and street vendors selling sweaters, paintings and imitation Jewellery.

Observatory Hill
Or a splendid view of the snow-clad Kanchenjunga, walk up to Observatory Hill, which is located near Chowrasta or the Mall.

Lloyd’s Botanical Garden
Many of the plant species native to the Darjeeling Himalayan hill Region can be seen at Lloyd’s Botanical Garden.

Karma Dorjee Chyoling Monastery (Bhutia Busty Monastery)
First built in 1765 on Observatory Hill by Lama Dorje-rinzing, the Bhutia Busty is the oldest monastery in Darjeeling.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI)
The Government of India established the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) in 1954 to give a fillip to this adventure sport in the country.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Established in 1958 by the state of West Bengal, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park specializes in captive breeding of alpine animals like Snow Leopards and Red Panda.

Ghoom
Ghoom hosts on of the world’s highest railway stations at an altitude of 2,225.7m and is known for the Yiga Choeling Monastery that dominates this small hilly place.

Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway
The first ropeway in India and the longest in Asia, Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway offer spectacular views. It is located at North Point about 3km from the town. A shaerd taxi service is available to reach here. It is not too far from the zoo.

 
Go on a tour of tea estates
All the hills around Darjeeling produce the world’s finest tea. Darjeeling’s tea gardens are a picturesque sight, covering terraced hill slopes, upto an altitude of 1,950m. While in Darjeeling, you should seize the opportunity to tour some reknowned tea estates. You can walk through the estates, explore a tea factory and see how moisture is extracted from tealeaves and how they are rolled and withered, sifted, fermented, dried and sorted.

What to Eat
A fairly good number of Tibetans and Nepalese in Darjeeling ensure that you will get delicious momos and hot steaming thukpas everywhere, more so at the Mall Road and Chowrasta. But momos and thukpas are not the only dishes you can relish. Try local delicacies like Wai Wai and Churpee while here. Wai Wai is a thick noodle eaten in soup of dry.

What to shop for
The Mall and Chowrasta are choc-a-bloc with shops selling all kinds of curios, sweaters, cardigans, pullovers and other winter garments. You can buy local handicrafts as souvenir. We have a list of some important shops and markets. But the first thing on your list of shopping items should be Darjeeling tea.

BEST TIME TO VISIT
June to September are the monsoon months hence avoid travelling to Darjeeling then. The best time to visit Darjeeling is from mid-September to mid-December and from mid –march to mid –June.

 HOW TO REACH
By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport to Darjeeling. Two main domestic carriers, Indian Airlines and Jet Air, operate from Bagdogra.
By Rail: Visitors may also travel to Darjeeling from NJP, by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. This famous journey lasts 7 to 8 hours. Alternatively, you may travel by road to Darjeeling, from New Jalpaiguri, by a scenic rout.
By Road: the journey by road offers breathtaking views of earth, water and sky, as the vehicle climbs from near sea level at Bagdogra near Siliguri, to an altitude of about 7,500ft at Darjeeling
 

Becoming a seller on ebay can be daunting. Becoming a travel seller can be impossible, unless you know the secrets. My tips on selling on eBay can apply to all categories of items, but some steps are unique to selling travel.

The travel industry is highly regulated on EBay, as it should be. High standards keep out disreputable sellers and scam artists, and adds to your own company’s trustworthiness when you are approved by eBay..

1. Before you are even thinking about selling travel on eBay, it is important to get a username and email address just for eBay. Registration is free and only takes a few minutes. Register as a seller and you can use the same username to buy as well. Choose a name that reflects what you sell i.e., “Bermudabound” rather than “sexyblueeyes”. Other eBay members will come to recognize you by your User ID, so it’s a good idea to choose one you’ll want to use for the long term.

2. Your eBay name has sunglasses (i.e., read “shady character”) for the first 30 days, so don’t try to sell anything while you are wearing shades. Use this time to buy on eBay and learn good practices from other sellers.

3. Set up a PayPal account. EBay buyers feel more confident purchasing something from a seller who accepts PayPal. According to PayPal, “Listings that offer PayPal are 6% more likely to sell and experience a 5% average increase in final price.” Go to www. Paypal.com. Get a business account. Registration is free.

4. In the first 30 days, buy small items on EBay, pay for them promptly. I have always found eBay sellers to offer good values, provided that you check their feedback listing first.

5. Pay your seller promptly, because then you will always get positive feedback from your seller. Your feedback profile is the most important aspect of your reputation at eBay. Feedback is extremely important on eBay, as your future buyers can evaluate you at a glance. Even one strike against you counts heavily.

6. Create your “About Me” page on eBay. Use this page to tell other eBay users about yourself and your interests, your experience and your products.

7. While you are waiting the 30 days, also become a) ID verified and b)square trade approved. a) Get ID Verified through eBay as an extra sign of security for buyers. When a member gets ID Verified, a third-party company working with eBay confirms the member’s identity by cross checking their contact information across consumer and business databases. You’ll see the ID Verify icon in verified members’ profiles.

B) The Square Trade Seal is one way for sellers to show bidders that they are committed to high selling standards and have had their identity verified by a third party. You will need a credit card and your IATA, ARC, or seller of travel number. Both are requirements for selling travel, and you must place these numbers as the first lines of your ads on EBay. All members listing airline tickets, cruises, vacation packages, or lodging must be participants in the Seller Verify by SquareTrade Program. This program combines verification of sellers with ongoing monitoring. For instructions on this, go to eBay.com.

8. When you are ready to list your items at auction, sell small stuff first, building customers and credibility. Sell all items with no reserve, at the lowest price you can afford to accept, and fill all orders promptly.

9. Choose carefully what you will sell. You cannot sell some travel certificates, or vouchers and all listing must list the exceptions, blackout dates, and extra taxes and shipping charges. Travel agents, and other businesses selling travel services are regulated in eBay. According to the eBay rules for selling travel, “Businesses and individuals who sell and/or arrange air or sea travel or accommodations (but do not directly provide the travel service themselves) may list air and ship related travel items (i.e. airplane tickets and cruise trips), along with accommodations, on eBay only if they are licensed as sellers of travel lawfully able to do business in all 50 states and they themselves will be booking the travel for the winning bidder. Their listings should clearly set out their California seller of travel license number as well as any other license information required in other states. It is against eBay policy for travel clearinghouse affiliates, that are not actual agents booking the travel themselves, to list travel auctions on the site. Sellers are required to include the following disclaimer in all listings for travel exactly as it appears below and in a text size and color that can easily be seen and read by all bidders:

“By listing this auction I verify that I am the actual travel agent or travel provider and not a third party affiliate. The travel/accommodations in this auction will be booked directly through me and not an outside agency. I also verify that, other than the government taxes and related government fees stated within the listing description itself, there will be absolutely no additional fees, charges or after auction purchases associated with booking the travel within this listing.”

For travel services other than air or sea travel, businesses and individuals may offer gift certificates or coupons that are issued by a specific provider of travel, such as a gift certificate to a particular hotel. They may not, however, offer travel club memberships or “choice travel” certificates.”

10. Setting your price

Selecting your starting price requires balancing between how much money you want for the item, and what buyers will pay for it. As part of your pricing strategy, you can research the ending bids for similar items. You can look at similar item completed eBay listings using the completed listings search.

Be sure to include in your price enough to cover your insertion fees, final value fees, and your paypal fees. Set the LOWEST possible price you can afford to accept, but don’t offer something at a price you really don’t want to accept. Buyers expect bargains on ebay purchases, and you may, in the beginning, only get one bid on your item.

Attractively priced items (such as those priced at 99cents) may receive many bids, but unless it is a really outstanding items, the winning bidder may not have bid anything near your cost.

Setting your price involves not only deciding the starting price of your item, but also selecting pricing options based on which selling format you select.

Pricing for the auction-like listings:

The starting price is the lowest price you are willing to sell your item. Bidding will start at this price. Sellers have found that setting the starting price too high may discourage bidding.

If you do not want to sell your item below a certain price, you can specify a reserve price. A reserve price is an option you can use to stimulate bidding on your listing and reserve the right not to sell below the price you want. I do not recommend this option as it discourages buying.

Pricing for fixed price listings: In my experience, this is not a good way to sell anything, since the ebay method is based mainly on auction items. Enter the price at which you wish to sell your item or items as the Buy It Now price.

11. Build a store. EBay stores are free for the first 30 days. Afterwards, they are a small fee per month. ($15.95 / month) According to eBay, Store sellers see on average a 25% incremental increase in sales the 3 months after opening their Store.” Here is where you can list all those other items that are higher priced, but good value at a low listing fee – at Insertion Fees of .03-.10 per month – use good til cancelled

Note: The Insertion Fee covers a single listing (with any quantity of items in the listing), whether you list 1 or 1,000 of the same item. Final Value Fees range from 12.00% of the closing price for cheap items to

Over $1,000.01

12.00% of the initial $25.00 ($3.00), plus 8.00% of the initial $25.01 – $100.00 ($6.00), plus 4.00% of the initial $100.01 – $1,000.00 ($36.00), plus 2.00% of the remaining closing value balance ($1,000.01-closing value)

Auction and Fixed Price listings appear in your eBay Store as well as in eBay Search and Listings. The store allows your buyers to peruse your other items in addition to your auction items. Go to: http://pages.eBay.com/storefronts/openbenefits.html

12. Completing a sale: Remember, your reputation is of utmost importance. If your item sells successfully, the sale needs to be completed. This includes contacting your buyer, accepting payment and shipping the item.

13. I also recommend a “buy it now” listing, using the actual price of your item, i.e, what you really want. Using the “best offer” option allows members to make you a lower offer. Tip: Set a limit on “best offer” minimum bids, or you will get absurd offers of 1 cent or more.

14. Don’t use Listing Upgrades when you are new. Use your own hosting for pictures or eBay Picture Hosting.

15. For free templates for use on ebay, I like http://www.template-o-matic.com/

16. Examples of actions that are not allowed on eBay:

Bidding on your own item, or having family members, roommates or employees bid on your item (called shill bidding). For policy and examples, see Shill Bidding.

Interfering with another member’s transaction.

Accepting payment and sending an item that is significantly different from the item described in the item listing. For policy and examples, see Seller Non-performance.

Refusing to accept a buyer’s PayPal payment using a credit card when the seller included the PayPal logo in the listing.

Charging buyers an additional fee for their use of ordinary forms of payment including acceptance of checks, money orders, electronic transfers or credit cards.

If something goes wrong, including having problems with your buyer, there are options to help with your transaction problems.

17. Some ebay fees:

When you list an item on eBay, you’re charged an Insertion Fee. If the item sells, you are also charged a Final Value Fee. The total cost of selling an item is the Insertion Fee plus the Final Value Fee. The minimum insertion fee is 15 cents and goes to $4.00, depending upon the starting price of the auction. Final Value Fees:

Item not sold No Fee

$0.01 – $25.00**

8.75% of the closing value

$25.01- $1,000.00

8.75% of the initial $25.00 ($2.19), plus 3.50% of the remaining closing value balance ($25.01 to $1,000.00)

Equal to or Over $1000.01

8.75% of the initial $25.00 ($2.19), plus 3.50% of the initial $25.01 – $1,000.00 ($34.12), plus 1.50% of the remaining closing value balance ($1000.01 – closing value)

For examples of travel stores on eBay, take a look at: http://stores.ebay.com/Travel-Ireland-and-Britain_W0QQsspagenameZMEQ3aFQ3aSTQQtZkm

Ellen Mc Nulty is President of Lynott Tours, specialists in travel to Ireland and Britain.. Lynott Tours has been selling travel for 38 years, and can be found on the Internet at www.lynotttours.com and www.cruisetourplanners.com as well as www.australiatravelmaster.com

Shimla the”Queen of Hill Stations.” Situated in the north-West Himalayas, Shimla the summer capital of India before independence is now the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla derives its name from “Shyamala”;- the goddess Kali, whose temple existed in the dense forest that covered Jakhu Hill in the early 19th century. The English named it Simla. Shimla is well connected by air, road and rail with all parts of Himachal Pradesh, and the neighbouring states of Punjab, Haryana, Jammu and Kashimir and the Union territory of Chandigarh. Covering the area of 18 sq. km. at a height of 7,238 ft. Shimla is surrounded by pine, deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. Its well developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions make it one of Indian’s most popular and biggest hill-stations.

Shimla is connected to the city of Kalka by one of the longest narrow gauge railway routes in India. Shimla is approximately 115 km (71.4 miles) from Chandigarh, the nearest major city, and 365 km (226.8 miles) from New Delhi, the national capital. The city is named after the goddess Shyamala Devi, an incarnation of the Hindu Goddess Kali.

Shimla Tourist Attractions

The Mall: Known as ‘the Heart of Shimla’, the Mall is the main shopping centre of the place. It is teemed with colorful shops that sell various curios and trinkets to tourists. For gourmands, the place is next to heaven with a huge array of exotic cuisines and local delights. No vehicles except the emergent ones (like fire brigades and ambulances) are allowed inside the mall which makes it a pedestrian’s delight.

Tara Devi Temple: Among the various places to visit in Shimla, this temple occupies a crucial place and is also of great importance for the pilgrims. It is located on top of a hill facing Shimla and commands panoramic vistas of Shimla. It is also an ideal picnic spot surrounded by thick forest of oak and rhododendron.

Chadwick Falls: These are the 67 metres high water falls which come streaming down from the Summer Hill. The falls are set amidst thick forest at a height of 1586 metres. The falls are at their best after monsoons. You can go and explore the tracks in the forest on your own, deodar trees line the forest. There are also some old temples closeby and a fair is held here in April every year.

Himachal State Museum: The museum showcases a large collection of Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery.

Nature Park, Kufri : Kufri is a well known tourist resort near Shimla. A large number of tourists visiting Shimla also visit Kufri where a nature park has been established. In this park rare varieties of Hangal, Barking Deer, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, rare species of Monal and other pheasants are kept in social groupings

Accommodation

Shimla, being a very popular holiday destination amongst Indians & foreigners, does not leave scope for complaint in context of accommodation. Right from the luxury travelers to the budget ones, no one will find the hill station lacking in accommodation .Hotels in Shimla cater to every need and budget. The luxury ones provide world-class amenities and excellent hospitality, while the budget ones make sure to never ever put a strain on your budget. Some of the most popular hotels in Shimla are Wildflower Hall, Oberoi Cecil, Radisson, Shilon Resort, Hotel Asia The Dawn, East Bourne Resort, Chapslee Palace, Woodville Palace Resorts, etc.

Wholesale travel is a great option for smart budget-savvy travelers. Travelers can receive the best pricing on their vacations and ensure great service and savings. This opportunity is not available to the general public, so prospective travelers should take advantage of the opportunity presented to them. With wholesale travel, buyers can purchase amazing opportunities and products that will ensure the best vacation possible. Wholesale travel companies employ special techniques and methods to ensure their clients receive the best pricing and opportunities. For most, affordable travel is desired and wholesale travel is a great way to begin.

Not everyone has access to these great wholesale travel bargains. In fact, the best travel opportunities are only available to people as a reward from companies that are in the know and have many great travel connections. It is important for prospective travelers to align themselves with a company they feel confident in and proud to be a part of. With membership and alignment with the trusted company, prospective travelers will get direct access to great pricing by a research center that is willing to do all the leg work for you! Although the company is doing the research, travelers should feel confident that they will have the final say in budgeting and have the opportunity to review all pricings. In fact, the client can even do the research themselves with the helpful networking that the research center can provide them! Of course, that is optional.

The possibilities are endless. Among many products and services, prospective travelers can book hotel accommodations, condo rentals, airline tickets, cruise liners, and much more. Not only can one book their vacation needs online, but they can also receive the best unbiased information about their travel choices. The wholesale travel company can provide reviews, websites, demos, and other information to help travelers decide which opportunities fit their wants and desires.

With such a great opportunity, many are left wondering how wholesale travel companies are able to provide their clients with such amazing pricing. The exclusive pricing is provided to people who are members or clients of particular businesses. Usually, the particular business is in a network with travel companies or has special deals aligned with the particular travel service. The savings are reciprocal between both companies and the great pricing is passed down the members and clients of both companies. At any given point in time, travel accommodations and services will operate with a vacancy rate, some days the vacancy rate is higher than others. Using their special connections, wholesale travel companies can sell those vacant spots to members for discounted rates. This ensures that the vacant spots are receiving some sort of money and not operating at a loss, while the vacationer is receiving the best pricing available.

Wholesale travel companies employ a personable staff of individuals who are carefully selected based on experience and professional abilities. These people must have at least two years worth of experience in the travel industry. The staff is not commissioned and is not travel agents. The staff has huge incentives to save travelers the most money, instead of incentives to make the most sales! Wholesale travelers should never have to worry about receiving marked up pricing.

Wholesale travel is a great way for smart budget-savvy travelers to obtain the best travel available at the best pricing available. Why spend thousands of dollars on travel products and services that you can get for mere hundreds through wholesale travel? With great networks and a dedicated research staff, wholesale travel is an opportunity that cannot and should not be missed.

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Every year, Botany students go on a trip to a hill station for collecting plant specimens. We were taken to Dalhousie hill station this year for a trip.

As the day approached, we realized what a task it was to go on a journey. Packing proved to be most difficult. As a result, the questions discussed in college were not intellectual or academic but revolved around packing bags and luggage. Will it be cold over there? Do we take ’soft or hard luggage’? Whether the bags should possess safety chain locks or not? Finally, the day arrived and a crowd of students, three professors and two laboratory assistants sat in the Shalimar Express bound for Pathankot. This group got off on the Platform of Pathankot by the express train which was four hours late. From there, we boarded a bus to Dalhousie which is situated on an altitude of 8,000 feet above sea level.

The bus journey was both enchanting and horrifying. On one side were the breathtaking landscapes, on the other side were deep chasms in the hills ready to create fear in our mind the moment the bus drive erred. Thankfully, our bus journey ended uneventfully and we reached our destination soon. We were put up at the youth hostel, built primarily for visiting students.

One morning, we started our first trekking experience to Panch Kula 30 km from where we were stationed. Loaded with our refreshments of scalpels, forceps, polythene bags for collecting specimens we covered the route in three hours time. The result of our sweat and pain was not beautiful but bewitching. The green terrace slopes were studded with multi colored houses. The winding and unwinding roads sometimes lined with huge coniferous or rocky cliffs made us realize what we have lost in exchange for the comforts of science and technology.

Panch Kula is bestowed with a fresh water streams running through a series of boulders. We would pass the day by preserving the day’s, collection of various bryophytes. That night all of us slept with a dream of what tomorrow might bring for us.

Khajiar, to put mildly is a picnic spot or more aptly a paradise, it is a vast area of plains with a lake in the water. Guarding the paradise are hill ranges which change from light green to a deeper shade. It was on Panch Kula, the virgin forest at the top which has now been declared as a sanctuary.

Martin Landau portrays a time-traveller desperately trying to stop the birth of an inventor whose bacterium turns humans into mutants.

Queen of the Hills in the Indian Himalayas

Darjeeling is one of the most magnificent hill resorts in the world. The flaming red rhododendrons, the sparkling white magnolias, the miles of undulating hillsides covered with emerald green tea bushes, the exotic forests of silver fir, all under the blanket of a brilliant azure sky dappled with specks of clouds, compellingly confounds Darjeeling as the QUEEN OF HILL STATIONS.

Darjeeling beckons thousands today for a leisurely respite from the bustle of the madding crowd.The traveller-whether a green-tourist,or a trekker, a photographer, a botanist, an adventure tourist or families with kids -  will find in Darjeeling an experience which will remain etched in ones memory — forever.

The nearest airport Bagdogra is is 90 kms from Darjeeling. One can travel to Bagdogra Airport from Delhi , Varanasi or Kolkata by direct flights and from there airport Cabs and taxis are available easily for a trip to the Darjeeling hills.

For people willing to travel cheaper,they can take a train to New Jalpaiguri from  the Sealdah Railway Station  in Kolkata.New Jalpaiguri is 88 kms from Darjeeling, the Queen of the Hills in the Himalayas in Eastern India. The Toy-Train to Darjeeling starts fro the New Jalpaiguri Station.

A Toy-Train ride through the lush green valleys full of tea-gardens is connected from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. This joy ride begins at New Jalpaiguri, a busy railway station in the plains. The plains are much more warmer than the hills and as the train climbs up the mountains the climate gets much colder. Therefore it is advisable to keep warm clothes handy as one needs them. Leaving New Jalpaiguri station the train passes through the outskirts of Siliguri town and reaches Siliguri station. After a short halt the train leaves Siliguri station and crosses the Mahanadi bridge over the Mahanadi river which flows from the Himalayan foothills. Finally the train enters the Darjeeling Station, the destination of the journey. Darjeeling, the Queen of the Hills in the Himalayas  is a town with all its charm and beauty that awaits the weary traveller.

The inhabitants of Mars and its satellites, worried by the fact that Earth’s warlike humans might spread their ways to other planets, send two messengers to research the peculiar phenomenon known only to the human race — murder.

Roy Clinton, a university professor experiments with a drug that expands human consciousness. The drug not only increases Clinton’s awareness and sensitivity, but also changes his appearance, gives him hypnotic power, as well as superhuman strength. The effect of the drug endangers Clinton – Dr. Peter Wayne, Clinton’s brother-in-law and associate – as well as the lives of those around him.

An initiative from Don Bosco Institute of Management to promote and brand Northeast India. This video is a prelude to the campaign video, which is coming up soon.