Archive for the ‘Hill Stations Tips’ Category

Amboli is situated at an altitude of 690 m, in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. It is an offbeat hill station engulfed in tranquility and peace . Konkan coast lies on the one side of Amboli, the other three sides are flanked by beautiful valleys.

History: The history of Amboli is interesting. Its reflects the connection with British Raj. Amboli hill station was established by Colonel Westrop, a British political agent. He opened the Ghat Road from the coastal town of Vengurla, presently in Southern Maharashtra to Belagum.It is the last mountain resort of Maharashtra before the coastal islands settled.

Tourist Attractions: Amboli is blessed with natural beauty, it is a wonderful destination for getting lost among misty mountains.One of the main attractions is an unforgettable bird eye view of the Konkan beach atop Amboli hills. Other beautiful attractions are Mahadev and Narayan Gad,Historic botanical gardens,Hiranya Keshi, Sea view Point, Nagatta Falls and Bauxite Mines. Best time to visit Amboli is winter.

How to get there:

* By Rail- Sawantwadi is the nearest Railway Station,at a distance of 28km from Amboli.
* By Air-An airport at Belgaum at a distance of 64 km from Amboli. .
* By Road-Transport buses are available from Sawantwadi,Vengurla,Belgauma and Ratnagiri. Mumbai is 549 km away from Amboli.

Bhandardara is a beautiful hill station. It is located in the Ahmednagar District of the state of Maharashtra.This hill station is blessed with natural beauty.Wonderful sight scenes, mountains, waterfalls, invigorating air,greenery and pristine ambiance are quite enough to catch your hold.

History:Legends say, Shri Agasti Rishi came here for mediation, he was surviving only on air and water. Pleased with his divinity and display of devotion, God blessed him with a stream of Ganga river which is called as the Pravara River. Bhandardara sits by the Pravara River.

Tourist attractions-Two most beautiful spots of this hill station are Arthur Lake and Wilson Dam. Bhandardara’s other scenic spots are Mt. Kalsubai, Umbrella Falls, Amruteshwar temple and Agasti Rishi Ashram it is the Hermitage of Sage Agasti.For adventure lovers Bhandardara has most exciting trek known as Ratangad fort. Anandvaan Resort, a very popular resort of Bhandardara, it is located 2800 feet above sea level. Ghatghar, a popular viewpoint offers panoramic view of the Sahyadri ranges.Tourists can enjoy angling also.

How to go there-

* By Road-Bhandardara is easily accessible by road,it is 185 km far from Mumbai and from it is at a distance of 191 km.
* By Air -Nearest airport is Mumbai.
* By Rail-Igatpuri is the nearest railway station, it is 45kms away from Bhandardara.

Solan is a beautiful hill station of Himachal Pradesh, it is named after the Goddess Soloni Devi.This hill station is a perfect destination where you can enjoy your holidays. Solan is popularly known as “mushroom city of India”. It is a largest producer of beer and quality whisky. It’s Dyer-Meakin Brewery is well known brewery in the world.

Solan city was established by British, it is a place where Pandavas lived during their ‘Agyatvas’ period. Main Tourist Attractions of Solan Hill station are Shoiloni Devi Temple, Jatoli Shiv Temple and Bon Monastery. The monastery is situated 12 kms from Solan, it is the second largest Monastry in the world after Tibet. A beautiful picnic spot called Giri Picnic is located amongst the cool waters of Giri.

A must visit place is Karol Tibba, an ideal place for nature lovers. At the height of 1,600 km, Barog is located, it is place where you can enjoy the wonderful views around. There is a toy train ride specially for children. The surrounding areas of Solan are rich in tomatoes, ginger, peas and beans. Solan hill station is blessed with natural beauty, its exotic views will make you spellbound.

Kundadri is a beautiful hill station located in Teerthahalli Taluk of Shimoga (Karnataka).This hill station is blessed with natural beauty. It is a large monolithic rock formation elevating 3200 feet above sea level. Kundadri Hill Station is a perfect destination for those who like mountain trekking.It is named after Jain monk Kundakundacharya.

Main Attractions of Kundadri Hill Station: A Jain temple of seventeenth century, situated on the hilltop. Beside the temple, there are two lotus pools. Kundadri is covered with dense evergreen woods. The back waters of Varahi Dam is one of the main attractions of this pristine hill station.Tourists can experience the cool breeze that blow from the west moreover they can enjoy the wonderful sight of the setting sun. Kundadri Hill Station has magnificent falls, it also offers trekking and bird watching.

How to get there: Kundadri is easily accessible from Teerthahalli via Nalur. This route provides easy transport. Those who start their journey from Srinagar, the route from Kammaradi-Begar-Hosagadde is best option.Those who prefer hiking can choose the route from Teerthahalli via Kammaradi- Nadabur-Halakunda.

Biligiri Rangana hills are popularly known as the B.R.Hills.They are 120kms from Mysore,situated at a height of about 5, 091 feet above sea level. They are ideally located between Kapila and Cauvery rivers. It’s lower hills are enveloped with rich deciduous forests. Tourist Attractions: A beautiful temple dedicated to Biligiri Rangaswamy is a must visit place, it is built in Dravidian style.

There are so many hill resorts, this beautiful hill station has a wildlife sanctuary that covers an area of about 550 sq.km. In this sanctuary, tourists will find more than 250 species of birds like Racquet Trailed Drongo, the Crested Hawk Eagle and the Paradise Flycatcher. They can enjoy Fishing, River rafting and Trekking. Himavad Gopalaswamy Hills is another popular place to visit.Another attraction is Dodda Sampige Mara means Big Champak Tree, it is a thousand year old tree.

How to get there:

* By Rail-The nearest Railway Station is Bangalore Railway Station.

* By Air-The nearest Airport is at Bangalore, it is 254kms from B.R Hills

* By Road-There is an easy access of Road Transport,there are couple of buses running from Mysore every day.

A step-by-step guaranteed system for running a hugely successful event fundraiser including samples, templates and proven real-world strategies garnered from 30 years experience.
Instant Event Fundraising System

Do you need to advertise your website? Place your Ads on this “Marketer Zone”! Grab thousands of serious visitors to your site & start building your list Now … It is Quick, Easy, And Free! Join the Affiliate Program & Explode Your Bank Account
Free, Fast, And Easy Way To Harvest Tons of Hits For your site!!!

Romantic lakes, blissful ambiance, colorful and vibrant gardens and beautiful valleys will leave you spell bound. So let yourself loose in the pristine beauty and enjoy your golden moments to the hilt.
Attraction Of Kashmir
Dal lake is one of the most enchanting place for honeymooners. Steeped in sheer beauty, the lake is also dotted with numerous houseboats where you can stay and enjoy the fell and beauty of the arresting surroundings. Enjoy shikara rides on the lakes and get drunk on natural beauty.
Beautiful houseboats floating on water are available for offering a mesmerizing stay to tourists They fall into various categories from luxurious to decent ones. Take your pick. Their interiors are decorated traditionally and all the modern facilities are provided for a comfortable stay.

Surrounded by majestic Himalayas, the hill stations in Kashmir are really picturesque. Draped in immense natural beauty and peace, the hill stations also offer great opportunities for adventure sports. Exciting! Hanna Rion has aptly said ‘The greatest gift of the garden is the restoration of the five senses’. Once can really restore the five senses by exploring the captivating gardens of Kashmir. A variety of flowers, beautiful trees , awesome fountains and fascinating views of the mountains.

Kashmir is referred to as paradise on earth and not without a reason. Honeymoon in Kashmir is a blissful experience with it snow capped hills, tranquil lakes and alpine pastures.

Arranging a honeymoon in Kashmir has become simpler with the numerous travel packages being offered. The tour packages for Honeymoon in Kashmir usually last for 6 days and takes you to all major sight seeing attractions and the lodging will be usually in deluxe houseboats.

Situated on the foothills of the imposing Mullayanagiri range in the state of Karnataka in India, lays the secluded town of Chikmagalur. The name of the town translates into “The town of the younger daughter” It is the younger sister of Hiremagalur “the town of the elder daughter”. It is said that the town was given as a dowry to the daughter of the esteemed Rukmangada the legendary chief of Sakkaraypatna.

Chikmagalur is located 3402 feet above sea level. Due to its cool climate it is the ideal site for tea and coffee plantations. During summer the town is a popular retreat for visitors hoping to escape the searing heat of urban areas such as Bangalore. The areas surrounding the city have a variety of attractions to visit and suit everyone’s taste.

The Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary is located to the northwest of the city and is a short drive away. The sanctuary hosts a diverse array of indigenous wildlife while protecting endangered species from the threat of poaching. Visitors can tour the sanctuary and observe elephants, tigers, Gaur and Chital living in their native habitats. The Kemmanagundi hill station is to the north of Chikmagalur, this secluded point offers panoramic views of the Baba Budan range and the awe inspiring Hebbe Falls where visitors can observe sheer volumes of water gushing down the precipice, bathing the rich dense foliage.

Another hill station located to the south west known as Kudremekh is a popular spot due to its amazing views of the Arabian Sea along with enchanting panoramas of the valleys and mountains. It is a good spot to go cave exploring in the surrounding area. Ancient history lovers will enjoy the presence of ancient ruins shedding light on the past life in the hill country.

The Gateway Hotel KM Road Chikmagalur is a premiere Chikmagalur hotel nestled in the rich aromatic coffee plantations of the hill country. Enjoy a choice of tastefully appointed rooms with a generous array of amenities and services all wrapped up with spectacular views of the scenery.

The newest technology Hi-Tech System & History Cleaner. Clean all Online and Offline Activity on any Pc! The most wanted Shocking Product convert 1:35 with no refunds! Convert Better then 3 times Reg Cleaners***TRY US
Hi-Tech System & History Cleaner

70% commissions, very good conversion on sales page. Ideal affiliate product to offer on Health and Fitness related websites.
Discover Simple Yoga Secrets

Ooty often referred to as the poor man’s Switzerland is a paradise for nature lovers. Ooty is the acronym for Ootacamund, a hill station located in the Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu. The erstwhile hill station of Udhagamandalam was rechristened as Ooty by the British during their colonial rule.

Ooty with its smoky hills, misty forests and lavender blue flowers is the perfect honeymoon destination for newly married couples. Its location amongst the Blue Mountains of Nilgiri served as a magnet for drawing honeymoon couples from all over the country. Those who love to marvel at the beauty of nature. Ooty is the perfect holiday retreat for those who want to escape from the heat of the plains. Few places in India are better than Ooty for a newly wedded couple to start their married life together.

The fresh mountain breeze in Ooty will rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Ooty is situated at the cusp of the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats and is nestled amongst four majestic hills—Doddabetta, Snowdon, Elk hill and Club hill. The lush green forests   that envelope the hills of Nilgiri are a sight to behold. Once you reach Ooty for your honeymoon what will strike you is the beauty of Ooty Lake 2.5kms   long. Here you can boat, fish or enjoy a motorboat ride. There is also a mini train that takes visitors around the lake.

The botanical gardens of Ooty are worth a visit during spring time. One can find innumerable varieties of flora and fauna and witness a   few flower shows as well. The star attraction of these gardens is a fossilized tree trunk that is claimed to be nearly 20 million years old. The Kodanadu view point in Ooty offers a breathtaking view of the tea estates, Rangaswamy peak and the Moyar river.No trip to Ooty would be complete without climbing atop the Doddabetta peak that is at a height of 2623 m from the sea level.On a clear day one can even see the neighbouring towns of Coonoor, Wellington, Mettupalayam, Coimbatore and sometimes even Mysore.

The Uniqueness of Maharashtra in beaches, hill stations, wild life, temples, caves forts and festivals where diversity races ahead of time.

Two heavenly abodes 280 km apart; that’s Ooty and Kodaikanal. Nestled snugly in the Nilgiri biosphere of Indian State Tamil Nadu, these two hill stations are hideouts for the value travellers. By the by, Nilgiri means blue hills, and it is indeed blue hills that gets into your system and soothes like Mom’s hand.

When you long for a lot of mist, breeze, cool greenery, vistas of grass-carpeted slops, crystal clear lakes, and above all no crowd, Ooty-Kodaikanal are indicated. Both or either could be a good bet, be it unwinding or honeymooning.

Not for nothing is Ooty’s called the Queen of Hill Stations in India. It is a land of picturesque picnic spots, something of a postcard presentation. Used to be favorite haunting grounds of the royalty and rulers it is visited by the conscious vacationers and tourists who can appreciate Nature’s mesmerised handiwork when they see one.

Ooty is situated at an altitude of 2,240 meters above sea level. Thrilling is the word for the mountain rail journey on a ratchet and pinion track which commences from Kallar, near Mettupalayam, and wends its way through many hair-pin curves and fearful tunnels and chugs along beside deep ravines full of verdant vegetation, gurgling streams and tea gardens.

As you enjoy the other-worldly ride you will espy the change in tone and tenor of vegetation, from purple at Kallar to blue in Coonoor. Numerous tea estates along have given it a trim, neat look and is Ooty’s USP. Lofty mountains, dense forest, sprawling grasslands and miles and miles of tea gardens greet the passengers on most routes. The annual Tea and Tourism Festival attracts multitudes. From here one could take a cab ride to Kodai, an eight-hour pleasant journey.

Kodaikanal or Kodai as it’s better known, is a quiet hill station at an altitude of 2,300 m, on the southern ridge of the Palani hills in Tamil Nadu. Kodaikanal means ‘the gift of the forest’. The hilly retreat was established by American missionaries around 1845 in order to escape from the steamy weather of the plains. The star-shaped Kodai Lake is the centre of attraction in Kodaikanal.

If you are with your new-found love you could simply drink in the mountain scene and savor the changing canvas of the sky while roaming about or lying side-by-side. Or in the mood, you can go for a short trek to the nearby areas like bear Shola Falls, Dolphin Nose. Better still, you can hire a bicycle and take a round around Kodai Lake. It is fund and healthy. Kodai  is at its best in month of April & May though any time is good time for Kodai. Anyway you look at, it is a win-win bet.

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.

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

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

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.

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
 

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.