Tiruvannamalai: Holy Hill city of Tamil Nadu

If you are looking for a religious and peaceful spot then there is no better option than Tiruvannamalai. This district of Tamil Nadu State is very famous for the glory of Lord Arunachaleshwara. There are many sacred temples and other tourist experiencing places like caves, churches, dams, forts, museums, lakes and ashrams that are worth visiting. 

If you want to realize what complete peace is? Then there is no other destination other than Tiruvannamalai. This place was founded in the year 1989. This place is situated on the hills, there are mountains and valleys all around. Here, you can find a great atmosphere for meditation. This district is also termed as a place of god. Where, you can sense divinity.

This place is mainly popular for temples. It is a well-known pilgrimage.  If you look at the temples from a distance. You can see the mountains as the background. The complete image is so astonishing that you cannot stop gazing this nature’s splendor. If you love archaeological than this is the destination that you must not miss out. The sculptures are designed very modestly. The beauty of the temples and ashrams cannot be defined in words. 

Well stating the place completely is not possible in this niche. There are around eight important destinations that cannot be ignored.

• Arunachaleshwara Temple
• Sri Ramana Ashram
• Skandashramam
• Virupashaka Cave
• Seshadri Swamigal Ashram
• Mamara Guhai
• Sattanur Dam
• Sathanur Reservoir

It is said that Lord Shiva subsists in five various appearances in Annamalai. The foremost is the hill. Second is the Linga shape.

Third in the sand form, therefore people do wear footwear’s while visiting temples and other holy places. Fourth in the form of fire. Fifth is in all five elements, which is also termed as paanch bootha in human form. The residents of this place have a belief that Lord Shiva is residing in between them in a human figure.

If you want to feel how heaven can be? Then this the destinations that you must definitely visit at least once in your lifetime.  

How to reach Tiruvanamalai?

You can reach the destination by rail or road. There is a train for Tiruvannamalai from all big cities like Chennai, Mumbai, Bangalore, Vellore, Kochi and many others. If you are travelling from Southern cities then you can also use the road mode that is buses and taxis. There are many hotels and guest houses near by the bus stop and railway stations so accommodation will not be a problem. There are many travel agencies that are offering a complete tour package that will include accommodation, traveling, sightseeing and visit to holy places.

If you are traveling from a long distance then it would be good to hire a city tour guide by contacting a nearby travel agency.

Ananthapur: Historical City of Andhra Pradesh

India’s glorious city Ananthapur is prime target today. This tourism place of India is famous as holy region. However, the city is having different nearby best tourist attractions that mean if you reach the Ananthapur then you can enjoy many other tourism locations.

Ananthapur is also known as Anantpuram and Anantpur so don’t get confused if you get different spellings on the internet while searching for this destination. This city is the headquarters of Ananthapur region AP (Andhra Pradesh) state, India. The city played a vital role in 2nd World War for British East India Company.

Climate: 

The semi-arid climate with dry and hot conditions can disturb you, but the place is really impressive for voyagers. Summer is not a good season to visit as you will not be able to roam outside during the day time due to high temperature. Winter and the pre-monsoon rain that starts in March is a good time to reach the spot. The best period for Ananthapur is between Septembers to January. 

Talking about tourism spots in the city, there are limited locations to visit. However, the surrounding spots are amazing and must attain destinations. Once you reach the Ananthapur then you must go to the surrounding tourism places of the city. 

Attractions in/nearby Anantapuram:

Dharmavaram: The first place of the city is Dharmavaram that is located in a gap of 46 km from the central part of the city. Dharmavaram is 200 KM away from Bangalore. You will get the city transport from Anantpur to reach Dharmavarm. This initial place is having historical values like this place was ruled by King of Bijayanagar Vidya Empire around 500 years ago. Don’t forget to visit the Dharmavaram tank that is one of the largest tanks of the region. Dharmavaram town is famous for the shrine of Sri Lakshmi Chennakesava. Silk Saree of the town are famous and exported to abroad nations as well.  

Gooty: Next tourism spot of Ananthapur is Gooty that is just 52 km away from the town. You have to get the Kurnool to Bangalore highway for Gooty. Here you can visit the old fort of AP (Andhra Pradesh). You will get the local transport for Gooty from Anantpur. The fort constructed at this place is actually special because of hill area. You have to trek 300 meters height to reach the fort. Construction was done during the ruling period of Vijayanagara Kingdom. Structural design of Gooty fort is different than other monuments of India so we can say it is must visit place of Ananthapur.  

Hemavathi: Once you are in the town you can attain to Hemavathi that is another tourist spot of the area. Hemavathi is located at 37 km distance from Madakasiri, though Ananthapur is 148 km away from this place. Hindupur is the closest railway station to reach Hemavathi. In ancient period this town was the capital of the rulers of Pallavas Empire. Chola architectures were famous in that period and you will find several monuments in the town of Chola structural designs. It is historical destination and by visiting this spot you will learn a lot about the history of ancient Ananthapur. 

Penukonda: located at 50 km distance from Ananthapur on Bangalore highway. Local people recognize this spot as Ghangari. Here again you will get the amazingly constructed fort and the strategic view of the town. 

Lepakshi: one of the important tourist attractions of Anantapur region is Lepakshi. This town is well-known for historical view located at 110 km distance from Ananthapur. Hindupur is the closest another tourist attraction of this town.  

Tadipatri: As there are many places to visit in Ananthapur, Tadipatri is one of them located at 90 km distance from the destination. In Tadipatri you can visit Chintala Venkataramana shrine. Here you can enjoy the Pennar River flows from 1 km distance of the temple. 

Aluru Kona: A small town at 5 Km distance from Tadipatri is next place to visit. The ruler Bukkaraya constructed Ranganatha Swami temple in 1334 AD. Here a small waterfall is one more attraction for the voyagers. 

There are many more locations that are famous of Ananthapur such as Penna Ahobilam, Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Thimmamma Marrimanu, Kadiri, Puttaparthi, Vemana Samadhi, GUGUDU and Yadiki Caves. Each spot is best and you should not miss them once you are in Ananthapuram region. 

How to reach Ananthapur?

By Air: Closest International airport is Bangalore, though Puttapurthi is having airport too. Domestic travelers can get the flights for Puttapurthi and abroad users can reach the spot through Bangalore. 

By Train: Railways are the best mode of transport in India. For tourism railway department is having special trains for passengers. However, Anantapur is the Indian tourist place that is linked to big cities of India like Hyderabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Bhubaneswar, Vishakhapatnam and Pune. 

By Road: Get the public transport like state buses to reach Ananthapur easily. NH 7 pass from this city that link this place with many metropolis so that travelers can reach the destination easily.

Balasinor - City of Gujarat

Jurassic park of India! Yes, this is true that Balasinor was the real the Jurassic park in the world. Dinosaur’s fossils are still available in this city of Kheda district, Gujarat. This small town is also recognized as Vadasinor. Town was founded in the end of 18th century. Earlier it was the town of Nawab Babi and Pathan Dynasty. However, city was born on 28th Sep- 1758. 

This amazing Indian tourist place has still kept old charm. Countless ancient temples, memorials and different attractions are major factor that tourist are all time reaching Balasinor for their vacations. Balasinor city is located at closer distance from some big cities of Gujarat such as Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad.

Reaching town at festival period is best as it becomes lively at that time. Navaratri (9 nights) festival is major and popular fest of Gujarat and that is also celebrated with full excitement and enjoyment in Balasinor. Dandiya dance is performed and local people participate in this event to make it more exciting. Dandiya and Garba are two big famous dance of Gujarat. 

Attraction in Balasinor

Fossil Park: The Jurassic Park of Balasinor is first place to visit. You have to reach Raiyoli town for Fossil Park. State government is responsible for development and management of this park. The park name is Raiyoli Dinosaur Fossil having fossilized eggs of dinosaur. You can also watch the bones and other parts of Dinosaurs in this park. There are more than 13 species fossils of dinosaurs in this park. You need around half day to enjoy the spot completely. It is also declared as world's 2nd largest dinosaur fossil site. 

Ambaji temple: One bigger tourist destination of Gujarat is located closer to Balasinor. This oldest shrine is worth to visit. You can reach the temple from Fossil Park as it is just at walk-able distance.

The Garden Palace: One of the best picnic spot of town that was constructed in 1883 by Muslim King Saheb Manover Babi. The well-manicured park in the palace is major attraction. However, the palace is turned as heritage hotel, but some areas are still open for formal visitors. If you stay in this palace then you will be getting the royal treatment. That means you can enjoy the best hospitality of Gujarat by staying in real palace. Around 8 big well-maintained cabins are available with all latest amenities in old style. 

Wanakbori Dam: If you love to visit dam areas and greenery portions then visit the Wanakbori dam that is situated closer to Garden Palace. The dam is built on Mahi River famous for picnickers and locals tourists. Panoramic view of river especially in monsoon season is best thing at this place.

Timba Tuva: There is one more thing that people should not miss and that is natural warm water spring known as Timba Tuva. However, this place is not much appreciated by travelers but it has some medicinal properties because the spring can help you to solve many skin related issues. Many patients affected with arthritis and rheumatism had also received the benefits after taking bath of this worm spring. Timba is having mythological values as well because this place is connected to Mahabharata period as well. Pandavas from Mahabharata spent few years of their exile at this place. One Pandav King Bhima married to Hadimba at Timba Tuva spot only. 

Galteshwar: Our next spot of Balasinor is Galteshwar that is famous for old temple of Lord Shiva. You can enjoy the garden and some green areas at this place as the spot is famous picnic location as well.

Champaner: Our final spot of the town is Champaner that is famous from the big Bollywood film Lagaan, Champaner town is located at only distance of 50 km from Balasinor. There are temples of Jain and Hindu community that are nearly 1000+ years old. Chamapner village is declared as UNESCO Heritage Site so you must visit the town once you plan trip to Balasinor.

How to reach Balasinor?

By Air: Vadodara Airport is closest hub to reach the destination through air. The distance between Vadodara and Balasnior is just 79 Km.

By Rail: Closest railway station for our spot is Sevaliya that is located at 18 km distance. However, 

Timba road (19 KM), Godhra (37 Km), Derol (43 Km) and Vadodara (83 Km) are few closest railway station for Balasinor. 

By Road: Gujarat state transport is having buses from various cities of State. However, few other states are also having buses for Balasinor. 

Jhadol - Resort Town of Rajasthan

India’s prime destination for safari is Jhadol. However, people are not much aware of this place but the increasing popularity and visitors interest states that Jhadol is turning as first choice for people now especially for abroad users. This place is having another identity as Jharol. It is the small town of Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Town is only 50 Kms away from Udaipur and route to destination is beautiful as well. You are getting the scenic road and the rolling hills with lush forests. Fragrant of Mahua trees spread in air is sufficient to attract the visitors. There are plenty of twinkling streams are definitely going to make your journey best. Royal Jhala Rajranas spend their maximum time at Jharol. This place is priceless jewel in desert state located in Aravali ranges.

Jhadol is very peaceful and relaxing town though there is no particular season period to reach the spot. Maximum people extend their trip once they reach to Jharol. Few events that people love at this place are reflection in water, sun rise, sunset, view of greenery, forest visit, safari and resort visit. If you go through reviews of previous visitors they love to visit resorts that are closer to lake. The reason is lake view from their balcony. Their hospitality and food are best so reaching the spot is best option for nature lovers.

Talking about the place, it is basically famous for safari. People recognize the spot as Jhadol safari resort.

This town is having amazing resort and there is online portal for booking. The features and attraction points of Jhadol are mentioned below:

Ancient Temple: There are ancient temples reachable through jeep ride. 11^th Century temple of Lord Shiv known as Harihar is first place to visit. Some more ancient temples in this region are Saraneshwar temple, Shiva-Shakti temple, Lakhena Jain temple, Surya Mandir and Sadevant Savling Deras.

Approximately 14 temples are available in Jhadol. These temples are of Hindu and Jain community. All temples are built between the duration of 11^th and 16^th century.

Forest: The land area of forest is around 10 sq. km and it is famous for rich flora and fauna. Harnav River is also flowing from the place having small stream.

Some nearby attraction in Jharol are Udaipur, Shrinathji, Ranakpur and Kumbalgarh.

Few activities that you can do in Jharol resort are mentioned below:

You can do bullock Cart ride, tractor ride, bird watching, photography expeditions, nocturnal Safaris, Orchard Walk, swimming in natural pools, Waterfall Walk, Trek in the Jungle, Nature spa, night Safari and bows & arrows games.

For accommodation people can go for resort that is having multiple facilities to their customers.

How to reach Jhadol?

Nearest big city to reach the destination is Udaipur. Udaipur is having domestic airport as well as big railway station.

By Air: Udaipur is having domestic airport and flights for this city is having from many big cities.

By Train: Udaipur city is again a big railway station to reach Jhadol. The distance between Jhadol and Udaipur is only 48 kms. Once you reach Udaipur you can hire the car, taxi or can use the state transport to reach the spot.

By Road: Rajasthan state transport is having buses for Jhadol resort, though buses are limited but you will get the transport to reach the location.

Ranakpur - Best Jain Temple Place of Rajasthan

India the tour destination with amazing places is first choice for abroad visitors. The most impressive part of the Indian tourism is there are holy places, hill stations, amazingly adventurous places and many more destinations that can make the holidays memorable. If you talk about the hospitality of Indian people they are really friendly and helpful to unknown people.

Today we are going to discuss one of the best Indian tourist places named as Ranakpur. It is the village of Desuri tehsil closer to Sadri town of Pali region, Rajasthan State, India. The impressive part of Ranakpur is it is famous for Jain temples. You can attain the route of Jodhpur or Udaipur to reach this destination. Ranakpur is 162 km far from Jodhpur, though Udaipur is just 91 km away from this holy city. You might know that Udaipur is one of the biggest tourist destinations of India having amazing valley of Aravalli Ranges.

Ranakpur city is housing countless beautiful small and big shrines developed in Jain architectural designs. Most of the shrines are made of marble and that is reason these temples are listed as most spectacular Jain temples of India. Small Sun temple is big example of best structural design. This shrine is managed by royal family trust of Udaipur.

Places to visit in Ranakpur:

There are limited places to visit in the town, but the places are amazing so you must plan your trip to Ranakpur. Some of the favorite spots of Ranakpur are mentioned below:

Ranakpur Jain Temple: This Jain temple of Ranakpur is world famous dedicated Jain Tirthankar of Jain community. This big shrine with 7 meter high ceiling of white quality marble is major attraction of temple. External part of temple is striking as well. Travelers need to be little attentive before entering the temple. Females need to cover their legs and men should wear the proper clothes before entering the shrine. Keep your leather products at home or don’t take them along while visiting the temple. Leather items are not allowed here. You can visit to Tirthankars, Parsvanath and Neminath temples closer to Ranakpur shrine. Morning time is reserved for prayers so you cannot enter the shrine at that time. From afternoon to evening 5 pm it’s open for travelers.

Sadri: A tourist place located at 8 km distance is another favorite destination of Ranakpur. Group of shrines and Khudabaksh Baba old Dargah are important location of Sadri. Holy places of Sadri are Varahavtar and Chintamani Parsvanath shrine.

Narlai: A small village Narlai is located at 6 km distance from Ranakpur. Narlai is the hill area having significant temples of Hindu and Jain community. Lord Adinath shrine is best among all temples in the town.

Desuri: Another town located at 16 km distance from Ranakpur is next place to visit. Desuri is the home of 3 temples devoted to Hindu deities such as Lord Shiva, Hanuman and Mata Navi. A old mosque is also famous of Desuri dedicated to Parsuram Mahadeo.

Surya Narayan Temple: A temple of Lord Surya is one more location of Ranakpur famous for round structure. Amazing idol of God Surya with seven horses is first thing to watch. You can reach to another holy place known as Amba Mata shrine located at little km distance from Ranakpur.

Muchhal Mahavir Temple: Muchhal Mahavir shrine positioned closer to Kumbhalgarh Sanctuary is next place of Ranakpur. You have to cover the distance of 5 km from Ghanerao town. Lord Mahavir idol with moustache is impressive part of this temple.

Accommodation: You can book accommodation through online as many travel agencies are providing offers for Ranakpur tour. The big hotels for stay are Hotel Maharani Bagh and Shivika Lake Hotel.

Things to do:

Jeep Safari is enjoyable event of Ranakpur. There are several natural beauty spots like Ranakpur Valley. You can enjoy the spot with jeep safari and don’t forget to go to Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. Horseback Safari is also available at Aravalli hills.

How to reach Ranakpur?

By Train: Closest railway station is Falna and trains for Falna are available from several cities of India. You can hire taxi from outer area of station Falna. Other closest big railway station for Ranakpur is Udaipur located at 160 km distance. You can also get the train for Jodhpur that is only 160 km far from Ranakpur. 

By Bus: Rajasthan Transport Corporation is having direct buses for Ranakpur city. You can get the bus from Udaipur, Ajmer, Jaipur and many other cities.

By Air: Closest airport is Udaipur domestic airport having flights from Delhi, Bangalore, Bhopal, Chennai and many more cities of India.

Impressive Video about Ranakpur:

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWRZ8OT4lvM

Amarkantak - A Worship Place of Madhya Pradesh

A majestic place of Madhya Pradesh is our next tourist destination. Amarkantak is the small city situated in the middle area of superb ranges Satpura and Vindhya. The average elevation of this city is 1065 meters. The charming weather and best valleys with amazing view makes this place first choice for nature lovers. Amarkantak wraps up the splendor of typical sylvan atmosphere. The 2 best rivers of India known as Narmada and Sone are flowing from this area. 

Word Amarkantak comes from Sanskrit language that is related to mythological meaning. Because of religious values this place is also known as Theertha Raja (King of Holy destinations). The Narmada River is having holy values for Indians.  It’s a land of great history holding story of diverse empires. Pandavas also ruled this place for short period. 

Amarkantak is added in the list of usual heritage zone. It’s full of dense forest with huge valleys. 

When we talk about the spots for travelers a list is not big, but each spot is different having unique quality. Amarkantak is well-known place today and some of the key destinations are mentioned below:

Temples: the great temples close to Narmada River are best place to visit in Amarkantak. Narmada River is having areas for swim and the open pond is recognized as Narmada Kund. Countless temples are located close to the pond of Narmada such Shiva temple, Ram-Sita temple, Kartikey temple, Annapurna temple, Shurya Narayan temple, Gorakhnath temple, Durga temple, Vangeshwar Mahadev, Shiv Pariwar, Radha-Krishna temple, Siddheswar Mahadev temple, 11 Rudra temple and some more.

Narmada Kund: once you reach this area you can enjoy the swimming in pond and can attain to take blessings of Hindu Gods in ancient temples. Maximum shrines are made of Kalachuri period. However, you have to go to southern area of Narmada Kund to reach Kalachuri temples. Such shrines are constructed by King of Kalachuri Mr. Karna Deva. Sources say the shrine was constructed in the mid of 1042 to 1072 AD. You must visit the Machhendra Nath temple and Pataleshwar shrine located in this area. Keshav Narayan shrine is also the one that visitor must not miss. It was constructed by the ruler of Nagpur City known as Bhonsle.

Sone Muda: a place that is origin of Sone River is next spot for you. However, the river is just 1.5 kms away from Narmada Kund. The starting point of river is from Maikal Hill. A best waterfall in this area is more than hundred feet long. A forest and the hill view from such spot is definitely going to take your breath away. 

Mai ki Bagiya: a spot known as Goddess Garden (Mai Ki Bagiya) is one more location for you in Amarkantak. The think jungle spread in kms is just 1 km away from Narmada Kund.  "Mai ki Bagiya" is devoted to deity Narmada. This natural garden is having countless trees of banana, mango, and other fruits. Roses and jungle flowers spread a sweet smell in the region so of course you are going to love this area. 

Kapildhara: a place also known as Kapil waterfall is next place to visit in Amarkantak. This waterfall is located at 6 km distance in northwest direction of Narmada Kund. The place is named after Kapil Muni. Kapildhara is full of natural scenery and hills with dense jungle. 

Kabir Chabutra: a circle popular on the name of Kabir the famous saint is another spot for travelers. Sources say Kabir spend many years in Amarkantak for medication. Chabutara is listed in the holiest locations for fans of the Kabir. 

Shri Jaleshwar Temple: a shrine of lord Shiva is next place for you. People believe Juhila River is originated from 8 kms Amarkantak. According to epics Lord Shiva founded the Shivaling in this temple so the devotee from Hindu religion is having huge values for this place. 

Jain Temple: a location known as Shri Sarvodaya Jain Temple is another holy place popular for Jain community. It is similar to Aksharadhama temple located in Gujarat. This shrine is made of approximate Rs. 20 crore and the temle is spread in 4 acres land. Around 300 workers did construction of this temple in two years. The chief architect of temple was C. B. Somapura. This shrine is positioned at hill station, though voyagers can enjoy the view of heavy flowing river Narmada from this point. 

Shri Kalyan Seva Trust: a trust used for the accommodation by the devotees is next spot to attain in Amarkantak. It is an Ashram of Shri Tapaswi Baba Kalyan Das Maharaj. According to sources Acharya Chandra Dev was the elder son of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

Gurudwara: Religious spot of Sikhs community is other location for you. Here Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited for short period hence this place is having huge religious values for Indians. 

IGNT (Indira Gandhi National Tribal) University: talking about the education level of the Amarkantak a big university is located included boarding facility as well. 

Attaining to Amarkantak:

By Air: closest airport to reach Amarkantak is Jabalpur located at only distance of 228 kms. However, Raipur is also next big domestic airport having direct flights from Delhi, Bangalore, Jaipur and some more cities. You have to travel for 230 kms distance to reach Amarkantak from Raipur. 

By Rail: closest railway station for such place is Pendra Road and the gap is only 42 kms from Pendra to Amarkantak. Pendra is the place comes between Katni to Bilaspur cities and South-East Railway is having trains for Pendra Road from various cities. 

By Road: MP roadway’s is having buses for Amarkantak from several cities. Road is properly managed by state administration and buses from Shahdol, Jabalpur, Umaria, Rewa, Anuppur, Bilaspur and Pendra Road are available in frequent level.