Friday, 16 May 2014

Nestled in the north of West Bengal, India are the towns of Darjeeling  and New Jalpaiguri. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is also known as the Toy Train, runs between these two towns. Running on the narrow gauge, it was built between 1879 and 1881. The distance it travels is around 78 kilometers. The most interesting part is that it travels over the elevated terrain – from about 100 meters when it begins in New Jalpaiguri to 2,200 meters when it reaches Darjeeling.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, nicknamed the "Toy Train", is a 2 ft (610 mm) narrow gauge railway from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling in West Bengal, run by the Indian Railways.
The toy train ride in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR) is like a sweet lullaby in the midst of a dreamland. Though much has been said about the present condition of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways and Darjeeling itself, a toy train ride through the misty tracks from Darjeeling to Kurseong will definitely rekindle the romanticism in a person.
The entire track has 13 stations in between with Ghum being the Highest one at 7404 ft. Ghum had once the honour of being the highest Railway station in the world. Though this distinction has long since gone, yet Ghum is the highest narrow gauge railway station.
The Darjeeling Himalayan railways are a living heritage. When built in 1881, the engineers of DHR had pushed technology to the limit of what conventional railways were capable of that time. The engineers used various techniques such as loops and reverses to move through the difficult domain through which the train would pass. The steam locomotives along with all others provide a shining living heritage.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways provided an outstanding example of the influence of ingenious transportation on the socio economic development of the region.
 DHR was ground breaking and outstanding in this case. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was thus very aptly given the status of World Heritage Site by the UNESCO on 5th December 1999.
Remarkably it also served as model for similar developments in the world. The development of the railways in the 19th century at such difficult terrains had an overwhelming impact on the social and economic development in many parts of the world.
Not much has been changed in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways. The track has been extended to New Jalpaiguri from Siliguri. And now the trains are run mostly by diesel engines and not the erstwhile steam engines ,But steam engine runs on special occasions and from Darjeeling to Ghum via the Batasia Loop (called the Joy Ride).
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Darjeeling Himalayan Railway - West Bengal – India

Location: West Bengal, India

Thursday, 8 May 2014

Batasia means airy space. the As you stand on one side of the garden and see the toy train making a complete loop while hooting its whistle along the way and trying to negotiate the spiral track with a double loop, it's a fabulous experience. There are seating areas as well to enjoy the views. The entire area along with the gardens and an approach bridge that leads to the garden is about 50,000 square feet. It has been covered with grass and beautified with both seasonal and perennial flowers and shrubs. 
Batasia Loop was created by the British to counter such sharp descent. You won't even realize how the toy train actually descends by about 140ft as it completes the loop through a large circular area and on a gentle slope and then crosses its own track near the beginning of the loop through a tunnel below. It is considered as one of the greatest engineering feats.
The Batasia Loop is the last of the loops on this rail-route and is certainly the most beautiful as it's the highest of all loops on this track and offers great views of the Darjeeling Hills, Valley, City and the Kanchenjunga Mountain Range at a distance.
The weather at the Batasia Loop is wonderful as its chill and sunny and windy with sudden, occasional drizzles, which is a wonderful hilly experience that all Darjeeling tourists experience on their way up in the Toy Train.
This is definitely the best place to enjoy a 360 degree view of Darjeeling’s exquisite landscape including the hill town. One can also have a look at the snow covered peaks of the Eastern Himalayas combined with the majestic Kanchenjunga on one side. This together with beautiful garden with flowers around makes for an exquisite view for all.
Reach Batasia loop at nine in the morning and you'll see the most amazing spectacle ever - shopkeepers with their little makeshift stalls and curio-spreads on the railway lines wrap up their business with superb agility and speed as the Toy Train arrives to traverse this little loop.
This war memorial was constructed by the zilla sainik board, Darjeeling in memory of brave gorkha soldiers of Darjeeling hills who have laid down their lives for the country in all wars and operations since independence.
There is also an Eco Garden in Batasia. It provides a lot of information about organic farming and plantations in Darjeeling.
At the center of the Batasia Loop is the War Memorial . This was opened in 1995 to commemorate the Gorkha soldiers of the Darjeeling Hills who sacrificed their lives in various wars after India's independence.
On a clear day, the Batasia Loop renders clear views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
How to Reach 
Nearest Railway Station to Batasia Loop: Ghoom Railway Station (2 kms).
Nearest Bus stand & Jeep stand to reach Batasia loop: outside Ghoom Railway Station (2 kms).
Nearest Airport to get Batasia Loop: Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri (80 kms).
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Batasia Loop – Darjeeling - West Bengal – India

Location: West Bengal, India

Tuesday, 6 May 2014

Dandi Beach is a famous weekend get-away located near the city of Surat. Beach is known for the sea view and Mahatma Gandhi Freedom March Destination with monument and a park. 
It is more like a natural beach with soft sand. The weather stays partly cloudy in the morning. Two monuments of Mahatma Gandhiji are placed in Dandi Beach to express the importance of Dandi Beach in the history of India. One monument is like the India gate commemorating the success of Gandhi breaking the salt law. The next monument is the statue of Gandhi holding the saline mud. 
The scenic beauty combined with its rich history make it a favorite among all tourists visiting this place.
The ideal time to visit the Dandi Beach is between the months of November and March. 
How to Reach
By Air: Various domestic flights connecting metros and other major cities are operational from the Surat Airport.
By Road: Surat lies 234 km from Ahmedabad, 131km from Vadodara, and 297 km from Mumbai. Bus stations, both ST  and private, are on the eastern edge of the city.
By Rail: Train stations are also on the eastern edge of the city.

Dandi,Gujarat,India

Location: Gujarat, India

Monday, 5 May 2014

Suvali Beach is one of Surat's best urban beaches along the Arabian Sea. It is located near the village of Suvali in the Hazira suburb, about 25 kms from Surat city center. 
The beach is of great historic significance as it was considered to be the gateway for the East India Company in India. 
Suvali Beach, with its quiet ambience and black sands, has witnessed many events that has shaped our country's history. It had been an arena for the Battle of Swally between the British and Portuguese in 1612. It is also considered as the birthplace of modern Indian Navy. 
Suvali Beach is cleaner and less crowded than all of Surat's beaches. It has been hailed as one of India's cleanest beaches.
Visitors can spend their time walking along the rocky sands of Suvali Beach as it has a calming and mood changing effect. It is a perfect one-day-picnic spot for families and a must-visit place for people who seek solitude. 
How to Reach
By Air:  Various domestic flights connecting metros and other major cities are operational from the Surat Airport.
By Road: Surat lies 234 km from Ahmedabad, 131 km from Vadodara, and 297 km from Mumbai. Bus stations, both ST and private, are on the eastern edge of the city.
By Rail: Train stations are also on the eastern edge of the city.

Suvali,Gujarat,India

Location: Suvali, Hazira, Gujarat, India

Sunday, 4 May 2014

Located at an altitude of 11,941ft in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Sandakphu is popularly known as a ‘Trekkers Wonderland’. Offering the best of the views of the Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse and Makalu, it has got all the reasons to be known such! Showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna, contrasting views of snow-clad peaks and evergreen forests, it is also the highest point of West Bengal. 
 This place is known as the best trek destination in Darjeeling Himalaya.
 Sandakfu offers awe-inspiring view of surrounding valleys and hills to its visitors
The grandeur of snow capped mountains, battalions of colorful wild flowers like primulas, rhododendron, magnolias, orchids and many other sub-alpine flowers, the melodic chirp of birds filling the air and the fresh green smell.soaking in all of this would definitely elate all your senses. Of course you will have to make an effort and trek uphill to experience this ‘top of the world’ feeling but we assure you it is definitely worth all the effort.
Sandakphu boasts of magnificent sights of Mt Kanchenjunga as well as Mt Everest.The place is also known its lovely sunrises and sunsets.
Sandakphu is the highest peak of the Singalila Ridge and the entire state of West Bengal; no doubt you shall witness the most visually stimulating view from here.
Sandakphu offers tourists an opportunity to relish the incredible beauty of Eastern Himalayas. The place receives snowfall in late December to early February. Covered under the blanket of white snow, Sandakphu surely looks mesmerizing.
In Sandakphu, the temperature varies between -20°C in winter and 15°C in summer. The best time to visit the place is between March and October, when weather is extremely pleasing.
How to Reach 
By Air :
 Two hours flight from New delhi. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate tri-weekley and daily flights to Bagdogra (siliguri) respectively.
By Train :
 A 24 hr. journey. The Prestigious Rajdhani Express beside other fast trains run on a regular basis to New Jalpaiguri , the nearest Railhead.
Bus services are available from Darjeeling, via Sukhiapokhri, to Maneybhanjan. The distance of 24.5 km. is covered in about an hour's time. From here, the 28-km. trek to Sandakphu takes 10 to 12 hours. Land Rovers are also available for a trip from Darjeeling to Sandakphu. But the five-hour ride on a rocky terrain is extremely uncomfortable, and hence the trekking route is the more favored one.
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Sandakphu- West Bengal – India

Location: West Bengal, India

Friday, 2 May 2014

Dumas Beach is an urban beach along the Arabian Sea located 21 kilometres South West of Surat City in Indian state of Gujarat. 
One of the most characteristic features of the Dumas beach is that the sand that you’ll find here is unlike most of the other beaches you’ll find in India.
Apart from the beach, places of interest at Dumas including the Dariya Ganesh Temple located adjacent to the main beach. Places around Dumas beach offer a myriad of tasty and inexpensive street food.
Dumas Beach provides a picturesque scenery and is a great place to hangout with family and friends. The atmosphere around the beach cool where people gather to enjoy amidst their busy lives.
September to February is best time to visit the Beach.
How to Reach
By Air: Various domestic flights connecting metros and other major cities are operational from the Surat Airport.
By Road: Surat lies 234 km from Ahmedabad, 131km from Vadodara, and 297 km from Mumbai. Bus stations, both ST and private, are on the eastern edge of the city.
By Rail: Train stations are also on the eastern edge of the city.

Dumas,Gujarat,India

Location: Gujarat, India

Sunday, 27 April 2014

Mirik, located in the state of West Bengal near Darjeeling is a very prominent hill station well-known for its natural splendor and serenity. It is just 49 Kms from Darjeeling and is a very popular tourist destination and tourists from all over the country flock the place in quest of innate beauty and tranquility. It is “worth it” place to head to for a break from the hectic lifestyle.
The major attraction of Mirik is the Sumendu Lake. Sumendu Lake is an artificial lake that has forested ridges on all sides, with garden on one side and pine trees on the other side. Both sides are connected with an arched footbridge called Indreni Pull (Rainbow Bridge) and a road stretching about 3.5 km encircles the lake. This road provides a view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Located on the southern most part of the lake is the town of Krishnanagar. Within short distance of the town is the Bokar Gompa, home of the Mahayana monks. There are three temples built separately dedicated to the gods of Lord Shiva, Hanuman and Kali Mata located on the western part of the region. Located on the western bank of Lake Sumendu is the Singla Devi Mandir.
Mirik is a fairly new addition to the list of Darjeeling’s tourist spots. Earlier, it used to be splendid meadow bordered by hills.
Nestled in the serene hills of Darjeeling, Mirik Lake is one such tourist attraction that will take your breath away. Owing to its picturesque natural surroundings and invigorating climate, the lake is one of the popular tourist attractions in the region.
One of the things to do while visiting the beautiful Mirik Lake is boating. The fascinating lake offers a chance to row all along the 1.25 km long stretch.
Blessed with a view of the mesmerizing Kanchenjunga peak in the front, the popular Mirik Lake is just a couple of hours away while traveling from Siliguri to Darjeeling.
Besides, tourists can also try fishing in the quiet and tranquil atmosphere all around. As the lake is centered between the raw natural terrains, horse riding and long walks are also the highlighted activities.
Mirik, once known as the 'Burnt Hill' is a popular hill station in North Bengal, India, known for its beautiful Sumendup lake and the exotic view of the Himalayas, is one of those mostly visited tourist spot in the Darjeeling district.
How to Reach 
By Air
The nearest Domestic Airport is Bagdogra Domestic Airport, Siliguri, roughly one hour drive from the town. Scheduled flights are available from cities such as New Delhi, Guwahati, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. There is an availability of the flights from International destinations such as Paro and Bangkok.
By railways
Jalpaiguri Railway station is the nearest railway station to Mirik which is well connected to the major cities such as Trivandrum, Secunderabad, Guwahati, and Chennai, Cochin etc.
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Mirik - West Bengal – India

Location: West Bengal, India

Friday, 18 April 2014

The marvelous hill station, Kalimpong is positioned in the lesser Himalayan Range in West Bengal and is about 50Km away from Darjeeling. This hill town located on an edge overlooking the splendid view of the Teesta river. It is situated at an altitude of 1,250 meters and is full of different cultures and activities. From heritage to trendy spots, wild life to adventure, the place is vibrant and full of beautiful landscapes.
Kalimpong offers a breathtaking view of the snowy peaks of the Himalayan range that lies not far beyond it. The lush green valleys are a soothing sight. There are two things that strike one on reaching Kalimpong. These are its bustling bazaars that stand out in sharp contrast to the quiet atmosphere heightened by the several places of worship all around.
Pristine beauty, charming ambiance and inviting location these features set Kalimpong a side from the other hill stations in the region.
 A small town nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Kalimpong is an absolutely amazing treat for any nature lover, giving a stunning view of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains and Kanchenjunga. You can head to Deolo hill in Kalimpong and get completely mesmerized by the breath-taking view.
Kalimpong being an amazing nature spot, it also has a sizable amount of great wildlife around Kalimpong. Being a part of the Neora Valley National Park, the forests around Kalimpong is also home to endangered species like the Red Panda, Himalayan Tahr, barking deer and is popular for the beautiful avifauna like the Himalayan woodpecker, flycatchers, pheasants and warblers.
The Darjeeling Himalayan region is really popular for its tea and Kalimpong  contributes for about 5% of the totally tea production with tea gardens located in the western side of the Teesta. Kalimpong is also popular for its extensive production of ginger and oranges.
 Kalimpong is a hub for floriculture and really popular for its floriculture industry. There are various nurseries located in and around Kalimpong which is open for tourist view where you can see the various collections of beautiful and exotic flowers and floral plants. Orchids and gladiolus are some of the popular ones which Kalimpong is very well known for.
Kalimpong is indeed a hiker's paradise. There are lovely forests and villages surrounding Kalimpong, perfect to visit hiking. 
How to Reach
By Air
The nearby airport of Kalimpong is Bagdogra in the vicinity of Siliguri. It is placed at a distance of 79 km from the town. This airport is networked with Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. So you would easily know how to reach Kalimpong. International travelers can use the connecting flights from metro cities like Kolkata or Delhi.
 By Railways
The bordering rail is New Jalpaiguri, which is almost 77 km away from Kalimpong. This is an important railway station in the northern Bengal and also serves as a gateway to the remote northeastern India. You can easily get trains for different Indian cities from this railway station.
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Kalimpong - West Bengal – India

Location: West Bengal, India

Saturday, 5 April 2014

The Name Kurseong means 'The place of white orchids'. So as expected, white orchids grow in abundance in this area. The area is also full of beautiful tea gardens, forests and year round vegetation on the hill slopes. From some parts of Kalimpong, you get magnificent views of Mt. Kanchejunga, Kabru and Jannu, and the meandering rivers Teesta and Mahananda flowing downwards to the lower plains & medows. 
The tiny hill station of Kurseong is in the beautiful Himalayan valleys of West Bengal. Located at an altitude of 1,458 m, the secluded town is 50 Km from Siliguri and 30 Km from Darjeeling.
The terraced tea gardens, orchid nurseries, and verdant hill slopes are best explored either on foot or by the Toy Train which runs from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. Kurseong derives its name from the Nepali word, Kharshang which means dawn's pole star.
  Kurseong is redolent with the fragrance of this delicate blossom. 
Kurseong is a place with natural beauty, located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal state. This place is naturally gifted. Surroundings of the city offer you amazing sightseeing.
From the rolling tea gardens to the towering Kanchanjunga and from the magnificent churches to the quiet little monasteries, Kurseong is a interesting mix of nature and heritage and can be an ideal weekend destination for tourists.
Kurseong, has always lived in the shadows of his more illustrious sister Darjeeling, considered as the queen of the hills. Kurseong, literally meaning the land of the white orchid, has always been a quick stop for a bite of momo and a gulp of tea, for tourists heading for Darjeeling.
How to Reach
By Air
There is no airport here. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra,60 km away. From Bagdogra you can hire a cab to cover the distance to Kurseong.
By Rail
New Jalpaiguri, 57 km, is the nearest railhead, though the town itself is a station on the Toy Train line between Darjeeling and New Jalpaiguri. Buses and taxis are available between Kurseong and the neighbouring towns.
By Bus
The road that connects Kurseong to neighbouring towns is good. Buses ply the distance as well as cabs. It is also possible to share a jeep with others, if you are alone and do not want an exclusive jeep.
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Kurseong - West Bengal – India

Location: West Bengal, India

Wednesday, 2 April 2014

Chunchanakatte Falls is part of the river Kaveri, Krishnaraja Nagar taluk of Mysore district. It is famous for the Kodanda Rama temple on the banks.
The place is very scenic surrounded by waterfalls and greenery. Lord Kodanda Rama temple is situated just beside the waterfalls.
Here river Kaveri cascades from a height of about 20 meters. The river falls in two small cascades before joining again to flow as one.
A natural waterfall with surrounded by greenery makes this place an ideal picnic spot.
How to Reach

The waterfall can be reached by taking a diversion at Krishnarajanagar on the Mysore  Hassan highway. One has to take diversion is on the left at the circle in the town of K R Nagar. A following right turn on to a mud road leads to the Chunchanakatte waterfall.

Chunchanakatte,Karnataka,India

Location: Chunchanakatte, Karnataka, India
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