Monday, April 23, 2018

Morachi Chincoli near Pune - The Magical Village of Dancing Peacocks

State - Maharashtra

Location - 50 km from Pune

Known for - Peacocks, Rural charm, Peacock reserve

Serves as - One day picnic spot, Weekend destination





About Morachi Chincholi 


For those who crave to be a part of rural settings and wish to enjoy a day enjoying the life of an ideal Indian village, Morachi Chicholi is just the right option. Located closer to Pune, this ideal picnic spot of Morachi Chincholi which is part of the agricultural tourism, beckons you to be part of the real Indian countryside life. Morachi Chincholi - the name itself suggests, what you can look forward to! 'Mor' which means 'peacock' and 'chincholi' which means 'tamarind trees'. The name of this place itself suggests the true rural feel to it, with loads and loads of tamarind trees and dancing peacocks. This peacock sanctuary manages to preserve the true rural feel which is somewhat on a verge of disappearance.





This village of dancing peacocks is an ideal visit for those who wish to escape the hustle-bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful day amidst pollution free environs. The tamarind trees planted in this village of Morachi Chincholi is said to have been planted during the Peshwe Dynasty - that old! These trees are said to attract peacocks and hence was the actual idea behind it's plantation. And true to it's cause, the village of Morachi Chincholi is said to have at least 2500 peafowls residing in this village. These peacocks are not just protected in this village but they reside amidst the people within the village with no fear. This indeed is an beautiful sight, especially during early mornings or early evenings, when you take a stroll around the village and see peacocks roaming around the village.






Visit to Morachi Chincholi is not just about looking at peacocks! There is more fun to it, then you can imagine. As a one day visit or a overnight visit, one can enjoy loads of rural activities in this village of Morachi Chincholi. Some of these outdoor activities include bullock cart rides, rides on tractors, hurda parties, star gazing etc. Some outdoor activities here include outdoor games, camping, bird watching, kandil nights and village strolls. Children can have fun with some activities specially designed for them  which include magic show, puppet show, and having leisure time with domestic livestock.






Best Time to Visit Morachi Chincholi


Morachi Chincholi is at it's best post monsoon. With lush greenery, dense vegetation and serene beauty, Morachi Chincholi is charming. The light drizzle and the peacock dances are beckoning! Hence the best time to visit Morachi Chincholi is from September to early March.




Activities to enjoy at Morachi Chincholi


Watching Peacocks

Village strolls

Nature walks

Camping

Farm activities such as feeding cow, fetching water from well, watering field

Bullock cart rides

Tractor rides

Kite flying

Children Park

Enjoying livestock activities such as milking cows and goats

Hurda parties

Bonfire

Star gazing

Gardening activities

Bird watching

Early morning jog

Yoga






Booking, Entry Fee and Other Details of Morachi Chincholi near Pune


You can pay a visit to this peacock sanctuary village of Morachi Chincholi either as a one day visit, or a overnight visit or as a weekend escapade. Best way to enjoy Morachi Chincholi is by planning a family excursion for the weekend. More people more fun! The ideal way to visit Morachi Chincholi is set yourself up on the farmstays and enjoy the true, authentic rural feel and cuisine.

Entry Fee per person for a day visit - INR 500

Entry Fee per child for a day visit - INR 250 for children below 10 years

Entry Fee per child for a day visit - INR 400 for children above 10 years

(The above package includes breakfast, lunch and  farm activities such as tractor rides, bullock cart rides, peacock visit and day on farm)

Entry Fee per person for overnight stay in Dormitory - INR 1000

Entry Fee per Child for overnight stay in Dormitory - INR 800  for children below 10 years

Entry Fee per Child for overnight stay in Dormitory - INR 1000 for children above 10 years

Entry Fee per person for overnight stay in Regular Room - INR 1200

Entry Fee per Child for overnight stay in Regular Room - INR 800 for children below 10 years

Entry Fee per Child for overnight stay in Regular Room - INR 1200 for children above 10 years

Entry Fee for family for overnight stay in cottage - INR 1600 per person + INR 800 per kid

(The above package includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, packaged drinking water, and a close rural experience)

Check-in Time - 12 Noon

Check out Time - 10 am

Strictly vegetarian meals are served

Alcohol, smoking and tobacco are strictly prohibited

Sightseeing charges are extra

10% discount on group bookings on weekdays (minimum 20 people)






How To Reach Morachi Chincholi near Pune


Morachi Chincholi is located closer to Pune. This ideal weekend getaway is situated near to the Pune - Ahmednagar Highway. If you are driving down to Morachi Chincholi from Pune, you can drive down on the Pune Ahmednagar Highway and turn left onto SH54 after Shikrapur at Pabal Phata. From here drive down, until you pass Ganegaon and Varude. You will reach Morachi Chincholi.

For those who drive down from Pune via Aundh or Chinchwad, the ideal way to drive down on the Pune - Nashik Highway up to Bhosari. Once you reach Bhosari take the immediate right before Alandi foot over bridge and travel up to Shel - Pimpalgaon for the Shikrapur route and then continue the previous route.

People traveling from Mumbai to Morachi Chincholi should drive down to Panvel and carry on the journey with the old Mumbai - Pune Highway. From here drive down up to Lonavla towards Talegoan. Once you reach here take the Chakan road. Once you reach the Chakan Talegaon Chowk, you can either take the Shikrapur route or turn left towards Rajgurunagar and continue the journey to Morachi Chicncholi.

Distance of Morachi Chincholi from Pune - 50 km

Distance from Morachi Chincholi to Mumbai - 186 km

Distance from Morachi Chincholi to Ahmednagar - 80 km

Distance from Morachi Chincholi to Nashik - 176 km

Distance from Morachi Chincholi to Aurangabad - 194 km


Contact Details for Morachi Chincholi near Pune


Morachi Chincholi
Pune
Pincode - 412218
Maharashtra

Contact number for tour guide Mr. Janardan Thopate - +91 9960663530 / 967949305

Website - http://www.chincholimorachi.com/

Monday, April 16, 2018

Dharamkot in Himachal Pradesh

State - Himachal Pradesh

District - Kangra

Location - 11 km from Dharamshala

Altitude - 6889 ft above sea level

Serves as - Hill station, Trekker's paradise, Picnic spot

Famous for - Snow capped mountains, Spiritual retreat



Dharamkot in Himachal Pradesh

About Dharamkot in Himachal Pradesh


In Himachal Pradesh, destinations like Dharamshala, Shimla and Manali are quite popular among tourists and hence too crowded throughout the season. But there are certain unexplored, hidden destinations in the state of Himachal Pradesh that still manage to hide and preserve their natural beauty and cultural innocence. One of such secret hideaways amidst the mystical land of Himachal is Dharamkot. Dharamkot is located 11 km from Dharamshala and serves as one of most delightful picnic spots in Himachal. This remote town allows you to experience an altogether charm in itself. The scenic beauty of this little town of Dharamkot takes you down the spiritual lane as well as allows you to rejuvenate yourself with it's calm and serene beauty.




This quaint hill station of Dharamkot in the districts of Kangra serves as a spiritual retreat for those who wish to spend time off the real world. If you are one of those who can get some time off the real world and wish to soak in spirituality than visiting Dharamkot is just right. If you are a nature lover, then Dharamkot has so much to offer in terms of natural beauty such as scenic view, pristine beauty, snow-clad mountains, green landscapes, unexplored waterfalls, rocky terrains and beautiful valleys. This place is ideally for those who are looking for some action along with relaxation. Few of the frequent travelers to Dharamkot are foreign tourists and backpackers.  Dharamkot not only allows you to enjoy Himachal Pradesh with it's entirety, but helps you find solace away from the escapades of the city.






The relaxed vibe of Dharamkot astounds you and rejuvenates. Compared to Dharamshala and McLeodGanj, Dharamkot is quiet and peaceful. There are quite many walking trails fenced with deodar trees and scenic landscapes, that one gets to enjoy. You can either visit this place as a one day picnic spot, when you are at Dharamshala or McLeodganj, or you could just stay a couple of days and enjoy Dharamkot at leisure. There are no big hotel accommodations in Dharamkot, but there are motels and home-stays available in plenty. One of the most popular activity enjoyed here at Dharamkot is trekking. This quaint little scenic village of Dharamkot offers quite many trekking trails. And hence Dharamkot is referred as a Trekking Haven for adventure sport lovers, backpackers and nature lovers. Dharamkot is also known as a Yoga Village as there are many yoga workshops held here in few of the local centers.





Best Time To Reach Dharamkot


Dharamkot is one of such places that can be visited throughout the year. The weather is favorable all year around. But the best time to visit Dharamkot depends on the purpose of your visit. If you plan to visit Dharamkot during winter, that is from November to early February, then you witness snow-clad mountains. If you wish to visit Dharamkot for adventure sport options then, summer is the best time to visit. This would be from early March to June. One can thus say that the best time to visit Dharamkot is from September to June.

Things to do at Dharamkot


Relax and enjoy the stay

Take strolls and enjoy it at leisure

Trek

Hike

Explore the scenic surroundings of Dharamkot

Admire the unexplored, natural beauty around

Explore your spirirtual side

Meditate

Try some yoga



Trekking in Dharamkot


Dharamkot offers awesome trekking options to trekkers. One such trek from Dharamkot is the Truind Trek. Located 7 km from Dharamkot, Triund trek serves as an excellent trek. Most trekkers from Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj trek to Triund, with Dharamkot serving as the base village. This trek starts from Gallu Temple, where registrations are carried on before one starts trekking. It takes around 3 to 4 hours to finish the trek. There are few restaurants on the way where one can get eatables and water. The Triund trek is one of the most refreshing trek, with a vibrant walking experience amidst panorama. The forest trails are well defined and one can also enjoy night camping.There is a provision for tents on rent at this point. The trek trails pass through lush greenery, scenic surroundings, dense valleys and floral beds of rhododendron and deodar trees. The difficulty level of Triund Trek is easy. Though the trek is small, the experience is exhilarating.


Trekking in Dharamkot



The other trek that can be carried on from Dharamkot is Snowline Trek. This trek starts from Triund and one can thus continue the original trek from Triund and carry on further. The end of this trek offers an excellent view and the altitude of this trek is much higher compared to Triund. There is only one cafe up there, called as the Snowline Cafe which can provide the trekkers with drinking water, sleeping bags and tents on rent.


Camping overnight during trek at Dharamkot



Places of Interest nearby Dharamkot



Tibetan Museum near Dharamkot


Located 20 minutes from Dharamkot is the Tibetan Museum inside the Tsuglagkhang Complex. The museum exhibits Tibetan art in various forms including the old historical documents, handicrafts, pottery and paintings. This official museum is situated right near the main temple of 14th Dalai Lama. The main mission of this museum is to exhibit, teach and preserve the Tibetan culture.


Tibetan Museum near Dharamkot


St. John's in the Wilderness 


Approximately 18 minutes from Dharamkot is the church of St. John's in the Wilderness. Located amidst dense vegetation, this cathedral was built in 1852 in Neo-Gothic architecture and is known for it's architecture. The location of this church amidst scenic surroundings makes it a relaxing place where one can sit for hours in tranquility.


St. John's in the Wilderness near Dharamkot


Bhagsu Waterfall near Dharamkot


A best attraction to be visited during monsoon, Bhagsu Waterfalls is located 6 minutes away in Dharamkot. This is one of the awesome place to visit in Dharamkot. It also calls for a small and enjoyable trek. Being one of the popular destinations to visit in Dharamkot, Bhagsu Waterfall is pretty crowded with tourists.


Bhagsu Waterfall near Dharamkot


Triund Hill 


Approximately 6 minutes from Dharamkot is beautiful Triund Hill. Triund Hill is one of the small hills in the Kangra District located at the foot of Dhauladhar ranges. Triund Hill offers mesmerizing view of the beautiful valley and scenic beauty around. Triund Hill is also one of the most popular trekking option in Dharamkot. It is one of the popular and most visited places in Dharamkot.



Triund Hill near Dharamkot



What Should You Carry While Trekking in Dharamkot


 -  The nights can be chilly so it is advisable to carry warm clothes or thermals, if you plan to camp overnight.

- Torches / LED torch or headlamp

- Trekking shoes and gear

- Sunglasses

- Drinking water

- Mosquito repellant

- Paper towels and toilet paper

- First aid kit

How To Reach Dharamkot


The nearest international airport for Dharamkot is Chandigarh International Airport which is 252 km away. The nearest domestic airport for Dharamkot is Gaggal Airport in Kangra District which is 20 km from Dharamkot. Regular flights from Delhi fly to Gaggal Airport. From Gaggal Airport near Dharamshala, one can take taxi or auto rickshaw to McLeod Ganj and from there proceed further to Dharamkot.

You can take a train from Delhi to Pathankot. Once at Pathankot station you can either take a taxi or a bus to McLeod Ganj. McLeod Ganj is 9 km from Dharamkot. Once you reach McLeod Ganj you can either walk to Dharamkot which is merely 15 minutes away or take an auto rickshaw. You can take a direct bus from Delhi to McLeod Ganj which is approximately 12 hours journey and then continue to Dharamkot either on foot or by taking an auto rickshaw. You can also get down at Jalandhar Railway Station in Punjab and from here continue your journey by bus to McLeod Ganj.

Distance of Dharamkot to McLeod Ganj - 14 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Dharamshala - 8 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Jalandhar Railway Station - 201 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Pathankot Railway Station - 91 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Kangra Airport - 20 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Masroor Rock Cut Temples - 48 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Khajjiar Hill Station - 133 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Shimla - 243 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Manali - 246 km

Distance of Dharamkot to Kasauli - 257 km

Monday, April 9, 2018

The Neelakurinji Flowers Blooming Season 2018 in Munnar

State - Kerala

District - Idukki

City - Munnar

Flower Name - Neelakurinji

Botanical Name - Strobilanthes kunthianus

Blooming Season - July to October





About The Neelakurinji Flowers Blooming Season in Munnar



Munnar - one of the most traveled places in India is awaiting a magic of the decade! Munnar is popular among travelers and tourists from all across the globe for its breathtaking tea plantations, lush valleys, dense vegetation, roaring waterfalls, spices, hair-pin roads and captivating beauty. No one is disappointed by their trip to Munnar. As if this all was not enough, this year there would be an added attraction that would attract nature lovers from all over the globe to Munnar to witness the bloom of Neelakurinji flowers. The bloom of Neelakurinji flowers is one of the most anticipated event of Kerala. The Neelakurinji flower is popularly called so, because in Malayalam, which is the main language spoken in Kerala, 'Neelakurinji' means 'blue flower'. Nilgiri Mountains get it's name only because of these flowers as 'Nil' means 'blue' and 'gir' means 'mountain'.This bloom of Neelakurinji Flowers would blanket the hills of Munnar and present the most spell-binding experience.






It is said that the bloom of Neelakurinji Flowers happen once in twelve years. Not just one but around 40 odd varieties of Neelakurinji flowers would bloom all over on the Nilgiri Hills. And it is said that 2018 is the year that is to witness this beautiful bloom again.The blanket of dreamy shade of purplish blue flowers will be finally making its appearance from July 2018 to October 2018 and thus the long wait would be over.  This natural wonder can be enjoyed this year 2018 in Munnar from early July to October. The natural blooming flower show of Neelakurinji flaunts it's beauty over the Nilgiri Hills. The best part of this bloom is the eye-soothing colour of the Neelakurinji flower, which as ages turns into bluish purple which serves as a pleasant backdrop among the green hills. These flowers could be widely seen in Munnar around the areas of Eravikulam National Park. If you are lucky enough you may just witness a Nilgiri Tahr, the endangered mountain goat, strolling lazily down the hills amidst the beautiful flower spread.






These shrubs of Neelakurinji flowers grow on the altitude of around 4265 ft to 7800 feet. The height of this plant is only 30 to 60 cm and hence is counted to be a shrub. The peak season for the bloom is September and October, and that is when Munnar is thronged with tourists, biologists and nature lovers from all around the world. But one can start visiting Munnar right from June or July to witness the mass flowering of Neelakurinji Flowers. The time when the flowers bloom fully is  a peak season in Munnar - pretty crowded.




Tips for Traveler Who are Planning a Visit for the Neelakurinji Flowers Bloom 2018


- If you are planning to witness this awesome sight, make sure you carry on the booking in advance. Many tour operators have already opened the booking schedule.

- Book travel arrangements in advance too, unless you are traveling on your own.

- Visit the place early, preferably early morning. A walk amidst the flower spread is one of the most amazing experience.

Monday, April 2, 2018

Kuttanad in Kerala - The Cultural Sphere of Kerala

State: Kerala

District: Districts of Alappuzha and Kottayam

Location: 21 km from Alappuzha

Altitude: 2 m below sea level

Serves as: Picnic spot, Prime tourist destination in Kerala

Famous for: Houseboat rides, Village tours, scenic surroundings, geographical peculiarities





About Kuttanad in Kerala


Located at the heart of the backwaters in the Alappuzha Districts, Kuttanad is fondly called as the Rice Bowl of Kerala.The place gets this name for being one of the major rice producers of Kerala. The backwaters of Kerala has always drawn thousands of tourists from all around the world. But Kuttanad is the right place, where one should plan a trip to get the real experience. The geographical peculiarities of Kuttanad is what makes it an interesting place to visit. Kuttanad is the only region in India with the lowest altitude. Farming that is done here in Kuttanad is all on land reclaimed from the back waters. Farming here is carried out at 4 to 10 feet below sea level. The farming system implemented in Kuttanad, called as Bio-saline Farming has been declared as a 'Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.'


Paddy Fields of Kuttanad


But that is not all! Mother nature has blessed Kuttanad with it's beauty. One of the activity most enjoyed here in Kuttanad is photography. Do not walk around Kuttanad without cameras as there is beauty all around Kuttanad with its green paddy fields, enchanting backwaters, the crisscrossing streams, houseboats, canals, birds such as ducks and darter birds, lilies, people and their lifestyle. The crisscrossing canals of Kuttanad are home to tall, swaying coconut trees that make it a picture perfect. Everything about this place is unforgettable and hence needs to be captured in your camera.


Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary near Kuttanad


What adds spice to the trip to Kuttanad is its local cuisine comprising of fresh fish delicacies like spicy fried tiger prawns or other fish along with fresh toddy. Kuttanad also serves as a perfect one day picnic spot for people staying close-by. The view of countryside from the houseboats is enchanting. The best way to enjoy the scenery and the vast expanse of paddy fields is through boat rides. One gets some awesome clicks while passing through the backwaters, visit the Munroe lighthouse, visit lakes and uninhabited islands and many such breathtaking sights.




Backwaters of Kuttanad


 If one finds houseboat trips expensive, then there is an option of enjoying the boat rides with KTDC Govt. passenger boat rides or short boat trips with canoes which are comparatively cheaper. One can take the boat rides from Kodimatha boat Jetty in the district of Kottayam. One of the best full day houseboat ride can be enjoyed between Kollam and Alappuzha. One can enjoy a beautiful driving experience through the Alappuzha - Changanassery road which lies at the heart of Kuttanad. The experience of journey to Kuttanad will give you memories to reminiscence on for a lifetime. The classic rural beauty of Kuttanad is so mesmerizing that it has even earned the title of being the 'Cultural Sphere of Kerala'.


Boatcruising in Kuttanad


Best Time to Visit Kuttanad


Kuttanad is at it's best during winter. Summer in Kuttanad are hot and humid. The climate is not favorable for boat-rides and sightseeing given the soaring heat. But post monsoon, starting from early October to early March, Kuttanad is the best with it's lush greenery, scenic surroundings and favorable weather. Hence one should visit Kuttanad between October to March.

What to Do in Kuttanad


Go water-cruising with houseboats on the backwaters

Enjoy boat rides to smaller and quaint water inlets in canoes

Go sightseeing

Enjoy a village tour

Witness the scenic beauty

Drift through the calmness and relax


Fresh produce of Kottayam

What to Eat in Kuttanad


Fish, Fish, Fish

Fish cooked in banana leaf

Toddy

Traditional breakfast dish Puttu

Duck curry

Duck roast

Traditional South Indian food comprising of appams, idli, dosa

Places of Interest in Kuttanad


Champanakulam


Champanakulam is one of the must places to visit in Kuttanad. It is covered in one of the village tour. This small settlement amidst the scenic surroundings is split in two by River Pamba, one of the major rivers in Kuttanad. The banks on both side of the river are blanketed with paddy field and tall coconut trees. One of the oldest Christian Church, namely St. Mary's Forane Church is one of the place one should visit. This church is to be believed to have been built in the 427 AD. The trip to Champakulam is trip full of tranquility and rejuvenating.



St. Mary's Forane Church is one of the oldest church of India


Punnamada Lake


Punnamada Lake is the extension of the second largest lagoon in India -  Vembanad Lake of Kerala. This lake is one of the most visited tourist spot in Kuttanad. Kuttanad is also known for boat racing in the Punnamada Backwaters. The Punnamada Lake is famous for the boat racing known as the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. It settles amidst scenic surroundings and is home to vast number of flora and fauna.This is also because the part of Punnamadu Lake further extends into the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is known to be the home of migratory birds.

Karumady


Located 5 km from Kuttanad is the village of Karumady, the home to an eleventh century black granite of Shri Buddha with left hand side of the statue missing. This site is considered to be of great historical importance. It is a very small and peaceful village worth visiting.



Boat racing in the Punnamdau Lake


Pathiramanal


Located 38 km from Kuttanad is Pathiramanal - an uninhabited lake island home to beautiful migratory birds such as pintail ducks, egret, darter, Indian Shag, purple heron, pond heron, stork-billed kingfish and many more Pathiramanal is also home to some beautiful species of plants. The word 'Pathriamanal' means 'sands of night'. Pathiramanal is a truly bird paradise and worth giving a visit given its scenic surroundings. One can visit this place by boat-rides from Alappuzha.


'R' Block Island


One of the best scenic spots of Kuttanad is the R Block Island. It is a man made island protected with dykes all around. The R Block Island is spread over an area of 1400 acres and is home to many migratory birds. The visit to this place is a memorable one given its mesmerizing beauty.


11th Century Buddha Statue



How to Reach Kuttanad



The nearest railway station for Kuttunad is Alappuzha and Changanacherry. These two railway station connect rest of the Indian cities to Kuttanad. Trains from major Indian cities ply regularly to Alappuzha Railway Station and Changanacherry Railway Station. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport located 85 km from Alapuzzha and Thiruvanathapuram International Airport which is 150 km from Alappuzha. From Alappuzha one can continue journey to Kuttanad by boat services from Alappuzha to Ambalappuzha.

Distance of Kuttanad from Alappuzha - 22 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Kottayam - 45.7 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Alapuzzha Railway Station - 22 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Changanacherry - 27.3 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Changanacherry Railway Station - 28.4 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Cochin - 93 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Munnar - 185 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Athirapally Falls - 140 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Cochin International Airport - 104.2 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Thiruvanathapuram International Airport - 135 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Ambalappuzha - 21.9 km

Distance of Kuttanad from Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary - 54 km
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