World Heritage Sites in Tamilnadu
Heritage is a valuable blend of culture, tradition, and historical things inherited from the past, preserved in the present, and passed on to future generations. In this context, India, one of the most culturally rich countries in the world,…
Heritage is a valuable blend of culture, tradition, and historical things inherited from the past, preserved in the present, and passed on to future generations. In this context, India, one of the most culturally rich countries in the world, has a lot of heritage to carry forward. This is why people from different countries travel to the UNESCO Sites in India, which are recognized for their profound heritage.
The specialty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites
As a service to humankind, UNESCO, the UN’s Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, aims to identify and preserve such heritage properties worldwide. Irrespective of the territory, UNESCO heritage sites belong to and inspire all the people across the globe. Every property belongs to one of the three categories: cultural, natural, or mixed.
The latest list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tamil Nadu
As per the latest list by UNESCO, there are forty-three properties or sites in India, of which two to four are part of Tamil Nadu.
1. Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram
Inscribed in 1984, this UNESCO site is located along the Coromandel coast of Chingleput district in Tamil Nadu. Established by the Pallava Kings between the 6th and 9th centuries, these monuments, including the temples, rock reliefs, mandapaas, and rathaas, were carved from rocks, depicting chariots, with thousands of Lord Shiva’s sculptures. The four criteria that acclaimed this group of monuments as a UNESCO site include:
- a human-made masterpiece
- developments in architecture
- associated with the living traditions, beliefs, and arts of Pallavas
- unique testimony to cultural, tradition, or civilization
Undoubtedly, tourists looking for historical places in Tamilnadu can visit these masterpieces by the people of the Pallava civilization.
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2. Great Living Chola Temples
Inscribed in 1987, this UNESCO site stands as the epitome of architectural developments and advancements by the Chola dynasty. Established in the 9th century, this site encapsulates three living temples—the Brihadisvara at Thanjavur, the Brihadisvara at Gangaikondacholapuram, and the Airavatesvara at Darasuram. The two criteria for selecting this as an exemplary heritage site by UNESCO include:
- Outstanding architectural conception
- a distinct example of the Chola civilization
No tourist operator or agent will miss adding these temples to your cultural tourism itinerary in Tamilnadu.
These are the two major UNESCO cultural heritage sites in Tamil Nadu. However, later UNESCO added the mountain railways of India and the hilly chain of Western Ghats to the list in 1999 and 2012 respectively. Certainly, parts of these two sites, such as the Nilgiri Mountain Railway and the Nilgiri/Anamalai/Podhigai Hills (Western Ghats), are covered in the Tamil Nadu region.
Both of them fall under the natural category for their biodiversity, and hence these are considered when discussing UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tamilnadu.
3. Mountain Railways of India
This is a collection of three mountain railways in India, namely:
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (6 zigzag reverses and 3 loops)
- Kalka Shimla Railway (world’s longest tunnel)
- Nilgiri Mountain Railway (unique rack & pinion traction)
4. Western Ghats
These sites are almost a mix of natural and cultural spots. It covers hills, plateaus, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, reserved forests, and the culture of the people in these localities.
- Northern Western Ghats (Sahyadri Hills)
- Central Western Ghats (Kudremukh and Niligiri Hills)
- Southern Western Ghats (Anamalai Hills and Malabar Coastal Hills)
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Nilgiris a World Heritage Site?
- Yes, the Nilgiri mountain range of Western Ghats, with 24 peaks, is located in the northwestern region of Tamil Nadu and is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the name of Western Ghats of India.
2. How many world heritage sites are there in Tamil Nadu?
- There are two cultural heritage sites and two natural heritage sites in Tamil Nadu. The cultural ones are living Chola temples and the Mahabalipuram monuments. The natural ones are the Western Ghats and Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
3. What is the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu?
- Of course, the first site—the Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram—is renowned as the rich heritage site of Tamil Nadu. However, the Great Living Chola Temples are not any lesser.
Eco Tourism Destinations in India | Nature Tourism
As everyone knows, India is a country that’s abundant in biodiversity, culture, heritage, and legacy. Thus, it has many Eco Tourism destinations that are unique for …..
As everyone knows, India is a country that’s abundant in biodiversity, culture, heritage, and legacy. Thus, it has many Eco Tourism destinations that are unique for themselves. While some are ecologically rich, some are inundated with culture, some are magnificent in architecture, and the list goes on and on.
In this blog post, first, let’s understand the basics of Eco Tourism in general, including its characteristic features and benefits. Second, let’s scroll through the best places for Eco Tours in India.
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What is an Eco Tourism destination? What are its characteristic features?
The word ‘Eco Tour’ was first coined in 1973 and formed as a sub-part of sustainable tourism. It is a responsible journey to places of ecological interest or those rich in biodiversity with an educational element attached. In other words, by traveling to such places with a proper guide, the tourists learn the impacts of human beings on the flora, fauna, local people, etc., as well as how to keep these places pollution-free and retain their environmental friendliness.
Places of Eco Tourism must exhibit the maximum of the below-listed features:
- It has to fall under the category of the environmental protection zone, with or without habitation. For example, national parks, remote areas, conservation zones, etc.
- It must generate income in the form of an entry fee, service fee, or taxes to contribute to the maintenance, study, or research of such conserved areas.
- If habituated, it has to improve the livelihood of the local people in terms of financial support, education, and the facilitation of water, roads, or health clinics.
- Most importantly, it should have reduced or caused no damage to the environment or resources of the region despite mass Eco Tourism Destinations. Recycling, reusing, and safe disposal are mandatory for these places.
The 5 Best Eco Tourism Destinations in India
Spiti and Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh
The Spiti Valley of the Great Himalayas is a wonderful choice for an Eco Tour as it covers the forested greener mountains, the coldest desert regions with a very high altitude, holi Buddhist monasteries, and, importantly, garbage management. Like Spiti, the Tirthan Valley also stands as a good choice in Himachal Pradesh, with local people turned authentic guides and trainers.
Both of these places have made enough efforts to preserve the beauty and surrounding ecology. The Great Himalayan National Park, one of the must-visit Eco Tourism Himachal Pradesh destinations is in the vicinity of Tirthan Valley.
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
You might have known this place as one of the cleanest villages in Asia. However, they are known for their Eco-friendly stays made primarily of bamboo and wood. Eco Tourists can walk the village to explore the Machans (viewpoints), the nearby ‘Living Root Bridge,’ the East Khasi Hills, and the livelihood of the local aboriginal people. It is a perfectly guided tour to educate you.
Thenmala, Kerala
If you ask us, “Which is India’s first Eco Tourism place?” the answer is Thenamala. Located in Kollam, the foothills of the Western Ghats, it was the 1st planned eco-tourism destination in India. There are many responsible attractions, like outbound learning programs for students, butterfly safaris, deer rehabilitation centers, Trees of the Nakshatravanam, etc.
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
From local cultures to hills, from lakes to rivers, everything in Assam is a heaven on Earth. Thus, they house a lot of eco-spots, including the National Parks, Inthong Village, Majuli, and eco-camps. Particularly, the Kaziranga National Park offers a great eco-tour experience. Do not miss camping there, as it offers a great learning experience about nature, diversity, and conservation.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Truly, Eco Tourism in Andaman and Nicobar must receive its applause. The people of the islands had to conserve the whole archipelago’s treasure, the historical sites, and their craftsmanship, as well as make a living out of it without contaminating Mother Earth.
Of the many responsible activities they do, safe island hopping is something special, as tourists often hop multiple islands when they tour this destination. For example, the boats are mostly powered by electricity or the kayaks help. Another effort is the prohibition of commercial fishing so that it doesn’t get exploited.
Vande Bharat train routes in India
In February 2019, Indian Railways introduced India’s first indigenous state-of-the-art semi-high-speed superfast express train named ‘Vande Bharat’ between Delhi and Varanasi. The Vande Bharat Express Trains in India aims at connecting cities that are at medium distances, i.e., less than eight hundred kilometers away. In other words, these trains operate between cities
In February 2019, Indian Railways introduced India’s first indigenous state-of-the-art semi-high-speed superfast express train named ‘Vande Bharat’ between Delhi and Varanasi.
The Vande Bharat Express Trains in India aims at connecting cities that are at medium distances, i.e., less than eight hundred kilometers away. In other words, these trains operate between cities that take only less than ten hours to travel with current train services.
Did you know? The Ministry of Railways plans to launch nearly four hundred such trains in the coming years. Read more!
The History Behind Vande Bharat Train
The Railway Board of India intended and geared for high-speed trains in the year 1960. The study attempted to increase the speed from 96 km/h back then to 160 km/h. With the help of RDSO (Research Design and Standards Organization) and ICF (Integral Coach Factory), Chennai, the board was able to launch the 120 km/h Rajdhani Express in 1969.
After decades, the board introduced the 160 km/h train in 2016. Again, after the “Make in India” movement, the board introduced indigenously designed self-propelled EMU trainsets with a maximum speed of 183 km/h during the trials in 2018. Later, in 2019, these trainsets were named “Vande Bharat Express Trains” and launched between the capital of India and Varanasi.
Vande Bharat: All You Need to Know About The Train Routes
Here is a brief overview of the first ten routes launched for this express train in India.
1. Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh)—New Delhi
- It was the first pride of Indian railways.
- The Honorable Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi flagged it off.
- The train number is 22435.
- It was launched in February 2019.
- It runs five days a week, except Thursdays and Mondays.
- The return train runs between New Delhi and Varanasi with train no. 22436.
2. New Delhi—SMVD KATRA (Jammu and Kashmir)
- It was the second train to be launched.
- The Honorable Minister of Home Affairs flagged it off.
- The train number is 22439.
- It was launched in October 2019.
- It operates all days except Tuesdays.
- The return train runs between SMVD KATRA and New Delhi with train no. 22440.
Get your confirmed (CNF) ticket with the leading Train ticket booking agency!
3. Mumbai Central (Maharashtra)—Gandhinagar CAP (Gujarat)
- The train number is 20901.
- It was launched in September 2022.
- Except for Sundays, it runs all the other days.
- The return train runs between Gandhinagar CAP and Mumbai Central with train no. 20902.
4. New Delhi—Amb Andaura (Himachal Pradesh)
- The train number is 22447.
- It was launched in October 2022.
- Except for Tuesdays, it operates all other six days a week.
- The return train runs between Amb Andaura and New Delhi with train no. 22448.
5. MGR Chennai Central (Tamil Nadu)—Mysuru Vande Bharat Express (Karnataka)
- The train number is 20608.
- It was launched in November 2022.
- It runs six days a week.
- The return train runs between Mysuru and MGR Chennai Central with train no. 20609.
- It won’t run on Wednesdays.
6. Bilaspur (Bilaspur)—Nagpur (Maharashtra)
- The train number is 20825.
- It was launched in December 2022.
- Except for Saturdays, it runs the remaining six days a week.
- The return train runs between Nagpur and Bilaspur with train no. 20826.
Need help with Vande Bharat train ticket booking? Contact us!
7. Howrah (West Bengal)—New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal)
- The train number is 22301.
- It was launched in December 2022.
- It operates all days except Wednesdays in a week.
- The return train runs between New Jalpaiguri and Howrah with train no. 22302.
8. Secunderabad (Telangana)—Visakhapatnam (Andra Pradesh)
- The train number is 20834.
- It was launched in December 2022.
- It operates six days a week, leaving on Wednesdays.
- The return train runs between Visakhapatnam and Secunderabad with train no. 20835.
Want to book the train ticket yourself? The official website for Online train ticket booking in India is IRCTC!
9. Mumbai Central (Maharashtra)—Sainagar Shirdi (Maharashtra)
- The train number is 22223.
- It was launched in February 2023.
- It runs six days a week, except Tuesdays.
- The return train runs between Sainagar Shirdi and Mumbai Central with train no. 22224.
- However, this train got canceled in 2023 due to poor signal systems and megablocks.
10. Mumbai Central (Maharashtra)—Solapur (Maharashtra)
- The train number is 22225.
- It was launched in February 2023.
- Except for Wednesdays, it runs all the other days.
- The return train runs between Solapur and Mumbai Central with train no. 22226.
The Successive Vande Bharat Train Routes Launched in India
11. Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)—New Delhi (Train number: 20171)
12. Secunderabad (Telangana)—Tirupati (Andra Pradesh) (Train number: 20701)
13. MGR Chennai Central (Tamil Nadu)—Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu) (Train number: 20643)
14. Delhi Cantt (New Delhi)—Ajmer (Rajasthan) (Train number: 20977)
15. Thiruvananthapuram Central (Kerala)—Kasaragod (Kerala) (Train number: 20634)
16. Puri (Odisha)-Howrah (West Bengal) (Train number: 22896)
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17. Anand Vihar Terminal (New Delhi)—Dehradun (Uttarakhand) (Train number: 22457)
18. New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal)—Guwahati (Assam) (Train number: 22227)
19. Bengaluru (Karnataka)—Dharwad (Karnataka) (Train number: 20661)
20. Patna (Bihar)—Ranchi (Jharkhand) (Train number: 22349)
21. Indore (Madhya Pradesh)—Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh) (Train number: 20991)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many Vande Bharat trains are there in India?
As per the latest NDTV article dated February 2024, a total of eighty-two trains are operational across the Indian cities.
2. What facilities are on these trains?
The train has two classes—the AC Executive Class and the AC Chair Car Class. The executive class is furnished with 2×2 rotating seats and the chair car class is furnished with 2×3 retractable seats. These fully air-conditioned trains are equipped with CCTV cameras, wider windows, electric outlets, bio-vacuum toilets, reading lights, automatic doors, onboard catering, water taps with sensors, etc.
3. What are the new routes for Vande Bharat Express?
In March 2024, the ministry introduced around ten new routes. A few of them include Lucknow to Dehradun, Ranchi to Varanasi, Ahmedabad to Mumbai Central, and Bhubaneswar to Visakhapatnam.
4. What routes are expected in the future?
Tirunelveli (Tamil Nadu) to MGR Chennai Central (Tamil Nadu), Jaipur (Rajasthan) to Chandigarh (Punjab and Haryana), Jamnagar (Gujarat) to Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Udaipur (Rajasthan) to Jaipur (Rajasthan), etc.
5. Which is the longest-distance Vande Bharat train in India?
It is the first route between Varanasi and New Delhi, accounting for about 757–759 kilometers. The duration is about eight hours.
How do Travel Agency Tour packages make a Stress free Vacation?
Before dealing with the Benefits of Travel Agency Tour Packages and how they make Vacation stress-free, you must first understand who these travel agencies are and what their Travel Services are in detail.
Before dealing with the Benefits of Travel Agency Tour Packages and how they make us stress free Vacation, you must first understand who these travel agencies are and what their Travel Services are in detail.
Who is a Travel Agency?
A Travel Agency is a company that retails travel packages, offers, and deals to customers looking to travel or plan their trip. Most unorganized travel agents, in general, help with generic tours and packages, i.e., a holiday trip or vacation travel. However, an established and professional travel agent will cater to all types and specialties of tourism, including holiday tourism, eco-tourism, medical tourism, education tourism, wildlife tourism, heritage tourism, etc.
Is it better to rely on a Travel Agent? Or do it yourself?
When all of us are mechanized with our jobs and household chores, we don’t find time and energy to plan our vacations. Moreover, personally scouting for vacation destinations, shortlisting various travel agency packages, and then finalizing one among them is a laborious process and makes us stressed amid other deeds. Thus, it is always better to rely on a travel agent. Indeed, they take more effort than us to get the best itinerary for our vacation. Ultimately, you get stress free family vacation and can save time for the family or other priority tasks on the list.
What are the competitive Advantages when choosing Travel Agency Tour Packages?
In the last section, we briefly saw why choosing a travel agent for planning your vacation is better than doing it yourself. In this section, let’s see in detail the Benefits of a Travel Agency and its Travel Agency Packages and services.
- End-to-end Travel support
Gone are the days when the role of Travel Agents ended when they were done with their bookings and reservations. Today, their services have evolved by leaps and bounds.
- Before Travel: Preparing personalized itinerary, giving advice on best tourist destinations, suggesting economical packages, booking tickets for commutation, making reservations at hotels or resorts, etc
- During Travel: Assisting with airport transfers or car rentals, arranging guides or travel experts, advising on the best places to visit based on current affairs, etc.
With all these burdens off your head, you can even plan for hundreds of similar Stress free Vacations with the help of a Travel Agent.
- Help in emergencies
You can 100% trust your Travel Agent when you go through an emergency during your vacation. They will assist you 24/7 and rescue you and your travel partners by reaching out to the respective tourism associations.
- Effortless travel processes
- Foreign currency exchange: Money exchange could be daunting if you’re a full-time employee and want to do it personally. First, you have to calculate how much money you need for the trip. Second, find a trusted vendor. Third, exchange for a better price while waiting in the queue. Instead, count on travel agencies; they can save a lot of money for you despite saving your time.
- Visa requirements: When you apply for a tourist visa on your own, you may not know the nuances of getting your application through and also end up spending more on unwanted services. On the other hand, a travel agent knows how to get your visa approved and can offer this service as a compliment when choosing their tour packages.
- Travel insurance: Travel or tour operators are experts in understanding your travel needs and recommending the right travel insurance. Get maximum insurance coverage at discounted prices with the help of travel agents!
Customized packages
Experienced Travel Agencies are well-versed in Domestic and International tourist places, the cost of travel, the things to do, etc. In addition, a full-service Travel Agency assigns a personal travel expert who is well-organized, well-aware of various travel packages, and able to suggest the right tour package for your customized needs.
So, be it a Business Trip, Honeymoon Trip, Biodiversity Trip, or, in the worst case, if you’re looking for a cruise-specific package, they can make it happen on your behalf. Every part of your package is personalized and worthwhile when you choose the right travel agent with years of experience and a legacy in this field.
Benefits of choosing Emperor Traveline, the Leading Tour Operator in India!
Since its inception in 1980 by the aspiring duo brothers, Mr. K. Chandran and Mr. K. Rajendran, Emperor Traveline has been flying high as one of the leading tour operators in India. It is a unique, self-styling travel organization with a huge set of advantages to benefit from:
An active member of almost all travel associations. Strong relationships with the finest star hotels and luxury vehicles for commutation.
An authorized agent for Southern Railways and all domestic and international airlines. Provide competitive ticket fares when compared to other tour operators or travel companies.
Help with skilled guides at Important Tourist Destinations. Moreover, the employees at Emperor Traveline are qualified, trained, and competent enough to provide travel guidelines and prepare the best itineraries for you.
Hidden Tourist Places in Tamilnadu
In this post, we will introduce you to the top ten unknown tourist places in Tamil Nadu. It includes hill stations other than Kodaikanal; tea estates other than Ootacamund; heritage sites other than Isha; forests other than Anaimalai; lakes other than Avalanche; spiritual centers other than Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple; and beaches other than Marina.
Most people know Tamil Nadu only as a pilgrimage destination. They think only ancient temples and spiritual centers dominate the tourist spots. But it also has numerous offbeat tourist destinations that are unique in nature, history, and culture. In fact, it is a secret treasure that every tourist has to embrace at least once in their lifetime. In this post, we will introduce you to the top ten unknown tourist places in Tamil Nadu.
It includes hill stations other than Kodaikanal; tea estates other than Ootacamund; heritage sites other than Isha; forests other than Anaimalai; lakes other than Avalanche; spiritual centers other than Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple; and beaches other than Marina.
Did you know? The state is also famous for some of the best road trips.
Tamilnadu Hidden Tourist Places: Top 10 Picks
- Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
- Poompuhar
- Dhanushkodi
- Berijam Lake
- Airavatesvara Temple
- Sri Ramana Ashram
- Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
- Kalrayan Hills
- Auroville
- Ariyaman Beach
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Pichavaram Mangrove Forest
This destination is located in Chidambaram, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu. It has the largest mangrove forests in India, along with backwaters. This makes it unique and owing to its unpopularity among people, it attracts fewer visitors when compared to other places in the state. So, if you’re tired of visiting places with higher footfalls, you can try this one and enjoy the serenity.
Poompuhar
Earlier called ‘Kaveri Pompattinam’, it was once a prosperous port and served as the capital of the Chola kingdom. Now, it serves as an important and unexplored cultural and heritage center. When visiting this tourist place, do not miss the Silappathikara art gallery and Masilamani Nathar Koil (a temple built in the early 1300s).
Dhanushkodi
It is an alluring 15-kilometer beach town that separates the Indian Ocean from the Bay of Bengal. Located at the end of the Pamdab island, this town borders India from Sri Lanka and is called the last road of South India. Dhanushkodi means ‘tip of the bow,’ derived from an important scene in the ‘Ramayana’ when Lord Rama pointed his arrow toward Sri Lanka. Hence, it is one of the best secret places to visit in Tamil Nadu.
Berijam Lake
The forest department in Kodaikanal has set up South India’s first field-oriented eco-education center at Berijam, owing to its rich flora and fauna. It is located in the Dindigul district and sits in the upper Palani hills, southwest of Kodaikanal. A hundred years ago, Britishers visited this place and used it for transit camps.
Airavatesvara Temple
An archaic temple that was constructed in the 12th century by Raja Raja Chola II. Located in Kumbakonam, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the world-famous Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur. This temple is also known for its magnificent art and architecture. Visit this destination if you want to worship Lord Shiva (Airavatesvara) with the beautiful carvings of the stories of his Nayanars.
Sri Ramana Ashram
If you’re looking for a unique, divine type of tourism in Tamilnadu, this is the best choice! Situated at the Arunachala foothills in Tiruvannamalai, people visit this hidden gem to experience the most powerful spiritual vibrations of Ramana Maharishi. Once the home of the great Ramana Maharshi is now turned out to be his ashram called ‘Sri Ramanasramam’.
Kolukkumalai Tea Estate
Kolukkumalai is a small town in Bodinayakanur, Theni. The tea estate of this town is known for having the world’s highest elevation in tea plantations. In addition, unlike other estates, they process the tea leaves using the most traditional, orthodox methods. You can visit this place to explore slow tea growth (due to the high altitude) and the vintage tea leaf manufacturing process.
Kalrayan Hills
This hilly region of the eastern ghats extends between two districts of Tamil Nadu, namely Salem and Kallakurichi. It has more than ten waterfalls and, indeed, tops the list of hidden tourist places in Tamilnadu. Taking your children here enables you to cherish the best moments. It has evergreen forests and vegetable plantations throughout the man-occupied areas.
Auroville
Having its origins in French, the word ‘Aurore’ means dawn, and ‘Ville’ means village, it is a man-made experimental township built in the Villupuram district of the state. The purpose is to unite humans across borders and ensure sustainable living through the transformation of consciousness. It’s still an unexplored destination. And you must visit here to embrace the best tourism in Tamilnadu.
Ariyaman Beach
Being twenty to thirty kilometers away from Rameshwaram, this is a small, tranquil beach that you can enjoy with your friends and family. Unlike other beaches in the state, this does not experience huge tourist footfalls. This is located exactly in Sattakkonvalasai. Notably, the waters are pristine and crystal clear without pollution.
Top 7 Places to Visit in Karnataka
Karnataka’s Top 7 destinations with rich history, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the ancient charm of Hampi to the coastal beauty of Gokarna. The state stands third on the list of most visited states in India. Also, it has more than twenty-five thousand monuments, of which around 250 are nationally protected. That’s indeed a whoa!
Earlier called ‘Mysore State,’ in 1973, this southern state of India was renamed ‘Karnataka.’ The largest and capital city of the state is Bengaluru. From mighty hill stations to serene beaches and ancient temples to modernized cities, the Karnataka tourist spots are many. The state stands third on the list of most visited states in India. Also, it has more than twenty-five thousand monuments, of which around 250 are nationally protected. That’s indeed a whoa!
The top 7 Karnataka tourist places that you cannot miss
- Hampi
- Coorg
- Chikmagalur
- Gokarna
- Mangalore
- Bengaluru
- Udupi
Hampi
A small village that has much historical importance in the history of the Vijayanagara Empire. Important places to visit include the Lotus Mahal, Elephant Staples, Sri Vitthala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Sanapur Lake, and Anjanadri Hill. Other places to visit are Hampi—Zanana Enclosure, Mathanga Hill, and Stone Chariot. The best months to visit Hampi are from October to April.
Coorg
Coorg is one of the large hill stations in Karnataka, situated on the western ghats. The elevation is about 1400 meters above sea level. It is known for its charming meadows, tea and coffee plantations, sparkling waterfalls, spice plantations, and tropical forests. The place is also known as Madikeri.
Madikeri tourist places are many. To name a few—Mallalli Falls, Dubare Elephant Camp, Honnamana Kere Lake, Abbey Falls, and Madikeri Fort.
Chikmagalur
When compared to other tourist places in Karnataka, this is one of the untapped destinations. Though known for its trekking opportunities, this place has beautiful sightseeing, viewpoints, parks, and dangling waterfalls. The Coffee Museum, Hebbe Falls, Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, Jhari Falls, Z Point, and Kemmangundi are some of the best places to visit in Chikmagalur, Karnataka. It is a perennial tourist destination that you must try visiting!
Gokarna
Mahabaleshwar Temple and Koti Teertha are the two world-renowned sites in Gokarna. People who love beaches cannot miss this tourist destination in the state. Things to do in Gokarna include beach yoga, a night stroll, a treehouse stay, and a coastal drive along the virgin beaches. Water activities in Gokarna include parasailing, snorkeling, boating, catamaran rides, and river rafting. Avoid visiting this place during hot summers.
Mangalore
It is a coastal town touching the unfathomable Arabian Sea. From historical sites to seafood, everything is distinguished in this place. You can find one of India’s best industrial ports here in Mangalore. Also, this is the only city in the state that has all four modes of transportation.
Major attractions in Mangalore are Kadri Park, Kadri Manjunath Temple, Milagres Church, St. Aloysius Chapel, Pilikula Park, and Sultan Battery Watch Tower. The emerald beaches include Panambur, Ullal, Sasihithlu, and Tannirbhavi.
Udupi
This city is known for its Krishan temple and vegetarian food. Apart from agriculture and fishing, tourism plays a critical role in this city’s economy. Some of the notable tourist places to visit in Udupi (or Udipi) are Sri Krishna Temple, Coin Museum, Malpe Beach, Sri Mookambika Temple, St. Mary’s Islands, Mattu, and Kapu beaches.
Get a personalized itinerary when you plan a trip to visit places in Karnataka from the leading tour agency, Emperor Traveline! Last but not least, let’s come to the capital city!
Bengaluru
Located in the heart of the Mysore region of the Deccan plateau, it is a metropolitan city with a huge population (more than thirteen million people). The important attractions near Bengaluru Karnataka, are Cubbon Park, the HAL Heritage Centre, the Aerospace Museum, Lalbagh Garden, Bannerghatta National Park, Bangalore Palace, and the ISKCON temple. The city is also referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of India’ as it contributes a huge share to business development.
Conclusion
These seven places to visit in Karnataka are not the only top ones. The state has a lot more top tourist places, like Shimoga, Netrani Island, Mysore, Srirangapatna, Belur, Dandeli, Badami, Kabini, Murudeshwar, Karwar, and Bijapur. Moreover, things to do in Karnataka are not limited to only visiting temples, beaches, and museums but also include trekking, jeep safaris, tasting the different cuisines, etc.
Best Summer Destinations In The World
As summer is around the corner, summer vacation spots are already getting ready to welcome you! Well, have you made your choices for summer holiday destinations yet?
This blog will walk you through the seven best summer destinations in the world. Explore them and plan your holiday!
Top Seven Places to Travel in The Summer This Year 2023
- Bali, Indonesia
- Salt Lake City, United States
- Tahiti Island, French Polynesia
- Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Whistler, British Columbia
- New Zealand
- Greenland
Bali, Indonesia
A great island to visit in summer! It has beautiful alpines, delightful shores, amazing reefs, etc. The island will impress you with its cultural heritage, vibrant ancient temples, and lovely sunsets. The nightlife here is totally energetic. Thus, becoming one of the top summer destinations in the world.
It also serves as the best honeymoon destination for newly married couples. Other honeymoon destinations in Asia >>>
Things to do: Sightseeing, Shopping, Experiencing the local culture/cuisine, Surfing, and Watersports
Salt Lake City, United States
For families looking for a perfect summer getaway, this is the best pick! Yes, being the capital city of Utah, United States, it has the most pleasing weather in summer. So, you can relax, stay outdoors, and enjoy your holidays to their best here in this destination. The landscapes are the most gorgeous ones that you can never forget in your lifetime.
Things to do: Hiking, Photography, Cave voyaging, Water parks, Zoo tours, and Sightseeing.
Tahiti Island, French Polynesia
Tahiti is a picturesque island of beauty and tranquility. Located amid the French Polynesian topography, it has unique beaches with black sand. This black sand, along with the greenish tropical forests offers a treat to your eyes. It has a couple of emerald waterfalls inside the forests. Undoubtedly, it stands on top of the best places for summer holidays in the world.
Things to do: Water sports, Trekking, Market visits, Waterfall, Beach, and Museum strolls.
Colombo, Sri Lanka
The most special thing about Colombo is the reasonable expenses. Yes! You can enjoy the best beaches and shopping centers at pretty low prices than the other summer destinations in this article. Amongst the best summer vacation spots, Colombo occupies an exceptional place as you can visit the place with your family, friends, life partner, or even as a solo traveler.
Things to do: Shopping, Sightseeing, and Visiting Lake, Memorial hall, Museum, and Temples.
Whistler, British Columbia
Are you a traveler bored of shopping and snorkeling at the beaches? Then we got you! Yes, Whistler is absolutely a great place to cherish nature with the gigantic mountains and landscapes everywhere. Over and above, if you love adventures, then there is no point in scouting for other summer destinations!
Things to do: Trekking, Hiking, Adventure sports, Bear tour, Sightseeing, Visiting the Olympic Park and some of the best museums in Canada.
New Zealand
When the rest of the world enjoys the scorching sun, New Zealand enjoys cool winter weather. And this is the major reason why tourists flock together and land in this wonderful city during summer. Getting overwhelmed seeing the majestic landscapes and variety of bird species is mandatory here! It has many airports and is easily accessible. Thus, people choose this over other best summer destinations in the world.
Things to do: Cave touring, Water/ Adventure sports, Kayaking, and Shopping.
Greenland
The summer destinations that we’ve seen so far are either mountains with landscapes or islands with beaches. But this one, last but not least, is a special and top summer destination. Yes, this place is located in the arctic circle and has fabulous icebergs. Indeed, a great place to explore sea animals like whales. It has longer days and shorter nights during summer and thus you can enjoy the most during the day.
Things to do: Ice fishing, Dog sledding, Glacier tour, Cruising, and Exploring art museums.
11 Best Hill Stations in North India
North India itself is diverse in terms of geography, climate, and culture. Because it has the Himalayas on its north-east, the Thar desert on its west, and Gangetic plains on its south. It has a temperate climate and thus winters are much colder (below 5°C) and summers are much hotter (above 5°C)
In this blog, we’ve curated the eleven best hill stations in North India for you to plan your vacation this year 2023. As the Himalayan belt majorly crosses the states of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, most of the North Indian hill stations house only here.
Eleven Most Popular Hill Stations in North India
Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
An absolutely serene touring destination that mesmerizes you with its lakes, gardens, and cultural sites. This capital city of Jammu and Kashmir stands top of the list of best hill stations in North India.
Top things to do in Srinagar: Boating, Cultural tour, Shikara ride
Places to visit: Dal Lake, Char Chinar, Tulip Garden, Nishat & Shalimar Bagh
Gulmarg, Jammu & Kashmir
You can witness snow-clad mountains in winter and lush green-scapes in summer here. It has one of the world’s largest golf clubs and serves as a great destination if you’re an adventure seeker!
Top things to do in Gulmarg: Gondola ride, skiing
Places to visit: Indian Institute of Skiing, Golf Club, Alpather Lake
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
An epitome of culture, heritage, and biodiversity! This is popular both as a honeymoon destination and summer hill station in North India. Do not miss the splashing waterfalls, alluring meadows, and astonishing viewpoints.
Top things to do in Manali: Trekking, Strolling, Shopping
Places to visit: Mall Road, Pir Panjal Range, Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Temple, Jog Falls
More attractions in Manali >>>
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
This place acts as a gateway to spectacular mountains, holy temples/ churches, enriched flora/ fauna, and snowy winters. Unfortunately, this is not one of the offbeat hill stations in North India and tourists flock to this place every season.
Top things to do in Shimla: Toy train ride, Trekking, Strolling
Places to visit: Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, Green Valley, Bird Park, The Ridge
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Located on the foothills of the Garhwal range of the Himalayas, you can expect perfect tranquility here. If you’re planning for a North India tour, then remember to add this destination.
Top things to do in Mussoorie: Paragliding, Wildlife safari, Horse riding, Rafting
Places to visit: Bazar Road, George Everest House, Mussoorie Lake, Bhatta & Mossy Falls, Lal Tibba, Gun Hill Point
Nainital, Uttarakhand
Popularly called the “City of Lakes,” this place is housed amidst the Kumaon hills of the Himalayas. Experience the emerald lakes, stellar peaks, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Top things to do in Nainital: Boating, Rope riding, Trekking, Mountaineering
Places to visit: Naini Lake, Naina Devi temple, Tiffin Top, Bhimtal, Jim Corbett National Park
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
One of the unique hill stations wherein you enjoy the monasteries more than mountains with snow-caps. This is definitely an offbeat hill station in North India.
Top things to do in Dharamshala: Walkthrough amid Cedar trees, Visit Buddhist Monasteries
Places to visit: Kangra Valley, Dhauladhar Ranges, St. John Church
Leh, Jammu & Kashmir
Amongst the best hill stations to visit in North India in summer, this is a perfect choice for young tourists and backpackers. It has crystal-clear lakes, cultural sites, and amazing landscapes.
Top things to do in Leh: Biking, Trekking, Cultural tour
Places to visit: Leh Palace, Pangong Lake, Magnetic Hill, Nubra Valley, Shanti Stupa
Almora, Uttarakhand
A place rich in British/ cultural heritage, wildlife, and cuisine. It is renowned for its unique handicrafts. Though it has picturesque mountains, people call it the “Town of Temples” as it has numerous Hindu temples.
Top things to do in Almora: Temple Visit, Shopping, Mountaineering
Places to visit: Jageshwar, Kesar Devi Temple, Zero Point, Nanda Devi Temple, Chitai Temple
Auli, Uttarakhand
This place is a heaven on earth with snow-covered hills, ancient hill resorts, and apple orchards. Visit this place in winter to experience enthralling skiing and ropeway. Indeed, a must visit hill station in North India.
Top things to do in Auli: Skiing, Viewpoint, Rope ride, Strolling
Places to visit: Trishul Peak, Joshimath, Chattrakund Lake
Explore more tourists places to visit in India in Winter >>>
Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
Apiti Valley separates India from Tibet and is famous for its rugged desert-like terrains. This place experiences the coldest climate in India as it lies above ~12,500 feet above sea level.
Top things to do in Spiti: Solitude walks, Cold desert mountain trekking, hiking, camping
Places to visit: Chandratal Lake, Pin Valley National Park, Kunzum Pass, Key Monastery
7 Best Places to Visit in Bangkok
Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, ranks high on the list of most visited tourist places in the world. Most international tourists visiting Thailand pick this city for touring or at least as a gateway to the country. This city has more than 15% of the country’s population and makes a key contribution to the country’s economy.
In terms of Tourism, the multifaceted country attracts varieties of tourists. The majority of tribe includes cultural tourists, history/ heritage tourists, shopaholic tourists, nightlife tourists, sex tourists, etc.
Curated below are the top seven picks or places to visit in Bangkok for first-timers.
Best Tourist Places to Visit in Bangkok – Top Seven Picks
Grand Palace
Your vacation in Bangkok will not get complete without visiting this Grand Palace, the former residence of the King of Rattanakosin Kingdom. Tourists can admire the grandeur of this palace throughout the year except for royal ceremony times. The world-famous “Emerald Buddha” temple is located here.
Wat Arun Temple
Housed on the banks of the river Chao Phraya, it comes first on the list of most incredible sites to see in Bangkok. The sunset here is breathtaking. You can feel awestruck looking at the architectural beauty of the temple. Locally, this temple is referred to as “The Temple of Dawn.”
What are the other best things to do in Bangkok?
Lumphini Park
This park was named after the place Lumbini, the birthplace of Budha. It has 58 hectares of the man-made lake amidst lush green lawns, strolling walkways, kid’s play areas, etc. You can enjoy rowing and paddleboat rides. The photogenic Chinese-style clock tower is located here. What not? Isn’t this park one of the best destinations for kids to visit in Bangkok?
Chatuchak Weekend Market
From food, flowers, apparel, art and crafts, home decor, beauty products, cafes, antiques, and souvenirs you can get anything and everything here. It encapsulates more than ten thousand shops and for sure you’ll get lost or stranded in these busy streets. Watch out! There are information centers to help you catch hold of the main walkways. Nothing to worry about.
Reclining Buddha Temple
This 46-meter-long reclining Budhha temple is a globally recognized tourist site. Next to the temple of Emerald Buddha, tourists visit this destination in Bangkok. This stunning statue is found to be covered in a golden leaf. Also, has around thousand images of Buddha images and more than ninety small shrines.
Floating Markets
Enjoying the floating markets in Bangkok is indeed the best among the various cool things to do in Bangkok. There are many floating markets in Bangkok. The most acclaimed one is at Damnoen Saduak. You can have fun riding on the long-tail boats and relish Bangkok’s local cuisine, tropical fruits/ vegetables, etc.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Looking for a unique and best of the best tourist attractions to visit in Bangkok? This is the place! Yes, it has more than eight hundred selective works of Boonchai Bencharongkul. This museum is dedicated to Professor Silpa Bhirasri who is popularly called the father of Contemporary Art in Thailand. You can find the best of Thai art, creativity, and beliefs here!
Planning a trip to Bangkok? We’re here to help!
FAQs About Best Places to Visit in Bangkok
1. What is the nicest area of Bangkok?
Sukhumvit (best for stay, spa, and tourist attractions), Siam & Chinatown (best for shopping, and food), Pratunam (best for exploring local life and markets), Thong Lor (nightlife of Bangkok), etc.
2. What you can’t miss in Bangkok?
The above-listed seven best places to visit in Bangkok are the ones you cannot miss. Apart from these, you can also visit Rose Garden, Wat Saket, Siam Park City, Chao Phraya River, Madame Tussauds, Vimanmek Mansion, and Safari World.
3. What is very famous in Bangkok?
Temples, floating markets, shopping centers, spas/ massage centers, and parks are famous in Bangkok.
7 Places to Visit Near Munnar
Most people know Munnar from the Idukki district, Kerala as a famous honeymoon destination in South India. Located on the southern tip of the western ghats mountain range, sometimes people refer to this hill station as “The Kashmir of South India.” Because the temperature can go as low as -4 degree celsius (during winter) and as high as 25-degree celsius (during summer.)
Did you know? This is one of the 6 best places to visit in winter in India!
Idukki has numerous tourist places yet Munnar is the best of all! In this blog, let’s get to know the top seven places to visit near Munnar.
7 Popular Places to Visit Near Munnar
- Vagamon
- Thekkady
- Alleppey
- Nelliyampathy
- Kumily
- Kumarakom
- Devikulam
Apart from these seven places, Munnar has Cherai, Kochi, Coonoor, Athirapally, Ooty, etc. Undoubtedly, these are must-visit places near Munnar.
1. Vagamon
A tranquil destination that can give you a serene touring experience without much of a rush and crowd. It has an enchanting Pine forest, lush tea gardens, the Vagamon lake, and the Marmala waterfalls. It is one of the popular tourist places to visit near Munnar Kerala for shooting and photographs.
Best time to visit Vagamon: December to May
2. Thekkady
A famous place for tea and spices plantation and trades. Located amid the dense forests of the western ghats, it is an off-beat tourist place in Munnar. However, people have started flocking to the beautiful Thekkady lake lately.
Periyar National Park is close to this tourist spot. And you can spot many endangered wildlife species here. If you’re lucky you can see boars and wild squirrels.
Best time to visit Thekkady: September to March
3. Alleppey or Alappuzha
Among the best places to visit near Munnar, Alleppey comes on the top owing to the backwaters. Yes, Kerala backwaters are world-famous and this place is a perfect choice. Staying at the houseboats is most preferred by tourists. You can also enjoy kayaking and canoeing. Plus, ayurvedic spas and wellness centers are famous here.
Best time to visit Alleppey: June to February
4. Nelliyampathy
If you’re a greenery lover, then this is your ideal tourist destination. It has widespread orange, tea, coffee, cardamom, and other spices plantations. In addition, it mesmerizes you with:
- Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary
- Nelliyampathy viewpoint
- Pothundy Dam
- Seetharkundu viewpoint
Thus, people call it the number one among the beautiful tourist places near Munnar.
Best time to visit Nelliyampathy: October to March
5. Kumily
Indeed, an alluring place that serves as a gateway to Thekkady. Since it has the most area covered with plantations, trekking and hiking are the major things to do here in this place. Unlike other tourist places in and around Munnar, it has the Kalari Centre where you can witness martial art performances (probably Kalaripayatt.)
Best time to visit Kumily: August to April
6. Kumarakom
One of the highly recommended places near Munnar to visit because of its paddy fields, startling fishing experience, delicious seafood, etc. Like Aleppey, this tourist place in Munnar also has backwaters. It has a 14-acre bird sanctuary in which you can spend your whole day.
Best time to visit Kumarakom: September to April
7. Devikulam
Absolutely an alluring tourist destination near Munnar Kerala! It has the heavenly Sita Devi lake, Thoovanam waterfall, Mattupetty dam, a few tea plantations, Kundala lake, and Palivasal waterfall. Thus, it comes in the top ten list of important places to visit in Munnar.
Best time to visit Devikulam: November to March
For a customized Munnar itinerary, Click here!
Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit Near Munnar
1. What are the top attractions to visit in Munnar?
TEA museum, Pothamedu Viewpoint, Kundala Lake, Blossom Park, Sita Devi Lake, Marmala waterfalls, etc.
2. What is Munnar famous for?
Munnar is famous for its enticing lush-green plantations, lakes, and waterfalls. Couples mostly prefer this place for their honeymoon.
3. What are the most popular things to do in Munnar with children?
Popular things to do in Munnar by families with children are trekking the dense forests/flora, spotting rare species of animals and birds in wildlife sanctuaries, and exploring the plantations & the tea museum.
